Exploring the Rich Heritage of Cusco: A Solo Journey

A Day Among the Clouds

Today was the day I had been anticipating since I booked this trip—a visit to the legendary Machupicchu. The anticipation was almost unbearable, a mix of excitement and reverence for this ancient wonder. It was a day filled with breathtaking sights, historical immersion, and a profound sense of connection to the past. The journey itself was an adventure, and the destination was more awe-inspiring than I could have ever imagined.

The day began early, with a hearty breakfast at Mama Seledonia. This charming restaurant, recommended by several locals, was the perfect way to fuel up for the day's adventures. Mama Seledonia herself was there, a warm and welcoming presence. I opted for the traditional Peruvian breakfast of scrambled eggs with quinoa and a side of fresh fruit. It was delicious and provided the energy I needed for the day ahead. The restaurant had a cozy, home-like atmosphere, making it a delightful start to the day.


Discover authentic Peruvian flavors at Mama Seledonia, a beloved restaurant in the heart of Cusco's historic district.

Leaving Mama Seledonia, I made my way to the train station for the scenic ride to Aguas Calientes, the town at the base of Machu Picchu. The train journey was an experience in itself, winding through the stunning landscapes of the Sacred Valley. The Urubamba River snaked alongside the tracks, and the towering Andes mountains loomed in the distance. The views were simply spectacular, a constant reminder of the natural beauty that Peru has to offer. I found myself reflecting on my life back in Toronto, how different it was from this moment, surrounded by such ancient and majestic scenery. I thought of James and Eglė, wishing they were here to share this experience with me. Perhaps one day we can return together.

Arriving in Aguas Calientes, I boarded a bus for the final ascent to Machu Picchu. The road zig-zagged up the mountainside, offering glimpses of the ruins through the dense fog. The anticipation grew with each turn, and I could feel my heart pounding with excitement. As the bus finally reached the entrance, I stepped out and was immediately greeted by the sight of the iconic citadel. Even shrouded in mist, it was an unforgettable view.

Machu Picchu is more than just a collection of stones; it's a testament to human ingenuity, resilience, and a profound connection to the natural world.

Exploring Machu Picchu was an almost surreal experience. The sheer scale of the site is astounding, with its intricate network of terraces, temples, and living quarters. I wandered through the ruins, marveling at the precision of the stonework and the ingenuity of the Inca engineers. The stones fit together so perfectly, without the use of mortar, a testament to their advanced construction techniques. I learned that Machu Picchu was built in the 15th century during the reign of Emperor Pachacuti and is believed to have been a royal estate or sacred religious site. The site stretches over five miles and features more than 3,000 stone steps linking its various levels.

Despite it being January, the weather was relatively mild, though a bit humid. I had packed layers, as recommended, and was grateful for the versatility. The fog added a mystical quality to the ruins, creating a sense of mystery and intrigue. At times, the clouds would part, revealing breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. I spent hours exploring every nook and cranny of the site, taking photos and trying to absorb the history and energy of this special place.

One of the highlights was visiting the Temple of the Sun, a sacred site where the Incas worshipped their sun god, Inti. The temple is built with remarkable precision, aligning perfectly with the solstices. I also visited the Intihuatana stone, believed to have been a solar clock, used to track the movements of the sun. Standing there, I felt a deep connection to the ancient people who once lived and worshipped here.

As the day wore on, the crowds began to thin, and I found myself alone in certain areas of the site. It was during these moments that I truly felt the magic of Machu Picchu. The silence was broken only by the sound of the wind and the occasional bird call. I sat on a stone wall, gazing out at the mountains, and contemplated the history and mystery of this lost city. It was a moment of profound peace and reflection, one that I will cherish forever.

For lunch, I ventured down to A Mi Manera in Aguas Calientes. This restaurant was a delightful find, offering traditional Peruvian cuisine with a modern twist. I savored the Lomo Saltado, a classic dish of stir-fried beef, onions, tomatoes, and peppers, served with rice and potatoes. It was bursting with flavor and perfectly satisfied my hunger after a long day of exploring. The restaurant had a cozy and romantic atmosphere, making it a perfect place to relax and unwind.


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

In the evening, after returning to Cusco, I treated myself to dinner at Morena Peruvian Kitchen. This restaurant, known for its innovative take on Peruvian cuisine, was a culinary delight. The presentation of each dish was a work of art, and the flavors were simply exquisite. I started with the Ceviche, a traditional Peruvian dish of raw fish marinated in citrus juices. It was fresh, tangy, and incredibly delicious. For my main course, I had the Arroz Con Mariscos, a flavorful rice dish with seafood. The service was impeccable, and the atmosphere was warm and inviting.


Discover the vibrant flavors of Peru at Morena Peruvian Kitchen - a must-visit culinary destination in Cusco.

As I savored my meal, I reflected on the incredible day I had experienced. Machu Picchu had exceeded all my expectations, and I felt a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunity to visit this special place. It was a day filled with wonder, history, and natural beauty, one that I will never forget.

Tomorrow, I plan to explore more of Cusco itself. The Inka Museum and the Museo de Arte Precolombino are on my list, as well as a stroll down Calle Loreto, known for its ancient Inca walls. I'm also hoping to do some shopping at TEXTILES POMATAYLLA, a local textile shop. And of course, I'm already looking forward to trying more of Cusco's culinary offerings, with El Tupay Restaurant for breakfast, Yaku Restaurant for lunch, and Marcelo Batata Restaurante for dinner on the cards.

For now, though, I'm content to bask in the memories of today, a day spent among the clouds, in the heart of the Inca Empire. It's moments like these that make travel so rewarding, connecting us to the past, to nature, and to ourselves. As I prepare for another day of exploration, I can't help but feel grateful for this incredible journey and the many adventures that lie ahead.

I am also reminded that I forgot to pack sunscreen, which is essential for protection against the high-altitude sun, and a power adapter for Peruvian outlets. I will need to purchase these items tomorrow before I head out for the day's adventures. I've learned a valuable lesson about the importance of double-checking my packing list!

Visiting Machu Picchu in January has its advantages. Although it's the rainy season, the crowds are thinner, and the landscape is lush and green. The cloudy and foggy weather adds a mystical touch to the ruins, creating a unique and unforgettable experience. Just be sure to pack rain gear and be prepared for possible itinerary changes due to weather conditions. Despite the rain, the beauty and magic of Machu Picchu shine through, making it a truly worthwhile destination, no matter the time of year.