Family Adventure in the Heart of the Inca Empire

Sweet Discoveries and Red Fortresses

Today was a delightful blend of history and indulgence here in Cusco. After several days of exploring the Sacred Valley, it was nice to spend a day closer to the city, soaking in more of what Cusco itself has to offer. From ancient Inca sites to the irresistible allure of chocolate, today was a feast for the senses.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at El Tupay Restaurant. The restaurant is nestled in the Belmond Hotel Monasterio, and the setting alone was worth the visit. The hotel used to be a monastery, and you could feel the history in the walls. I enjoyed some traditional Peruvian breakfast dishes with Isabella and Sofia, fueling up for a day of exploration. Sofia was especially excited about the pastries, which she devoured with gusto. I made sure to grab an extra coffee, knowing we'd need the energy for the day ahead.

With our stomachs full, we set off to Puka Pukara, an archaeological complex just a short drive from Cusco. As we approached, the name, which means 'red fortress' in Quechua, became immediately apparent. The stones had a distinct reddish hue, especially under the morning sun. It was fascinating to walk through the ruins, imagining what life must have been like during the Inca Empire.


Discover Puka Pukara, an ancient Incan military complex near Cusco, where history and breathtaking landscapes intertwine for an unforgettable experience.
Puka Pukara is believed to have been built during the reign of Emperor Pachacutec in the 15th century. While its exact purpose is still debated, it's thought to have been a military checkpoint, a resting place for travelers, or an administrative center. As I walked through the complex, I was struck by the ingenuity of the Inca people. The walls, terraces, and plazas were expertly constructed, showcasing their advanced engineering skills. Sofia enjoyed running around the open spaces, while Isabella and I took in the panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Travel is about the gorgeous feeling of teetering in the unknown.

After exploring Puka Pukara, we headed back towards Cusco with one thing on Sofia's mind: chocolate. We made our way to the ChocoMuseo, located just a couple of blocks from the Plaza de Armas. From the moment we stepped inside, the aroma of rich, decadent chocolate filled the air. The ChocoMuseo isn't just a museum; it's an interactive experience that takes you through the entire chocolate-making process.


Explore the rich history and delicious world of chocolate at ChocoMuseo in Cusco, Peru, where education meets indulgence.
We started with a tour that explained the history of cocoa and chocolate in Peru. It was fascinating to learn about the different varieties of cocoa beans and the traditional methods used to cultivate them. Sofia was particularly intrigued by the displays showing how the cocoa beans were harvested and dried. Of course, the best part was the free samples. We tasted everything from dark chocolate with sea salt to milk chocolate with coca leaves.

We decided to participate in a chocolate-making workshop. Under the guidance of a skilled chocolatier, we learned how to roast, grind, and conche our own chocolate. It was a hands-on experience, and Sofia especially loved crushing the cocoa beans with a mortar and pestle. We added our own unique flavors, including cinnamon, cloves, and chili. The end result was a batch of delicious, personalized chocolate bars that we couldn't wait to share (or maybe not share!). Before leaving, we stopped by the ChocoMuseo's café for some hot chocolate. It was served thick in a small bowl, which you then mixed into a mug of warm milk, seasoned with cinnamon and cloves. It was the perfect way to end our chocolate adventure.

For lunch, we had the pleasure of dining at Uchu Peruvian Steakhouse. Located in the heart of the historic center of Cusco, Uchu is known for its creative cuisine and meats cooked on volcanic stone. The restaurant itself is in a charming colonial house, adding to the overall ambiance. I opted for the alpaca loin, while Isabella chose the lamb ribs. Both were cooked to perfection and served with a variety of flavorful dipping sauces. Sofia enjoyed a simpler dish of grilled chicken with potatoes. The service was impeccable, and the staff went out of their way to make us feel welcome.


Experience the best of Peruvian cuisine at Uchu Peruvian Steakhouse in Cusco - where tradition meets culinary excellence.
As the sun began to set, we decided to check out Indigo Bar Restaurant for a relaxing evening drink. This cosmopolitan bar in the historic center of Cusco offers a mix of Thai and Peruvian food, along with cocktails and artisanal beers. I ordered a local craft beer, while Isabella enjoyed a Pisco Sour. Sofia, of course, stuck with juice. The bar had a laid-back vibe, with comfortable seating and good music. It was the perfect place to unwind after a busy day of exploring.


Discover the perfect blend of Thai flavors and grill favorites at Indigo Bar Restaurant, a lively culinary hotspot in Cusco's historic center.
Dinner was at Narguila Restaurant, which offered a fusion of Israeli and Peruvian cuisines. I was intrigued by the combination and eager to try something new. I opted for the falafel salad, while Isabella enjoyed the kebabs. Sofia, always a fan of trying new things, surprised us by devouring a falafel. The flavors were bold and unique, and the atmosphere was lively and welcoming. It was a great way to end our day of culinary adventures.


Discover Narguila Restaurant in Cusco: A fusion of Peruvian and Israeli cuisines with delightful vegan options in a warm gastropub setting.
As I reflect on today, I am grateful for the opportunity to experience the rich history and culture of Cusco with my family. From the ancient stones of Puka Pukara to the sweet indulgence of ChocoMuseo, every moment was filled with wonder and delight. And tomorrow, we will be visiting the Cochahuasi Animal Sanctuary and HUACA DE PACHACUTEQ. I am really looking forward to these last days of our trip.

The best journeys answer questions that in the beginning, you didn't even think to ask.

It's experiences like these that remind me why I love to travel. Exploring new places, trying new foods, and learning about different cultures – it's all part of what makes life so rich and rewarding. And sharing these experiences with Isabella and Sofia makes it even more special. As we prepare for our final day in Cusco, I am filled with a sense of gratitude and excitement for what lies ahead.