Family Journey to the Heart of Incan Civilization in Cusco

Chasing Waterfalls and Stargazing in Cusco

Today was a day of exploration, of venturing slightly off the beaten path in Cusco to discover some of its lesser-known, yet equally captivating, treasures. I was eager to experience a different side of the city, beyond the bustling Plaza de Armas, and I wasn't disappointed. It was a day filled with natural beauty, ancient history, and a touch of celestial wonder, shared with my wonderful family.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at El Jardin - Healthy Food And Coffee. Located right on the Plaza de Armas, it was incredibly convenient, and the aroma of fresh coffee and baked goods was irresistible. Sophie and Mateo both opted for the fresh fruit bowls, while I decided on a traditional Peruvian breakfast of tamales. Fuelled up, we set off towards our first destination: the San Blas Waterfall. The walk to San Blas itself was charming, with its narrow, cobblestone streets and artisan shops. The air was crisp, and the sun peeked through the clouds, casting a golden glow on the colonial architecture. It reminded me of the quiet streets of Huancavelica, where I spent my childhood. The climb was a bit steep, but Mateo, full of energy, practically skipped ahead, eager to see the waterfall. We eventually arrived at a small, picturesque plaza with a lovely waterfall fountain. The kids were immediately captivated, running around and splashing in the cool water. The area around the chapel was peaceful, offering benches where we could sit and simply enjoy the moment. It was a refreshing escape from the city's hustle and bustle.


Discover the natural wonder of San Blas Waterfall and Caves in Cusco, where adventure meets breathtaking beauty in the heart of Peru.
From the waterfall, we ventured towards Huaca Sapantiana. It was a bit of a walk, but the views along the way were stunning. The air was filled with the scent of eucalyptus and the vibrant colours of the Andean flowers. Huaca Sapantiana turned out to be an ancient Inca temple, a site steeped in history and mystery. As a restoration technician, I always find myself drawn to these historical sites, trying to imagine the lives of those who built and inhabited them centuries ago. Mateo was fascinated by the stonework, asking endless questions about the Incas and their beliefs. Sophie, ever the librarian, shared stories and facts about the site, enriching our experience.


Explore the ancient Incan site of Huaca Sapantiana in Cusco, where history meets breathtaking landscapes and cultural richness.

To truly understand a place, one must explore not only its grand monuments but also its hidden corners.

Lunchtime found us at Fusion Andina, a restaurant recommended by a local we met near Huaca Sapantiana. The restaurant lived up to its name, offering a creative blend of Peruvian and international flavours. Sophie and I shared a causa, a traditional Peruvian dish made with layers of mashed potatoes and filled with avocado and chicken, while Mateo devoured a plate of lomo saltado, a stir-fried beef dish. The food was delicious, and the atmosphere was warm and inviting.


Experience authentic Peruvian cuisine at Fusion Andina in Cusco, where tradition meets innovation in every delicious dish.
The highlight of our day, however, was our visit to the Cusco Planetarium. As evening approached, we made our way to the planetarium, located a short drive from the city center. The planetarium is family-run, adding a personal touch to the experience. The staff were incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about astronomy, and they shared fascinating insights into Inca cosmology and their understanding of the stars. Mateo was enthralled by the presentation, his eyes wide with wonder as he learned about the constellations and the Inca myths associated with them. Although it was a bit cloudy, we still managed to see some stars through the telescopes, a truly magical experience. It made me think of my grandfather, who used to tell me stories about the stars in Huancavelica.


Explore the wonders of the universe at Cusco Planetarium, where stargazing meets education in a stunning Andean setting.
After our celestial adventure, we were ready for dinner. We chose DEVA - Cocina Andina, drawn in by its promise of authentic Andean cuisine. The restaurant's decor was inspired by Inca motifs, creating a unique and immersive dining experience. We savoured traditional dishes such as rocoto relleno (stuffed peppers) and quinotto (quinoa risotto), each bite bursting with flavour. The service was attentive, and the ambiance was perfect for a relaxing family dinner.


Discover authentic Peruvian flavors at DEVA - Cocina Andina in Cusco, where tradition meets culinary innovation.
To cap off our evening, Sophie and I decided to check out Ukukus Music Club - Bar, while Mateo stayed back at the hotel with the promise of a movie night. Ukukus was a lively spot, with live music and a vibrant atmosphere. It was a great place to unwind and soak in the local culture. The music was infectious, and we found ourselves dancing along with the locals. I even managed to pick up a few new dance moves, much to Sophie's amusement.


Discover the vibrant nightlife at Ukukus Music Club - Bar in Cusco, where lively music, dancing, and delicious fast food create unforgettable memories.
As I reflect on today, I'm filled with gratitude for the opportunity to share these experiences with my family. Cusco continues to surprise and delight us, revealing its hidden gems one day at a time. Tomorrow, we embark on one of the most anticipated legs of our journey: Machu Picchu. I know that the experience will be unforgettable, and I can’t wait to share it with you all.