Family Adventure in the Heart of Cusco

Arrival in Cusco: A City Steeped in History

After what felt like an eternity in transit, we finally touched down in Cusco! The air is crisp and thin, a stark contrast to Bristol's familiar drizzle. Thandi was bouncing with excitement, her little eyes wide as she took in the bustling airport. David, ever the pragmatist, was already checking our connecting transport. For me, it was a moment of pure joy – we were finally here, ready to explore the heart of the Inca Empire.


Our family adventure in Cusco has officially begun! As a community outreach coordinator, I'm always drawn to places with a rich cultural tapestry, and Cusco certainly doesn't disappoint. The blend of indigenous and colonial influences is immediately apparent, painting a vibrant picture of Peru's complex history. This trip is not just a vacation; it's an opportunity for us to learn, connect, and create lasting memories together. I'm especially excited to share this experience with Thandi, hoping to instill in her a love for exploration and an appreciation for diverse cultures.


After a smooth transfer to Hotel Polo Corporativo, we took some time to settle in. The hotel is lovely, with comfortable rooms and a welcoming atmosphere. It’s exactly the kind of family-friendly base we were hoping for. Thandi immediately claimed the window seat, gazing out at the terracotta rooftops and the rolling hills in the distance. David, meanwhile, was busy ensuring we had all the necessary adapters and chargers – a task he approaches with the precision of a software developer!


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.

Our first order of business was to take it easy and acclimatise to the altitude. Cusco sits at a staggering 11,152 feet (3,399 meters), and it's crucial to avoid rushing into strenuous activities. After a brief rest, we decided to take a gentle stroll to Plaza Mayor de Cusco, the city's main square. I made sure we all had our reusable water bottles filled, a habit I picked up from my dedication to sustainable tourism. I realised I had forgotten to pack our rain jackets, a slight oversight that I hope won't come back to haunt us! I’ll need to find a shop that sells them tomorrow.


Discover the vibrant heart of Cusco at Plaza Mayor, where history, culture, and tradition come alive in a breathtaking setting.

Exploring Plaza Mayor: A Historical Crossroads

As we approached Plaza Mayor, the sheer scale of the space took my breath away. The square is surrounded by impressive colonial architecture, including the Cusco Cathedral and the Church of the Society of Jesus. The Cathedral, in particular, is a magnificent structure, its intricate facade a testament to the city's rich history. Thandi was fascinated by the pigeons that flocked around the square, chasing after them with giggles and delight. It was a beautiful sight, watching her carefree spirit in such a historically significant place.


We took our time wandering around the square, soaking in the atmosphere. Street vendors were selling colourful textiles and handicrafts, while locals and tourists alike mingled and chatted. The air was filled with the sounds of music and laughter, creating a lively and festive ambiance. I couldn't resist buying a small, hand-woven bracelet for Thandi, a memento of our first day in Cusco. David, always keen to capture the moment, snapped photos of us with the Cathedral as a backdrop. He promised to send some to my mum back in Chilumba; she's been so excited about this trip, and I know she'll love seeing the pictures.

The true journey of discovery consists not in seeking new landscapes, but in having new eyes.

After our leisurely stroll around Plaza Mayor, we decided to find a spot for breakfast. El Jardin - Healthy Food And Coffee caught my eye with its promise of fresh, healthy options. The restaurant is located right on the main square, offering stunning views of the surrounding architecture. We managed to snag a table by the window and ordered a selection of dishes. I opted for a delicious quinoa porridge bowl, while David went for a hearty omelette. Thandi, of course, chose the waffles, much to her delight. The food was delicious and the service was excellent. It was the perfect way to start our day, fuelling us up for our adventures ahead.


Discover healthy vegetarian cuisine at El Jardin in Cusco's vibrant Plaza de Armas - where flavor meets wellness.

Discovering Qorikancha: Temple of the Sun

With our bellies full and our spirits high, we set off to explore Qorikancha, also known as the Temple of the Sun. This ancient Inca temple was once the most important religious site in the empire, dedicated to the worship of the sun god, Inti. As we approached the temple, I could feel a sense of awe and reverence wash over me. The Incas were master builders, and their craftsmanship is evident in the perfectly fitted stones that make up the temple walls.


Explore Qorikancha in Cusco, a stunning museum revealing the rich history of the Incas and the fusion of Inca and colonial architecture.

Qorikancha was once covered in gold, a testament to the Inca's wealth and power. Sadly, much of the gold was looted by the Spanish conquistadors, but the remaining stonework is still incredibly impressive. The temple was later incorporated into the Santo Domingo Convent, creating a fascinating blend of Inca and colonial architecture. As we walked through the complex, I tried to imagine what it must have been like in its heyday, filled with priests and worshippers paying homage to the sun god. I shared stories of Malawian spirituality with David and Thandi and how integral the sun is to our culture as well.


Thandi was particularly fascinated by the stories of the Inca emperors and their elaborate rituals. She peppered me with questions about their clothes, their food, and their beliefs. I did my best to answer, drawing on my travel guidebook and my own knowledge of South American history. It was wonderful to see her so engaged and curious, soaking up the information like a sponge.

Textile Treasures at Centro Textil Acllas Cusco

After immersing ourselves in history at Qorikancha, we decided to indulge in some retail therapy at Centro Textil Acllas Cusco. I'm always keen to support local artisans and learn about traditional crafts, and this textile center seemed like the perfect place to do so. As we entered the center, we were greeted by a riot of colours and textures. Beautifully woven textiles adorned the walls, showcasing the skill and artistry of the local weavers.


Discover the vibrant heritage of Andean textiles at Centro Textil Acllas in Cusco, where tradition and artistry come together.

We were given a demonstration of the traditional weaving process, from spinning the yarn to dyeing the fabric with natural pigments. It was fascinating to see how much work and dedication goes into each piece. Thandi was particularly taken with the alpacas, which are used to produce some of the finest wool in the world. She even got to try her hand at spinning yarn, though her efforts were more comical than skillful.


I ended up buying a stunning alpaca shawl, its soft texture and vibrant colours a perfect reminder of our time in Cusco. David, meanwhile, purchased a hand-woven tapestry depicting scenes from Inca mythology. We both felt good knowing that our purchases were supporting the local community and helping to preserve traditional crafts.

Lunch at Nuna Raymi: A Culinary Celebration

By this time, our stomachs were rumbling again, so we decided to find a spot for lunch. Nuna Raymi came highly recommended, known for its commitment to using native and organic ingredients from local farmers. The restaurant's Quechua-inspired name, meaning celebration of the soul, perfectly captured its ethos. We were immediately impressed by the restaurant's commitment to sustainability and its support of local Andean farmers. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, with traditional decor and friendly staff.


Experience authentic Peruvian cuisine at Nuna Raymi in Cusco—where tradition meets flavor in every dish.

I decided to try the cuy (roasted guinea pig), a traditional Peruvian delicacy. David, ever the cautious one, opted for a more familiar dish of lomo saltado (stir-fried beef). Thandi, predictably, chose the chicken nuggets. The food was delicious, each dish bursting with flavour and freshness. I was particularly impressed by the cuy, which was surprisingly tender and succulent. David thoroughly enjoyed his lomo saltado, declaring it one of the best he'd ever had. Even Thandi, who can be a picky eater, devoured her chicken nuggets with gusto.

Dinner at Organika Restaurant: A Farm-to-Table Experience

As evening approached, we made our way to Organika Restaurant for dinner. This charming eatery is known for its farm-to-table cuisine, using only organic ingredients sourced from its own garden in the Sacred Valley. The restaurant itself is split into three levels, including a terrace, creating a cosy and intimate atmosphere. The staff were incredibly friendly and welcoming, reflecting Organika's down-to-earth ethos.


Discover the vibrant flavors of Peru at Organika Restaurant in Cusco - where organic meets tradition for an unforgettable dining experience.

I started with the Quinotto Organika, a delicious dish made with quinoa, tender vegetables, Andean cheese, beans, and garden sprouts. David chose the sweet potato ravioli, while Thandi opted for a simple pasta dish. Each dish was beautifully presented and bursting with flavour. The ingredients were incredibly fresh, and you could taste the love and care that went into preparing each meal. We finished our meal with a decadent chocolate mousse, the perfect end to a perfect day.


As we walked back to our hotel, hand in hand, I couldn't help but feel grateful for this incredible experience. Cusco had already captured our hearts, and I knew that the days ahead would be filled with even more adventures and discoveries. Tomorrow, we plan to visit Saqsaywaman and San Blas View Point, and I can't wait to see what wonders await us.


This trip is more than just a vacation; it's a chance for us to connect with each other, to learn about different cultures, and to create lasting memories. And as I drifted off to sleep that night, I couldn't help but smile, knowing that our family adventure in Cusco was just beginning.