Family Journey to the Heart of Incan Civilization in Cusco

A Day Among Giants

Today was a day of delving deeper into Cusco's soul, a city where the past isn't just remembered, it's lived and breathed. From the imposing stones of Saqsaywaman to the charming viewpoints of San Blas, every corner held a story, every cobblestone whispered a secret. Come along as I share our family's adventure, immersing ourselves in the heart of Incan history and modern Peruvian culture.

We started our day with a hearty breakfast at Green Point Vegan Restaurant. Sophie had discovered this gem, and I was initially skeptical, being a traditionalist when it comes to Peruvian cuisine. However, the restaurant's commitment to plant-based versions of local dishes intrigued me. I must admit, the vegan takes on classic Peruvian flavors were surprisingly delightful, even Mateo enjoyed his meal! It was a great way to fuel up for the day's explorations.


Discover delicious vegan cuisine in Cusco's historic center at Green Point Vegan Restaurant—where sustainability meets flavor.

Our first stop was Saqsaywaman, a place I had dreamed of visiting since childhood. As a restoration technician, I've spent years studying ancient construction techniques, but nothing could have prepared me for the sheer scale and precision of these Incan walls. The stones, some weighing over 100 tons, fit together with an accuracy that defies explanation. It's truly a testament to the ingenuity and skill of the Incan civilization. Mateo was fascinated, scrambling over the rocks and imagining the battles that once took place here. I tried to explain to him how these stones were moved and placed without modern machinery, but it's a concept that's hard to grasp, even for me!


Discover the architectural marvel of Saqsaywaman, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Cusco, where Incan history comes alive amidst breathtaking landscapes.

As we walked through the site, I shared stories of Pachacutec, the Incan ruler who initiated the construction of Sacsaywaman in the 15th century, and the thousands of men who worked on it. The January weather in Cusco was mild, with temperatures hovering around 19°C, perfect for exploring the ruins, though the sky was overcast. I could feel the weight of history pressing down on us, a connection to my ancestors that transcended time.

To walk through Cusco is to walk through the heart of a civilization that continues to beat strong, even after centuries of change.

Next, we ventured into the San Blas neighborhood, known as the artisans' quarter. The narrow, cobblestone streets wound their way up the hillside, lined with workshops and galleries. San Blas was originally known as T'oqokachi, or Salt Cave in Quechua, and was home to important Incan families dedicated to craftsmanship. Today, it retains its artistic spirit, with local artists displaying their paintings, sculptures, and textiles. We climbed to the San Blas View Point, where we were rewarded with a panoramic view of Cusco. From here, the city unfolded beneath us, a tapestry of red-tiled roofs and colonial architecture, framed by the majestic Andes mountains. I pointed out the Plaza de Armas, the heart of the city, and traced the path of the Rio Huatanay, which once flowed through the center of Cusco.


Discover stunning panoramic views of Cusco and the Andes at San Blas View Point, a serene gem in the vibrant heart of Peru's historic city.

Sophie was particularly drawn to the Hilario Mendivil Gallery, where she admired the religious images with elongated necks, reminiscent of llamas and alpacas. Mateo, on the other hand, was more interested in the street performers, who entertained the crowds with music and dance. As we strolled through San Blas, I felt a sense of pride in my Peruvian heritage, a connection to the artistic traditions that have been passed down through generations.

After soaking in the views and the artistic vibe of San Blas, we made our way down to Calle Loreto, a narrow street lined with ancient Incan walls. These walls, once part of important Incan structures, are now incorporated into the foundations of modern buildings. The most famous feature of Calle Loreto is the perfectly fitted stones, which showcase the incredible precision of Incan stonemasonry. It's amazing to see how these ancient walls have withstood the test of time, a testament to the skill and ingenuity of my ancestors.


Discover Calle Loreto, a historic street in Cusco filled with vibrant culture, stunning architecture, and local craftsmanship that reflects the city's rich heritage.

For lunch, we chose Pachapapa, a restaurant recommended for its traditional Cusquenian cuisine. The restaurant is set in a charming old mansion in the San Blas neighborhood, with a cozy courtyard and a wood-fired oven. We started with ají de gallina, a creamy chicken stew, and followed it with pachamanca, a traditional Andean dish of meat and vegetables cooked in an underground oven. The flavors were rich and complex, a celebration of Peruvian ingredients and cooking techniques. Mateo, surprisingly, enjoyed the guinea pig! Sophie and I shared a bottle of local Cusqueña beer, toasting to our adventure in Cusco.


Experience authentic Peruvian cuisine at Pachapapa in Cusco – where tradition meets flavor in every dish.

As the afternoon wore on, we decided to take a break from sightseeing and relax at LIMBUS RESTOBAR. This bar, perched on a hillside overlooking the city, offered stunning panoramic views and a relaxed atmosphere. We ordered Pisco Sours, the national drink of Peru, and watched as the sun began to set over Cusco. The sky was ablaze with color, painting the city in hues of orange, pink, and purple. It was a magical moment, a perfect end to a day of exploration and discovery.


Experience the flavors of Peru with breathtaking views at Limbus Restobar, the perfect blend of dining and scenery in Cusco.

For dinner, we ventured to Marcelo Batata Restaurante, known for its contemporary Peruvian cuisine and rooftop terrace. The ambiance was upscale and romantic, with soft lighting and live music. I opted for the alpaca steak, cooked to perfection, while Sophie chose the trout with grilled vegetables. The food was delicious, but the real highlight was the view from the terrace. From here, we could see the entire city twinkling below us, a sea of lights stretching to the horizon.


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

As we savored our meal, we reflected on the day's adventures. We had walked in the footsteps of the Incas, explored the artistic heart of Cusco, and tasted the flavors of Peru. It was a day that had deepened our connection to this city and its rich history. As we head to Sacred Valley tomorrow, I am excited to share those experiences with you all.

Before heading back to the Jose Antonio Cusco Hotel, we took one last stroll through the Plaza de Armas. The square was alive with activity, locals and tourists mingling under the soft glow of the streetlights. I bought Mateo a small quena, an Andean flute, and he spent the rest of the evening trying to learn how to play it. His attempts were more comical than musical, but it was a reminder of the joy and wonder that travel brings, especially when shared with family.


Discover comfort and convenience at Jose Antonio Cusco Hotel, your perfect base for exploring the beauty of Cuzco, Peru, with top-notch amenities.

Back at the hotel, as I write this, I can still feel the echoes of the day's experiences. The weight of the stones at Sacsaywaman, the vibrant colors of San Blas, the rich flavors of Peruvian cuisine, and the warmth of the Cusco people. It's a city that has captured my heart, a place where the past and present intertwine to create a truly unique and unforgettable experience.

Tomorrow, we're heading to the Sacred Valley, where we'll explore more ancient ruins and learn about the traditions of the Incan civilization. I'm excited to share those adventures with you, but for now, I'll leave you with a final thought: Cusco is more than just a city, it's a journey through time, a celebration of culture, and a reminder of the enduring power of the human spirit.