Family Adventure in the Heart of Cusco

Enchanting Encounters in Cusco's Hidden Gems

Today was a day of unexpected adventures, a blend of mythical charm and heartwarming encounters with creatures great and small. It’s funny how travel can surprise you; sometimes the most memorable moments are found far from the beaten path, in places that whisper stories of folklore and resilience. Today, Cusco revealed a different side of itself, a little wilder, a little more whimsical, and deeply touching. David and Thandi were especially excited, their curiosity matching the boundless energy of this vibrant land.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Something Special Cusco. The name certainly lived up to the hype! We fueled up with some delicious local fare; I opted for the quinoa pudding which was recommended by the chef himself, while David enjoyed a hearty portion of chicken tacos. Thandi, ever the adventurous eater, surprised us by devouring a mini ceviche. It’s wonderful to see her embrace new flavors with such enthusiasm. The staff were incredibly friendly, sharing tips about the local attractions and making us feel right at home. It’s these small, personal touches that make a dining experience truly special.


Experience authentic Peruvian flavors at Something Special Cusco - where tradition meets innovation in every bite.

With our bellies full and spirits high, we set off to explore the Valley of the Goblins. The Valley of the Goblins, or as some call it, the Valley of the Elves, is located about 8 kilometers from the city center. As we drove closer, the landscape transformed into a whimsical realm of rock formations and sculpted figures. The air was crisp and the sun cast long shadows, adding to the mystical atmosphere. The Valley of the Goblins is a relatively new attraction in Cusco, inaugurated in 2021, and it’s easy to see why it’s becoming so popular, especially with families. The place is privately owned and what makes it special is that it features rock galleries transformed into a showcase of dozens of goblin sculptures. As we wandered through the valley, Thandi’s eyes widened with wonder. Goblins peeked out from behind rocks, their mischievous grins seemingly inviting her to join their playful world. The sculptures weren’t just whimsical; they also incorporated environmental themes and Andean cultural elements, offering a unique blend of art and heritage. According to locals, the valley is also called 'Campana Huancac' because of a stone formation that resembles a bell. The valley is set at 3,500 meters above sea level and offers beautiful views of the city of Cusco. It was fascinating to see how the artists had used the natural rock formations to create these enchanting figures. Thandi was particularly fascinated by one goblin playing a flute, and she insisted on taking a photo with it. David, ever the playful dad, joined in the fun, making up stories about the goblins and their secret lives in the valley. I loved seeing them connect with the place in such a creative way. It was a reminder that travel is not just about seeing new places, but also about creating shared memories and sparking imagination.


Explore the surreal landscapes of the Valley of the Goblins, a natural wonder in Peru showcasing stunning rock formations and breathtaking vistas.

Sometimes, the most profound travel experiences come from unexpected encounters, leaving indelible marks on our hearts and minds.

After immersing ourselves in the mythical world of goblins, we ventured to the Cochahuasi Animal Sanctuary. This sanctuary is a haven for animals that have been rescued from ill-treatment, poaching, or illegal trafficking. As we approached, I was a little apprehensive; animal sanctuaries can sometimes be disheartening, but Cochahuasi proved to be a place of genuine care and rehabilitation. We were greeted by the owner, who gave us a tour of the grounds, sharing the stories of the animals and the sanctuary’s mission. It was evident that this was more than just a business; it was a labor of love, driven by a deep commitment to animal welfare. The sanctuary is home to a variety of Andean wildlife, including pumas, Andean condors, alpacas, llamas, and Peruvian hairless dogs. Each animal had a story, a tale of rescue and recovery. Thandi was particularly moved by the plight of the condors, majestic birds that had been victims of poaching. The sanctuary is actively involved in the reproduction of the Andean Condor, which is listed as a critically endangered species. Seeing these magnificent creatures up close, knowing that they were being given a second chance at life, was incredibly inspiring. We learned about the challenges of rehabilitating these animals and the importance of conservation efforts. It was a sobering reminder of the impact humans can have on the natural world, but also a testament to the power of compassion and dedication.


Discover the beauty of wildlife conservation at Cochahuasi Animal Sanctuary, a sanctuary dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating endangered species in Peru.

One of the highlights of our visit was the opportunity to feed the alpacas. Thandi squealed with delight as she offered them handfuls of fresh grass. The alpacas were gentle and curious, their soft wool brushing against her tiny hands. It was a moment of pure joy, a connection between a child and nature that I will cherish forever. The Cochahuasi Animal Sanctuary is more than just a tourist attraction; it’s a place of healing and hope. It’s a reminder that even in the face of adversity, there is always the possibility of redemption and renewal. As we left the sanctuary, I felt a sense of gratitude for the work they are doing and a renewed commitment to supporting ethical and sustainable tourism.

For lunch, we stopped by Mistura Grill Cusco, drawn in by its promise of a fusion of flavors and a rooftop view of the Plaza de Armas. The reviews I had read online were spot on as the service was indeed attentive, and the atmosphere was cozy and inviting. I decided to try the ceviche, while David went for the alpaca chili con carne. Thandi, not wanting to be left out, ordered a small portion of the chicken soup. The food was delicious, a testament to the culinary ambition that Cusco is known for. The view from the rooftop was indeed stunning, offering a panoramic vista of the city’s historic center. It was the perfect spot to soak in the vibrant energy of Cusco and reflect on the day’s adventures.


Experience authentic Peruvian flavors at Mistura Grill Cusco, where every dish tells a story of tradition and taste.

As evening approached, we decided to experience Cusco’s nightlife. We dropped Thandi off at the hotel with a promise of a bedtime story and a warm bath, and David and I ventured out to Ukukus Music Club - Bar. This place is a Cusco institution, known for its live music and lively atmosphere. The bar was adorned with colorful local art and graffiti-like designs, creating a unique and vibrant space. The live band was fantastic, playing a mix of indigenous folk music and lively rock tunes. The crowd was diverse, a mix of locals and tourists, all united by the love of music and good times. David and I enjoyed a couple of Pisco Sours, the quintessential Peruvian cocktail, and danced the night away. It was a fun and carefree end to a day filled with meaningful experiences.


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

Ukukus Music Club - Bar is known for attracting a younger crowd of locals and foreigners. Some reviews mention that the drinks are expensive and that you should check your change. Overall, the bar has a rating of 4.3 on Google. It's a popular place to listen to music and meet new people.

Tomorrow, we’re planning to explore Laguna Huaypo and the Cusco Planetarium. I’m particularly excited about the planetarium; Thandi has been asking endless questions about the stars and planets, and I think it will be a fascinating experience for her. David is looking forward to the scenic views at Laguna Huaypo, and I’m sure we’ll find plenty of photo opportunities there. We’ll also have breakfast at Mama Seledonia, lunch at Andean Grill Restaurant, and dinner at El Tupay Restaurant.

As I sit here writing, I’m filled with a sense of gratitude for the experiences we’ve had today. Cusco continues to surprise and delight us, offering a unique blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. It’s a place that nourishes the soul and inspires the imagination. I can’t wait to see what tomorrow brings.

I also checked online to see if there were any events happening in Cusco today, and found that Cusco is known for the Good Friday celebrations, however most of the related events already took place earlier this week. I was also not able to find any specific events at the date in Cusco.

I’m looking forward to sharing more of our adventures with you soon. Until then, may your travels be filled with wonder and discovery!