Exploring the Hidden Gems of Vilcabamba: A Trekking Adventure in Peru

A Day of Discovery in Vilcabamba

Today was all about immersing ourselves in the rich history and vibrant culture of Vilcabamba. After days of trekking through breathtaking landscapes, it felt good to explore the town and connect with its people. It’s amazing to think that this area was once the last refuge of the Incas, and I was eager to learn more.

Our day started with a hearty breakfast at Hacienda Huayoccari. The setting was stunning, surrounded by the majestic Andean landscapes. I savored every bite of the fresh, local ingredients, fueling up for a day of exploration. Jean-Pierre, always the early bird, was already snapping photos of the scenery, while Sophie was busy making friends with a couple of playful kittens roaming around the hacienda. It reminded me of our cozy breakfasts back in Lyon, although the scenery was definitely a world away.


Experience authentic Peruvian cuisine surrounded by breathtaking Andean landscapes at Hacienda Huayoccari.

After breakfast, we set off to explore the town of Vilcabamba. The town itself has a laid-back, welcoming vibe. I was struck by how the locals seemed to carry a quiet pride, perhaps stemming from the area's historical significance. We wandered through the streets, soaking in the atmosphere and admiring the colonial architecture that stood as a testament to the town's layered past. I couldn't help but imagine what life must have been like here centuries ago, when Vilcabamba was the last bastion of Inca resistance against the Spanish conquistadors.

We learned that Vilcabamba was the final refuge of the Incas before their empire fell to the Spanish. Its location remained a mystery for hundreds of years and was only recently identified. Today, tourists can explore Vilcabamba independently, unlike Machu Picchu, where a guided tour is necessary.
For lunch, we stopped at Hostería Paraíso Vilcabamba. The food was delicious, and the ambiance was perfect for a midday break. We enjoyed traditional Peruvian dishes, savoring the unique flavors of the region. Sophie was particularly fond of the fresh juice, declaring it the best she’d ever had. Jean-Pierre and I shared a smile, happy to see her embracing the local culture as much as we were.


Discover tranquility at Hostería Paraíso Vilcabamba - your ultimate retreat in Ecuador's beautiful valley.

To truly understand a place, you must walk its streets, taste its food, and listen to its stories.

Next on our list was a visit to EKEKOS SAN BLAS -art & COLORS. I had read about this shop online, and I was excited to see their collection of artisanal wares. The shop did not disappoint. From alpaca scarves to handcrafted jewelry, the selection was incredible. I picked up a few souvenirs for family and friends back home, hoping to share a piece of Vilcabamba with them. Sophie, of course, gravitated towards the colorful textiles, and Jean-Pierre found a beautifully carved wooden mask that he couldn’t resist.


Discover the vibrant artistry of Peru at EKEKOS SAN BLAS, a captivating handicraft gallery in the heart of Cusco.

One of the highlights of the day was simply wandering through the local markets. The colors, sounds, and smells were intoxicating. We sampled exotic fruits we had never seen before, bargained for handmade crafts, and chatted with the friendly vendors. It was a sensory overload in the best possible way. I even managed to find a beautiful hand-woven blanket that will be perfect for our living room in Lyon, a cozy reminder of our Peruvian adventure.

For dinner, we decided to try Healthy & Tasty, a local restaurant known for its organic and vegetarian options. After days of trekking and indulging in traditional Peruvian cuisine, we were craving something a little lighter. The restaurant lived up to its name, serving up delicious and nutritious meals that left us feeling refreshed and energized. It was the perfect way to end a day of exploration.


Discover vibrant flavors and wholesome dishes at Healthy & Tasty in Vilcabamba's breathtaking Valle Sagrado.

As the sun began to set, casting a golden glow over the Vilcabamba valley, I took a moment to reflect on the day. We had explored Inca ruins, tasted local delicacies, and connected with the warm and welcoming people of Vilcabamba. It was a day filled with discovery, adventure, and cultural immersion. I felt grateful for the opportunity to experience this hidden gem of Peru. I am also grateful that I got to share it with my family, Jean-Pierre and Sophie.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit Pucyura, another significant site in the Vilcabamba region. I’m eager to delve deeper into the history of this area and uncover more of its hidden treasures. I'm also looking forward to trying out Zipango Bar & Show, a local bar that I heard has some pretty amazing cocktails. Until then, I’ll cherish the memories of today and dream of the adventures that await us.

Vilcabamba has definitely captured my heart. It’s a place where history, culture, and natural beauty come together to create an unforgettable experience. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for an off-the-beaten-path adventure in Peru. Just be sure to pack your hiking boots, your camera, and your sense of adventure!

I couldn’t help but think of my translation work back in Lyon. Translating documents often feels disconnected from the real world, but experiences like these remind me of the importance of bridging cultures and sharing stories. Perhaps I’ll even find inspiration for a new translation project, something that captures the spirit of Vilcabamba and its people.

Before drifting off to sleep, I made a note in my travel journal: “Vilcabamba – a place where the past and present intertwine, and where every corner holds a new discovery.” I can’t wait to see what tomorrow brings.

Exploring Vilcabamba has been an incredible experience. We learned that the Inca ruins of Espíritu Pampa are scattered between 30 to 40 km², with Inca-style architectural constructions. This area was once the capital of the Incas of Vilcabamba between 1536 and 1572. The city remained hidden in the jungle, inaccessible to the Spanish until 1572.

I also learned about Ñusta Hispana, the White Rock, which is the most sacred site in Vilcabamba. It is an eight-meter-high and twenty-meter-long stone adorned with carvings and engravings, and it was the center of a temple area where the Incas performed sacrificial rituals.

Vilcabamba is also known for its unique attractions. Jungle trails wind through lush greenery, offering an up-close view of Peru’s diverse ecosystem. The Cloud Forest, with its misty atmosphere, provides a magical backdrop for hiking and exploration. The region's waterfalls and rivers offer moments of tranquility and stunning natural beauty.

The trek to Vilcabamba is considered a high-difficulty hike, recommended for hikers in good physical condition. Tours are available through tourism agencies, which include trekking routes and visits to Machu Picchu. During the trek, it's essential to bring walking shoes, trekking boots, warm clothing, and enough food and water.

The Spanish believed that Vilcabamba held great wealth of gold and silver, but investigations have not found the treasures they imagined. Instead, remains of a royal tomb from the pre-Inca Wari culture were discovered, including a silver mask, a gold breastplate, and various gold plates.

Vilcabamba is a destination filled with historical significance and breathtaking natural beauty. It offers one-of-a-kind experiences for visitors seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure, far from the tourist crowds of Cusco and Machu Picchu. It's a place where you can connect with the deeper roots of Peru.