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

First Steps in Vilcabamba: The Adventure Begins

After months of anticipation and planning, the day had finally arrived. The start of our Vilcabamba Trek in Peru! Leaving Lyon, France, behind felt bittersweet, but the allure of the Andes and the promise of uncovering hidden Inca treasures with my friends was too strong to resist. The journey to get here was long, but as I stepped onto Peruvian soil, I knew it would be worth every moment.

The flight to Cusco was thankfully uneventful, and the bus ride to the starting point of the trek gave me a taste of the stunning scenery that awaited us. The landscape transformed from bustling cityscapes to rolling hills and snow-capped mountains. I could feel the excitement building as we approached Vilcabamba, the gateway to our adventure.

Our first stop was Pucyura, a quaint village nestled in the valley. The air was crisp and clean, and the surrounding mountains created a sense of serenity. As we explored the Plaza de Armas, the heart of Pucyura, I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe at being in such a remote and culturally rich place. The locals were incredibly welcoming, sharing stories and traditions that added depth to our experience.


Explore the stunning landscapes and rich culture of Pucyura, Vilcabamba - a hidden gem in the Peruvian Andes waiting to be discovered.

Our bellies were calling, so we headed to Healthy & Tasty for breakfast, where we enjoyed a hearty meal of local specialties. The food was simple but delicious, providing the perfect fuel for our first day of trekking. After breakfast, we took some time to wander through Vilcaterra, a local shop brimming with handcrafted goods and souvenirs. I picked up a beautifully woven scarf as a memento of our journey, already cherishing the memories we were making.


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

For lunch, we stopped at Restaurant Vilcabamba. The flavors were authentic, and the atmosphere was warm and inviting. It was a great opportunity to relax and recharge before continuing our exploration of Pucyura.


Discover the heart of Ecuadorian fashion at Vilcaterra in Vilcabamba, where local craftsmanship meets modern style.

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

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to Kishor's Herbals and Bistro for dinner. The bistro was cozy and intimate, and the menu featured a variety of dishes made with fresh, local herbs. It was the perfect way to end our first day in Vilcabamba, savoring the flavors of Peru while reflecting on the incredible experiences we had shared. I made sure to try some coca tea, hoping it would help with the altitude, as Lyon sits at a much lower elevation than Vilcabamba.


Savor authentic Ecuadorian cuisine amidst stunning landscapes at Restaurant Vilcabamba.

It's December, and the weather in Vilcabamba is characterized by high temperatures and heavy rainfall. Fortunately, the rain held off for most of the day, allowing us to fully enjoy our explorations. However, we made sure to pack our ponchos and prepare for wet conditions, as the forecast predicted rain in the coming days.

Tonight, we're camping beneath the stars, surrounded by the majestic Andes. I can already feel a sense of connection to this land, and I'm excited to see what tomorrow brings. We'll be exploring Vitcos, an archeological site in the Vilcabamba District, and the town of Vilcabamba itself. I'm particularly interested in learning more about the history of Vitcos, which was once the fortress of Manco Inca.

As I drift off to sleep, I can't help but feel grateful for this opportunity to explore the hidden gems of Peru with my friends. It's a dream come true, and I know that the Vilcabamba Trek will be an experience that I will cherish forever. I am also grateful for Jean-Pierre back home, who is holding down the fort, and for Sophie, who I miss dearly. I promised her I would bring her back a special souvenir from Peru. I think the woven scarf from Vilcaterra will do just fine.

The trek has begun, and I am ready for whatever lies ahead! This 13-day adventure promises to be a journey of discovery, both of the land and of myself. I can't wait to share more of my experiences with you as we continue our trek through the heart of the Inca world.

I made sure to charge my camera and travel journal, the two trip essentials I remembered to bring. I am kicking myself still for forgetting my portable solar charger and extra pair of trekking poles. Note to self, always double check the packing list!

Tomorrow, we're off to explore more of Vilcabamba, including Vitcos and Vilcabamba itself. I've heard that Vilcabamba was the last refuge of the Incas before the Spanish conquest, so I'm eager to learn more about its rich history. Plus, we'll be grabbing breakfast at Green House, lunch at Restaurant Katherine, and dinner at Tres Keros. I'm excited to try more of the local cuisine!

The adventure continues!