Family Journey to the Heart of Incan Civilization in Cusco

Lost in the Clouds: Machu Picchu Beckons

Today was a day I had dreamed of for years – a visit to Machu Picchu. The anticipation was palpable, a mix of excitement and reverence for a place that holds so much history and mystery. As a restoration technician, I've always been drawn to the stories buildings tell, and Machu Picchu, with its intricate stonework and breathtaking location, promised to be a masterpiece unlike any other. I was eager to share this experience with Sophie and Mateo, hoping to instill in them the same appreciation for history and culture that my grandfather instilled in me.

The day began early, with a hearty breakfast at El Tupay Restaurant in our hotel. The dining room was elegant, a reminder of the monastery it once was. I enjoyed some sauteed mushrooms with fresh herbs and a glass of Intipalka Chardonnay. Mateo, of course, went straight for the hot chocolate, and Sophie enjoyed some fresh fruit. Fuelled up, we were ready for our adventure.


Experience exquisite Peruvian cuisine at El Tupay Restaurant in Cusco - where tradition meets culinary artistry in an enchanting setting.

The journey to Machu Picchu was an experience in itself. The train ride through the Sacred Valley offered stunning views of the Andes, the landscape transforming with every turn. Mateo was glued to the window, pointing out the Urubamba River and the towering peaks. I shared stories of my childhood in Huancavelica, painting a picture of life in the Peruvian highlands. I told him about how the Incas built their cities, how they farmed on the steep mountain slopes, and how they worshipped the sun and the mountains.

As we approached Aguas Calientes, the town at the base of Machu Picchu, the excitement grew. The air was thick with anticipation, and the energy of fellow travelers was contagious. We boarded a bus for the final leg of the journey, the winding road climbing higher and higher into the mountains.

And then, there it was. Machu Picchu. Emerging from the mist, the ancient city was a sight to behold. The scale of it was immense, the stonework intricate and precise. It was a testament to the ingenuity and skill of the Inca people. Despite being January, the weather was relatively mild, though we were prepared for rain, with waterproof jackets and sturdy hiking boots. The clouds swirled around the peaks, creating a mystical atmosphere that only added to the magic of the place.

Machu Picchu is more than just stones and structures; it's a testament to human ingenuity, a spiritual sanctuary, and a reminder of the enduring power of the past.

We explored the city at our own pace, marveling at the Temple of the Sun, the Intihuatana stone, and the Royal Tomb. Mateo was fascinated by the llamas grazing on the terraces, while Sophie was captivated by the intricate stonework and the panoramic views. I tried to imagine what life was like here centuries ago, the daily routines, the ceremonies, the challenges of living in such a remote and rugged environment.

I shared stories of Emperor Pachacuti, the Inca leader believed to have built Machu Picchu around 1450. I explained how the city likely served as a royal estate or a sacred religious site, a place where the Inca elite could connect with their gods and the natural world. I talked about the Incas' reverence for the sun, the mountains, and the earth, and how these beliefs were reflected in the architecture and layout of Machu Picchu.

While exploring Machu Picchu, I couldn't help but reflect on the incredible engineering feats of the Incas. The way they managed to construct such a complex city on a steep mountain ridge, using only stone tools and human labor, is truly remarkable. The precise stonework, the intricate drainage systems, and the agricultural terraces all speak to their advanced knowledge of engineering and agriculture.

It's also humbling to consider how the Incas were able to integrate their city so seamlessly with the natural environment. The buildings seem to grow out of the mountains, blending in perfectly with the surrounding landscape. This harmonious relationship with nature is something that I deeply admire, and it's a lesson that we can all learn from.

We spent hours wandering through the ruins, soaking in the atmosphere and trying to imagine what life was like in this ancient city. I was particularly struck by the Temple of the Sun, with its curved walls and precise alignment with the sun's rays. It's clear that the Incas had a deep understanding of astronomy and its importance to their culture.

As we walked, I couldn't help but feel a sense of connection to the past, to the people who had lived and worked in this city so many centuries ago. It was a humbling experience, a reminder of the impermanence of life and the enduring power of human creativity and resilience.

For lunch, we descended back to Aguas Calientes and enjoyed a meal at Mistura Grill Cusco. The restaurant was lively and bustling, the aroma of grilled meats filling the air. I opted for the alpaca anticucho, a local delicacy, while Sophie enjoyed a vegetarian quinoa dish. Mateo, predictably, ordered a burger and fries. The food was delicious, and the service was friendly and efficient.


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

After lunch, we did some souvenir shopping at Qori Art Cusco. The shop was filled with colorful textiles, intricate carvings, and beautiful jewelry. Mateo picked out a small llama figurine, while Sophie bought a hand-woven scarf. I found a beautiful piece of pottery, a reminder of our visit to this magical place.


Discover unique Peruvian handicrafts and souvenirs at Qori Art Cusco, a must-visit gift shop for every traveler in the heart of Cusco.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way back to Cusco, tired but exhilarated. For dinner, we decided to try Yaku Restaurant, drawn in by its promise of authentic Peruvian cuisine using organic ingredients from the Sacred Valley. The restaurant was cozy and inviting, the staff warm and welcoming. I ordered the alpaca steak, cooked to perfection and served with sweet potatoes. Sophie opted for the local trout, while Mateo, still full from lunch, had a light soup. The food was delicious, the presentation beautiful, and the service impeccable. The waiter, Miguel, was amazing and made our evening at Yaku really fun, making us laugh throughout our whole meal. He was also very enthusiastic about making sure that we tried the best dishes possible.


Experience the best of Peruvian gastronomy at Yaku Restaurant in Cusco - where tradition meets innovation in every delicious bite.

Reflecting on the day, I realized that Machu Picchu was more than just a historical site; it was a spiritual experience. The energy of the place was palpable, the connection to the past profound. I felt a sense of peace and gratitude, a reminder of the beauty and wonder of the world.

As we prepare for tomorrow's exploration of the Sacred Valley, including Ollantaytambo Sanctuary, I carry with me the whispers of Machu Picchu, the echoes of a civilization that has left an indelible mark on history. I'm eager to see what other wonders await us on this journey of discovery, and I'm grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with my family.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit the Sacred Valley and the Ollantaytambo Sanctuary. We'll start with breakfast at Mamá Jama Restaurant, followed by lunch at the Andean Grill Restaurant. In the evening, we'll return to Cusco for dinner at Limo, and perhaps a nightcap at the Black Cat Bar. I'm looking forward to exploring more of the region's rich history and culture, and to creating more memories with my family.