Solo Adventure to the Ancient Wonders of Machu Picchu

Whispers of the Past

Today was a day of deep connection with Machu Picchu, a day where the stones seemed to whisper stories of the Inca civilization. Waking up in Aguas Calientes, I felt a surge of anticipation for what the day held. After a hearty vegan breakfast at Govinda Restaurant VEGANO, I set off to explore more of this ancient city. Today, I planned to visit the Temple of the Three Windows and hike up to the Sun Gate, Inti Punku. I also wanted to pick up a few souvenirs from the local shops.

My morning began with a nutritious and energizing breakfast at Govinda Restaurant VEGANO.


Discover delicious vegan delights at Govinda Restaurant VEGANO in Aguas Calientes - where healthy eating meets Peruvian culinary artistry.

As someone who is committed to sustainable living, I was happy to find a place that aligns with my values. I enjoyed a delightful blend of Indian, Peruvian, and South American cuisine with a focus on vegetarian and vegan options. The staff were incredibly friendly, and the restaurant was spotless. I felt ready to tackle the day ahead after my meal.

First on my itinerary was the Temple of the Three Windows.


Discover the mesmerizing architectural brilliance of the Temple of the Three Windows, a hidden gem in the heart of Machu Picchu's historic ruins.

As I walked through Machu Picchu, the sheer scale and ingenuity of the Inca architecture never ceased to amaze me. The temple is located in the Hanan or uptown section of Machu Picchu, which was historically the religious sector of the city. The Temple of the Three Windows is made of a polygonal wall with three trapezoidal windows. It faces south, towards Huayna Picchu and Putucusi. The precision with which the stones were cut and fitted together was remarkable. Standing there, I imagined the ceremonies and rituals that must have taken place within those walls, connecting the earthly realm with the heavens. It’s believed that the three windows represent the three worlds of Incan cosmology: the underworld (Uku-Pacha), the human world (Kay-Pacha), and the heavenly world (Hanan-Pacha).

To walk through Machu Picchu is to walk through history, feeling the echoes of a civilization that mastered both stone and sky.

After soaking in the spiritual energy of the temple, I decided to embark on the hike to the Sun Gate (Inti Punku).


Discover the breathtaking views from Sun Gate, the iconic entrance to Machu Picchu, and immerse yourself in the rich history of the Inca civilization.

The Sun Gate sits at 2,720 meters above sea level. The hike was challenging but incredibly rewarding. The path wound its way along the mountainside, offering panoramic views of Machu Picchu and the surrounding landscape. As I ascended, I passed through lush vegetation and felt the cool mountain air against my skin. The higher I climbed, the more breathtaking the scenery became. The path to Inti Punku is part of the original Inca Trail network (qhapaq ñan).

During my hike, I reflected on how different this experience was from my life back in Amsterdam. Cycling along the canals is wonderful, but it doesn't quite compare to hiking in the Andes! I made a mental note to share more about sustainable tourism with my followers, highlighting how important it is to respect and preserve these ancient sites for future generations. Perhaps Jan and I could even organize a sustainable travel workshop someday. That would be a great way to combine our skills and passions.

Reaching the Sun Gate was an emotional moment. As the main entrance to Machu Picchu for those arriving via the Inca Trail, it offered a stunning, panoramic view of the entire city. I sat there for a long time, simply absorbing the beauty and the energy of the place. The Incas strategically aligned the Sun Gate for astronomical and religious practices. The sun's rays pass through it during the solstices. I felt a profound sense of connection to the past, imagining the Inca people who once used this gate as a control point for entering and exiting the city. It was easy to understand why the Incas considered the sun to be the most important god, designing the Sun Gate to align perfectly with its path.

The weather was perfect, with the sun casting a warm glow over the mountains and the ancient stones. According to the locals, the rainy season is typically from November to March, so I was lucky to be visiting in May when the skies are clearer and the temperatures are mild. I took countless photos, trying to capture the essence of this magical place, knowing that no image could truly do it justice.

After descending from the Sun Gate, I was ready for a late lunch. I decided to try Julian Restaurant, known for its organic Peruvian and international cuisine.


Experience authentic Peruvian cuisine at Julian Restaurant in Aguas Calientes - where tradition meets taste.

I enjoyed a delicious meal of local dishes, savoring the flavors of the Andes. The Julian Restaurant is known for using fresh, high-quality ingredients to create delicious dishes. The atmosphere was cozy and welcoming, making it a perfect spot to relax after a day of exploring.

With the afternoon sun beginning to dip lower in the sky, I decided to take some time to explore the local shops in Aguas Calientes. I wanted to find a few special souvenirs to bring back home, something that would remind me of this incredible journey. The town is a bustling hub of activity, especially during peak tourist seasons. The streets are lined with cozy cafes, vibrant markets, and a variety of restaurants offering traditional Peruvian cuisine. I visited the local artisan market near the train station, where I found a colorful array of alpaca wool sweaters, scarves, and blankets. I also found some traditional Peruvian jewelry crafted from silver and stones. Bargaining is common, so I managed to get a few good deals.

I finally settled on a beautifully woven tapestry and a small, hand-carved replica of Machu Picchu. I also picked up some coca tea, a regional specialty, to share with Jan back home. I was mindful of supporting local artisans and ensuring that my purchases were ethically sourced. As a social media manager for a sustainable fashion startup, I always try to make conscious choices about what I buy and who I support.

For dinner, I chose Inka Wasi Restaurant, which specializes in traditional Cusco and Peruvian dishes.


Experience authentic Peruvian cuisine at Inka Wasi Restaurant in Aguas Calientes – where tradition meets flavor in every dish.

The Inka Wasi Restaurant is located in the heart of Machu Picchu Pueblo (Aguas Calientes). They also cater to international tastes upon request. The restaurant has received numerous awards in the restaurant industry in Cusco. I decided to try a traditional Cusco dish and a Peruvian dish. I savored every bite, reflecting on the day’s adventures. The Inka Wasi Restaurant is known for its excellent service and culinary expertise.

As I walked back to my guesthouse, the stars began to appear, twinkling like diamonds against the dark sky. I felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude for the opportunity to experience Machu Picchu in such a profound way. It was a day filled with history, spirituality, and natural beauty – a day that I will cherish forever.

Tomorrow, I plan to explore more of the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu and visit Sayacmarca, another fascinating archaeological site. I might also check out Green PUB machupicchu for a local beer. I’m excited to see what new wonders await me!

Back in my room, I journaled about my day, capturing every detail and every emotion. I also made sure to charge my camera and prepare for another day of exploration. As I drifted off to sleep, I could still hear the whispers of the past, reminding me of the enduring legacy of the Inca civilization.

What a day. What a place. What a world.