Family Journey to the Heart of Incan Civilization in Cusco

Reaching for the Sky: Our Huayna Picchu Adventure

Today was a day of both physical challenge and spiritual reward. As a restoration technician, I'm used to working with my hands, but today, Sophie, Mateo and I tested our endurance in a different way: by climbing Huayna Picchu. The experience was nothing short of breathtaking, offering a unique perspective on the majestic Machu Picchu.


Discover the breathtaking beauty and ancient ruins of Huayna Picchu, an iconic peak offering stunning views and a challenging hike near Machu Picchu.

Our day began early, with a hearty breakfast at El Mesón de Don Tomas. The restaurant was bustling with fellow travelers, all eager to start their day of exploration. I enjoyed a traditional Peruvian breakfast, fueling up for the climb ahead, while Mateo devoured his pancakes with gusto. Sophie opted for a lighter meal, knowing the ascent would be strenuous. The staff were incredibly friendly, making sure we had everything we needed before setting off. It was a great way to start the day, filled with anticipation and excitement.


Experience authentic Peruvian flavors at El Mesón de Don Tomas in Cusco's historic district - where every dish tells a story.

After breakfast, we made our way to Machu Picchu. The bus ride up was filled with stunning views of the surrounding mountains. As we approached the entrance, the iconic citadel came into view, shrouded in mist. It was a sight that never fails to inspire awe, a testament to the ingenuity and resilience of the Incan people.

The climb up Huayna Picchu was certainly not for the faint of heart. The path was steep and winding, with narrow steps carved into the mountainside. Mateo, full of energy, bounded ahead, while Sophie and I took a more measured pace. There were moments when I questioned my ability to make it to the top, but the thought of the incredible views that awaited us kept me going. I could almost feel the spirits of my ancestors urging me onward. I remember my grandfather telling me stories of the mountains around Huancavelica, of how they held a special significance for our people. This climb felt like a way to connect with that heritage, to honor the strength and perseverance of those who came before me.

The view from the summit was simply unparalleled, a panorama of lush green mountains, ancient ruins, and the winding Urubamba River below.

Reaching the summit of Huayna Picchu was an incredible feeling of accomplishment. The panoramic views were simply breathtaking. We could see the entire Machu Picchu complex spread out below us, a sprawling network of terraces, temples, and plazas. It was a humbling experience, a reminder of the scale and grandeur of the Incan civilization. Mateo was thrilled, pointing out different landmarks and sharing his newfound knowledge of Incan history. Sophie, always the thoughtful one, simply stood in silence, taking in the beauty of the landscape.

We spent some time at the top, soaking in the views and snapping photos. Mateo was particularly fascinated by the Temple of the Moon, a mysterious structure nestled on the far side of the mountain. I made a mental note to research it further when we returned to the hotel. As a restoration technician, I'm always interested in learning more about the construction techniques and architectural styles of ancient civilizations.

The descent was just as challenging as the ascent, but we took our time, carefully navigating the steep steps. By the time we reached the bottom, we were all exhausted but exhilarated. We had conquered Huayna Picchu, and the sense of accomplishment was immense.

For lunch, we treated ourselves to a well-deserved meal at Mistura Grill Cusco. The restaurant was lively and inviting, with a menu featuring a variety of Peruvian specialties. We ordered a selection of dishes to share, including alpaca anticuchos and ají de gallina. The food was delicious, a perfect blend of flavors and textures. Mateo particularly enjoyed the alpaca, declaring it his new favorite meat. Sophie and I savored every bite, appreciating the opportunity to relax and refuel after our strenuous climb.


Experience authentic Peruvian flavors at Mistura Grill Cusco, where every dish tells a story of tradition and taste.

After lunch, we spent some time exploring the lower reaches of Machu Picchu. We visited the Sacred Rock, a massive stone formation that is believed to have been a place of spiritual significance for the Incas. Mateo was fascinated by the rock, climbing all over it and pretending to be an Incan warrior. Sophie and I took some photos, capturing the moment for posterity.

As the afternoon wore on, we made our way back to Cusco. The train ride was relaxing, a chance to unwind and reflect on the day's adventures. Mateo fell asleep almost immediately, exhausted from the climb. Sophie and I chatted quietly, sharing our impressions of Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu.

Back in Cusco, we decided to have dinner at Marcelo Batata Restaurante. The restaurant had a cozy and romantic atmosphere, with a rooftop terrace offering stunning views of the city. We ordered a selection of traditional Peruvian dishes, including lomo saltado and trout ceviche. The food was delicious, a perfect end to a perfect day.


Experience authentic Peruvian cuisine at Marcelo Batata Restaurante in Cusco – where tradition meets modern culinary artistry.

To cap off the evening, we decided to visit the Rock House Cafe for a nightcap. The cafe was lively and energetic, with a band playing classic rock tunes. We ordered some pisco sours and listened to the music, enjoying the vibrant atmosphere. Mateo, despite being tired, couldn't resist tapping his feet to the beat. It was a fun and festive way to end our day of adventure.


Experience the vibrant nightlife of Cusco at Rock House Cafe, where gastronomy meets live music in a unique atmosphere.

Today was more than just a climb; it was a journey into the heart of Incan history and a testament to the strength of our family bond. As I reflect on the day, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to share this experience with Sophie and Mateo. It's moments like these that make life so rich and rewarding.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Qochapata and the Cochahuasi Animal Sanctuary, eager to discover more of the natural beauty and cultural richness of this region. I'm also looking forward to trying Inka Grill for breakfast – I've heard they have amazing traditional dishes. Until then, I'll cherish the memories of our Huayna Picchu adventure, a day that will forever be etched in our hearts.

The mountains are calling and I must go. - John Muir

P.S. I should probably remember to buy sunscreen and a travel adapter tomorrow. Those are definitely essentials I don't want to forget again!

Looking back on today, I realize how much this trip means to me. As a Peruvian immigrant, I want to instill a sense of pride and connection to our heritage in Mateo. Sharing these experiences with him and Sophie is not just about seeing the sights; it's about creating lasting memories and strengthening our family bond. And who knows, maybe one day Mateo will want to follow in my footsteps and become a restoration technician, preserving the legacy of our ancestors for future generations.

The warmth of the people, the vibrant culture, and the stunning landscapes of Cusco have truly captured our hearts. It's a reminder of where I come from and a celebration of who we are as a family. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings!