Exploring the Depths of Peru: A Colca Canyon Trek Adventure

Whispers of the Past, Visions of the Present

Today was a day of contrasts, where ancient history met stunning natural beauty. Greta and I ventured deeper into the Colca Canyon, exploring ruins that whispered stories of civilizations long past and viewpoints that offered panoramic vistas that stretched to the horizon. It was a day that reminded me why we travel – to connect with the past, appreciate the present, and anticipate the future adventures that await.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Restaurant Incafe in Cabanaconde. I fueled up with some strong Peruvian coffee and a delicious omelet, while Greta enjoyed a plate of fresh fruit and yogurt. The perfect start to a day of exploring! We chatted with the friendly staff, who gave us some great tips for our hike to Uyo Uyo. They mentioned that the altitude might make the trek a bit challenging, so we made sure to take it slow and steady. I made a mental note to remember our portable solar charger tomorrow, since I forgot it today. I really need it to keep my camera and phone juiced up.

After breakfast, we set off towards Uyo Uyo, an archaeological site that dates back to pre-Inca times. The hike to the ruins was absolutely breathtaking, with stunning views of the Colca Valley unfolding before us. The landscape was dotted with traditional farming terraces, a testament to the ingenuity of the ancient people who once inhabited this region. As a software developer, I am always fascinated by the problem-solving skills of ancient civilizations; it is quite humbling.

As we climbed higher, the air grew thinner, and I could definitely feel the altitude. Greta, ever the supportive wife, kept me motivated with her cheerful encouragement. We took frequent breaks to catch our breath and admire the scenery. I snapped some photos of Greta against the backdrop of the valley, her blonde hair flowing in the breeze. It's moments like these that I cherish the most – sharing unforgettable experiences with the woman I love.

Finally, we reached Uyo Uyo, and it was even more impressive than I had imagined. The ruins were perched on a hillside, overlooking the valley below. We spent hours exploring the ancient stone structures, imagining what life must have been like for the people who lived here centuries ago. The site is known as Conjunto Arqueologico de Uyo Uyo, and features well-preserved stone structures.


Discover the captivating archaeological site of Uyo Uyo in Peru, where ancient Inca history meets breathtaking Andean landscapes.

“To walk through these ancient ruins is to walk through time, connecting with the spirits of those who came before us.”

I was particularly fascinated by the intricate stonework and the sophisticated water canals that were still visible. It was a testament to the advanced engineering skills of the Collaguas culture, who built this administrative center long before the Incas. As Greta explored the ruins, I sat down on a stone wall and sketched some of the structures in my travel journal. I find that sketching helps me to connect with a place on a deeper level, capturing its essence in a way that photographs sometimes can't.

After our exploration of Uyo Uyo, we made our way back to Cabanaconde, feeling a sense of accomplishment and awe. We had worked up quite an appetite, so we decided to treat ourselves to lunch at MARAY carnes y pizzas a la piedra volcánica. This restaurant specializes in meats and pizzas cooked on volcanic stone, and it sounded like just what we needed after a long hike. I had a steak cooked to perfection on a hot volcanic stone, and Greta opted for a veggie pizza with local cheese and herbs. We washed it all down with some refreshing chicha morada, a traditional Peruvian drink made from purple corn. It was the perfect way to refuel and recharge after our morning adventure.


Experience traditional Peruvian flavors at MARAY - home to exquisite volcanic stone-grilled meats and gourmet pizzas in Arequipa.

With our bellies full and our spirits high, we decided to visit the Mirador de Achachihua in the afternoon. This viewpoint is located a short distance from Cabanaconde and offers panoramic views of the Colca Canyon. The drive to the viewpoint was scenic, passing through small villages and alongside terraced fields. As we approached the Mirador, the landscape opened up before us, revealing the full grandeur of the Colca Canyon.

The Mirador de Achachihua is known as one of the best viewpoints to appreciate the Colca Canyon. From here, we could see the depth of the canyon, the Huaruro waterfall, and the oasis of San Galle. It was a truly breathtaking sight, and I felt a sense of wonder and humility as I gazed out at the vastness of nature. I took some photos of the landscape, trying to capture the scale and beauty of the canyon. Greta pointed out some condors soaring in the distance, their massive wings casting shadows on the canyon walls.


Discover the stunning vistas of Colca Canyon at Mirador de Achachihua, a top tourist attraction in Peru that offers breathtaking views and unforgettable experiences.

We spent a long time at the Mirador, simply soaking in the views and enjoying the peace and quiet. It was a welcome contrast to the crowds at the more popular Cruz del Condor viewpoint. The Mirador de Achachihua is not very well known, and we were able to enjoy the tranquility of the canyon without the hustle and bustle of other tourists.

As the sun began to set, we made our way back to Cabanaconde, feeling grateful for the incredible experiences we had shared today. For dinner, we chose Las Terrazas, drawn in by the inviting aroma of local cuisine. We enjoyed a meal of traditional Peruvian dishes, savoring the flavors of the region. The restaurant lived up to its name, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape as we ate. It was the perfect way to end a day of exploration and adventure.


Experience authentic Peruvian cuisine at Las Terrazas in Cabanaconde, where breathtaking views meet delightful flavors.

After dinner, we decided to check out Pachamama Home, a local bar known for its cozy atmosphere. We enjoyed a couple of pisco sours, chatting with other travelers and sharing stories of our adventures. The bar had a rustic charm, with candles and local artwork adorning the walls. It was the perfect place to unwind and relax after a long day of hiking and sightseeing.


Discover the charm of Pachamama Home in Cabanaconde, your perfect base for exploring the breathtaking Colca Canyon.

As I sit here now, writing in my travel journal, I can't help but feel a sense of gratitude for the experiences we've had today. From the ancient ruins of Uyo Uyo to the breathtaking views from Mirador de Achachihua, today has been a feast for the senses. And tomorrow promises even more adventure, as we plan to visit the Plaza De Armas De Chivay and the Planetarium and Observatory Colca. I am also looking forward to visiting the Central Market Chivay with Greta and tasting some local food.

I am also excited for the upcoming days of our trip. I'm a bit bummed that I forgot the portable solar charger, but I will make sure to remember it tomorrow. It is essential for keeping my devices charged, especially when we are out exploring remote areas. I am also thinking about the extra memory cards for the camera that I forgot to pack. I hope I have enough space to capture all the amazing moments that are yet to come.

It's these small details that can make or break a trip, and I'm learning to be more mindful of packing and preparation. But even with these minor setbacks, I wouldn't trade this experience for anything. The Colca Canyon is a truly magical place, and I'm so grateful to be able to share it with Greta. As we continue our trek, I know that there will be many more unforgettable moments to come. I am excited to see what tomorrow brings and to continue exploring the depths of Peru.