Family Adventure in the Heart of the Inca Empire

Treasures of the Sacred Valley

Today was a day of vibrant colors, ancient history, and the refreshing spirit of the Andes. Leaving Cusco early, we ventured into the Sacred Valley, ready to explore the renowned Pisac Market and the intriguing Inca site of Tambomachay. I was particularly excited to experience the local culture and share it with Isabella and Sofia.


Explore Tambomachay, the serene 'Bath of the Inca' in Peru, an archaeological marvel that showcases the ingenuity of the Inca civilization amidst stunning Andean landscapes.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Something Special Cusco. It was a cozy spot, and the traditional Andean breakfast set us up perfectly for the adventures ahead. I made sure Sofia had a good helping of everything; she needed the energy for all the exploring we had planned. After breakfast, we made our way to Pisac. The drive itself was breathtaking, with the landscape unfolding before us in layers of green and gold. October in the Cusco region is quite pleasant; the daytime temperatures are mild, though the air is crisp, especially in the mornings.

Pisac Market: A Kaleidoscope of Culture

Arriving at Pisac Market was like stepping into a painting. The sheer explosion of colors from the textiles, the sounds of vendors calling out their wares, and the aroma of local foods created an immersive experience. Sofia's eyes widened as she took it all in, pointing at the various crafts and souvenirs. Isabella was immediately drawn to the textiles, her fingers tracing the intricate patterns woven into the fabrics. As a financial analyst, I am always fascinated by the economics of local markets, observing the dynamics between supply and demand, and the entrepreneurial spirit of the vendors.

We wandered through the market, taking our time to appreciate the craftsmanship on display. I was on the lookout for a colorful poncho, while Isabella wanted to find some unique jewelry. Sofia, of course, was captivated by the alpaca toys, and after some negotiation, we managed to get her a cute little llama. It's hard to resist those adorable faces, and I knew it would be a cherished reminder of our trip. We made sure to ask before taking any photos, remembering to be respectful of the vendors and their culture.

The Pisac Market is not just a place to shop; it's a vibrant tapestry of Andean culture, a place where you can truly immerse yourself in the traditions and spirit of the local people.

I found a beautiful, hand-woven poncho with traditional Andean designs that I knew would be perfect for the cooler evenings back in Toronto. Isabella haggled for a delicate silver necklace with a small, intricately carved pendant. It was amazing to see her put her language skills into practice, and the friendly banter with the vendor was all part of the experience. I am glad we came on Thursday, as it was less crowded than on Sundays, allowing us to take our time and really enjoy the experience.

After the market, we had lunch at Inka Wasi Restaurant Cusco, a delightful spot that served traditional Peruvian cuisine. I decided to be adventurous and try the aji de gallina, while Isabella opted for a classic ceviche. Sofia, predictably, chose the grilled chicken with potatoes, a familiar comfort. The food was delicious, and the service was excellent. It was a perfect way to refuel before our next adventure.

Tambomachay: The Inca Baths

Our afternoon took us to Tambomachay, an ancient Inca site known as the Baths of the Inca. Located a short drive from Cusco, this archaeological site is a testament to the Incas' incredible engineering skills and their reverence for water. The site consists of a series of aqueducts, canals, and waterfalls that channel water from natural springs into a series of stone pools.

As we walked through the site, I was struck by the precision and artistry of the stonework. The way the Incas managed to carve and fit the stones together, creating a functional and beautiful water system, is truly remarkable. Sofia was fascinated by the flowing water, and we spent some time watching it cascade down the terraces. Isabella was equally impressed, commenting on the spiritual significance of water to the Inca people.

Tambomachay is thought to have served a dual purpose: as a ritual bathing site and as a source of clean water for the surrounding area. The Incas considered water to be sacred, and this site would have been an important place for purification and worship. It's easy to imagine the Inca royalty coming here to cleanse themselves in the clear, cold water.

The air was fresh and crisp, and the views of the surrounding landscape were stunning. It was a peaceful and serene place, a world away from the hustle and bustle of Cusco. We took our time exploring the site, soaking in the atmosphere and reflecting on the ingenuity of the Inca civilization.

Shopping for Memories

Before heading back to Cusco, we made a stop at the Handicraft Center Cusco, also known as Centro Artesanal Cusco. This large building houses numerous stalls selling a wide variety of handicrafts, textiles, and souvenirs. It's a great place to find unique gifts and support local artisans. I was looking for a chullo, a traditional Andean hat, and I found a beautiful one made from alpaca wool. Sofia picked out a colorful bracelet, and Isabella found a small, hand-painted ceramic bowl.


Explore the Handicraft Center Cusco, a vibrant marketplace of unique Peruvian arts and crafts, perfect for souvenir shopping and cultural immersion.

The Handicraft Center was a bit less chaotic than Pisac Market, making it easier to browse and compare prices. We spent a couple of hours wandering through the stalls, chatting with the vendors, and admiring their craftsmanship. It was a perfect way to end our day of exploring the Sacred Valley.

For dinner, we decided to try PER.UK, a restaurant that had been recommended to us for its modern take on Peruvian cuisine. It was a great choice, and we enjoyed a delicious meal of innovative dishes and traditional flavors. Sofia, of course, stuck with her familiar favorites, but even she tried a bite or two of the more adventurous dishes.


Discover exquisite gluten-free cuisine at PER.UK in Cusco – where tradition meets modern gastronomy.

As we headed back to our guesthouse, I felt a sense of contentment. Today had been a perfect blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. We had immersed ourselves in the vibrant atmosphere of Pisac Market, explored the ancient wonders of Tambomachay, and supported local artisans at the Handicraft Center. It was a day that we would cherish for years to come. I am looking forward to tomorrow, when we plan to visit the Museo y Catacumbas del Convento de San Francisco de Asís de Cusco and the Cusco Planetarium. And perhaps a nightcap at Black Cat Bar Cusco - Craft Cocktails & Spirits.

Back at the guesthouse, Sofia was already fast asleep, clutching her alpaca llama. Isabella and I sat on the balcony, sipping coca tea and watching the stars come out. The air was cool and crisp, and the silence was broken only by the occasional sound of a dog barking in the distance. As I looked out at the twinkling lights of Cusco, I felt grateful for this incredible journey and the opportunity to share it with my family. It's moments like these that make all the hard work and sacrifices worthwhile. This trip to Peru is more than just a vacation; it's a chance to create lasting memories and strengthen the bonds that tie us together.

Tomorrow, we delve deeper into the historical heart of Cusco, exploring its catacombs and reaching for the stars at the planetarium. It's a journey through time and space, and I can't wait to see what wonders await us.