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

A Day of Discovery in Cusco

Today, Olivia and I dove headfirst into the heart of Cusco, eager to soak up its history, art, and vibrant culture. We explored ancient artifacts, tasted unique flavors, and even ventured into the city's nightlife. It was a day filled with unexpected discoveries and delightful moments, painting a vivid picture of this captivating city.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Sepia Cusco. The fusion cuisine was intriguing, and I opted for the lomo saltado, a Peruvian classic, while Olivia enjoyed the aji de gallina. The atmosphere was cozy, perfect for fueling up before a day of exploration. I must admit, I'm starting to get used to the altitude here in Cusco. It's been twelve days since we arrived, and I'm finally feeling like I can keep up with the pace of exploration without gasping for air every few minutes. Olivia, on the other hand, seems to be thriving in the high altitude. Perhaps it's her Canadian blood, or maybe she's just a better traveler than I am!


Experience the rich flavors of Peru at Sepia Cusco, where tradition meets innovation in every dish.

With our stomachs full, we set off to the Inka Museum. Housed in a stunning colonial building, the Casa del Almirante, it was an immersive journey through Inca and pre-Hispanic history. The museum was comprehensive, covering everything from pre-Inca to colonial history, and I was particularly fascinated by the displays of mummies. Olivia was captivated by the intricate Inca artwork, especially the wood carvings and metal jewelry. The museum was very informative, with displays in both Spanish and English, and it gave us a better understanding of the Inca civilization and their way of life. I found myself particularly drawn to the displays on Incan medical practices, especially the trepanning skulls. It's incredible to think about the level of skill and knowledge they possessed so long ago.


Explore the Inka Museum in Cusco, where the fascinating history of the Inca civilization comes to life through captivating exhibits and artifacts.

The essence of travel is not just seeing new places, but experiencing them, feeling them, and letting them change you.

Next on our list was the Coca Museum. This small museum offered a fascinating look into the history and uses of the coca leaf in Andean culture. It was eye-opening to learn about the plant's significance in sacred rituals and its role in daily life. Olivia was intrigued by the unique coca souvenirs, from chocolates to teas, and we both appreciated the museum's effort to provide a balanced perspective on this often misunderstood plant. I learned that coca leaves were used as a flavoring agent in Coca-Cola. Who knew? The museum also highlighted the importance of coca in modern Andean cultures, where people chew the leaves or steep them to make coca tea. It's a common sight to see tourists sipping coca tea to combat altitude sickness, a practice I've certainly embraced myself!


Explore the cultural significance of coca leaves in Peru at the Coca Museum in Cusco, a unique attraction showcasing history, tradition, and modern implications.

For lunch, we ventured to Yaku Restaurant, drawn in by its emphasis on organic and local products from their farm in the Sacred Valley. The presentation of each dish was truly an art piece! We started with the tiradito, a sashimi-style trout with avocado and sweet potato puree, which was incredibly fresh and flavorful. For our main course, we shared the alpaca steak, which tasted similar to beef but with a slightly gamey flavor. Olivia loved the hot chocolate, which had a unique herbal taste. The service was impeccable, and our waiter, Miguel, was very enthusiastic and made us laugh throughout our meal. It was a truly delightful experience, and we felt like we were getting an authentic taste of Peruvian cuisine.


Experience the best of Peruvian gastronomy at Yaku Restaurant in Cusco - where tradition meets innovation in every delicious bite.

After lunch, Olivia was keen to do some shopping, so we headed to Boutique Yulied. It was a small, unassuming shop, but it had a surprisingly diverse selection of clothes and accessories. Olivia ended up buying a beautiful alpaca wool scarf, while I found a unique handmade bracelet. It's always a pleasure to support local artisans and take home a piece of the culture with us.


Discover unique Peruvian fashion at Boutique Yulied, a charming clothing store in Cusco that embodies local craftsmanship and style.

As the sun began to set, we decided to embrace Cusco's nightlife and visit Chango Club Cusco. The club had a lively atmosphere, with a mix of locals and tourists dancing to a blend of music genres. While the music selection was a bit unpredictable, the energy was infectious, and we found ourselves swept up in the rhythm. Olivia and I aren't usually the type to go clubbing, but we figured, why not? We're in Cusco, after all! It was a fun, albeit slightly chaotic, experience, and it gave us a glimpse into the city's vibrant social scene.


Experience the vibrant nightlife at Chango Club Cusco, where creative cocktails and energetic music come together in a lively atmosphere.

Before heading back to Hotel Polo Corporativo, we grabbed dinner at Carpe Diem Cucina Italiana. After days of indulging in Peruvian cuisine, we both craved something familiar, and Carpe Diem was the perfect choice. The restaurant had a cozy atmosphere, with vintage Italian posters adorning the walls. We shared a pizza and a pasta dish, both of which were delicious and satisfying. It was a comforting end to a long and eventful day.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Carpe Diem Cucina Italiana in Cusco - famous for its delicious pizzas and inviting ambiance.

As I reflect on today's adventures, I'm struck by the richness and diversity of Cusco's culture. From the ancient artifacts in the Inka Museum to the unique flavors of Yaku Restaurant and the energetic nightlife at Chango Club, there's something for everyone in this captivating city. And tomorrow, we plan to explore the artisan neighborhood of San Blas and the Regional Historical Museum of Cusco. I'm excited to see what new discoveries await us!

Tomorrow, we plan to explore the artisan neighborhood of San Blas and the Regional Historical Museum of Cusco. I'm excited to see what new discoveries await us! We'll start with breakfast at El Jardin - Healthy Food And Coffee, followed by lunch at Mamá Jama Restaurant. In the evening, we'll treat ourselves to dinner at LIMBUS RESTOBAR, known for its stunning views of the city. Olivia is particularly excited to visit Qori Art Cusco, a shop specializing in local art and handicrafts. And to cap off the night, we'll check out El Viejo Bar, a popular spot for live music and local brews.

Tonight, I'm feeling grateful for the opportunity to experience Cusco with Olivia. Her enthusiasm and curiosity make every adventure even more special. As we drift off to sleep, I can't help but wonder what tomorrow will bring. One thing is for sure: Cusco has a way of surprising you at every turn. And I'm eager to see what other hidden gems we'll uncover in the days to come.