Adventurous Trek to Choquequirao with Friends

Day 1: The Adventure Begins

Today marked the start of our grand adventure to Choquequirao, the 'sister city of Machu Picchu.' The air was crisp with anticipation as my friends and I set off from Cusco, ready to immerse ourselves in the stunning landscapes and rich history of Peru. It's a journey I've dreamt of for years, and I couldn't wait to share every moment with my readers.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Chicha por Gaston Acurio in Cusco. I've always admired Gaston Acurio's work in promoting Peruvian cuisine, and this restaurant was no exception. The modern twist on traditional dishes was the perfect fuel for our trek ahead. I opted for a traditional Peruvian breakfast that was both filling and delicious. It was a delightful start, and I made a mental note to try recreating some of these flavors back home in Toronto. It reminded me of the simple, hearty meals my mother used to make in Kėdainiai, Lithuania, preparing me for long days of exploring the forests.

After breakfast, we boarded a bus headed towards the trailhead. The ride itself was an experience, winding through the breathtaking landscapes of the Andes. The views were simply stunning, with towering peaks and deep valleys stretching as far as the eye could see. I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe and gratitude for the opportunity to witness such natural beauty. I remember thinking about James and Eglė back home, wishing they could see this with me. I promised myself to bring them back to Peru someday.

Arriving at the Choquequirao Trail, the real adventure began. The air was fresh and clean, and the energy of the Andes was palpable. The trail was challenging but rewarding, with each step revealing new vistas and hidden corners of this ancient land. The September weather was ideal for hiking, with mild, dry conditions and warm, sunny days.


Discover the scenic beauty and rich history along the Choquequirao Trail, an unforgettable hiking adventure in the Peruvian Andes.

The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.

We made sure to stop at the Choquequirao Trail Shops to pick up some last-minute supplies. I found a beautiful, hand-woven bracelet that I knew Eglė would adore. Supporting local artisans is something I always try to do when I travel, and it felt good to contribute to the community here. I bartered a bit, a skill I picked up from my trips to the markets in Kėdainiai, and managed to get a good price.


Discover unique local crafts and essential gear at Choquequirao Trail Shops, your gateway to the stunning Choquequirao trek in Cachora, Peru.

For lunch, we stopped at the Choquequirao craft restaurant peruvian cuisine. The restaurant was a delightful surprise, offering a taste of authentic Peruvian flavors amidst the rugged landscape. The restaurant uses fresh, local ingredients, and I savored every bite of my meal. It was a perfect opportunity to rest and refuel before continuing our trek. As we ate, we chatted with other hikers, sharing stories and tips about the trail. It's amazing how quickly you can bond with people when you're all united by a common goal.


Experience authentic Peruvian cuisine at Choquequirao Craft Restaurant in Santa Teresa, where local flavors meet culinary excellence.

As the day drew to a close, we arrived at our campsite, exhausted but exhilarated. The views from our campsite were simply breathtaking, with the sun setting over the Andes, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink. We set up our tents and prepared for dinner at LA TERRAZA DE CHOQUEQUIRAO. The warm and welcoming ambiance was the perfect setting for a hearty meal after a long day of hiking. I enjoyed a comforting meal, reminiscing about my time in Toronto, and appreciating the simple things in life. The staff was attentive, and the food was delicious, providing a much-needed boost of energy for the night ahead.


Discover authentic Traditional American cuisine at La Terraza de Choquequirao while enjoying breathtaking views in scenic Cachora, Peru.

Before settling in for the night, I took a moment to reflect on the day's adventures. The Choquequirao Trail is more than just a hike; it's a journey back in time, a chance to connect with the ancient Inca civilization and the stunning natural beauty of Peru. I felt a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunity to experience this incredible place and eager to see what tomorrow would bring as we explore the Choquequirao Archaeological Park and Choquequirao Puquio. I made sure to charge my camera, though I realized I had forgotten my portable charger! I would need to be mindful of using it sparingly tomorrow.

Tomorrow promises even more exploration as we delve deeper into the heart of Choquequirao, visiting the Archaeological Park and the Puquio. I can't wait to share those experiences with you all. Goodnight from the Andes!