Exploring the Hidden Incan Treasure: Choquequirao Trek

Echoes of the Incas and Rhythms of Cusco

Today was a whirlwind of ancient history and modern-day excitement. From exploring ruins that whispered tales of the Inca civilization to immersing ourselves in the vibrant nightlife of Cusco, it was a day that truly captured the essence of Peru. Lena and I started our day with a sense of anticipation, ready to uncover more of this country's rich heritage.

Our morning began with a hearty breakfast at Ponchos Machupicchu Restaurant. The cozy atmosphere and delicious Peruvian coffee set the perfect tone for the day ahead. I had read some great reviews about their breakfast options, and it certainly lived up to the hype. Lena opted for a traditional Andean breakfast, while I went for something a bit more familiar, but equally tasty. Fuelled up and ready, we set off to explore the historical sites that awaited us.

Our first stop was Juchuy Coscco, also known as Little Cusco. The name 'Huchuy Coscco' translates to 'Little Cusco' in Quechua, offering a glimpse into its significance as an Inca site. Perched high above the Sacred Valley, the views were simply breathtaking. It's easy to see why the Incas chose this location; the panoramic vista of the valley below is stunning. As we wandered through the ruins, I couldn't help but imagine what life must have been like here centuries ago. The stonework, though weathered by time, still showcased the incredible craftsmanship of the Inca people. Lena, with her keen eye for detail, was particularly fascinated by the intricate irrigation channels and the remains of what were once grand halls. It was a privilege to walk in the footsteps of a civilization that had such a profound impact on this region.


Discover Juchuy Coscco, a breathtaking Inca ruin in the Andes, offering stunning views and a deep dive into Peru's rich history.

To truly appreciate a culture, you must immerse yourself in its history and embrace its present.

After spending the morning exploring Juchuy Coscco, we journeyed to the world-renowned Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu. While I had seen countless photos of this iconic site, nothing could have prepared me for the sheer awe of seeing it in person. The weather in October is generally mild, with daytime temperatures ranging from 15°C to 22°C (59°F and 72°F), but there can be occasional afternoon showers. Luckily, the weather was kind to us, with only a few light sprinkles that quickly passed.


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

We grabbed lunch at Toto's House. The restaurant was bustling with fellow travelers, all eager to refuel after exploring Machu Picchu. Lena and I enjoyed a delicious buffet, sampling a variety of Peruvian dishes. With its large selection of entrees, mains, and desserts, it was the perfect way to experience the local cuisine.


Experience authentic Peruvian cuisine at Toto's House in Aguas Calientes – where every meal is a celebration of local flavors.

Walking through the ancient city, I was struck by the ingenuity and skill of the Inca people. The way they constructed the city on such a steep mountainside, using only rudimentary tools, is truly remarkable. Every stone, every terrace, every building seemed to tell a story. Lena, ever the artist, was captivated by the way the light played across the stone structures, creating a mesmerizing dance of shadows and highlights. We spent hours wandering through the ruins, soaking in the energy and atmosphere of this incredible place.

As the sun began to set, we made our way back to Cusco, feeling a sense of profound gratitude for having had the opportunity to experience Machu Picchu. But the day was far from over. After freshening up at our hotel, we ventured out to explore Cusco's nightlife.

We had dinner at KUSYKAY Peruvian Craft Food, a restaurant that came highly recommended. From the moment we walked in, we were greeted with warmth and hospitality. The trendy yet welcoming atmosphere made us feel right at home. We started with some refreshing homemade drinks and then moved on to the main courses. I opted for the Lomo Saltado, while Lena chose the Alpaca burger. Both dishes were bursting with flavor and beautifully presented. It was the perfect way to cap off a day of exploration and adventure.


Experience authentic Peruvian flavors at KUSYKAY in Cusco—where tradition meets modern craft in every delicious dish.

But the night wasn't over yet! We decided to check out Ukukus Music Club - Bar, a popular nightclub in Cusco. As we stepped inside, we were immediately enveloped by the pulsating rhythms of live music. The atmosphere was electric, with locals and tourists alike dancing and socializing. Lena and I grabbed a couple of cocktails and joined in the fun, letting loose and immersing ourselves in the vibrant energy of the club. It was a fantastic way to experience Cusco's nightlife and meet fellow travelers from all over the world. I even tried out some of my rusty salsa moves, much to Lena's amusement!


Discover the energetic nightlife at Ukukus Music Club - Bar in Cusco, where live music and delicious fast food create unforgettable memories.

As the night drew to a close, we made our way back to the hotel, our hearts full of joy and gratitude. Today had been a perfect blend of history, culture, and fun. From the ancient ruins of Juchuy Coscco and the majestic Machu Picchu to the delicious food and vibrant nightlife of Cusco, it was a day that we will cherish forever. I am glad we didn’t forget the sunscreen, as we really needed it today!

Tomorrow, we're planning to delve deeper into the Choquequirao Experience and explore the Pumamarca Ruins [IfDay8]. I'm particularly excited about visiting TEXTILES POMATAYLLA; Lena is eager to find some authentic Peruvian textiles to bring back home [IfDay8]. It promises to be another day filled with adventure and discovery. I can't wait to share it all with you!

For now, it's time to rest and recharge. Goodnight from Cusco!