Family Adventure in the Heart of the Inca Empire

Whispers of the Past, Glimpses of the Future

Today was a day of contrasts, a journey through time that took us from the depths of colonial history to the vast expanse of the cosmos. Cusco never ceases to amaze, revealing new layers of its rich tapestry with each passing day. From exploring ancient catacombs to reaching for the stars, it was a day filled with wonder and reflection, shared with my beloved Isabella and Sofia.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Mama Seledonia. I'd heard wonderful things about their dedication to supporting single mothers and, of course, their delicious Peruvian cuisine. The restaurant was cozy, and the aroma of freshly brewed coffee filled the air. I opted for a traditional breakfast burrito, while Isabella chose the quinoa pancakes, and Sofia, ever the adventurous one, went for the scrambled eggs with alpaca. It was the perfect way to fuel up for our morning adventure. The fact that they support single mothers made the experience even more special.


Discover authentic Peruvian cuisine at Mama Seledonia in Cusco's historic center - a culinary gem for every traveler.

With our stomachs full and our spirits high, we ventured towards the Museo y Catacumbas del Convento de San Francisco de Asís. This place is steeped in history, a testament to Cusco's colonial past. The convent, built in the 16th century over an ancient Inca temple, is an architectural marvel. As we walked through its hallowed halls, I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe and reverence.


Explore the rich history and spiritual heritage of Cusco at Museo y Catacumbas del Convento de San Francisco de Asís - a unique journey through time.

The museum houses an impressive collection of religious art, including paintings, sculptures, and liturgical objects from the colonial era. Isabella, with her keen eye for art, was particularly fascinated by the intricate details and symbolism. Sofia, on the other hand, was more interested in the collection of feather art, marveling at the vibrant colors and delicate craftsmanship.

The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page.

But the real highlight of our visit was the catacombs. Descending into the depths of the earth, we entered a world of shadows and whispers. The catacombs, once used as cemeteries by the Franciscan friars, are now adorned with human bones and skulls, arranged in macabre patterns. It was a chilling yet fascinating experience, a stark reminder of our mortality. Sofia, surprisingly, wasn't scared at all. She found it all incredibly interesting, asking questions about the people who were buried there and their lives.

After emerging from the depths of the convent, we were ready for lunch. We decided to try Yaku Restaurant, recommended for its blend of traditional and contemporary Peruvian cuisine. The restaurant, located near Plaza Regocijo, had a lovely ambiance, with a cozy patio and live music. I ordered the alpaca steak, while Isabella opted for the trout ceviche, and Sofia chose the quinoa chaufa, a vegetarian option. The food was delicious, beautifully presented, and bursting with flavor. The service was also exceptional, making us feel right at home.


Discover Yaku Restaurant in Cusco: A modern twist on traditional Peruvian cuisine awaits you in this vibrant gastropub.

As the afternoon sun began to dip below the horizon, we made our way to the Cusco Planetarium. Located on a hillside near Sacsayhuamán, the planetarium offers a unique opportunity to explore the mysteries of the universe through the eyes of the Inca. The planetarium is family-run, and their passion for astronomy is evident in every aspect of the experience.


Explore the cosmos and Incan astronomy at the Cusco Planetarium, a unique tourist attraction in the heart of Peru's ancient capital.

We started with a presentation about Inca astronomy, learning about their beliefs and how they used the stars to predict their future. It was fascinating to discover how the Incas saw constellations and celestial events differently than we do today. Sofia was particularly captivated by the stories of the Inca gods and their connection to the stars.

After the presentation, we ventured outside to observe the night sky through their telescopes. Despite some cloud cover, we were able to see several constellations and even catch a glimpse of Jupiter. It was an awe-inspiring experience, a reminder of the vastness and wonder of the universe. I thought about my father, who loved looking at the stars. I remember when I was a child in Armenia, Colombia, he used to point out the constellations to me. I felt very close to him in that moment.

For dinner, we decided to try Mistura Grill Cusco. The restaurant boasts a prime location with spectacular views of the Plaza de Armas. We sat on the veranda, enjoying the vibrant atmosphere and the stunning cityscape. I ordered the ceviche, Isabella chose the grilled trout, and Sofia opted for the chicken soup. The food was delicious, and the view was simply breathtaking.


Discover authentic Peruvian cuisine at Mistura Grill Cusco - where tradition meets flavor in a charming setting.

To cap off our evening, we decided to visit Black Cat Bar Cusco for a nightcap. This cozy craft cocktail bar, tucked away near the Plaza de Armas, had a warm and inviting ambiance. I ordered a classic pisco sour, while Isabella tried one of their signature cocktails made with local spirits. Sofia, of course, stuck to juice. It was the perfect way to unwind and reflect on the day's adventures. The Black Cat Bar is known for its craft cocktails and spirits. It's a small, intimate place, perfect for a quiet drink. The bartenders are skilled and friendly. It's a bit pricey, but worth it for the quality of the drinks.


Discover the exquisite craft cocktails at Black Cat Bar Cusco, where local flavors meet a vibrant atmosphere in the heart of the city.

Tomorrow, we're planning to explore the Q'enco Archaeological Complex and Zona Arqueológica De Patapata [Q'enco Archaeological Complex, Zona Arqueológica De Patapata]. It promises to be another day filled with history, culture, and adventure. I'm excited to see what wonders await us as we continue our journey through the heart of the Inca Empire.

As I write this, I'm filled with a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to share these experiences with my family. Cusco is more than just a destination; it's a place that touches the soul, a place where history, culture, and nature intertwine to create something truly magical. And I'm so grateful to be able to experience it all with Isabella and Sofia by my side.

Good night from Cusco!