Family Adventure in the Heart of Cusco

Echoes of Ancient Rituals

Today, Cusco revealed more of its secrets to me, weaving a tapestry of Incan ingenuity and spiritual reverence. It was a day of exploring sacred sites, feeling the pulse of history beneath my feet, and letting the whispers of the past guide my way. Thandi was especially excited, her eyes wide with wonder as she tried to imagine what life was like for the children who lived here centuries ago. David, ever the pragmatist, was fascinated by the engineering and stonework. As for me, I felt a deep connection to the land and its stories.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at El Mesón de Don Tomas. The restaurant was cozy, and the staff were friendly, making us feel right at home. I ordered some scrambled eggs and David had some avacado toast. Thandi enjoyed the fresh fruit plate.

Fueled up for the day, our first stop was Tambomachay, also known as 'El Baño del Inca' or the Baths of the Inca. Situated a short drive from Cusco, the site is a marvel of Incan hydraulic engineering. The sophistication with which they channeled the natural springs into a series of aqueducts, canals, and waterfalls is simply astonishing. It's easy to see why it’s also referred to as ‘The Baths of the Inca’ – the place exudes tranquility. As we walked around, I imagined the Inca elite using this space as a spa retreat, a place for purification and relaxation.

Explore the ancient beauty of Tambomachay, an Incan archaeological site featuring stunning aqueducts and serene waterfalls in the heart of the Andes.

Thandi was captivated by the continuously flowing water, asking how it was possible that the fountains still worked after all these centuries. David, always the explainer, launched into a simplified lesson on gravity and water pressure. I was more drawn to the spiritual significance of the site. The Incas revered water as a source of life, a connector between the earthly and spiritual realms. Tambomachay, with its meticulously crafted water features, felt like a testament to that reverence.

Water was a source of life, connecting the earthly and spiritual realms.

From Tambomachay, we journeyed to the Q'enqo Archaeological Complex. The name Q'enqo translates to 'labyrinth' in Quechua, and it’s an apt description. This site is a sprawling network of carved rocks, tunnels, and underground chambers. Unlike Tambomachay, where the focus is on water, Q'enqo seems to celebrate the earth itself. It's believed to have been a significant religious site, where the Incas performed ceremonies in honor of their gods. Walking through the complex, I could feel the weight of history, the echoes of ancient rituals.

Explore the enchanting Q'enco Archaeological Complex, a historical landmark in Cusco revealing the sacred traditions of the Incan civilization amidst breathtaking scenery.

The sheer scale of the rock carvings is impressive. The Incas sculpted this entire complex out of a natural rock formation, a feat that must have required immense skill and dedication. Inside, we found carvings of the condor, the puma, and the snake – three animals that held immense significance in the Andean cosmovision. Thandi was particularly fascinated by the underground chambers, whispering about secret passages and hidden treasures.

David was intrigued by the precision of the stonework, noting how the Incas managed to create such intricate designs with limited tools. I read that Q'enqo is divided into two sites, Big Q'enqo and Small Q'enqo, the latter of which is closed off to tourists. Big Q'enqo features unique Inca stonework and features that may have been used in astrological observations. One of the most mysterious features is a stone slab, which researchers believe was a stone altar used for sacrifices.

After our explorations, we stopped by the Handicraft Center Cusco. It was a vibrant marketplace, brimming with textiles, ceramics, and jewelry. Thandi was immediately drawn to the colorful alpaca wool scarves, while David admired the intricate carvings. I was on the hunt for a special piece to remind me of our time in Cusco. I decided on a beautifully woven tapestry, depicting scenes of daily life in the Andes. It felt like a tangible piece of the culture, a story woven in threads.

Explore the Handicraft Center Cusco for authentic Peruvian crafts and unique souvenirs that reflect the rich culture and artistry of the Andean region.

As evening approached, we made our way to Uchu Peruvian Steakhouse for lunch. The restaurant was bustling with activity, and the aroma of sizzling meat filled the air. We ordered a selection of dishes, including alpaca steak and guinea pig – a local delicacy. The alpaca was tender and flavorful, while the guinea pig was… interesting. It tasted a bit like chicken, but gamier. Thandi, a picky eater, stuck to the sweet potato mash and guacamole, which she declared delicious.

Experience the essence of Peru at Uchu Peruvian Steakhouse with exquisite dishes and vibrant flavors in the heart of Cusco.

For dinner, we had reservations at Cicciolina, a restaurant known for its fusion of Mediterranean and Peruvian cuisine. The ambiance was warm and inviting, with clusters of sun-dried chilli and garlic hanging from the ceilings. We started with some tapas, savoring the flavors of the Mediterranean. For our main courses, we opted for Peruvian dishes, including causa and alpaca. The food was exquisite, a testament to the creativity and skill of the chefs. The staff provided impeccable, friendly service adding to the overall enjoyment of the experience of a refined and varied cuisine in an elegant, friendly and unpretentious atmosphere.

Experience authentic Italian cuisine fused with local flavors at Cicciolina in Cusco's historic center.

As we savored our meals, we reflected on the day's adventures. Cusco had revealed more of its treasures, leaving us with a deeper appreciation for the ingenuity and spirituality of the Inca civilization. Thandi, exhausted but happy, snuggled against me, already dreaming of tomorrow's adventure.

Tomorrow, we’re venturing into the Sacred Valley and Ollantaytambo. I’m eager to see what wonders await us there, and to learn more about the rich history of this land. We'll start our day with breakfast at A Mi Manera, followed by a exploration of the Sacred Valley and Ollantaytambo. We'll have lunch at Morena Peruvian Kitchen and dinner at Marcelo Batata Restaurante. We'll also be stopping by Souvenirs Cusco for some shopping. I have a feeling it will be another day filled with awe and discovery. I am also hoping to find a rain jacket, as I forgot to pack one.

“Travel is more than seeing sights; it is a change that goes on, deep and permanent, in the ideas of living.”

As I sit here now, writing in my journal, I feel that change taking root within me. Cusco is not just a place; it's an experience, a journey into the heart of a culture that continues to resonate through the centuries. And I am grateful to be sharing this journey with my family, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Until tomorrow,
Grace