Exploring the Heart of the Inca Empire: A Journey to Cusco

Machu Picchu: A Dream Realized

Today was a day etched in my memory forever. After years of dreaming, Olivia and I finally stood before the majestic Machu Picchu. The journey was long, but every step, every early wake-up call, was worth it. The sheer scale and mystery of this ancient city are impossible to capture in words, but I'll try my best to share the magic of our day.


Explore Machu Picchu, the iconic Incan citadel in Peru, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage.

Our day began before dawn. We grabbed a quick breakfast at Mr Soup, a cozy spot in Aguas Calientes. The anticipation was palpable as we boarded the bus that would wind its way up the mountain. Even in the pre-dawn darkness, the energy was electric, a mix of excitement and reverence from all the travelers. I must confess, I nearly forgot my camera in the hotel room, a near disaster averted only by Olivia's sharp eyes! I also realized I had forgotten to apply sunscreen, something I definitely needed at this altitude. Note to self: always double-check the essentials, even when you're running on adrenaline.


Discover authentic Peruvian flavors at Mr Soup in Cusco—where every bowl tells a story.

As the bus climbed higher, the first hints of sunlight began to paint the sky. By the time we reached the entrance to Machu Picchu, the sun was rising, casting a golden glow over the surrounding peaks. And then, there it was – Machu Picchu, shrouded in mist, a breathtaking sight that sent shivers down my spine. I felt an overwhelming sense of awe, a feeling of being connected to something ancient and profound.

We joined a guided tour to learn about the history and significance of this incredible site. Our guide, Ricardo, was a wealth of knowledge, sharing stories of the Inca civilization and the mysteries that still surround Machu Picchu. We wandered through the terraced landscapes, marveling at the precision of the stonework and the ingenuity of the Inca engineers. Every corner offered a new perspective, a new photo opportunity. Olivia, with her keen eye for design, was particularly fascinated by the architectural details, pointing out the seamless integration of the city with its natural surroundings.

To witness Machu Picchu is to feel the heartbeat of an ancient civilization, a testament to human ingenuity and resilience.

After our guided tour, Olivia and I explored on our own, losing ourselves in the labyrinthine pathways and soaking in the atmosphere. We climbed to the Sun Gate, Inti Punku, for a panoramic view of the entire site. The hike was challenging, especially at that altitude, but the reward was well worth the effort. From there, we could see the whole city laid out before us, a testament to the Inca's mastery of engineering and their deep connection to the natural world.

For lunch, we ventured back down to Aguas Calientes and dined at Fusion Andina. The restaurant offered a delightful mix of traditional Peruvian flavors with a modern twist. I tried the alpaca steak, a local delicacy, while Olivia opted for a vegetarian quinoa dish. Both were delicious and provided the perfect fuel for our afternoon adventures.


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

In the late afternoon, we returned to Machu Picchu for one last look. The crowds had thinned out, and the city was bathed in a soft, ethereal light. We found a quiet spot to sit and simply absorb the beauty around us. It was a moment of pure serenity, a chance to reflect on the incredible experience we had shared. As the sun began to set, casting long shadows across the ruins, we knew it was time to leave. Saying goodbye to Machu Picchu was difficult, but we carried with us memories that would last a lifetime.

Back in Cusco, we decided to celebrate our Machu Picchu adventure with a delicious dinner at Morena Peruvian Kitchen. The restaurant was buzzing with energy, filled with locals and tourists alike. We savored traditional Peruvian dishes, accompanied by a bottle of local wine. It was the perfect way to end a perfect day.


Discover the vibrant flavors of Peru at Morena Peruvian Kitchen - a must-visit culinary destination in Cusco.

But the night wasn't over yet! We decided to check out Molly's Irish Bar and Restaurant Cusco, a place recommended by several locals. It was a surprisingly lively spot, a cozy pub with a distinctly Irish vibe. We enjoyed a couple of beers and listened to some live music, a fun and unexpected end to our day. The mix of Irish hospitality and Peruvian charm was quite unique. I even chatted with the owner, learning about his journey from Ireland to Cusco. It's amazing the stories you uncover when you simply strike up a conversation.


Experience the warmth of Irish hospitality at Molly's Irish Bar and Restaurant in Cusco, where delicious cuisine meets vibrant entertainment.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Huayna Picchu, the iconic mountain that looms over Machu Picchu. I've heard the climb is even more challenging than Inti Punku, but I'm eager to see the views from the top. We'll also be trying out DEVA - Cocina Andina for breakfast and KUSYKAY Peruvian Craft Food for lunch, based on some recommendations I gathered. And if we have time, Olivia wants to check out EKEKOS SAN BLAS -art & COLORS, a local shop known for its unique crafts. I also hear that El Duende Resto Lounge is a great place to unwind in the evening.

As I sit here writing this, I'm filled with gratitude for the opportunity to experience Machu Picchu. It was a day of wonder, a day of connection, and a day that will forever hold a special place in my heart. If you ever have the chance to visit this incredible place, don't hesitate. It's an experience you'll never forget. And remember to pack sunscreen!