Family Adventure in the Heart of the Inca Empire

A Day Above Cusco

Today was all about seeing Cusco from a different perspective – literally! We embarked on a journey to explore the city's most iconic viewpoints and immerse ourselves in its vibrant culture. It's amazing how a change in elevation can offer such a fresh appreciation for a place. From ancient ruins to bustling streets, Cusco revealed its beauty in layers, each more captivating than the last.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at A Mi Manera. Isabella had read great reviews about their traditional Peruvian dishes, and it was just what we needed to fuel our explorations. The cozy atmosphere and friendly service made it a perfect start to our day. Sofia, of course, opted for something simple – pancakes with fresh fruit – while Isabella and I enjoyed some delicious tamales and strong, aromatic coffee.

First on our itinerary was Saqsaywaman. As a history enthusiast, I was particularly excited about this one. The sheer scale of the stonework is absolutely mind-boggling. It's hard to fathom how the Incas managed to construct such a massive complex with such precision, especially considering the tools they had at their disposal. Sofia was fascinated by the massive stones, trying to imagine how they were moved and fitted together. I explained to her about the fortress's history, its role in Inca ceremonies, and its significance during the Spanish conquest. Walking through the ruins, I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe and respect for the Inca civilization.


Discover Saqsaywaman, the breathtaking archaeological site in Cusco, Peru, where Incan history meets stunning panoramic views.

Sometimes, the best way to understand a place is to see it from above, to gain a wider perspective that reveals its hidden beauty and rich history.

Next, we made our way to Mirador desde el Cristo Blanco. The walk up was a bit of a climb, and the altitude definitely made it a little challenging, but the views from the top were more than worth it. The towering statue of Christ overlooking the city is quite impressive, reminiscent of Rio de Janeiro, which Isabella and I visited before we had Sofia. From this vantage point, we could see the entire city of Cusco spread out before us, with its terracotta rooftops and the majestic Andes mountains in the distance. Sofia loved spotting familiar landmarks and pointing out places we had already visited. The panoramic view was simply breathtaking, and we spent a good amount of time taking photos and soaking it all in. It was a perfect spot for reflection, offering a serene escape from the bustling city below.


Experience breathtaking panoramic views of Cusco and the Andes at the iconic Mirador del Cristo Blanco, a cultural landmark with stunning scenery.

Our exploration of Cusco's viewpoints continued with a visit to the San Blas View Point. Located in the artistic heart of Cusco, the San Blas neighborhood exudes a bohemian charm with its cobblestone streets and artisan workshops. The viewpoint itself offers stunning views of the city, showcasing its colonial rooftops and the surrounding Andean mountains. The walk to the viewpoint was an adventure in itself, taking us through narrow, winding streets filled with art galleries and craft shops. We enjoyed browsing the local artwork and admiring the unique architecture of the neighborhood. From the viewpoint, we could see the Plaza de Armas and many of Cusco's churches, all bathed in the warm afternoon light. The blend of history, art, and culture made this viewpoint a truly special experience.


Experience breathtaking panoramic views of Cusco at San Blas View Point, a must-visit observation deck for every traveler exploring Peru's historic treasures.

For lunch, we decided to try Tunupa Restaurant. The restaurant is known for its traditional Peruvian cuisine and its lively folkloric show. We enjoyed a delicious meal of alpaca steak and causa, while being entertained by colorful dances and music. Sofia was particularly captivated by the dancers, their vibrant costumes, and energetic performances. The atmosphere was festive and welcoming, and it provided a great insight into Andean-Peruvian culture. The restaurant itself offered an impressive view of the main square, adding to the overall experience. It was a delightful way to immerse ourselves in the local culture and savor the flavors of Peru.


Discover authentic Peruvian flavors at Tunupa Restaurant in Cusco - a culinary delight steeped in tradition.

As the day wound down, we ventured to LIMBUS RESTOBAR for a relaxing evening. This place came highly recommended for its stunning views of Cusco and its creative cocktails. Getting there involved navigating some steep steps, but the effort was well worth it. The atmosphere was hip and modern, with a touch of bohemian flair. We ordered some Pisco Sours and enjoyed the panoramic view of the city lights twinkling below. Sofia sipped on a refreshing limonada while we savored the moment and reflected on our day's adventures. The view from LIMBUS was simply magical, offering a perfect ending to our day of exploration.


Discover culinary delights and breathtaking views at Limbus Restobar in Cusco, the perfect blend of Peruvian flavors and stunning panoramas.

Today was a reminder of why we love to travel as a family. Each of us experiences things differently, and those perspectives add so much to the richness of the journey. I am glad we were able to experience so much of what the city had to offer. We made memories that we will cherish for years to come.

Tomorrow, we're off to Machu Picchu! We have an early start, but the anticipation is already building. I've been reading up on the history of the Sacred Rock at Machu Picchu, and Isabella is excited to explore the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu itself. Sofia is mostly looking forward to seeing the llamas! We have breakfast planned at Makipura Organic Restaurant, lunch at Ceviche Seafood Kitchen, and dinner at Uchu Peruvian Steakhouse. We will also be visiting Alpaca Tamon® | Alpaca Factory Outlet for some souvenirs. It promises to be an unforgettable day, and I can't wait to share it with you all.

For now, it's time to rest up and prepare for another day of adventure in this incredible country. Until next time!