Adventurous Trek to Choquequirao with Friends

Day 7: Sister City's Embrace

Today was nothing short of spectacular! After six days of rigorous trekking, the chance to explore the magnificent Choquequirao Expeditions was a dream come true. The day was filled with history, stunning views, and the simple joys of good food and camaraderie with my friends. It’s hard to believe we’re already on the seventh day of our Peruvian adventure, but the memories we’re making are sure to last a lifetime.

Our morning began with a hearty breakfast at Sumaq II Cusco. I always appreciate a good breakfast before a long day of exploring, and Sumaq II certainly delivered [Breakfast at Sumaq II Cusco]. Fuelled up, we set off to fully immerse ourselves in the wonders of Choquequirao Expeditions.


Discover the breathtaking beauty of Choquequirao with expert guidance and immersive trekking experiences tailored to your adventure in Peru.

The trek to the heart of the ruins was exhilarating. The crisp mountain air, combined with the anticipation of seeing the ‘Cradle of Gold’, made every step worthwhile. Daiva, always eager to capture the moment, was snapping photos at every turn, trying to bottle the breathtaking views. I have to admit, I was so glad I remembered to pack my camera, even though I forgot the portable charger [TripEssentialsForgotten]! The landscape was a stunning mix of rugged cliffs, deep canyons, and the snaking Apurimac River, creating a dramatic backdrop that amplified the sense of adventure.

Exploring Choquequirao itself was an awe-inspiring experience. The sheer scale of the site is incredible; it sprawls across the mountain, and only a fraction of it has been excavated. It's easy to see why it's called Machu Picchu's sister city – the architecture and the energy of the place are palpable. Wandering through the ancient temples and terraces, I tried to imagine what life must have been like for the Incas who once called this place home. The precision of the stonework and the ingenuity of the water channels were particularly impressive.

“To walk through Choquequirao is to step back in time, to feel the pulse of a civilization that carved its legacy into the very mountains themselves.”

One of the most memorable moments was visiting the llama sector. The intricate designs of llamas built into the terraces were fascinating, and it was a testament to the Incas' deep connection with nature. Standing there, surrounded by such history and artistry, I felt a profound sense of connection to the past. It's moments like these that make traveling so rewarding. It reminds me of my childhood in Kėdainiai, Lithuania, exploring the old town and imagining the stories of those who came before me.

After hours of exploration, our group was famished. Luckily, we had planned a delicious lunch at PERUCHO Restaurant Craft Beer in Cusco [DayRestaurants]. I opted for a hearty Peruvian dish, while others in our group tried the craft beers that PERUCHO is known for. The food was delicious, and the atmosphere was cozy and inviting. It was the perfect way to refuel after a long day of trekking and exploration. Even James, who usually sticks to familiar fare, ventured out and tried the Pisco Sour, declaring it a new favorite.


Experience authentic Peruvian cuisine paired with exquisite craft beers in the heart of Cusco at PERUCHO Restaurant Craft Beer.

As the sun began to set, we made our way to the Black Cat Bar Cusco - Craft Cocktails & Spirits [DayOtherActivities]. This cozy bar, tucked away near Plaza de Armas del Cusco, offered a warm and intimate vibe. We settled into comfortable seating and enjoyed expertly crafted cocktails made with local Peruvian spirits. It was a delightful way to unwind and reflect on the day's adventures. It reminded me of some of the cozy pubs back in Toronto, but with a distinct Peruvian twist.


Discover the spirit of Cusco at Black Cat Bar, where craft cocktails and a lively atmosphere create unforgettable nights in the heart of the city.

The bar had a speakeasy vibe, and the bartenders were true mixologists, creating unique drinks tailored to our preferences. I tried a cocktail made with Matacuy, a local spirit, and it was both refreshing and intriguing. The prices were a bit higher than average, but the quality of the drinks and the ambiance made it well worth it.

Before heading back to our camp for the night, we had a scrumptious dinner at Inti House [DayRestaurants]. The restaurant had a warm and inviting atmosphere, and the menu featured a variety of traditional Peruvian dishes. I decided to try the Cuy baked in Cusco, a local delicacy, while others in our group opted for more familiar fare. The food was delicious, and the service was excellent. I was very happy with my choice, and James was brave enough to try a little bit as well!


Discover the flavors of Peru at Inti House in Aguas Calientes - where local ingredients meet culinary creativity.

As I lay in my tent, reflecting on the day, I couldn't help but feel grateful for this incredible journey. Exploring Choquequirao was a dream come true, and the experiences we shared today will be etched in my memory forever. The camaraderie with my friends, the stunning scenery, and the delicious food all combined to create a day of pure magic.

Tomorrow, we continue our trek, and I’m excited to see what new adventures await. We plan to explore more of the Choquequirao area with Choquequirao Trek Operator [DayAttractions], and I’m particularly looking forward to visiting EKEKOS SAN BLAS -art & COLORS [DayOtherActivities] to pick up some souvenirs for Eglė back home. We'll also be trying out Ponchos Machupicchu Restaurant for breakfast [DayRestaurants]. For lunch, we’re planning to try Artisano Regocijo Restaurant [DayRestaurants], and Toto's House for dinner [DayRestaurants]. I can't wait to see what culinary delights and cultural treasures tomorrow will bring!

“The mountains are calling and I must go.” – John Muir. I feel this quote encapsulates this adventure perfectly. I’m so glad that I answered the call!

I am also very grateful that there were no festivals today. I read that in September, Cusco has several festivals such as Fiesta de la Virgen de la Natividad, Feast of the Lord of Huanca, and Feast of Saint Jerome. I am glad that I can experience the quiet side of Cusco today.

I am definitely enjoying this adventure, even though I forgot some of the essentials [TripEssentialsForgotten]. As they say, it is the journey, not the destination, that matters most.