Solo Cultural Exploration in Cusco, Peru

Trekking Through Time

Today was the day! The day I embarked on the legendary Inca Trail, a journey I've dreamt of since I first learned about the Incas in school back in Aboisso. The anticipation had been building ever since I arrived in Cusco, and while a part of me missed Liam and Nadia terribly, I knew this was a journey I needed to take on my own. I woke up before dawn, a mix of excitement and nerves fluttering in my stomach. The air was crisp, carrying the scent of the Andes, a stark contrast to the familiar smells of Kingston.

The morning began with a hearty breakfast at A Mi Manera. I opted for a traditional Peruvian breakfast, wanting to fuel up properly for the trek ahead. The restaurant was cozy, filled with the murmur of early risers and the aroma of freshly brewed coffee. It was a comforting space, a little haven before stepping into the wilderness. I savored every bite, thinking of Nadia and how much she would have loved the vibrant colours and flavours.


Discover authentic Peruvian flavors at A Mi Manera in Cusco's historic center, where every dish tells a story.

To walk in the footsteps of the Incas is to connect with a history that resonates in every stone and every breath of Andean air.

The journey to the trailhead was an experience in itself. The landscape transformed from the bustling city of Cusco to the serene beauty of the Sacred Valley. Rolling hills, dotted with small villages and terraced farms, painted a picture of rural life that felt worlds away from my life back in Canada. I couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to witness such a different way of life. It reminded me of the simplicity and close-knit communities of Aboisso, a feeling I often miss in the fast-paced world.

The Inca Trail itself was even more breathtaking than I had imagined. The path wound its way through lush cloud forests, over ancient stone steps, and past cascading waterfalls. The air was thick with moisture, and the sounds of nature were all-encompassing. It was a challenging hike, especially with the altitude, but every step was worth it. I found myself reflecting on my life, my journey from Cote d'Ivoire to Canada, and now here, on this ancient path in Peru. It was a moment of profound connection to the world and to myself.

Lunch was a welcome respite at Fusion Andina. The restaurant offered a delightful fusion of traditional Peruvian cuisine with modern culinary techniques. The quinoa salad was a refreshing and nutritious choice, providing the energy I needed to continue the trek. The flavours were vibrant, a testament to the fresh, local ingredients used. I made a mental note to try and recreate some of the dishes when I returned to Kingston, a little taste of Peru to share with Liam and Nadia.


Experience authentic Peruvian cuisine at Fusion Andina in Cusco, where tradition meets innovation in every delicious dish.

As the afternoon wore on, the weather began to change. The clouds rolled in, and a light rain started to fall. The trail became slippery, and the visibility decreased. It was a reminder of the unpredictable nature of the mountains and the importance of being prepared. I was grateful for the warm clothing I had packed, a lesson learned from the often-unpredictable weather in Kingston.

Despite the rain, the beauty of the landscape remained undiminished. The mist created an ethereal atmosphere, shrouding the mountains in mystery. It was as if the spirits of the Incas were watching over me, guiding me on my journey. The rain also brought out the vibrant colours of the vegetation, transforming the trail into a lush, green paradise.

In the late afternoon, I made a stop at ChocoStore. I decided to treat myself to some Peruvian chocolate. The store was a delightful sensory experience, filled with the rich aroma of cocoa and the sight of beautifully crafted chocolates. I learned about the history of chocolate in Peru and the different varieties of cocoa beans grown in the region. It was fascinating to discover the cultural significance of chocolate and its role in Peruvian society.


Experience the rich taste of Peruvian chocolate at ChocoStore in Cusco, where sweet delights and local traditions meet for an unforgettable treat.

I purchased a selection of chocolates to take back to Liam and Nadia. I knew they would appreciate the unique flavours and the story behind each chocolate. It was a small way to share my experience with them and to bring a piece of Peru back to our home in Kingston. I chose a bar with coca leaves, remembering reading that coca tea can help alleviate altitude sickness. I figured it couldn’t hurt to try it, a natural remedy used by the Andean people for centuries.

Dinner at Nuna Raymi was a perfect end to a long and challenging day. The restaurant had a warm and inviting atmosphere, and the staff were incredibly friendly. I ordered a traditional Peruvian dish, wanting to immerse myself fully in the local cuisine. The flavours were rich and complex, a testament to the culinary heritage of Peru. It was a comforting meal, a welcome reward after a day of trekking.


Experience authentic Peruvian cuisine at Nuna Raymi in Cusco—where tradition meets flavor in every dish.

As I sat there, enjoying my dinner, I reflected on the day's experiences. The Inca Trail had been everything I had hoped for and more. It was a journey through history, a connection to nature, and a personal challenge. I felt a sense of accomplishment and gratitude for the opportunity to experience such a remarkable place.

The altitude, however, was starting to make its presence felt. I could feel a slight headache coming on, a reminder of the challenges of trekking at high elevations. I sipped on some coca tea, hoping it would alleviate the symptoms. I also made sure to drink plenty of water, knowing that hydration was key to combating altitude sickness. I remembered reading about the importance of acclimatization and wished I had spent more time in the Sacred Valley before starting the trek. Perhaps tomorrow, I'll take it easy and explore Cusco at a more leisurely pace.

Despite the altitude, I couldn't help but feel excited about the days ahead. Tomorrow, I plan to visit Plaza Mayor de Cusco and the Twelve Angled Stone, immersing myself further in the history and culture of this ancient city. And perhaps, I'll even treat myself to a Pisco Sour at Paddy's Irish Pub, a little taste of home in the heart of Peru. For now, though, it's time to rest and prepare for another day of adventure.

As I drifted off to sleep, I couldn't help but feel grateful for this incredible journey. It was a reminder of the beauty and diversity of the world and the importance of stepping outside of my comfort zone. It was also a reminder of the love and support I had back home, with Liam and Nadia, the two people who made every adventure worthwhile. I thought of them, sending them all my love from the heart of the Andes.

The Inca Trail is more than just a trek; it's an experience that touches the soul. It's a journey through history, a connection to nature, and a personal challenge that leaves you feeling humbled and inspired. If you ever have the opportunity to walk in the footsteps of the Incas, don't hesitate. It's an adventure you'll never forget.