Solo Adventure on the Choquequirao Trek

A Final Day in the Clouds

As my Peruvian journey draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the incredible experiences of the past thirteen days. From the challenging heights of Choquequirao to the vibrant streets of Cusco, each moment has been a unique chapter in this solo adventure. Today, I trade solitude for the shared wonder of Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu, a fitting climax to this unforgettable trek.

The day began early, with a hearty breakfast at Mapacho Craft Beer Restaurant. It felt a bit strange being back in a bustling place after so long in the relative quiet of the mountains. The restaurant, despite its name, offered a great start to the day with some solid breakfast options. I enjoyed some traditional Peruvian coffee and some eggs. I made sure to thank the friendly staff, especially Natali, who was very attentive and gave great recommendations. After breakfast, I headed towards the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, eager to experience the final leg of this historic path to Machu Picchu.


Discover the breathtaking Inca Trail, a legendary trek through history, leading to the iconic ruins of Machu Picchu amidst stunning Andean landscapes.

The Inca Trail was more crowded than the trails I’d been hiking the last couple of weeks, but there was a special energy amongst those on the trail. Everyone was excited to see Machu Picchu. November is an interesting time to visit, as it's the beginning of the rainy season, and the weather can be unpredictable. Fortunately, the morning was clear, with the sun casting a golden glow over the landscape. The trail itself was in good condition, though I was glad I'd packed my hiking boots. I did wish I had remembered my gaiters, though, as some parts were a bit muddy.

As I hiked, I thought about Mere and Sailosi back home in Vancouver. I imagined telling them stories of the breathtaking views and the unique culture I had experienced. I even started planning a return trip with them, picturing Sailosi's eyes widening at the sight of the ruins. I also chuckled thinking about how I would describe the guinea pig I had for dinner one night to them.

The anticipation grew with each step as I approached the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu. The first glimpse of the ancient city was nothing short of breathtaking. The sheer scale of the site, nestled amidst the mountains, was awe-inspiring. I took my time exploring the ruins, wandering through the stone structures and imagining what life must have been like for the Incas who once inhabited this place. The weather remained mild, with temperatures hovering around 19°C (66°F), making for comfortable exploration.


Explore the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu, a breathtaking archaeological wonder that reveals the splendor of the Inca civilization amidst stunning Andean landscapes.

Sometimes, the most profound journeys are those that lead us not only to new places but also to new perspectives.

For lunch, I decided to try Mistura Grill & Restaurant. The restaurant had a cozy atmosphere and offered a variety of Peruvian and international dishes. I opted for a traditional Peruvian meal, savoring the flavors of the local cuisine. The restaurant was known for its view of the Plaza de Armas, but, unfortunately, I was seated inside. Still, the food more than made up for the lack of a view.


Discover authentic Peruvian flavors at Mistura Grill & Restaurant in Cusco – where every dish tells a story.

After lunch, I decided to immerse myself in the local culture with a visit to Mercado Central de San Pedro. The market was a sensory overload, with vibrant colors, exotic aromas, and the sounds of vendors hawking their wares. I wandered through the maze of stalls, sampling local delicacies and haggling for souvenirs. I picked up some alpaca wool clothing for Mere and Sailosi, hoping they would appreciate the warmth and craftsmanship of the items. I even saw some live frogs, which the vendors claimed would improve sexual performance, although I politely declined to purchase any. The market was a great place to people-watch and get a sense of the local way of life.


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

As the day drew to a close, I treated myself to dinner at Uchu Peruvian Steakhouse. The steakhouse was known for its meats cooked on volcanic stone, and I was eager to try it. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, and the staff was friendly and professional. I ordered a steak cooked to perfection and savored each bite. The meal was a fitting end to a day of exploration and reflection.


Discover authentic Peruvian cuisine at Uchu Peruvian Steakhouse in Cusco - where tradition meets innovation in every bite.

Reflecting on the day, I realize how much this solo journey has meant to me. As someone who loves to play rugby with the local club back in Vancouver, I am used to being part of a team. This trip has given me time to reflect on my life and my connection to my Fijian heritage. It has also made me appreciate the importance of community and the simple joys of life. I thought about Mere and Sailosi and how much I missed them. It made me appreciate the life we have built together in Canada.

My time in Peru is coming to an end, and tomorrow I will be heading home. As I prepare to leave, I am filled with gratitude for the experiences I have had and the people I have met. This solo adventure has been a journey of self-discovery, and I am returning to Vancouver with a renewed sense of purpose and a deeper appreciation for the world around me.