Exploring the Hidden Incan Treasure: Choquequirao Trek

Day 2: Trails, Terraces, and Tastes of Cusco

Today was a day of immersion, a deep dive into the heart of the Choquequirao trek and the vibrant culture of Cusco. From conquering challenging trails to savoring traditional Peruvian cuisine, Lena and I experienced a blend of adventure and culinary delights that I'm excited to share.

The day began with a hearty breakfast at Organika Restaurant in Cusco. Fueling up with fresh, locally sourced ingredients was the perfect way to prepare for the physical challenges ahead. It's amazing how much better food tastes when you know it's coming straight from the farm. After breakfast, we set off to tackle the Choquequirao Trail, eager to experience what many call the 'sister city' to Machu Picchu.


Discover the scenic beauty and rich history along the Choquequirao Trail, an unforgettable hiking adventure in the Peruvian Andes.

The trail itself was a testament to Incan ingenuity and resilience. As we hiked, I couldn't help but marvel at the thought of the people who built and maintained these paths centuries ago. The views were simply breathtaking, offering panoramic vistas of the Apurimac River canyon and the surrounding Vilcabamba mountain range. The October weather was on our side, with sunny days and pleasant temperatures, making it ideal for trekking. Lena, with her keen eye for design, was captivated by the way the Incan structures blended seamlessly with the natural landscape.

The journey, whether on foot or through the flavors of a new culture, is the destination.

Our trek led us to Qochapata, an area known for its unique ecosystem and stunning views. We took our time exploring the area, snapping photos and simply soaking in the tranquility. The air was crisp and clean, and the only sounds were the rustling of leaves and the occasional call of a bird. It was moments like these that reminded me why I love to travel – to disconnect from the everyday and reconnect with nature.


Explore Qochapata, an archaeological marvel near Cusco, Peru, where history meets breathtaking landscapes in an unforgettable experience.

For lunch, we ventured to SUMAQCHA RESTAURANT, a family-owned gem just off the main square. The restaurant exuded a cozy atmosphere, making us feel instantly at home. We indulged in traditional Peruvian cuisine, savoring dishes like stuffed steaks, flavorful broth, and ají de gallina. Lena particularly enjoyed the Pisco Sour, while I opted for a refreshing smoothie. The friendly and hospitable staff made the experience even more memorable.


Discover authentic Peruvian cuisine at Sumaqcha Restaurant in Cusco's historic Plaza de Armas - a culinary delight amidst stunning views.

As the sun began to set, we made our way to Pachapapa in the San Blas district for dinner. The restaurant's charming courtyard, complete with live music, provided the perfect ambiance for a relaxing evening. We decided to try some local delicacies, including alpaca pizza and, for the more adventurous, guinea pig. While the guinea pig wasn't exactly to my taste, I appreciated the opportunity to try something new and authentic. Lena, ever the adventurous one, enjoyed it more than I did, describing it as having a unique, earthy flavor.


Discover authentic Peruvian cuisine at Pachapapa in Cusco – where every dish is a celebration of local flavors and culinary heritage.

To cap off the day, we headed to LIMBUS RESTOBAR, a spot recommended for its stunning views of Cusco. Perched above the San Blas streets, the bar offered a panoramic vista of the city. We sipped on Pisco Sours, enjoying the vibrant atmosphere and the breathtaking scenery. The climb up the stairs was a bit challenging, but the view was well worth the effort.


Discover culinary delights and breathtaking views at LIMBUS RESTOBAR, a vibrant dining experience in the heart of Cusco.

Reflecting on the day, I'm struck by the incredible blend of history, culture, and natural beauty that Peru has to offer. The Choquequirao Trail was a challenging but rewarding experience, offering a glimpse into the Incan civilization and stunning Andean landscapes. The culinary delights of Cusco, from the fresh ingredients at Organika to the traditional dishes at SUMAQCHA and Pachapapa, provided a true taste of Peruvian culture. And the vibrant atmosphere and breathtaking views at LIMBUS RESTOBAR were the perfect way to end the day.

Tomorrow, we're planning to tackle Abra Choquequirao and the Sun Gate. I've heard the views from Abra Choquequirao are incredible, and I'm excited to see the Sun Gate, another sacred spot. Before heading out, we'll grab breakfast at Kusikuy Restaurante, fuel up for the day, and maybe do some shopping at Mercado Central de San Pedro. It's supposed to be a great place to find local crafts and souvenirs. I'm also looking forward to dinner at Uchu Peruvian Steakhouse; I've heard they have some amazing steaks.

As I write this, Lena is already asleep, dreaming of tomorrow's adventures. I'm grateful to be sharing this experience with her, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings. Goodnight from Cusco!