Exploring the Majestic Ausangate Trek in Peru

Whispers of the Past at Machu Picchu

Today marked the culmination of our incredible journey through Peru, and what better way to conclude it than by exploring the iconic Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu? It was a day filled with awe, reflection, and a deep appreciation for the rich history and natural beauty of this remarkable country. As we wandered through the ancient city, I couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude for the experiences we've shared and the memories we've created along the way.

The day began early, as all adventures to Machu Picchu do. We rose before dawn, eager to catch the first glimpses of the citadel bathed in the morning light. After a hearty breakfast at El Albergue Restaurant, nestled conveniently near the train station in Ollantaytambo, we boarded the train to Aguas Calientes, the town at the base of Machu Picchu. The El Albergue Restaurant was a delight, offering a variety of fresh and organic options. Pieter particularly enjoyed the traditional Peruvian coffee, while I savored the freshly baked bread with local jams. It’s these small, authentic experiences that truly enrich our travels. The train ride itself was an experience, winding through the lush Urubamba River valley, with towering mountains on either side. The anticipation grew with every turn, and soon enough, we arrived at Aguas Calientes, ready to ascend to the lost city. The weather in Machu Picchu in October is mild, with daytime temperatures typically ranging between 15°C and 22°C (59°F and 72°F). We were fortunate to have a mix of sunshine and clouds, which made for perfect exploring conditions.


Explore the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu, an iconic archaeological site that reveals the grandeur of Inca civilization high in the Andes mountains.

To be able to touch the sky, it is not enough to raise your hand; you have to go to the top of the mountain!

As we entered Machu Picchu, the sheer scale and grandeur of the site took my breath away. The precision of the stonework, the intricate terraces, and the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains were simply astounding. We spent hours wandering through the city, guided by a local expert who shared fascinating insights into the history, culture, and engineering marvels of the Inca civilization. October is a shoulder season, so there were fewer tourists compared to peak season. This allowed us to explore the site at a more relaxed pace, taking in every detail and soaking up the atmosphere.

One of the highlights was visiting the Temple of the Sun, where we learned about the Inca’s deep connection to the cosmos and their sophisticated understanding of astronomy. The Intihuatana stone, believed to have been a solar clock, was particularly intriguing. Pieter, with his engineering background, was fascinated by the intricate water channels and drainage systems that still function today, centuries after they were built. I was captivated by the story of how Machu Picchu remained hidden from the Spanish conquistadors, preserving its secrets for centuries. It felt like stepping back in time, imagining the lives of the people who once called this place home. We followed one of the main circuits, ensuring we saw the most important parts of the site.

For lunch, we grabbed a quick bite at a cafeteria near Machu Picchu. While the food was simple, the views were unparalleled. Eating a sandwich while gazing out at the majestic Huayna Picchu peak was an experience in itself. I made sure to take plenty of photos, trying to capture the magic of the moment. Though, as always, photos never quite do justice to the real thing. I also made sure that we were mindful of the environment, ensuring we left no trace behind us, carrying out all our trash and respecting the delicate ecosystem. Sustainability is always at the forefront of my mind, even when I'm lost in the wonders of a place like Machu Picchu.

After our exploration of Machu Picchu, we took the train back to Cuzco. Before heading back to the hotel, we stopped by the Mercado Central de San Pedro, a bustling local market, a vibrant hub of activity. The Mercado Central de San Pedro was a feast for the senses, with colorful displays of fruits, vegetables, textiles, and handicrafts. We wandered through the aisles, soaking up the local atmosphere and haggling for souvenirs. I picked up a beautiful hand-woven scarf made from alpaca wool, while Pieter found a unique piece of jewelry crafted from silver and semi-precious stones. It's always a joy to support local artisans and bring home a piece of the culture with us. I was hoping to find some sustainable toiletries, having forgotten some of mine, but I didn't have much luck. The market was also filled with food stalls, offering a variety of traditional Peruvian dishes. While we were tempted to try everything, we decided to save our appetites for dinner.


Discover the heart of Cusco at Mercado Central de San Pedro, a vibrant market filled with local flavors, crafts, and culture.

For our final dinner in Peru, we chose Qamaq Restaurante in Cuzco. We wanted to savor one last taste of authentic Peruvian cuisine before heading back to Delft. Qamaq Restaurante was a fantastic choice, with a cozy atmosphere and a menu featuring traditional dishes with a modern twist. Pieter ordered the lomo saltado, a classic Peruvian stir-fry, while I opted for the causa, a layered potato dish with avocado and seafood. Both dishes were bursting with flavor and beautifully presented. The service was impeccable, and the staff went out of their way to make our evening special. As we savored our meal, we reminisced about our adventures over the past ten days, from the breathtaking landscapes of the Ausangate Trek to the cultural immersion in Cuzco and the awe-inspiring beauty of Machu Picchu. It was a journey that we will cherish forever.


Discover the vibrant flavors of Peru at Qamaq Restaurante in Cusco, where culinary tradition meets contemporary flair in a warm and inviting setting.

As we walked back to our hotel, Cusco Plaza Saphi, the city was alive with music and laughter. The energy of Cuzco is infectious, and it was the perfect way to end our trip. I couldn't help but feel a tinge of sadness that our adventure was coming to an end. But I also felt a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunity to experience such a remarkable place. Peru has captured a piece of my heart, and I know that we will be back again someday. I am already looking forward to sharing our experiences with you all and inspiring you to embark on your own sustainable adventures.


Experience comfort and convenience at Cusco Plaza Saphi, the ideal base for exploring the wonders of Cuzco, with free Wi-Fi and tour assistance.

Tomorrow, we will be heading to the airport to begin our journey back home. It's always bittersweet to leave a place that has touched your soul. But I know that we are taking with us memories, lessons, and a renewed appreciation for the beauty and fragility of our planet. Thank you for joining us on this incredible adventure. Until next time, keep exploring, keep learning, and keep traveling sustainably!

This trip, exploring the Ausangate Trek and Machu Picchu, has only reinforced my commitment to sustainable travel. Seeing the ancient ruins and understanding the Inca's respect for nature has been incredibly inspiring. I hope that through my blog, I can encourage others to travel in a way that honors and preserves the places we visit, ensuring that future generations can experience the same wonders that we have.

Reflecting on our journey, I am reminded of the importance of connecting with local communities and supporting sustainable businesses. From the family-run restaurants to the artisan markets, every interaction has enriched our experience and contributed to the local economy. As a sustainability consultant, I believe that travel can be a force for good, promoting cultural exchange, environmental conservation, and economic empowerment. It's up to us to make conscious choices that minimize our impact and maximize our positive contribution.

As we prepare to leave Peru, I feel a sense of accomplishment and gratitude. We have hiked through stunning landscapes, explored ancient ruins, savored delicious cuisine, and connected with incredible people. This journey has been a testament to the power of travel to transform, inspire, and create lasting memories. And as we return to our daily lives in Delft, we will carry with us the spirit of adventure, the lessons of sustainability, and the warmth of the Peruvian people. Until next time, happy travels!

I'm already planning our next adventure, thinking about how we can continue to explore the world in a responsible and meaningful way. Perhaps Southeast Asia, with its rich cultural heritage and stunning natural landscapes, will be our next destination. Or maybe we'll return to South America to explore the Amazon rainforest and learn about the indigenous communities that call it home. The possibilities are endless, and I can't wait to see where our sustainable travels take us next.