Family Journey to the Heart of Incan Civilization in Cusco

A Day Among Giants

Today, the third day of our Peruvian adventure, was nothing short of breathtaking. We ventured into the Sacred Valley, a place that hums with history and vibrates with the energy of the Andes. It was a day filled with vibrant colors, ancient stones, and the warm smiles of the Peruvian people. A day that reminded me why I longed to return to the land of my birth.


Explore the breathtaking Sacred Valley in Peru, a treasure trove of Inca history, vibrant markets, and stunning natural beauty.

Our day began with breakfast at El Tupay Restaurant in our hotel. It’s always a treat to start the day in a place that feels so steeped in history. The restaurant, located in a beautifully restored monastery, offered a serene ambiance that set the perfect tone for our exploration. As Mateo tucked into his pancakes, I savored some local specialties, reminiscing about the breakfasts my abuela used to make back in Huancavelica.


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

Fueled up, we set off for the Sacred Valley. The drive itself was mesmerizing, with the landscape unfolding like a living tapestry. Rolling hills gave way to towering mountains, and the air grew crisp and clean. I shared stories with Mateo about my childhood in Peru, pointing out the familiar flora and fauna, trying to paint a vivid picture of the land my ancestors called home.

Our first stop was Pisac, famous for its bustling market. The market was a kaleidoscope of colors, sounds, and scents. Textiles in every hue imaginable were draped over stalls, intricate jewelry sparkled in the sunlight, and the aroma of freshly baked bread filled the air. Sophie was immediately drawn to the textiles, her fingers tracing the delicate patterns woven into alpaca wool. Mateo, on the other hand, was fascinated by the various handicrafts, especially the miniature versions of traditional Peruvian instruments. We bartered with the local vendors, a skill I seemed to have instinctively remembered, securing a beautiful hand-woven blanket for our home in Montreal and a small quena for Mateo, hoping to ignite in him a love for Andean music, just like my grandfather did with me.


Discover the rich history and vibrant culture of Pisac, a stunning town in Peru’s Sacred Valley, known for its Incan ruins and lively artisan market.

The Sacred Valley is a place where the past is not just remembered, but lived, breathed, and woven into the fabric of everyday life.

After immersing ourselves in the vibrant chaos of the market, we enjoyed lunch at Uchu Peruvian Steakhouse. The steakhouse offered a delightful culinary experience. I opted for the alpaca steak, wanting to give my family a taste of local cuisine. Sophie, ever the adventurous one, tried the roasted guinea pig, a Peruvian delicacy. Mateo stuck to a more familiar dish, but even he admitted that the flavors were unlike anything he’d ever tasted. The service was impeccable, and the ambiance was both stylish and welcoming.


Experience the essence of Peru at Uchu Peruvian Steakhouse with exquisite dishes and vibrant flavors in the heart of Cusco.

With our bellies full and our spirits high, we continued our journey to Ollantaytambo. As we approached the town, the imposing ruins of the Ollantaytambo Fortress loomed in the distance, a testament to the ingenuity and resilience of the Inca civilization. The fortress, originally built for religious purposes, was the site of a major battle, one of the only successful ones against the conquistadors.


Explore Ollantaytambo, a historical gem in Peru's Sacred Valley, rich in Inca heritage, stunning landscapes, and vibrant local culture.

We explored the terraced hillsides, marveling at the precision with which the stones were fitted together. Mateo, fueled by his boundless energy, climbed to the highest point, while Sophie and I took our time, admiring the panoramic views of the valley below. I tried to imagine what life must have been like for the Incas who once inhabited this place, their lives intertwined with the mountains and the sun.

Ollantaytambo is a place where the past feels palpable. As we walked through the ruins, I shared the history of the site with my family, recounting the stories of Inca emperors and Spanish conquistadors, of battles fought and victories won. I wanted them to understand the significance of this place, not just as a tourist attraction, but as a symbol of Peruvian identity and resilience.

Before heading back to Cusco, we had dinner at A Mi Manera. This quaint restaurant, known for its straightforward Peruvian dishes, offered a cozy and romantic atmosphere. I enjoyed a hearty bowl of chupe de camarones, a traditional shrimp soup, while Sophie savored the lomo saltado, a stir-fry dish with beef, onions, and peppers. Mateo, always eager to try new things, opted for the causa, a layered potato dish with avocado and chicken. The food was simple but delicious, and the service was warm and friendly.


Discover authentic Peruvian flavors at A Mi Manera in Cusco's historic center, where every dish tells a story.

As we drove back to Cusco, the sun began to set, casting a golden glow over the Sacred Valley. The mountains seemed to glow with an ethereal light, and the air was filled with a sense of peace and tranquility. I looked at my family, their faces flushed with the day's adventures, and I felt a deep sense of gratitude. I was sharing my heritage with them, showing them the land that shaped me, and creating memories that would last a lifetime.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore more of Cusco, including Tambomachay, Puka Pukara, and Q'enco. I'm also hoping to find a cozy spot at Paddy's Irish Pub to relax and soak in the atmosphere of this amazing city.

Today was more than just a day of sightseeing; it was a journey of discovery, a reconnection with my roots, and a celebration of family. It was a reminder of the importance of preserving our history and sharing it with future generations. And as I drifted off to sleep, I couldn't help but smile, knowing that our Peruvian adventure was just beginning.