Family Adventure in the Heart of the Inca Empire

Cusco's Embrace: A Family's First Day

The crisp morning air of Cusco filled my lungs as we stepped out of the airport, ready to embrace the adventure that awaited us. Isabella, Sofia, and I were finally here, in the heart of the Inca Empire, ready to immerse ourselves in its rich history and vibrant culture. After settling into our charming guesthouse, we set out to explore the city, eager to uncover the treasures it held.

Our first stop was the iconic Plaza Mayor de Cusco, the city's main square. As we walked hand in hand, Sofia's eyes widened at the sight of the grand colonial architecture surrounding the plaza. The energy of the city was palpable, a mix of locals going about their day and tourists like us, all drawn to this historical hub. I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe, knowing that this very spot was once the center of the Inca world. We took a moment to soak it all in, snapping photos and promising Sofia we'd return later for some street food.


Discover the vibrant heart of Cusco at Plaza Mayor, where history, culture, and tradition come alive in a stunning architectural setting.

To travel is to take a journey into yourself.

Next on our list was the Cusco Cathedral, a majestic structure that dominates the Plaza Mayor. Isabella, with her love for history, was particularly excited about this one. The cathedral's history is fascinating; built on the ruins of an Inca palace, it stands as a testament to the clash of cultures that shaped Cusco. Sofia was intrigued by the stories of how the Spanish used Inca labor and stones from Sacsayhuaman to construct the cathedral, a clear attempt to replace the Inca religion with Christianity. Inside, we marveled at the intricate artwork and the sheer scale of the building. The blend of Gothic, Baroque, and Renaissance styles was truly impressive. I pointed out the carved head of a jaguar on the doors, a subtle reminder of the Inca presence that still lingers within these walls.


Explore the extraordinary Cusco Cathedral, a stunning blend of colonial architecture and rich Andean history in the heart of Peru's Sacred Valley.
After the cathedral, we made our way to Qorikancha, the Temple of the Sun, which was perhaps the most impressive site of the day. As we approached, I explained to Sofia that Qorikancha was once the most sacred temple in the Inca Empire, dedicated to the worship of Inti, the Sun God. The temple was originally named Inticancha or Intiwasi, meaning House of the Sun. The contrast between the Inca stonework and the colonial Santo Domingo Convent built on top of it was striking. Isabella and I discussed how the Spanish had looted and destroyed much of the original temple, using its stones to build their own structures. Yet, the remaining Inca walls, with their precise ashlar masonry, stood firm, a testament to their superior engineering. Sofia was particularly fascinated by the stories of the golden statues and the walls covered in gold sheets that once adorned the temple.


Discover the historical marvel of Qorikancha, a sacred site blending Inca architecture and colonial heritage in the heart of Cusco, Peru.
By lunchtime, we were all famished. Based on a recommendation from a colleague back in Toronto, we headed to Cicciolina for breakfast. The restaurant, located in the San Blas neighborhood, had a cozy and inviting atmosphere. We opted for the formal dining area, and the impeccable service made us feel right at home. The menu was a delightful fusion of Italian and Peruvian flavors. Sofia devoured her handmade pasta, while Isabella and I savored the quinoa-encrusted prawns and osso buco with pumpkin ravioli. It was the perfect start to our culinary journey in Cusco.


Discover Cicciolina in Cusco: An exquisite Italian dining experience blending authentic flavors with local charm.
With our bellies full, we ventured to the Centro de Textiles de Huacatinco, eager to learn more about the traditional weaving practices of the region. We were greeted by the artisans, who shared their knowledge of wool processing, dyeing, and weaving. Sofia was captivated by the vibrant colors and intricate patterns, learning how different plants and minerals are used to create the dyes. I was impressed by the center's commitment to preserving these traditions and supporting the local indigenous communities. We purchased a beautiful alpaca scarf for my mother, a tangible piece of Cusco's cultural heritage.


Explore the rich heritage of Peruvian textiles at Centro de Textiles de Huacatinco, where craftsmanship and culture intertwine.
As the afternoon wore on, we made our way to Organika Restaurant for lunch. This charming spot prides itself on using fresh, local ingredients from its own farm in the Sacred Valley. The atmosphere was relaxed and inviting, and the menu offered a variety of healthy and delicious options. Sofia opted for the vegan noodles, while Isabella enjoyed the pumpkin ravioli. I tried the quinoa risotto, a flavorful and satisfying dish that showcased the region's native grain. The portions were a bit small, but the quality of the food more than made up for it.


Discover the authentic flavors of Peru at Organika Restaurant in Cusco – where local ingredients meet innovative cuisine.
For our final stop of the day, we had reservations at Chicha por Gaston Acurio for dinner, a restaurant known for its modern take on traditional Peruvian cuisine. The ambiance was classy and spacious, and the menu was filled with tempting options. We started with the ceviche, a classic Peruvian dish that was bursting with fresh flavors. For our main courses, Isabella chose the grilled octopus, while I opted for the traditional chicharron. Sofia, always adventurous, tried the stuffed hot pepper. The meal was a culinary masterpiece, a perfect ending to our first day in Cusco.


Discover authentic Peruvian flavors at Chicha por Gaston Acurio in Cusco—where tradition meets culinary excellence.
As we walked back to our guesthouse, the city was bathed in the warm glow of streetlights. Sofia, tired but happy, snuggled between Isabella and me. We recounted our favorite moments of the day, from the grandeur of the Plaza Mayor to the intricate weavings at the textile center. I couldn't help but feel grateful for this opportunity to share my heritage with my family, to introduce them to the wonders of Peru. Tomorrow, we plan to explore Saqsaywaman, Mirador desde el Cristo Blanco, and the San Blas View Point. I am excited to see what tomorrow brings.

Our first day in Cusco was a resounding success, a perfect blend of history, culture, and culinary delights. As I drifted off to sleep, I knew that this trip would be filled with unforgettable memories, a true family adventure in the heart of the Inca Empire.