Solo Adventure to the Timeless Marvel of Machu Picchu

Echoes of the Past

Today, I delved deeper into the heart of Machu Picchu, seeking to understand the profound connection between the Inca people and their sacred spaces. The citadel, already a breathtaking spectacle, revealed layers of spiritual significance that resonated within me. It’s a journey not just through stone and mortar, but through the very soul of a civilization.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at Restaurante AYASQA - Comida tradicional, savoring traditional Peruvian flavors that energized me for the day's exploration. The morning air was crisp, carrying the promise of discovery as I set off to explore the Sacred Rock at Machu Picchu, El Templo del Sol, and the The main Plaza. I was eager to immerse myself in the history and spirituality of these iconic sites.

The first stop was the Sacred Rock at Machu Picchu, known in Spanish as “La Roca Sagrada”. As I approached this massive granite formation, I could feel a palpable sense of energy emanating from it. It stands proudly, a testament to the Inca’s deep reverence for nature. The Sacred Rock is a massive, naturally occurring granite rock formation that has been left largely untouched by human hands. It stands upright and is roughly rectangular in shape. The surface of the rock is relatively flat, with some irregularities, and it is about 4.5 meters (15 feet) in height.


Discover the Sacred Rock at Machu Picchu, an iconic symbol of Incan spirituality and breathtaking natural beauty amid the ancient ruins.

Some believe it represents the apu, or spirit, of the mountain, serving as a connection point between the earthly and divine realms. It’s strategically positioned near the entrance to the agricultural sector, a silent guardian overlooking the terraces. I spent a long time there, simply absorbing the atmosphere and contemplating the rock’s possible astronomical significance. I imagined Inca priests using it as an observatory, aligning its features with celestial events like solstices and equinoxes.

The Sacred Rock stands as a powerful reminder of the Inca civilization's profound connection to nature and the cosmos.

From the Sacred Rock, I made my way towards El Templo del Sol (the Temple of the Sun), one of the most enigmantic and important constructions of Machu Picchu. The temple is located in the religious sector of the city. The temple was built as a place to worship the sun, who was the Inca's most important god. As I approached the temple, I was immediately struck by its unique circular design, a departure from the rectangular structures that dominate Machu Picchu. It is believed that only priests and the elite could enter the temple to give offerings to the sun. The temple, also called the Torreón Circular or Royal Mausoleum, can be accessed through a portal that once had a security system with stone rings. The temple itself is about 10.5 meters in diameter and built on top of a large boulder.


Explore El Templo del Sol, a breathtaking Inca temple in Aguas Calientes that offers rich history and stunning views of the Andes mountains.

The Temple of the Sun is a marvel of Inca engineering, with its curved walls and precisely fitted stones. Sunlight streams through its windows and niches, illuminating the interior in a way that feels both sacred and purposeful. It’s easy to imagine the rituals and ceremonies that once took place here, honoring Inti, the sun god, the most important deity in the Inca pantheon.

After soaking in the spiritual aura of the Temple of the Sun, I descended towards The main Plaza, also known as the Central Square. This vast open space is the heart of Machu Picchu, a place where the Inca people gathered for celebrations, ceremonies, and social events. The Main Plaza is a symbol of one of the most important locations for hosting the sacred celebrations of the Inca religion. It is large enough to accommodate mass religious and social ceremonies.


Discover the vibrant Main Plaza at Huayna Picchu, where history meets breathtaking beauty in the heart of Peru's ancient landscapes.

Surrounded by temples, terraces, and the majestic peaks of the Andes, the Main Plaza offers a panoramic view that is simply breathtaking. I took my time here, wandering through the plaza, imagining the vibrant activities that once filled this space. According to anthropologists, the Main Plaza played a very important role in segregating the social classes. The urban section of Machu Picchu is divided by the Main Plaza, differentiating the high sector, Hanan, and the low sector, Hurin. The Main Plaza was created to establish spaces that limited inhabitants depending on their status in Inca society.

For lunch, I stopped at Sami Restaurant, where I enjoyed a delicious meal while reflecting on the morning's discoveries. The flavors of Peru continued to delight my palate, providing a comforting counterpoint to the ancient mysteries I was unraveling.


Experience authentic Peruvian cuisine at Sami Restaurant in Aguas Calientes - where every dish tells a story.

In the afternoon, I allowed myself a bit of retail therapy at Artesanias Maki. I picked up a few handcrafted souvenirs to remind me of this incredible journey. Supporting local artisans is important to me, and I found some beautiful textiles and ceramics that captured the essence of Machu Picchu.


Discover unique handmade clothing and accessories at Artesanias Maki in Aguas Calientes, where local craftsmanship meets vibrant Peruvian culture.

As the day drew to a close, I found myself at Incontri del Pueblo Viejo for dinner. The restaurant offered a cozy atmosphere and a menu that blended Peruvian and international cuisine. It was the perfect place to unwind and reflect on the day's experiences.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Incontri del Pueblo Viejo in Aguas Calientes - where every dish tells a story.

Today, I didn't just see Machu Picchu; I felt it. The Sacred Rock, with its silent strength; the Temple of the Sun, with its radiant energy; and the Main Plaza, with its echoes of community, all combined to create an unforgettable experience. It was a day of deep connection, not just to the past, but to the enduring spirit of the Inca people.

Tomorrow, I plan to hike to the Temple of the Moon and Huayna Picchu, seeking even more hidden corners and panoramic views of this ancient city. I’m particularly excited about visiting the Green PUB machupicchu in the evening, hoping to meet fellow travelers and share stories of our adventures. I am a bit nervous about the hike to Huayna Picchu. I have heard that it is quite challenging, and I did forget my portable phone charger and rain poncho back in Bonn. Hopefully the weather will be agreeable, and I won’t need the rain gear. I may need to buy a phone charger in Aguas Calientes before I leave.

Before heading back to my lodgings, I took one last look at the stars above Machu Picchu. High in the mountains, the sky seemed closer, the stars brighter. I thought of Hans and Sofia back in Bonn, and I sent them my love on the evening breeze. I can’t wait to share my stories with them when I return.

Until tomorrow!