Exploring the Hidden Incan Treasure: Choquequirao Trek

A Day of Cusco's Wonders

Today was a whirlwind of history, gastronomy, and vibrant nightlife here in Cusco. Lena and I immersed ourselves in the rich tapestry of this ancient city, exploring its iconic landmarks, indulging in its culinary treasures, and soaking up its lively atmosphere. It's days like these that make traveling so rewarding, offering glimpses into the heart and soul of a place.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Taywa. Fuelled up with traditional Peruvian fare, we set off to explore Saqsaywaman, an impressive Inca fortress overlooking Cusco. The sheer scale of the stonework is simply awe-inspiring, and it's hard to fathom how the Incas managed to move and fit these massive stones together with such precision. As I wandered through the ruins, I couldn't help but imagine what life must have been like here centuries ago, when this fortress was a bustling center of power and activity. Lena, ever the artist, was captivated by the textures and patterns of the stones, snapping photos from every angle. The weather in Cusco in October is usually moderate, with daytime temperatures around 17°C, perfect for exploring.


Discover the awe-inspiring ruins of Saqsaywaman, an ancient Incan fortress that offers breathtaking views and a deep dive into Peru's rich history.

From Saqsaywaman, we ventured towards the Inca Trail. While we weren't embarking on the full trek to Machu Picchu today, we wanted to experience a small section of this legendary path. We hiked for a couple of hours, enjoying the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The air was crisp and clean, and the scenery was simply breathtaking. It was easy to see why this trail is so popular with hikers from all over the world. I made a mental note to add the full Inca Trail to our bucket list for a future adventure. I can only imagine the sense of accomplishment one must feel upon reaching Machu Picchu after several days of trekking through this challenging terrain. There are some events in Cusco in October, such as the Fiesta de San Francisco, but we didn't have time to attend.


Discover the breathtaking Inca Trail, a legendary trek through history, leading to the iconic ruins of Machu Picchu amidst stunning Andean landscapes.

To travel is to discover that everyone is wrong about other countries. - Aldous Huxley

By lunchtime, we were both feeling quite peckish, so we made our way to KUSYKAY Peruvian Craft Food for a taste of local cuisine. This restaurant came highly recommended, and it certainly didn't disappoint. Lena opted for the Lomo de Alpaca, while I decided to try the Alpaca burger. Both dishes were bursting with flavor and beautifully presented. The staff were incredibly friendly and even offered us complimentary teas to help with the altitude. As we savored our meal, we couldn't help but appreciate the passion and creativity that went into each dish. It's experiences like these that remind us why we love to travel – to discover new flavors, new cultures, and new perspectives.


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

In the late afternoon, with our historical and gastronomical appetites sated, we decided to explore Cusco's vibrant nightlife. We made our way to El Huarique Bar, a cozy little spot known for its delicious cocktails and lively atmosphere. As we sipped on our drinks, we chatted with some of the locals and fellow travelers, sharing stories and laughter. The bar had a great vibe, with live music and a friendly crowd. It was the perfect way to unwind after a busy day of sightseeing. Sipping on a Pisco Sour, I felt a deep sense of contentment. It's moments like these, surrounded by good company and good vibes, that make traveling so special.


Discover the heart of Cusco's nightlife at El Huarique Bar, where live music and vibrant culture come together for an unforgettable experience.

For dinner, we chose Yaku Restaurant, drawn in by its reputation for blending traditional Peruvian cuisine with modern culinary techniques. The ambiance was enchanting, with soft lighting, cozy fireplaces, and a beautifully decorated patio. We started with the trout ceviche, which was an explosion of flavors in my mouth. For our main courses, Lena chose the quinoa risotto, while I opted for the baked Cuy, a local delicacy. While Lena enjoyed her risotto, I found the Cuy to be a bit too salty for my taste. However, the overall experience was fantastic, with attentive service and a vibrant atmosphere. There was even live music, which added to the charm of the evening.


Experience exquisite Peruvian cuisine at Yaku Restaurant in Cusco - where tradition meets innovation in every dish.

As we walked back to our accommodation, hand in hand, I couldn't help but reflect on the incredible day we had just experienced. Cusco had truly captured our hearts with its ancient ruins, culinary delights, and lively nights. I'm so grateful to be sharing this adventure with Lena, my best friend and travel companion. Tomorrow, we're off to explore Choquequirao, the sister city to Machu Picchu. I'm excited to see what this hidden Incan treasure has in store for us. I have a feeling it's going to be another unforgettable day. We'll be having breakfast at Chullos Restaurant & Craft Beer, and then heading out to explore Choquequirao and Choquequirao Expeditions. For dinner, we are booked at Hacienda Huayoccari, and hope to do some shopping at Artesanias Maki.

I’m also reminded of something I read recently: the permits for the Inca Trail in 2025 are opening up soon, so it might be a good idea to book them in advance if you're planning a trip. I'm curious about the 3-day Inca Trail; it sounds like a great challenge!

The world is a book and those who do not travel read only one page. - St. Augustine