Exploring the Hidden Incan Treasure: Choquequirao Trek

First Impressions of Cusco

Our Peruvian adventure has officially begun! After a long journey from Berlin, Lena and I have finally arrived in Cusco, ready to explore the ancient wonders and vibrant culture of this historic city. Today was all about immersing ourselves in the local atmosphere, from quirky goblin sculptures to significant historical sites and, of course, the delicious Peruvian cuisine. I already feel a strong connection to this place, and I'm excited to share our experiences as we delve deeper into the heart of the Inca civilization.

Our day started with a hearty breakfast at Inka Wasi Restaurant Cusco. Fuelled up for the day, we were ready to explore!

First stop: The Valley of the Goblins!

Nestled in the San Sebastian district, just a short drive from the city center, lies a whimsical and relatively new attraction known as the Valley of the Goblins. Lena and I weren't quite sure what to expect, but the name alone piqued our curiosity. As we entered, we were greeted by a landscape dotted with quirky sculptures of goblins, leprechauns, and brownies, interspersed with rock formations. It felt like stepping into a fantastical world, a theme park of sorts, with a unique blend of European folklore and Andean culture.

The Valley of the Goblins, also known as Campana Huancac, was inaugurated in 2021 and is a privately owned park. The park has continued to grow since then, with more statues and sculptures added. As we wandered through the small valley, we admired the attention to detail in each sculpture. The park also incorporates statues related to Inca culture. We spent about an hour exploring the caves and rock formations, snapping photos and enjoying the stunning views of Cusco from above. It was a fun and quirky experience, a welcome change from the more traditional historical sites. I can imagine this place would be especially enchanting for families with children.


Discover the enchanting Valley of the Goblins in Peru, where whimsical rock formations and stunning landscapes await adventurous travelers.

Sometimes, the most unexpected places offer the most delightful surprises.

Huaca de Pachacutec: A Glimpse into Inca History

After our whimsical adventure in the Valley of the Goblins, we decided to delve into the rich history of the Inca civilization with a visit to Huaca de Pachacutec. This archaeological site is a testament to the grandeur of the Inca Empire and a tribute to Pachacutec, the ninth Sapa Inca, who transformed Cusco into a thriving capital.

As we approached the site, we were immediately struck by the impressive stone structures that have withstood the test of time. Huaca de Pachacutec is more than just an archaeological site; it's a window into the spiritual and daily life of the Incas. As we wandered through the ruins, we could almost imagine the ceremonial platforms, altars, and ritual spaces that once played a vital role in Inca society. The site also offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, allowing us to appreciate the natural beauty that defines this region.

Learning about Pachacutec, I was reminded of the importance of preserving and understanding our history. It's fascinating to see how one leader's vision can leave such a lasting impact on a civilization. He expanded the Inca empire across South America and transformed Cusco into a vibrant center of culture and innovation. He established a base system of roads, canals and administrative centers which helped him to facilitate the control of its extensive territory.


Explore Huaca de Pachacutec, an iconic archaeological site in Cusco that captures the spirit of the Inca civilization and its rich cultural history.

A Culinary Journey Through Cusco

After a day of exploring, we were ready to indulge in the culinary delights that Cusco has to offer. For lunch, we headed to Chicha por Gaston Acurio, a restaurant known for its modern take on traditional Peruvian dishes. The restaurant is overseen by famed chef Gastón Acurio.

The ambiance was classy and spacious. We started with the ceviche, a classic Peruvian dish of fresh fish marinated in citrus juices and spices. It was a burst of flavors, the perfect way to awaken our taste buds. For the main course, I opted for a traditional Peruvian dish, while Lena chose a fusion dish that blended local ingredients with international techniques. Each dish was a work of art, both visually stunning and incredibly delicious. The service was excellent, and the staff was knowledgeable about the menu and eager to share their passion for Peruvian cuisine.

In the evening, we decided to try Taywa for dinner. The warm atmosphere made us feel relaxed. We enjoyed some traditional Cusco dishes.

Shopping for Souvenirs at the Handicraft Center Cusco

No trip is complete without a bit of souvenir shopping! Before dinner, we stopped by the Handicraft Center Cusco, a bustling hub of local trades and unique souvenirs. Located near the Plaza de Armas, this large building offers a vast collection of artesania under one roof.

As we walked through the center, we were mesmerized by the vibrant colors and intricate designs of the textiles, clothing, and jewelry on display. We found a variety of traditional souvenirs and local products. The vendors were friendly and not too pushy, making for a pleasant shopping experience. I was particularly drawn to the hand-woven textiles, each telling a story through its patterns and colors. Lena, with her keen eye for design, admired the intricate ceramics and jewelry. We purchased a few small items to remind us of our time in Cusco, promising ourselves to return for more before we leave.

The Handicraft Center is a must-visit for anyone looking to explore the local trades and shop for unique souvenirs. It provides a clean and hassle-free shopping environment with a wide range of textiles, clothing, jewelry, and more. Some reviewers caution about authenticity when buying Alpaca products.


Explore the Handicraft Center Cusco, where Peruvian artistry comes alive with unique handmade treasures and cultural richness.

Final Thoughts on Day One

As we reflect on our first day in Cusco, we are filled with a sense of excitement and anticipation for what lies ahead. From the whimsical Valley of the Goblins to the historical Huaca de Pachacutec and the culinary delights of Chicha, today was a perfect introduction to the magic of Cusco. We are eager to continue exploring this ancient city, to uncover its hidden gems, and to immerse ourselves in its vibrant culture. Tomorrow, we are embarking on the Choquequirao Trail and Qochapata. I am looking forward to sharing our experiences on the trail tomorrow!

According to the calendar, there are a number of festivals taking place in Cusco during the month of October. One of the most important is the Señor de los Milagros Festival. The Virgen del Rosario Festival is celebrated on October 7.

Before heading back to our hotel, we stopped by a local cafe for a cup of coca tea, a traditional remedy for altitude sickness. As we sipped our tea, we watched the city come alive with music and laughter. It was the perfect end to a perfect day.

Until tomorrow!

Giorgos