Family Adventure on the Choquequirao Trek

A Day Among the Clouds

Today was a day of breathtaking views and a deeper connection with the history of this incredible region. As I reflect on our adventures, I'm filled with a sense of awe and gratitude for the opportunity to walk in the footsteps of the Incas. The crisp mountain air, the stunning landscapes, and the palpable sense of history made today an unforgettable chapter in our Choquequirao journey.

The morning began with a hearty breakfast at Ponchos Machupicchu Restaurant. It was a delightful way to fuel up for the day ahead. The restaurant had a cozy atmosphere, and the aroma of Peruvian coffee filled the air. I opted for the alpaca steak, cooked to perfection with a mushroom sauce that highlighted the bold flavors of Peru. Hans chose the ceviche, declaring it the freshest he’d ever tasted. Sophie, ever the adventurous one, tried the shrimp pasta, a flavorful fusion of local tastes and classic Italian flair, and gave it a enthusiastic thumbs-up. Fuelled by our delicious breakfast, we set off to explore the wonders that awaited us.


Discover breathtaking views of Machu Picchu from the stunning Mirador, a perfect blend of nature and ancient history in the heart of the Andes.
Our first stop was Mirador Machu Picol. The views from there were simply majestic. The panoramic vista of the surrounding mountains and valleys was a sight to behold. I could see why the Incas chose this location; it felt like being on top of the world. The crisp mountain air invigorated us as we soaked in the scenery. It was the perfect spot for some family photos, capturing the grandeur of the Andes as a backdrop to our adventure.


Explore Machuqolqa, a serene destination in Cusco rich in Incan history and breathtaking views, perfect for nature lovers and cultural enthusiasts alike.
Next on our itinerary was Machuqolqa, an ancient site that was once used as a series of storehouses. Wandering through the stone structures and terraces, I could almost hear the whispers of the past. The ingenuity of the Inca architects was evident in every stone. It’s incredible how they transformed the irregular hillside into a functional and marvelous space for food preservation. Sophie was fascinated by the ventilation ducts, known as *taques*, that helped keep the products cool. As a librarian specializing in historical archives, I found myself captivated by the advanced food storage techniques developed during the Inca era. Hans, with his woodworking background, admired the craftsmanship and the way the structures were integrated into the landscape.

Sometimes, the most profound discoveries are not found in books, but in the silent stones that speak of civilizations long past.

After a morning of exploration, we found ourselves back in town for lunch at Pachapapa. Located in the charming San Blas district, the restaurant had a rustic, welcoming ambiance. We sat in the inner courtyard, enjoying the warmth of the wood-fired oven. The food was simply divine. I decided on the *aji de gallina*, a traditional Cusquenian dish that was rich and flavorful. Hans opted for the roast guinea pig, a local delicacy that he was eager to try. Sophie, not feeling quite so adventurous, chose a homemade pizza that was baked to perfection in the clay oven. The portions were generous, and the service was excellent. It was the perfect place to relax and refuel after our morning adventures.


Discover unique local crafts and essential gear at Choquequirao Trail Shops, your gateway to the stunning Choquequirao trek in Cachora, Peru.
In the late afternoon, we took some time to explore the Choquequirao Trail Shops. It was a great opportunity to pick up some souvenirs and support the local artisans. The shops were filled with handmade textiles, pottery, and jewelry, each piece reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the region. I bought a beautiful hand-woven scarf, while Sophie found a delicate silver pendant. Hans, always practical, purchased a sturdy hiking stick. Bargaining was part of the fun, and we enjoyed interacting with the local vendors.


Experience authentic Peruvian cuisine at Bistro Bar Indio Feliz in Aguas Calientes – where flavor meets breathtaking views.
As the day drew to a close, we treated ourselves to dinner at Restaurant Bistro Bar Indio Feliz. The restaurant, with its quirky pirate theme and vibrant decor, was a feast for the eyes. The French-Peruvian fusion cuisine was a delight. I started with the French onion soup, followed by the pineapple chicken. Hans chose the beef brochettes, declaring them tender and flavorful. Sophie, with a sweet tooth, finished her meal with the apple pie, served with ice cream and cream. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, making it the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploration.

Before heading back to our campsite, we took a moment to reflect on the day’s experiences. Choquequirao had revealed its hidden gems, leaving us with memories that we would cherish forever. The stunning vistas from Mirador Machu Picol, the ancient storehouses of Machuqolqa, the delicious food, and the vibrant local culture had all contributed to a day of wonder.

Tomorrow, we continue our journey, with plans to visit Casa Club INKAS MC and Huaca Cheqtaqaqa. I’m eager to discover what new adventures await us as we delve deeper into the heart of Peru. I'm also hoping we might have time to visit Black Cat Bar Cusco - Craft Cocktails & Spirits in the evening. I'm curious about sampling some local craft cocktails and spirits after another day of exploring.

I did forget to pack a portable charger and travel pillow, which I will need to purchase in one of the Choquequirao Trail Shops tomorrow. It would be great to have them for the rest of the trip.