Family Adventure in the Heart of Cusco

Farewell, Cusco!

As our family adventure in Cusco draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the incredible journey we've shared. Today was a day of delving deeper into the heart of this ancient city, soaking up its history, and savoring its unique flavors. It's hard to believe our 11 days here are already over, but the memories we've made will last a lifetime.

We started our final day in Cusco with a hearty breakfast at Indigo Bar Restaurant. The atmosphere was so inviting, and the menu offered a delightful mix of Peruvian and international options. I opted for a traditional Peruvian breakfast, while David enjoyed a more familiar Western-style meal. Thandi, of course, was thrilled with her pancakes! It was the perfect way to fuel up for a day of exploring.

With our stomachs full and spirits high, we set off to explore the Cusco Historical Center. Walking through the cobblestone streets, I couldn't help but feel transported back in time. The architecture was simply breathtaking, a beautiful blend of Incan foundations and Spanish colonial buildings. Every corner seemed to tell a story, and I found myself constantly reaching for my camera, trying to capture the essence of this magical place. We strolled through the Plaza de Armas, the heart of Cusco, and admired the stunning cathedral and the surrounding buildings. The square was bustling with activity, locals and tourists alike, all drawn to the energy and beauty of this central point. Thandi was fascinated by the pigeons, chasing them around the square with giggles of delight. It was a simple moment, but one that perfectly captured the joy of traveling with family.


Discover the captivating blend of Incan heritage and colonial charm in the heart of Cusco's Historical Center, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Our next stop was the legendary Twelve Angled Stone. I had read so much about this iconic piece of Incan stonework, and I was eager to see it in person. Nestled in a wall on Hatunrumiyoc Street, the stone is a testament to the incredible precision and skill of Incan engineering. It's amazing how perfectly the twelve angles fit together with the surrounding stones, without the use of mortar. The Incas were truly masters of their craft. It's hard to believe that someone would vandalize such an important artifact. I made sure to take plenty of photos, capturing every angle of this remarkable stone. Thandi was especially curious, counting each of the twelve angles with great concentration.


Discover the Twelve Angled Stone in Cusco, a stunning example of Incan architecture that showcases the precision and artistry of ancient stonework.

The beauty of Cusco lies not just in its stones, but in the stories they hold and the spirit of the people who walk these ancient streets.

For lunch, we ventured to Fusion Andina, a restaurant known for its innovative blend of Peruvian and international cuisine. The menu was full of tempting options, and we decided to try a few different dishes to share. The flavors were incredible, a perfect balance of traditional ingredients and modern techniques. I particularly enjoyed the alpaca skewers, while David raved about the quinoa salad. Thandi, ever the adventurous eater, surprised us all by devouring a plate of causa, a traditional Peruvian dish made with mashed potatoes and avocado. It was a culinary experience that perfectly reflected the cultural fusion of Cusco.


Experience authentic Peruvian cuisine at Fusion Andina in Cusco, where tradition meets innovation in every delicious dish.

After lunch, we decided to take a break from sightseeing and indulge in a bit of relaxation. We found a charming little café and ordered some mate de coca, a traditional herbal tea that is said to help with altitude sickness. Sipping the warm tea, we watched the world go by, soaking in the atmosphere of Cusco. It was a perfect moment of peace and tranquility, a chance to recharge before our final evening in the city.

As the sun began to set, we made our way to Cholos Craft Beers Cusco, a local bar known for its wide selection of artisanal brews. David, a craft beer enthusiast, was in heaven, sampling a variety of local beers. I opted for a refreshing pisco sour, a classic Peruvian cocktail. The bar had a lively and friendly atmosphere, and we soon found ourselves chatting with other travelers, sharing stories and recommendations. It was a great way to end our day, connecting with people from all over the world and celebrating our shared love of travel.


Experience Peruvian brewing culture at Cholos Craft Beers in Cusco, where local flavors meet vibrant ambiance in a historic setting.

For our final dinner in Cusco, we chose PER.UK, a restaurant that had been highly recommended for its innovative Peruvian cuisine with a British twist. The restaurant was cozy and inviting, with a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The menu was full of tempting options, and we struggled to make a decision. In the end, I opted for the alpaca steak with blue cheese sauce, while David chose the traditional lomo saltado. Both dishes were absolutely delicious, a perfect blend of flavors and textures. Thandi, of course, was thrilled with her chicken nuggets and fries, a familiar comfort food that always makes her happy. The service was impeccable, and the staff went out of their way to make us feel welcome. It was the perfect ending to our culinary journey in Cusco.


Experience authentic Peruvian cuisine with gluten-free options at PER.UK in Cusco's historic center.

As we walked back to Hotel Polo Corporativo, hand in hand, I couldn't help but feel a sense of sadness that our trip was coming to an end. Cusco had captured our hearts, with its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning scenery. We had explored ancient ruins, hiked through breathtaking landscapes, and savored delicious cuisine. But more importantly, we had created memories that would last a lifetime. I know that this is not goodbye, but rather a see you later. We will definitely be back to explore more of Peru in the future. Perhaps next time, we'll venture into the Amazon rainforest or explore the northern beaches.


Experience the heart of Cuzco with comfort and convenience at Hotel Polo Corporativo, just 1 km from the city center, perfect for travelers seeking adventure.

Tomorrow, we begin our journey back home to Bristol. It will be a long day of travel, but I know that we will be sustained by the memories of our incredible adventure in Cusco. I'm already looking forward to sharing our stories and photos with friends and family, and inspiring them to embark on their own Peruvian adventure.

Before I close, I wanted to share a quick thought about something I've been pondering throughout our trip. As a community outreach coordinator, I'm always thinking about how tourism can be a force for good, supporting local communities and preserving cultural heritage. In Cusco, I was impressed by the efforts to promote sustainable tourism, encouraging visitors to support local businesses and respect the environment. It's something that I will continue to advocate for in my own travels, and I hope that others will join me in making a positive impact on the places we visit. I am also reminded of the importance of remembering and honoring my own roots in Malawi, and finding ways to connect my travels with my passion for cultural exchange and understanding. This trip to Cusco has only strengthened my commitment to these values, and I'm excited to see how I can continue to make a difference in the world.

Thank you, Cusco, for an unforgettable adventure. Until we meet again!