Family Journey to the Heart of Incan Civilization in Cusco

Echoes of the Incas: A Day of Discovery in Tipón and Pisac

Today was a day of delving deep into Peru’s rich history, a day where the stones whispered stories of a civilization that once thrived in these very mountains. It’s a privilege to share this journey of discovery with my family, tracing my roots and connecting with the land of my ancestors.

Our day started with a hearty breakfast at Tunupa Restaurant. The kids were excited, not just for the food, but for the promise of adventure. Sophie and I enjoyed a quiet moment over coffee, admiring the beautiful view of the Plaza de Armas. It's moments like these, sharing the beauty of my homeland with my family, that make this trip so special.

Fueled up, we set off for Tipón Archaeological Park. The crisp mountain air filled my lungs as we drove through the stunning Andean landscape. As a restoration technician, I’m always fascinated by ancient construction, but Tipón is truly something special. It's a testament to the incredible engineering skills of the Incas. The precision with which they channeled water, the way they integrated the structures into the natural environment – it’s simply breathtaking. Mateo was particularly fascinated by the still-functioning aqueducts. I tried to explain the principles of hydraulic engineering to him, but I think he was more impressed by the fact that water was still flowing after all these centuries!


Explore the ancient Incan marvels and lush landscapes of Tipón Archaeological Park, a hidden gem in the Peruvian Andes.

The ingenuity of the Incas is not just in the stones they laid, but in the harmony they created with the land.

We explored the royal enclosures and gardens, marveling at the intricate network of canals and fountains. It’s hard to believe that this complex was built so long ago, and yet it remains in such remarkable condition. As we walked through the park, I shared stories of the Inca civilization with Mateo, trying to paint a picture of what life might have been like in this sacred place. I could see the wonder in his eyes as he imagined the people who once walked these same paths. As someone who works with historical buildings, I always feel a deep connection to the past, but sharing that connection with my son makes it even more meaningful. Sophie also enjoyed the visit, commenting that the blend of nature and architecture was incredibly peaceful.

After Tipón, we were ready for lunch. We headed to Rucula Peruvian Restaurant, enticed by the promise of authentic Peruvian flavors. The restaurant was cozy and inviting, and the aroma of traditional spices filled the air. We started with alpaca anticuchos, a local delicacy that was surprisingly tender and flavorful. Mateo, ever the adventurous eater, even tried a bite and declared it “not bad!” For the main course, Sophie and I opted for the trout in pesto gnocchi, while Mateo devoured a plate of seafood rice. It reminded me of a paella and brought back memories of my childhood in Huancavelica, where my grandmother used to cook similar dishes for family gatherings.

With our bellies full, we continued our journey to Parque Arqueológico Pisac. The drive itself was an experience, winding through the mountains and offering panoramic views of the Sacred Valley. Pisac is known for its impressive agricultural terraces, which cling to the steep hillsides like giant steps. As we climbed higher, the views became even more spectacular. The Pisac ruins are spread across a vast area, encompassing residential, ceremonial, and agricultural sectors. We explored the Intihuatana, a carved ritual rock believed to have been used as a solar clock. From this vantage point, we could see the entire valley stretching out before us, a patchwork of fields and villages bathed in the warm afternoon light. I tried to imagine what it must have been like for the Incas, living in this remote and beautiful place, connected to the land and the cycles of nature.


Explore the extraordinary Parque Arqueológico Pisac, an iconic archaeological site in Peru's Sacred Valley, rich in history and stunning landscapes.

As the sun began to set, casting long shadows across the valley, we made our way down to the town of Pisac. We strolled through the colorful market, admiring the textiles, ceramics, and other handicrafts on display. Sophie couldn’t resist buying a few souvenirs, including a hand-woven scarf and a ceramic Pucara bull. Mateo, of course, was more interested in the street food, and we indulged in some delicious picarones, a type of Peruvian doughnut.

Before heading back to Cusco, we stopped at a concept store in Pisac. I've always appreciated handmade goods, and it was great to see local artisans creating beautiful and unique items. Sophie was particularly drawn to the alpaca clothing, while Mateo found a cool, hand-carved wooden toy. Supporting local businesses is important to us, and it felt good to contribute to the community in this small way.


Explore a blend of contemporary fashion and traditional Peruvian craftsmanship at this unique concept store in Cusco's historic center.

For dinner, we decided to try Ofrenda Peruvian Healthy Food in Cusco. We wanted something light and healthy after our day of exploring and indulging. The restaurant was located in the historic center, and the ambiance was warm and inviting. We ordered a selection of traditional Peruvian dishes with a healthy twist, including quinoa soup and a fresh ceviche. The food was delicious and satisfying, and it was the perfect way to end our day of discovery.


Experience authentic Peruvian cuisine at Ofrenda in Cusco—where tradition meets health in every delicious dish.

As we drove back to our hotel, I reflected on the day’s experiences. We had seen so much, learned so much, and shared so much as a family. It’s days like these that make travel so rewarding, connecting us to the past, to each other, and to the world around us. Tomorrow, we’re planning to visit Moray, the Salt Mine of Maras and Chinchero. I can't wait to see what other wonders await us.

What struck me most today was the ingenuity and resilience of the Incas. Despite the challenges of living in such a harsh environment, they created a thriving civilization that left behind a legacy that continues to inspire awe and wonder. And as I look at my son, Mateo, I can’t help but feel a sense of pride in my Peruvian heritage, a sense of responsibility to share these stories with him, and a sense of hope for the future.

“The land remembers what the people forget.” That’s an old Andean saying that my grandfather used to tell me. Today, as I walked through the ancient sites of Tipón and Pisac, I felt like I was remembering something that had been lost, something that was buried deep within my soul. And I knew that I had to keep sharing these stories, keep bringing my family back to this land, so that we would never forget where we came from.

It's been an incredible journey so far, and I'm excited to see what the rest of our trip holds. Good night from Cusco!