Solo Adventure on the Vilcabamba Trek: A Journey Through the Andes

Following the Footsteps of the Last Incas

Today, I ventured deeper into the heart of the Andes, tracing the footsteps of a civilization that once thrived in these majestic mountains. The day was filled with exploration, reflection, and a profound connection to the past. As I sit here, the cool mountain air whispering through my tent, I can't help but feel humbled by the resilience and ingenuity of the Inca people.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at Kishor's Herbals and Bistro in Vilcabamba. Fueled up with some local flavors, I set out to explore the town itself. Vilcabamba, often referred to as the 'Lost City of the Incas', holds a significant place in history as the last refuge of the Inca Empire after the Spanish conquest. Founded by Manco Inca in 1539, it served as the final stronghold of resistance until 1572. Walking through the town, I couldn't help but imagine what life must have been like here centuries ago, as the Inca people fought to preserve their way of life. Today, Vilcabamba is a vibrant town, full of friendly faces and rich culture. While exploring Vilcabamba, I encountered the Vilcabamba Grau apurimax bar. While I don't usually spend my time in Peru at bars, I figured I could stop for a bit to see what it was like. The bar was full of locals, all talking and laughing with each other. It was a great insight into the local culture and how the people of Vilcabamba enjoy their time.


Explore the historical allure of Vilcabamba, the Last Incan City, surrounded by stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage.

After Vilcabamba, my destination was Vitcos. This was once a vital ceremonial center of the Neo-Inca State. The archaeological site, also known as Rosaspata, sits on a ridge overlooking the confluence of two rivers and the village of Pucyura. As I hiked towards the ruins, I was struck by the sheer beauty of the landscape. The mountains rose dramatically in the distance, their peaks shrouded in mist. The air was crisp and clean, carrying the scent of wildflowers and damp earth. It's easy to see why the Incas chose this location for their city; it's a place of both strategic importance and profound natural beauty.


Explore the hidden gem of Vitcos, an ancient Inca site in the Andes, offering stunning ruins and breathtaking views for adventurous travelers.

Arriving at Vitcos, I spent hours exploring the ruins, imagining the lives of the Inca nobles who once resided here. The city was built in the 15th century during the reign of Pachacútec, serving as a provincial capital. The stonework, though not as finely crafted as in Machu Picchu, still stands as a testament to the Inca's skill and ingenuity. I explored the remains of royal residences, temples, and agricultural terraces, each stone whispering stories of the past.

The past is never dead. It's not even past.

One of the most striking features of Vitcos is the Yuraq Rumi, also known as Ñusta Hispana or the White Rock. This massive carved rock served as a sacred altar for Inca worship. According to accounts, two friars who were allowed to settle near Vitcos in 1570, damaged the shrine, believing it was a place of devil worship. Standing before this ancient monument, I felt a powerful connection to the spiritual beliefs of the Inca people. It was a moment of profound reverence and reflection.

For lunch, I had the pleasure of visiting Restaurant Katherine. I ate some traditional cuisine while enjoying the view. After lunch, I continued my exploration of Vitcos, discovering more hidden corners and panoramic vistas. As the sun began to dip below the horizon, casting long shadows across the landscape, I made my way back to Vilcabamba. For dinner, I ate at Hostería Paraíso Vilcabamba. The warm meal was exactly what I needed after a long day of hiking and exploration. It was a great way to end the day and relax before I went to bed.

As I reflect on today's journey, I am struck by the enduring legacy of the Inca civilization. Despite the passage of centuries and the ravages of conquest, their spirit lives on in the mountains, in the stones, and in the hearts of the people who call this land home. Exploring Vilcabamba and Vitcos has been an experience of a lifetime, and I am grateful for the opportunity to connect with the past in such a meaningful way. It is interesting to see how Hiram Bingham searched for the city of Vilcabamba in 1911 and rediscovered Vitcos. Bingham was searching for the last capital of the Incas and came upon a site called Rosaspata by the local villagers.

Tomorrow, I plan to continue my trek, venturing further into the Vilcabamba region. According to my itinerary, I will be visiting Laguna Viconga de Uramasa and the Caverna Turística Jatun Uchco. I’m excited to see what new wonders and insights await me on the path ahead. I'm hoping to explore the Handicraft Center Cusco to get a taste for the local crafts. I am also excited to eat at Sol del Venado, Tres Keros, and Chullos Restaurant & Craft Beer.

For now, I'll leave you with this thought: the echoes of the past are all around us, waiting to be discovered. All we have to do is listen.

Before I turn in for the night, I want to make a note of something I forgot to pack: a portable charger. It would be really useful to have right now, since I am relying on battery packs to charge my phone. A journal would have been nice too, so I could write down my thoughts and feelings in the moment rather than trying to remember them at the end of the day.

Good night from the Andes!