Family Adventure in the Heart of Cusco

Cosmic Wonders and Lakeside Calm

Today was a beautiful blend of earthly serenity and cosmic exploration. From the tranquil waters of Laguna Huaypo to the mysteries unveiled at the Cusco Planetarium, it was a day that nourished both our souls and our minds. It's moments like these that remind me why I love sharing these journeys with my family, creating memories that we'll cherish long after we've returned to Bristol.


Experience the serene beauty of Laguna Huaypo, a breathtaking lake in Peru surrounded by majestic mountains and rich biodiversity.

We started our day with a hearty breakfast at Mama Seledonia. I had read so much about this place, and it certainly lived up to its reputation. The restaurant has a commitment to supporting young single mothers from disadvantaged backgrounds, which I find admirable. Thandi was particularly excited about the breakfast burrito, while David enjoyed a more traditional Peruvian breakfast. I opted for the quinoa pancakes, which were light, fluffy, and packed with flavour. It was the perfect way to fuel up for our day of exploration.


Discover authentic Peruvian flavors at Mama Seledonia, a beloved restaurant in the heart of Cusco's historic district.

Sometimes, the greatest adventures are found in the quietest moments, under the vast expanse of the sky.

After breakfast, we set off for Laguna Huaypo. The drive itself was stunning, with the Andes mountains providing a breathtaking backdrop. As we got closer, the landscape transformed into rolling hills and patchwork fields, dotted with small villages. It was a world away from the bustling city of Cusco, and I felt a sense of peace wash over me. The air was crisp and clean, and the only sounds were the gentle breeze and the occasional bleating of sheep. I couldn't help but think of Malawi, and the serene beauty of Lake Malawi. It's amazing how different landscapes can evoke similar feelings of tranquility and connection to nature.

When we arrived at Laguna Huaypo, I was immediately struck by its beauty. The water was a deep blue, reflecting the snow-capped peaks in the distance. The lake was surrounded by green meadows, and the whole scene felt like something out of a postcard. Despite being April, the sun was warm, and the sky was clear. We decided to take a leisurely walk around the lake, soaking in the views and enjoying the fresh air. Thandi was thrilled to spot some ducks and geese, and we spent a good hour just watching them swim and play. We even saw a few locals fishing from the shore, casting their lines into the still waters. It was a perfect moment of simple, unhurried joy.

For lunch, we headed to the Andean Grill Restaurant in Cusco. We wanted to try some authentic Cusquenian cuisine, and this place came highly recommended. David decided to be adventurous and try the Cuy al Horno (baked guinea pig), a local delicacy. Thandi wrinkled her nose at the thought, but David declared it surprisingly delicious. I opted for the Chiriuchu, a traditional dish of Cusco cuisine. It was a mix of flavours and textures, with ingredients like guinea pig, chicken, cheese, and seaweed. It was certainly an experience for the taste buds! Thandi, ever the picky eater, stuck to a simple grilled alpaca, which she thoroughly enjoyed.


Discover authentic Peruvian cuisine at Andean Grill Restaurant in Cusco's historic Plaza de Armas, featuring vibrant flavors and a cozy atmosphere.

In the late afternoon, we visited La Galeria Cusco, a charming shop in the San Blas neighbourhood. I was looking for some unique souvenirs to take back home, and this place was a treasure trove of Peruvian crafts. I found some beautiful alpaca scarves, some hand-painted ceramics, and a few pieces of jewelry made from local stones. I even picked up a small Pucara bull, a traditional Andean symbol of protection and good luck. The shop was filled with vibrant colours and intricate designs, and I could have spent hours browsing through all the beautiful items. It reminded me of the bustling markets back home in Chilumba, filled with the vibrant colours and unique crafts of Malawi.


Explore La Galeria Cusco for unique handcrafted souvenirs that embody the rich culture and artistry of Peru, perfect for any traveler.

As evening approached, we made our way to the Cusco Planetarium. This was an experience I had been particularly looking forward to, as I've always been fascinated by astronomy. The planetarium is located on a hillside overlooking the city, offering stunning views of the night sky. The staff were incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about astronomy, and they shared their expertise with enthusiasm. We started with a presentation about Incan astronomy, learning how the Incas used the stars for navigation, agriculture, and religious purposes. It was fascinating to hear about their deep connection to the cosmos and how they saw the constellations in the night sky. The Planetarium Cusco is one of the most unique planetariums in the world, housed in a humble Andean adobe home, which I found very charming.


Discover the wonders of the universe at Cusco Planetarium, where Andean culture meets the cosmos in an unforgettable experience.

After the presentation, we went outside to observe the stars through their telescopes. Despite some cloud cover, we were able to see several constellations, planets, and even a few shooting stars. Thandi was absolutely mesmerized, and she peppered the staff with questions about the universe. It was a magical experience, and I felt a sense of awe and wonder as I gazed up at the vast expanse of the night sky. It was a reminder of how small we are in the grand scheme of things, and how much there is still to discover.

For dinner, we dined at El Tupay Restaurant, known for its exquisite international cuisine and locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant had a romantic ambiance, with candlelit arches and soft music. What made it even more special was the live opera performance by Cusco's best tenor and soprano. It was a feast for the senses, with beautiful music, delicious food, and a warm, inviting atmosphere. David and I enjoyed a glass of wine while Thandi sipped on some juice, and we all savoured the moment. It was the perfect ending to a perfect day.


Experience exquisite Peruvian cuisine at El Tupay Restaurant in Cusco - where tradition meets culinary artistry in an enchanting setting.

As I reflect on today's adventures, I'm filled with gratitude for the opportunity to experience such diverse and enriching activities with my family. From the tranquil beauty of Laguna Huaypo to the cosmic wonders of the Cusco Planetarium, it was a day that stimulated our minds, nourished our souls, and strengthened our bond as a family. These are the moments that make travel so special, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings, as we plan to visit the Cusco Historical Center and the Twelve Angled Stone. I am particularly excited to explore the rich history and architecture of Cusco tomorrow, and I'm sure Thandi will be fascinated by the unique design of the Twelve Angled Stone. It's experiences like these that broaden our horizons and create lasting memories.

Tomorrow is our last day in Cusco, and I am excited to explore the Cusco Historical Center and the Twelve Angled Stone before we head back home to Bristol. I am sure Thandi will be fascinated by the unique design of the Twelve Angled Stone.

I am so grateful for these experiences and the opportunity to share them with you all. Until tomorrow!