Adventurous Trek to Choquequirao with Friends

A Day Among the Clouds

Today marked the culmination of our incredible 11-day trek through the Peruvian Andes. After days of challenging hikes and stunning vistas, we finally arrived at the crown jewel of Inca civilization: Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu. The experience was everything I had dreamed of and more, a perfect blend of history, natural beauty, and personal reflection. It was an emotional day, realizing that our adventure was nearing its end, but also filled with immense gratitude for the experiences we've shared.


Explore the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu, a breathtaking archaeological wonder that reveals the splendor of the Inca civilization amidst stunning Andean landscapes.

The day began early, with a hearty breakfast at Inka Wasi Restaurant in Aguas Calientes. I enjoyed some traditional Peruvian fare, fueling up for the day ahead. The restaurant had a cozy atmosphere, and it was a great spot to gather our energy before heading up to Machu Picchu.


Discover the heart of Peru through authentic flavors at Inka Wasi Restaurant in Aguas Calientes.

The anticipation was palpable as we boarded the bus that would take us up the winding roads to the entrance of the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu. As the bus climbed higher, the views became increasingly breathtaking, offering glimpses of the surrounding mountains and the Urubamba River below.

Finally, we arrived. Stepping through the entrance, I was immediately struck by the sheer grandeur of the site. The iconic view of the Lost City of the Incas unfolded before us, a breathtaking panorama of ancient stonework set against a backdrop of towering peaks. The weather in September is quite pleasant, with daytime temperatures around 18-24°C. Although rainfall is infrequent, we were prepared for occasional showers with our trusty rain jackets. The pleasant weather meant fewer crowds compared to the peak tourist months.

Machu Picchu is not just a destination; it's an experience that etches itself into your soul, a testament to the ingenuity and spirit of a civilization lost to time.

Wandering through the ancient city, I felt a profound connection to the past. Each stone, each terrace, each doorway seemed to whisper stories of the people who once lived and thrived here. I imagined what life must have been like in this remote mountaintop citadel, a place of both spiritual significance and strategic importance.

We explored the various sections of Machu Picchu, from the Royal Tomb to the Temple of the Three Windows, each offering unique insights into Inca culture and architecture. The precision with which the stones were cut and fitted together was truly remarkable, a testament to the advanced engineering skills of the Inca people.

One of the highlights of the day was simply taking the time to sit and absorb the atmosphere of Machu Picchu. I found a quiet spot overlooking the city and spent some time reflecting on our journey. The challenges we had faced, the friendships we had forged, and the incredible sights we had witnessed all culminated in this moment, a sense of accomplishment and awe that I will never forget.

After a morning of exploration, we descended back to Aguas Calientes for lunch at Chicha por Gaston Acurio. This restaurant, known for its modern takes on Peruvian classics, was the perfect place to celebrate our achievement. I savored every bite, appreciating the flavors of Peru even more after our long trek. The experience was fantastic, and the ambiance of the restaurant added to the celebratory mood.


Experience authentic Peruvian cuisine at Chicha por Gaston Acurio, where tradition meets innovation in a vibrant setting.

In the evening, we gathered for a final dinner at Restaurant Bistro Bar Indio Feliz. The restaurant's quirky decor and warm atmosphere made it a memorable dining experience. I enjoyed the fusion of French and Peruvian flavors, a fitting end to our culinary journey through Peru. The staff was incredibly friendly, making us feel right at home.


Experience authentic Peruvian cuisine at Bistro Bar Indio Feliz in Aguas Calientes – where flavor meets breathtaking views.

To cap off our final night, we headed to Republica Del Pisco - Cusco. Sipping on expertly crafted Pisco cocktails, we reminisced about our adventures and made plans for future travels. The bar's lively atmosphere and great music created the perfect ambiance for a farewell celebration.


Experience the authentic taste of Peru at Republica Del Pisco, Cusco's premier destination for delectable cuisine and refreshing drinks.

As I sit here tonight, reflecting on the past 11 days, I am filled with an overwhelming sense of gratitude. The Choquequirao Trek and our visit to Machu Picchu have been an experience of a lifetime, one that has challenged me, inspired me, and changed me in ways I could never have imagined. I am so grateful to have shared this journey with my friends, whose camaraderie and support made it all the more special.

Though our trek has come to an end, the memories and lessons we have learned will stay with us forever. Peru has captured a piece of my heart, and I know that I will return someday to explore more of its hidden wonders.

I am also happy to have avoided altitude sickness by taking it slow and steady. I remember reading about the importance of acclimatization, and I am glad we took that advice seriously. It made all the difference in our ability to enjoy the trek and fully appreciate the beauty of Machu Picchu.

This trip also made me think of James and Eglė back home in Toronto. I missed them dearly, and I couldn't wait to share all my stories and photos with them. I know Eglė would have loved exploring the ruins and learning about the Inca civilization, while James would have been fascinated by the engineering and architecture of Machu Picchu. I picked up a few souvenirs for them, little reminders of our adventure in Peru. I also thought about my Lithuanian heritage and how much I appreciate the opportunity to experience different cultures and landscapes. Travel has a way of broadening your perspective and making you more appreciative of the world around you.

And with that, our Peruvian adventure comes to a close. It’s time to pack my bags and prepare for the journey back to Toronto. While I am excited to return home and see my family, a part of me will always remain in the Andes, wandering among the clouds of Machu Picchu. Thank you for joining me on this incredible journey. Until next time, happy travels!