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

Echoes of the Inca Empire

Today was a day of delving deep into the heart of Inca history and experiencing the vibrant culture of modern-day Peru. From exploring ancient ruins to immersing myself in local artistry, it was a journey that bridged the past and present. As I sit here, reflecting on the day's adventures, I'm filled with a sense of awe and gratitude for the opportunity to walk in the footsteps of the Incas and connect with the spirit of this land.

The day began with a hearty breakfast at Green House in Vilcabamba. It's a charming little spot, and I fueled up with some local specialties, preparing myself for a day of exploration. The weather in Vilcabamba in October is typically mild, with daytime temperatures around 21°C to 22°C, making it perfect for trekking.


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

My first stop was Vitcos, also known as Rosaspata, an important residence for Inca nobles and a ceremonial center of the Neo-Inca State. It's incredible to stand on this ridge overlooking the junction of two rivers, imagining what life was like here centuries ago. The Incas occupied this region around 1450 CE, establishing major centers like Machu Picchu, Choquequirao, and Vitcos. I spent a good amount of time wandering through the ruins, trying to envision the palace and temples that once stood here. It's a humbling experience to connect with such a rich and powerful history. I learned that Vitcos served as a center of exchange and control between the Andean and Amazonian regions.


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

The stones whisper stories of a civilization that once thrived, a testament to human ingenuity and resilience.

Vitcos was often the residence of the rulers of the Neo-Inca state until the Spanish conquest in 1572. The last Inca royal families, loyal to the Inca, fled to the Vilcabamba Valley after the Spanish took control of Cusco and the Sacred Valley, making Vitcos the new Inca capital. The location of Vitcos was forgotten until Hiram Bingham rediscovered the ruins in 1911, identifying Rosaspata as the ancient Vitcos. It's amazing to think that this site, so important to Inca history, was lost for so long. I can't help but feel a connection to Hiram Bingham, as I, too, am walking in his footsteps, uncovering the mysteries of the past. I read that in 1570, two Roman Catholic friars settled near Vitcos, but their attempt to destroy the shrine of Ñusta Hispana led to conflict. The ceremonial area of Ñusta Ispana includes a carved rock known as Yuraq Rumi, a sacred altar used for worship.

After immersing myself in the history of Vitcos, I enjoyed lunch at El museo de la papa rest in Vilcabamba. It was a delightful experience, savoring traditional Peruvian flavors. I tried a variety of local potatoes, each with its unique texture and taste. It was a reminder of the incredible biodiversity of this region and the importance of agriculture to the Inca civilization. I am trying to eat at local restaurants to support the local economy and immerse myself in the culture. Other restaurants in Vilcabamba include Mamma Silvia Restaurant, known for its Italian cuisine, and Donde Bava, a brewery and pub.


Experience authentic Peruvian cuisine at El Museo de la Papa in Urubamba - A culinary delight celebrating the rich heritage of potatoes.

In the afternoon, I took a bus back to Cusco to visit the Handicraft Center Cusco. I know it's a bit of a detour, but I wanted to pick up a few souvenirs and experience the local artistry. I am always looking for unique, handmade items that reflect the culture of the places I visit. The Handicraft Center is a large building near the Plaza de Armas, offering a wide range of textiles, clothing, jewelry, and more. It's a must-visit for anyone looking to explore local trades and shop for unique souvenirs. I was impressed by the variety of goods available and the skill of the artisans. I purchased a beautiful hand-woven scarf made from alpaca wool. It will be a wonderful reminder of my time in Peru.


Explore the vibrant Handicraft Center in Cusco for unique Peruvian souvenirs and a glimpse into the rich artisan culture of Peru.

The Handicraft Center Cusco, also known as Centro Artesanal Cusco, is a vibrant hub of Andean culture and craftsmanship. It hosts around 350 stores, making it the largest craft market in Cusco. Here, visitors can find Andean jewelry, textiles, alpaca wool clothing, pottery, and silver and gold jewelry. The center also features live art areas and a gastronomic section, where visitors can enjoy local cuisine. I found the vendors to be non-pushy, and the prices were lower compared to other places. Negotiation is common, and I managed to get some good deals on quality goods. The center is open from 9 AM to 8 PM, Monday to Sunday.

Before heading to dinner, I took a moment to reflect at a space dedicated to the image of the Virgin of Rosario within the Handicraft Center, finding a sense of peace amidst the bustling market.

For dinner, I decided on El Huerto Restaurant, drawn by its reputation for fine dining. It was the perfect way to end a day filled with history and culture. The restaurant is known for its elegant ambiance and delicious Peruvian cuisine. I savored every bite, appreciating the flavors and the artistry of the chef. El Huerto is the fine dining restaurant of the five-star Hotel Rio Sagrado, located in the Sacred Valley. The restaurant aims to resemble an authentic Andean village. The Executive Chef, Angel Hilares Concha, creates dishes like alpaca loin and Andean trout.


Experience authentic Peruvian cuisine amidst breathtaking landscapes at El Huerto Restaurant in Sacred Valley.

As I prepare for tomorrow, I'm excited about the prospect of exploring Laguna Viconga de Uramasa and the Caverna Turística Jatun Uchco. I plan to start the day with breakfast at Healthy & Tasty and enjoy lunch at Restaurant Vilcabamba before ending the day at Mapacho Craft Beer Restaurant and ValeTodo DownTown. I am looking forward to more adventures and discoveries as I continue my solo journey through the Andes.

Reflecting on my journey so far, I'm reminded of how travel enriches our lives. It broadens our perspective, connects us with different cultures, and challenges us to step outside of our comfort zones. As an Indian expat living in Germany, I find that travel helps me to appreciate both my heritage and my adopted home. It's a constant reminder that we are all part of a global community, connected by our shared humanity.

I am so grateful for this opportunity to explore Peru and share my experiences with you. Stay tuned for more updates as I continue my adventure on the Vilcabamba Trek.

I'm also mindful of the travel advisories for Peru, particularly the Colombian-Peruvian border area and the Valley of the Apurímac, Ene, and Mantaro Rivers (VRAEM). I'm taking all necessary precautions to ensure my safety and well-being during this trip. Petty theft and other crimes are common in Peru, so it's important to be vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

For those interested in running, I noticed that the Inca Marathon Salkantay-Machu Picchu will be held from May 21-26, 2026. It's a 6-day program that combines running with acclimatization training and visits to various sites, including Cusco, the Sacred Valley, and Vilcabamba. It sounds like an incredible experience for those who are up for the challenge.