Family Adventure on the Choquequirao Trek

Homeward Bound, Hearts Full

As our 14-day adventure through the Peruvian Andes draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the incredible journey we’ve undertaken as a family. The Choquequirao Trek has been more than just a hike; it's been an immersion into Incan history, a test of our physical limits, and a bonding experience that I know we will cherish for years to come.

Today, our final day on the trail, was filled with a mixture of emotions. There was the satisfaction of knowing we had conquered this challenging trek, the awe of witnessing the final breathtaking vistas, and a touch of sadness that our time in this magical place was coming to an end. We started our day early, fueled by a hearty breakfast at KUSYKAY Peruvian Craft Food, ready to embrace whatever the Andes had in store for us. The restaurant's staff was friendly and the food delicious.


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

Our first stop was the Puerta Del Sol (Inti Punku), a location that has been a gateway for centuries. As we approached, the views opened up, revealing the vastness of the Apurimac Valley. The crisp morning air and the golden sunlight filtering through the mountains created a serene atmosphere, perfect for contemplation. It was easy to imagine the Incas of old using this very path, their footsteps echoing through time. Sophie was fascinated by the history, imagining the ancient travelers who once stood where we were standing.


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

The journey is the destination, and the memories we've made on this trek will forever be etched in our hearts.

Next on our itinerary was the CAÑON DEL APURIMAC, one of the deepest canyons in the world. The sheer scale of the canyon was humbling. Standing at the edge, gazing into the abyss, made me feel incredibly small yet connected to something ancient and powerful. The canyon's name, derived from the Quechua word for Great Speaker, seemed fitting as the wind howled through the gorge. Hans, ever the pragmatist, was impressed by the geological forces that had shaped this landscape over millennia. He pointed out various rock formations and explained how the Apurimac River had carved its way through the mountains over countless years.


Experience the majestic beauty and rich culture of Cañon del Apurimac, a captivating destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers in Peru.

For lunch, we stopped at PERUCHO Restaurant Craft Beer, enticed by the promise of delicious Peruvian cuisine and craft beer. We enjoyed the atmosphere of the place. Sophie enjoyed a burger.


Experience authentic Peruvian cuisine paired with exquisite craft beers in the heart of Cusco at PERUCHO Restaurant Craft Beer.

As the day wound down, we found ourselves at Inka Happiness Cultural Bar. While the bar offered a lively atmosphere, we opted for a quieter spot to reflect on our journey.


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

Our final dinner was at Chullos Restaurant & Craft Beer, a place known for its Peruvian cuisine. We savored every bite, knowing it was our last taste of authentic Peruvian cooking for a while. The service was attentive, and the staff made us feel welcome, adding a warm touch to our farewell.


Experience authentic Peruvian flavors at Chullos Restaurant & Craft Beer in Aguas Calientes – where tradition meets modern dining.

Looking back, the Choquequirao Trek has been a transformative experience for all of us. We faced physical challenges, learned about a fascinating culture, and strengthened our bonds as a family. From the stunning mountain vistas to the quiet moments of reflection, every step of the journey has left an indelible mark on our souls. I am so grateful that we chose this adventure, and I know that the memories we've made here will stay with us forever. It was the perfect way to spend our last day in the region.

Even though this marks the end of our planned itinerary, the memories and lessons learned will undoubtedly accompany us on all future travels. As a librarian specializing in historical archives, I am always seeking connections to the past, and Choquequirao offered that in abundance. But more than that, it provided an opportunity to connect with my family in a way that everyday life often doesn't allow. I saw a resilience and curiosity in Sophie that made me incredibly proud, and I witnessed a quiet strength in Hans as he navigated the challenging terrain. These are the moments that matter, the shared experiences that weave the fabric of our family history.

As we prepare to leave Peru and return to our home in Switzerland, I carry with me a renewed appreciation for the power of travel to broaden our perspectives, challenge our assumptions, and bring us closer to the world and to each other. The mountains may stand tall and imposing, but it is the people we meet and the stories we share that truly shape our journey. And so, with hearts full of gratitude and memories to last a lifetime, we bid adieu to the Andes, knowing that a part of us will forever remain among its peaks and valleys.

Our journey back to Cusco will be filled with reminiscing and planning for future adventures. While I am eager to return to my quiet life in Sarnen, surrounded by my books and archives, I know that the spirit of adventure that was ignited on this trek will continue to burn bright. Perhaps our next family trip will be to explore the historical sites of France, or maybe we'll venture further afield to discover the ancient wonders of Asia. Whatever the destination, I know that we will approach it with the same open minds and adventurous spirits that we brought to the Choquequirao Trek. And who knows, maybe one day we'll return to Peru to explore even more of its hidden treasures. Until then, au revoir, and thank you for joining us on this incredible journey.

As I sit here, penning these final thoughts, I can't help but smile, knowing that the stories and lessons of this trek will be recounted around our dinner table for years to come. And perhaps, just perhaps, they will inspire others to step outside their comfort zones and embark on their own adventures, wherever they may lead.