Exploring the Hidden Incan Treasure: Choquequirao Trek

Whispers of the Past

Today was a day of diving deep into the heart of Inca history, exploring sites that hum with stories of ingenuity, worship, and the deep connection between people and nature. Leaving the well-trodden paths behind, Lena and I sought out quieter corners of Cusco, places where the echoes of the past resonate with a unique clarity. We discovered the 'flowery garden' of Inkilltambo and the mesmerizing waterworks of Tipón, each revealing a different facet of the Inca civilization. We capped it off with delicious local cuisine, making for a day that nourished both our minds and our bodies.

Our morning began with a hearty breakfast at Kusikuy Restaurante. Fuelled up with traditional Peruvian fare, we set off to explore Inkilltambo, an Inca archaeological site whose name translates to flowery garden or flowery inn in Quechua. Located in the San Sebastian district, just a few kilometers from Cusco, Inkilltambo offered a tranquil escape from the bustling city. As we hiked along the well-marked trails, the air was crisp and clean, filled with the scent of eucalyptus.


Discover Inkilltambo, an archaeological site near Cusco, Peru, where ancient Inca history meets stunning natural beauty.
The site itself is nestled within the Sacsayhuaman Archaeological Park, at an altitude of approximately 3,548 meters above sea level. It's believed that Inkilltambo served as both a ceremonial and agricultural center during the Inca Empire. As we wandered through the grounds, we were struck by the seamless integration of architecture and nature. Agricultural terraces cascaded down the hillside, fed by ancient irrigation canals that still flow with water. The stonework was impeccable, a testament to the Incas' mastery of their craft.

We explored ceremonial enclosures and discovered a *huaca*, a sacred place carved out of a large granite rock. It was easy to imagine the Inca priests performing rituals here, honoring the water and the cycles of life. The site exuded a sense of peace and serenity, a perfect place for meditation and reflection. Lena, with her keen eye for detail, captured some stunning photos of the stonework and the surrounding landscapes. It's moments like these, sharing our passion for exploration and photography, that make our adventures together so special. I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe and respect for the Inca civilization, their ingenuity, and their deep connection to the land.

To walk through these ancient sites is to feel the pulse of a civilization that understood the delicate balance between humanity and nature.

After immersing ourselves in the tranquility of Inkilltambo, we journeyed to the Archaeological Park of Tipón. Located about 22 kilometers southeast of Cusco, this sprawling complex is considered one of the most important archaeological sites in the Cusco area. Tipón is renowned for its advanced hydraulic engineering system, a testament to the Incas' mastery of water management.


Explore the ancient Incan marvels at Archaeological Park Tipón, a breathtaking national park showcasing stunning terraces and innovative irrigation.
As we entered the park, we were immediately struck by the scale of the site. Tipón covers an area of 239 hectares and is situated between 3,250 and 3,960 meters above sea level. The most famous part of the park is the group of monumental terraces, irrigated by a network of water canals fed by a natural spring. The precision and ingenuity of the system were astounding. Water flowed through the canals with a gentle murmur, a testament to the Incas' ability to harness and control this precious resource.

We explored the various sections of the park, including the royal enclosures, believed to have been the residence of Inca Huiracocha. The stonework was exquisite, with finely carved stones fitted together with remarkable precision. We also visited Cruz Moqo, the highest point of Tipón, where we found ancient petroglyphs etched into the rocks. The views from the summit were breathtaking, offering panoramic vistas of the surrounding valleys.

Tipón is not only a marvel of engineering but also a place of great spiritual significance. Known as the Temple of Water, the site served as a ceremonial center where the Incas worshipped water, an element considered sacred in Andean cosmology. As we wandered through the grounds, we could feel the reverence that the Incas held for this life-giving resource. The sound of flowing water was ever-present, creating a soothing and meditative atmosphere.

By lunchtime, our stomachs were rumbling, so we headed to El museo de la papa rest for a bite. The name translates to The Potato Museum Restaurant, and given Peru's incredible variety of potatoes, we figured it was a must-try. We sampled several different potato dishes, each more delicious than the last. It was fascinating to learn about the history and cultural significance of the potato in Peru. I even learned a few new facts to share with my dad, who's quite the history buff himself. He'd be fascinated by the agricultural innovation of the Incas, especially after seeing Tipón's terraces and water systems firsthand.


Discover Peru's rich culinary heritage at El Museo de la Papa in Urubamba – where every dish tells a story about potatoes!
With our appetites sated, we decided to indulge in a bit of retail therapy at Artesanias Intichay. Located in the Pisac District, this shop offered a wide array of local handicrafts. Lena, with her discerning eye for design, found a beautiful hand-woven scarf. I picked up a small ceramic llama as a souvenir for my niece. Supporting local artisans is important to us, and it's always a pleasure to bring home unique reminders of our travels.


Explore authentic Peruvian textiles at Artesanias Intichay in Pisac, where vibrant craftsmanship meets rich cultural heritage.
As evening approached, we made our way back to Cusco for dinner at Mistura Grill & Restaurant. This restaurant is known for its modern take on Peruvian cuisine and its use of local ingredients. We started with a causa, a layered potato dish with avocado and seafood, followed by a hearty plate of lomo saltado, stir-fried beef with onions, tomatoes, and peppers. The flavors were incredible, a perfect blend of traditional and contemporary. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, and the service was impeccable. It was the perfect way to end a day filled with exploration and discovery.


Discover authentic Peruvian flavors at Mistura Grill & Restaurant in Cusco – where every dish tells a story.
Tomorrow, we're heading to Choquequirao Travel and the Ruinas de Choquechurco, continuing our exploration of Inca sites. I'm particularly excited about seeing Choquequirao, often referred to as Machu Picchu's sister city. We plan to grab breakfast at Mapacho Craft Beer Restaurant and lunch at SUMAQCHA RESTAURANT, and perhaps unwind at Republica Del Pisco - Cusco. And, of course, we'll be sure to document every moment, capturing the beauty and history of this incredible region. As we prepare for another day of adventure, I'm filled with gratitude for the opportunity to explore this fascinating country with my wonderful wife. The memories we're making here will last a lifetime.

Before drifting off to sleep, Lena and I chatted about our favorite moments from the day. For me, it was the sense of peace I felt at Inkilltambo, surrounded by the ancient stonework and the sounds of nature. For Lena, it was the sheer ingenuity of Tipón's water system, a testament to the Incas' ability to adapt to their environment. As we closed our eyes, we were both filled with a sense of wonder and anticipation for what tomorrow would bring.