Solo Adventure on the Choquequirao Trek

Cusco's Charms: A Day of Exploration

Today was all about soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of Cusco, a city that effortlessly blends ancient history with modern life. From exploring the formidable Saqsaywaman to indulging in the local culinary scene, it was a day filled with discovery and delight. It's amazing how much a place can offer, even when you're nearing the end of a long journey like this Choquequirao Trek 2018. I made sure to keep Mere and Sailosi in my thoughts, promising myself to bring back stories and maybe a little something special for them.


Embark on an extraordinary adventure with the Choquequirao Trek, discovering the ancient Inca ruins and stunning landscapes of the Andes in serene isolation.

My day started with a hearty breakfast at Chicha por Gaston Acurio. The restaurant is owned by Gaston Acurio, who is known as the best ambassador and marketeer of Peruvian cuisine. I fueled up for the day with a traditional Cusquenian breakfast, a delightful mix of savory and sweet that set the perfect tone for my urban exploration. The ambiance was warm and inviting, and it was a great spot to plan out my itinerary for the day.


Experience authentic Peruvian cuisine at Chicha por Gaston Acurio, where tradition meets innovation in a vibrant setting.

Exploring Sacsayhuaman

Next on the list was Saqsaywaman, an Inca citadel that stands guard over Cusco. The sheer scale of the place is breathtaking. Massive stones, some weighing over 100 tons, are fitted together with incredible precision. It's mind-boggling to think about how the Incas managed to build such a monumental structure without modern tools. As I wandered through the complex, I imagined what life must have been like during the Inca Empire. The citadel was constructed in the 15th century under Sapa Inca Pachacuti and his successors. I learned that Saqsaywaman was more than just a fortress; it also served as a temple and a storage depot. The views of Cusco from Saqsaywaman were panoramic, and I could see the entire city spread out below me. I spent a good couple of hours exploring the site, taking photos, and soaking in the history. It's a place that truly makes you appreciate the ingenuity and skill of the Inca civilization. It's believed that Saqsaywaman was also used as an astronomical observatory, aligning with stars and celestial bodies.


Discover the awe-inspiring ruins of Saqsaywaman, an ancient Incan fortress that offers breathtaking views and a deep dive into Peru's rich history.

Sometimes, the most profound journeys aren't about reaching a destination, but about discovering the layers of history and culture woven into the fabric of a place.

After Saqsaywaman, I was ready for lunch. I headed to SUMAQCHA RESTAURANT, where I had heard they serve authentic Peruvian dishes. The restaurant was cozy and welcoming, and the staff were friendly and attentive. I decided to try the *rocoto relleno*, a stuffed pepper dish that's a specialty of the region. It was spicy and flavorful, and definitely hit the spot. I also ordered a *chicha morada*, a traditional Peruvian drink made from purple corn. It was sweet and refreshing, and a perfect complement to the spicy pepper.


Discover authentic Peruvian cuisine at Sumaqcha Restaurant in Cusco's historic Plaza de Armas - a culinary delight amidst stunning views.

A Culinary and Shopping Experience

With my belly full, I set out to do some shopping. I wanted to find a few souvenirs to bring back home to Vancouver for Mere and Sailosi. I stumbled upon Artesanias Intichay, a local shop that sells handmade crafts. The shop was filled with colorful textiles, ceramics, and jewelry. I spent a good hour browsing through the various items, admiring the skill and artistry of the local artisans. I finally settled on a hand-woven blanket for Mere and a small wooden carving of a condor for Sailosi. I know they'll both appreciate these little reminders of my adventure in Peru. I even picked up a small *unku* (poncho) for myself to wear during those cold Vancouver evenings, a little piece of the Andes to keep me warm.


Explore authentic Peruvian textiles at Artesanias Intichay in Pisac, where vibrant craftsmanship meets rich cultural heritage.

As the day wound down, I made my way to Inka Wasi Restaurant Cusco for dinner. The restaurant specializes in traditional Cusco and Peruvian dishes and has received awards for its excellent service. I ordered the *lomo saltado*, a stir-fried beef dish that's a Peruvian classic. It was cooked to perfection, and the flavors were rich and satisfying. The service was attentive, and the atmosphere was relaxed and enjoyable.


Experience authentic Peruvian cuisine at Inka Wasi Restaurant in Cusco's vibrant Plaza Regocijo.

Reflecting on the Day and Looking Ahead

After dinner, I took a leisurely stroll through the Plaza de Armas, the main square in Cusco. The square was bustling with activity, and I enjoyed watching the locals and tourists mingle and chat. The buildings surrounding the square were illuminated, creating a magical atmosphere. I sat on a bench for a while, reflecting on the day's adventures. It had been a whirlwind of history, culture, and cuisine, and I felt grateful for the opportunity to experience it all. Saqsaywaman's stones whispered tales of the Inca Empire, and the flavors of Cusco danced on my palate.

Tomorrow marks the penultimate day of this incredible journey. The plan is to visit the Pumamarca Ruins and Intipata, further immersing myself in the rich history of this region. I'm also looking forward to trying out some local flavors at Hacienda Huayoccari for breakfast, KUSYKAY Peruvian Craft Food for lunch, and Restaurant Bistro Bar Indio Feliz for dinner. And perhaps, if time allows, I'll unwind with a drink at El Huarique Bar.

As I prepare for the final days of this trek, I can't help but feel a sense of accomplishment and gratitude. This solo journey has been a transformative experience, pushing me both physically and mentally. I've learned so much about myself and the world around me. I'm excited to see what the final days have in store, and I'm looking forward to sharing those experiences with you all. Vinaka vakalevu for following along!