Cultural Exploration of Ayacucho with Family

Whispers of Ayacucho: A Final Day of Discovery

Today marked the final day of our family's journey through Ayacucho, and what a bittersweet feeling it is! While a part of me is excited to return to Montreal, back to our cozy home and Sophie's comforting presence, another part of me is already longing for the vibrant streets, the warm people, and the rich history that has enveloped us these past eleven days. We wanted to make the most of our last day, soaking in as much of Ayacucho's essence as possible. Today, we ventured out to experience both the natural wonders and the cultural treasures that this region holds, creating memories that I know Mateo will cherish for years to come.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at DON BIGOTE. Mateo was particularly excited, as the name itself brought a smile to his face. We enjoyed some traditional Peruvian breakfast staples – tamales and strong coffee for me, and a sweet, milky drink for Mateo. Fuelled up, we set off for our first adventure: the Catarata Pumapaqcha.


Experience the breathtaking beauty of Catarata Pumapaqcha, a stunning waterfall in Cangallo, Peru, perfect for nature lovers and adventurers.

The drive to Pumapaqcha was an experience in itself. The landscape shifted dramatically as we left Ayacucho behind, the city's terracotta rooftops giving way to rolling hills and verdant valleys. As we drove, I told Mateo stories of my childhood in Huancavelica, of the mountains that held secrets and the rivers that sang songs. He listened intently, his eyes wide with wonder.

Once we arrived, the trek to the waterfall was invigorating. The air was crisp and clean, carrying the scent of eucalyptus and damp earth. Mateo, ever the energetic explorer, skipped ahead, his laughter echoing through the valley. The path wound its way through the rugged terrain, offering breathtaking views at every turn. I couldn't help but feel a sense of peace and connection to the land, a feeling that resonated deep within my soul.

As we approached the Catarata Pumapaqcha, the sound of rushing water grew louder, building anticipation. And then, there it was – a stunning cascade of water tumbling down a rocky cliff, surrounded by lush greenery. The sight was truly mesmerizing. Mateo was immediately captivated, running towards the base of the waterfall with glee.

We spent a good hour at Pumapaqcha, simply enjoying the beauty of nature. Mateo splashed in the cool, refreshing water, while I sat on a nearby rock, sketching the scene in my notebook. The falls are considered by the local shamans to have energetic and curative powers. Whether that’s true or not, I certainly felt rejuvenated by the experience. It was a perfect moment of connection, a reminder of the simple joys in life.

The beauty of nature is a reflection of the soul.

After our refreshing interlude at the waterfall, we made our way back to Ayacucho. Lunch was at Recreo Juanito, a local favorite known for its traditional Peruvian dishes. We savored every bite of the flavorful food, reminiscing about our favorite meals of the trip. Mateo declared that his favorite was still the lomo saltado we had a few days ago, while I was partial to the puca picante, a dish that reminded me of my abuela's cooking.


Experience the rich flavors of Peru at Recreo Juanito, where authentic cuisine meets warm hospitality in the heart of Ayacucho.

With our bellies full and our spirits high, we decided to explore a bit more of Ayacucho's cultural side. Our next stop was the Arco Puca Cruz. Located southeast of the Plaza Mayor de Huamanga, the Arco Puca Cruz was built in the 18th century and features a red cross (puca cruz) atop a semicircular arch, which is of great religious and traditional significance to the local community. The arch itself is a simple yet elegant structure, a testament to the city's colonial past. As we stood beneath the arch, I explained to Mateo the significance of the Puca Cruz, a symbol of faith and resilience for the people of Ayacucho. He listened attentively, absorbing the stories and traditions of his heritage.


Experience the historical charm of Arco Puca Cruz, a must-see landmark in Ayacucho, Peru, where culture and history come alive.

I also shared the local legend surrounding the Arco Puca Cruz, a tale of love and tragedy from 1640, involving the Marquesa de Andamarca, Cecilia, and a Spanish officer named Jorge Esquivel. Their love story, fraught with familial opposition and daring escapes, added another layer of intrigue to the already captivating site. It's stories like these that breathe life into historical landmarks, making them more than just stone and mortar.

Next on our list was Libreria3k. Knowing Sophie’s love for books, I wanted to find a unique souvenir for her. I had read that Libreria3k offered a delightful array of traditional crafts and souvenirs, making it a perfect stop for both book lovers and cultural explorers. It was indeed a charming little shop, filled with books, artisanal crafts, and local artwork. I spent a good half-hour browsing the shelves, admiring the colorful textiles and intricate carvings. Mateo, meanwhile, was fascinated by a collection of miniature Andean flutes, trying his best to play a tune.


Explore Libreria3k in Ayacucho for a unique blend of literature and local culture, perfect for book lovers and cultural explorers alike.

I finally settled on a beautifully bound book of Peruvian folk tales, its cover adorned with a vibrant image of the Andes. I knew Sophie would appreciate the thoughtful gesture, a reminder of our journey and a celebration of Peruvian culture. Mateo chose a small, hand-painted quena (Andean flute) as a souvenir for himself, eager to practice his newfound musical skills.

As the sun began to set, casting a warm golden glow over the city, we made our way to Tupachi Restobar Ayacucho for our farewell dinner. The restaurant had a cozy, inviting atmosphere, with traditional Peruvian music playing softly in the background. We ordered a selection of local specialties, savoring the flavors of Ayacucho one last time. Mateo, exhausted from our day of adventures, fell asleep in my arms, his face peaceful and content.


Experience the vibrant flavors of Peru at Tupachi Restobar, where traditional cuisine meets modern gastropub style in Ayacucho.

Sitting there, holding my sleeping son, I couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude. This trip to Ayacucho had been more than just a vacation; it had been a journey of rediscovery, a chance to reconnect with my roots and share my heritage with my family. I had shown Mateo the land of my birth, the culture that shaped me, and the traditions that I hold dear. And in doing so, I had created memories that would last a lifetime.

As our time in Ayacucho comes to an end, I reflect on the experiences we've shared and the memories we've created. From exploring historical landmarks to savoring local cuisine and immersing ourselves in the vibrant culture, this trip has been an unforgettable journey for our family. As we prepare to return to Montreal, I carry with me a renewed appreciation for my heritage and a deeper connection to my roots.

Tomorrow, we begin our journey back to Montreal. There are no itinerary items planned. It will be a long day of travel, but I know that the memories we've made in Ayacucho will keep us going. I'm already looking forward to sharing our stories and experiences with Sophie, and to planning our next adventure together. Until then, I bid farewell to Ayacucho, a city that has captured my heart and soul. Thank you, Ayacucho, for the memories, the lessons, and the love. Goodbye for now, but not forever. I know I'll be back.

I'm already excited to share more stories and photos from our journey in future blog posts. Stay tuned for more cultural explorations and family adventures!