Discovering the Lost City: Choquequirao Trek Adventure

Echoes of the Sun Gate

Today was a day of reflection and anticipation, a pause before we fully immerse ourselves in the heart of Choquequirao. It felt like gathering our strength, both physical and spiritual, before stepping into the embrace of the lost city. The air was thick with unspoken stories, and every stone seemed to hum with the energy of the past.

Our day began in Cusco, a city that never fails to enchant with its blend of Incan and colonial architecture. We enjoyed breakfast at Sumaq II Cusco, where the aroma of freshly baked bread and the rich, dark Peruvian coffee invigorated us for the day ahead. Liam and I sat by the window, watching the city slowly awaken. It's fascinating how Cusco manages to hold onto its ancient soul while embracing the bustle of modern life. I made sure to have some coca tea, hoping it would help with the altitude as we ascended higher into the mountains. I've learned to appreciate its slightly bitter taste; it's a small ritual that connects me to this land.

After breakfast, we ventured out to explore, eager to soak in as much of Cusco as possible before our final push into the wilderness. Our first stop was the Plaza de Armas, the city's vibrant heart. The square was alive with activity: locals going about their daily routines, tourists snapping photos, and street vendors selling colorful textiles and handcrafted souvenirs. I always find myself drawn to the energy of this place, the way the past and present collide in such a harmonious way. It's a photographer's dream, with endless opportunities to capture the essence of Cusco.

We then made our way to Artisano Regocijo Restaurant for lunch. Nestled in Plaza Regocijo, just a block from the Plaza de Armas, the restaurant's building was the Casa de la Moneda during colonial times. The restaurant has a sophisticated and elegant atmosphere, with live music starting in the evenings. We enjoyed a delightful lunch of traditional Peruvian dishes with a modern twist. The building was once the Casa de la Moneda during the colonial era, adding a layer of history to our dining experience. The original architecture transported us back to the luxurious colonial houses of the past. Liam had the Osobuco, while I tried the Laing.

Sometimes, the greatest adventures are not about reaching a destination, but about the journey of self-discovery along the way.

In the afternoon, we decided to visit Puerta Del Sol, drawing inspiration from the famed gateway at Machu Picchu. While not the same as Inti Punku at Machu Picchu, the Puerta Del Sol near Choquequirao offered its own unique charm and panoramic views. The hike there was invigorating, a chance to stretch our legs and breathe in the crisp mountain air. As we ascended, the landscape unfolded before us, revealing the vastness of the Andes and the intricate tapestry of valleys and peaks. When we finally reached the Puerta Del Sol, we were rewarded with a breathtaking vista. The sun dipped low on the horizon, casting a warm golden glow over the mountains. It felt like we were standing on the edge of the world, suspended between the earth and sky. I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe and gratitude for the beauty that surrounded us.


Discover the breathtaking views and rich cultural heritage at Puerta Del Sol, Cusco's iconic observation deck and tourist attraction.

Next, we explored Machu Andén, marveling at the ancient agricultural terraces. These terraces are a testament to the ingenuity and resourcefulness of the Incas, who transformed steep mountain slopes into fertile fields. As I ran my fingers along the weathered stones, I could almost feel the presence of the farmers who had toiled here centuries ago, coaxing life from the earth. It was a humbling experience, a reminder of the deep connection between humanity and nature.


Explore the captivating beauty and rich history of Machu Andén, a serene tourist attraction in the heart of Cusco, Peru.

As evening approached, we made our way back to Cusco, our hearts full of wonder and anticipation. We capped off the day with dinner at KUSYKAY Peruvian Craft Food. The restaurant is known for its exceptional hospitality and culturally significant ingredients. I opted for the Lomo de Alpaca, while Liam chose the Alpaca burger. The trendy and welcoming atmosphere made us feel right at home. We savored every bite, knowing that this would be our last taste of civilization for a while.


Experience authentic Peruvian flavors at KUSYKAY in Cusco—where tradition meets modern craft in every delicious dish.

After dinner, we sought out Inka Happiness Cultural Bar for a nightcap. The bar had a lively atmosphere, with music and locals and tourists mingling. Liam ordered a local beer while I tried a Pisco Sour. We chatted with some fellow travelers, sharing stories and tips about our adventures in Peru. It's always inspiring to connect with people from different backgrounds and hear about their experiences.


Experience the flavors and culture of Peru at Inka Happiness Cultural Bar in Aguas Calientes, a perfect spot for food and fun!

Back at our hotel, we packed our bags and double-checked our gear, making sure we had everything we needed for the days ahead. I was a little worried about the extra batteries and solar charger that we forgot, but I am sure we will be fine. As I lay in bed, I couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement and trepidation. Tomorrow, we would begin our trek to Choquequirao, the lost city of the Incas. I knew it would be a challenging journey, both physically and mentally, but I was ready to embrace the unknown and discover the secrets that awaited us. I drifted off to sleep, dreaming of ancient ruins and breathtaking landscapes.

Tomorrow, we embark on the Choquequirao Trekking and exploring. I'm particularly excited to see the llama stone mosaics on the agricultural terraces, a unique feature of this site. It’s also the Lord of the Miracles festival in Cusco.

The air is getting crisper, carrying the scent of eucalyptus and distant wood fires. I can almost feel the eyes of the ancient ones upon us, urging us forward into their realm. The call of Choquequirao is growing stronger, and I know that tomorrow, we will answer.