Solo Cultural Exploration in Cusco, Peru

Stars and Artifacts: My Last Day in Cusco

As my solo adventure in Cusco draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the incredible journey I’ve had. Today was a blend of exploring the cosmos and delving deeper into the history of this fascinating city. It was a perfect culmination of all the experiences I've had this past week, and I'm excited to share it all with you.



My day began with a hearty breakfast at Ofrenda Peruvian Healthy Food. After a week of indulging in Peruvian cuisine, I was happy to find a place that offered a healthy twist on local favorites. I opted for the quinoa soup, a hearty and flavorful concoction that was both nourishing and delicious. It was the perfect way to fuel up for a day of exploration. Liam would have loved this place, he is always on the look out for healthy options. Nadia too, as she is a big fan of quinoa.


Experience authentic Peruvian cuisine at Ofrenda in Cusco—where tradition meets health in every delicious dish.

With a full stomach and a sense of anticipation, I set off to the Cusco Planetarium. The planetarium is located a short drive outside the city, nestled near the Sacsayhuaman archaeological site. The location itself is stunning, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Though I was travelling solo today, the planetarium is also a great experience for families or small groups. As someone who has always been curious about the stars, I was particularly excited about this visit. I remember back in Aboisso, how my grandmother would tell us stories about the stars and their significance in our culture. It was these stories that sparked my initial interest in astronomy.


Explore the wonders of the universe at Cusco Planetarium, where stargazing meets education in a stunning Andean setting.

Upon arrival, I was greeted by the planetarium's friendly staff, who led us to a cozy cabin equipped with a state-of-the-art projector. The presentation began with an introduction to Inca astronomy, explaining how the ancient civilization used the stars for navigation, agriculture, and religious purposes. I was fascinated to learn about the Inca constellations and their unique interpretations of the night sky.

The universe is not outside of you. Look inside yourself; everything that you want, you already are.

Following the presentation, we had the opportunity to observe the night sky through high-powered telescopes. Unfortunately, the sky was a bit cloudy, but the guides did their best to point out the visible stars and planets. Despite the limited visibility, I was still able to catch a glimpse of the moon and a few constellations. The guides were incredibly knowledgeable and passionate, sharing fascinating facts and stories about the cosmos. The experience was both educational and awe-inspiring, leaving me with a newfound appreciation for the wonders of the universe.



After my celestial adventure, I headed back to Cusco for lunch at Rucula Peruvian Restaurant. This cozy restaurant is known for its organic and locally sourced ingredients, offering a modern take on traditional Peruvian dishes. I decided to try the trout in pesto gnocchi, a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The trout was perfectly cooked, and the pesto gnocchi was creamy and delicious. The restaurant had a warm and inviting atmosphere, making it a perfect place to relax and enjoy a leisurely meal.


Experience the authentic flavors of Peru at Rucula Peruvian Restaurant in Cusco – where tradition meets innovation in every dish.

With my appetite satisfied, I made my way to the Museo Casa Concha, also known as the Museo Machu Picchu. This museum is housed in a beautiful colonial building that was once the residence of a wealthy Spanish family. The museum's collection features artifacts excavated from Machu Picchu, providing a fascinating glimpse into the lives of the Inca people. I was particularly interested in seeing the pottery, jewelry, and tools that were used by the inhabitants of the ancient city.


Explore the rich heritage of the Incas at Museo Casa Concha in Cusco, where history comes alive through captivating exhibits and artifacts.

As I wandered through the museum's exhibits, I was struck by the ingenuity and craftsmanship of the Inca civilization. The artifacts were incredibly well-preserved, offering a tangible connection to the past. The museum also provided valuable insights into the history of Machu Picchu and its significance to the Inca Empire. Before visiting Machu Picchu earlier this week, I had read a lot about the controversies surrounding Bingham and the collection of artifacts. It was interesting to see how the museum positioned these stories.



After immersing myself in history and culture, I decided to do some souvenir shopping at Souvenirs Cusco. I wanted to find something special to remind me of my trip and to share with Liam and Nadia back home. I browsed through the various shops, admiring the colorful textiles, intricate carvings, and unique handicrafts. I finally settled on a hand-woven blanket with traditional Andean designs, a silver pendant with an Inca symbol, and some artisanal chocolates made with locally sourced cacao. It was a great place to get some last-minute gifts. I even found a little alpaca poncho for Nadia's teddy bear!


Discover authentic Peruvian crafts at Souvenirs Cusco, a must-visit store for unique clothing and cultural treasures in the heart of Cusco.

For my final dinner in Cusco, I chose The Point Peruavian Cuisine. I wanted to end my trip with a traditional Peruvian meal, and The Point did not disappoint. I ordered the Lomo Saltado, a classic Peruvian dish consisting of stir-fried beef tenderloin, onions, tomatoes, and potatoes. The dish was bursting with flavor, and the beef was incredibly tender. It was the perfect way to say goodbye to the culinary delights of Cusco. I also tried Chicha Morada, a traditional Peruvian beverage made from purple corn. It was a refreshing and unique drink that complemented my meal perfectly. The kids would have loved it!


Experience authentic Peruvian cuisine at The Point in Cusco – where tradition meets flavor in every dish.

As I sit here in my hotel room at the Sonesta Hotel Cusco, reflecting on my journey, I feel a sense of gratitude and fulfillment. Cusco has exceeded my expectations in every way, offering a rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty. From exploring the ancient ruins of Sacsayhuaman to wandering through the vibrant streets of San Blas, every moment has been a treasure. Though I am sad to leave, I know that I will carry the memories of this solo adventure with me forever. I am looking forward to returning home to Kingston, Canada, to share my stories and experiences with Liam and Nadia.


Experience the rich culture of Cusco at Sonesta Hotel, perfectly situated near historic landmarks, offering modern amenities for all travelers.

Tomorrow, I will be heading to the airport for my flight back home. It's always a bittersweet moment leaving a place that has captured my heart. But I know that this is not goodbye, but rather a see you later. Cusco, you have been an incredible host, and I can't wait to return someday soon.