Solo Cultural Adventure in Cusco: Exploring the Heart of the Incan Empire

A Day of Discovery in Cusco

Today was a captivating exploration of Cusco, blending ancient history with celestial wonders and, of course, the irresistible allure of Peruvian chocolate. It's days like these that remind me why I love to travel solo – the freedom to dive deep into whatever sparks my interest, to linger a little longer, and to truly savor each moment.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at KUSYKAY Peruvian Craft Food. The reviews I'd read online were spot-on; the food was incredible, and the atmosphere was delightful. It’s a cozy spot, decorated with indigenous-themed paintings and hanging plants, creating a welcoming space to start the day. I opted for the *pan con palta* – avocado toast with a Peruvian twist – and a strong cup of coffee. It was the perfect fuel for a day of exploration. Alessandra's excellent service made the experience even better.


Experience the vibrant flavors of Peru at KUSYKAY, where traditional cuisine meets modern charm in the heart of Cusco.

Delving into the Past at the Inka Museum

After breakfast, I made my way to the Inka Museum. The crisp morning air was invigorating as I walked through the streets of Cusco. The museum is housed in the Casa del Almirante, a beautiful colonial-era building rebuilt after the earthquake in 1650. It was fascinating to wander through the rooms filled with artifacts dating back to Incan and pre-Incan times. I spent hours examining pottery, textiles, and tools, each telling a story of a civilization that thrived in these mountains centuries ago.


Explore the Inka Museum in Cusco, where the fascinating history of the Inca civilization comes to life through captivating exhibits and artifacts.

The museum did a great job of presenting the information in both Spanish and English, which I appreciated. One of the most striking displays was the collection of skulls showcasing ancient Incan medical practices, including trepanning. It’s both fascinating and slightly unnerving to see evidence of such advanced surgical techniques from so long ago. The mummified remains were also quite sobering, a stark reminder of the sacrifices made to the gods.

The past is never dead. It's not even past.

Leaving the Inka Museum, I felt a profound connection to the history of this region. It's one thing to read about the Incas, but to see their tools, their art, and even their remains, brings their story to life in a way that no book ever could.

A Culinary Interlude at A Mi Manera

For lunch, I decided to try A Mi Manera, a restaurant recommended for its traditional Peruvian dishes. The restaurant is located upstairs, not far from the Plaza de Armas. The ambiance was warm and inviting, and I settled in to enjoy a leisurely meal. I ordered the *lomo saltado*, a classic Peruvian stir-fry with beef, onions, tomatoes, and potatoes. It was absolutely delicious, the flavors perfectly balanced and the beef incredibly tender. I paired it with a refreshing *chicha morada*, a traditional Peruvian drink made from purple corn. It was the perfect midday treat, offering a taste of authentic Peruvian cuisine.


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

Sweet Indulgence at ChocoStore

No trip to Cusco would be complete without indulging in some Peruvian chocolate. So, after lunch, I headed to ChocoStore. The aroma of chocolate hit me as soon as I walked in, a truly irresistible scent. ChocoStore offers a variety of chocolates made from locally sourced cacao. They also offer chocolate-making workshops, which I found quite interesting. I decided to buy a selection of dark chocolates and some with unique flavor combinations like *maracuyá* (passion fruit) and *ají* (chili). It's safe to say I'll be savoring these treats for days to come.


Experience the rich taste of Peruvian chocolate at ChocoStore in Cusco, where sweet delights and local traditions meet for an unforgettable treat.

Journey to the Stars at Cusco Planetarium

As evening approached, I prepared for one of the highlights of my day: a visit to the Cusco Planetarium. The planetarium offers transportation from Plaza Regocijo, which made it easy to get there. The experience began with an introduction to Inca astronomy, explaining how the Incas observed and interpreted the skies. It was fascinating to learn about their constellations and how they integrated their knowledge of the cosmos into their daily lives.


Explore the wonders of the universe at Cusco Planetarium, where stargazing meets education in a stunning Andean setting.

Next, we moved into the dome for a virtual projection of the southern sky. The guide pointed out the constellations and explained their significance in Incan culture. Finally, we went outside to observe the stars through telescopes. Unfortunately, the weather wasn't perfect, and the sky was a bit cloudy. Still, I managed to catch a glimpse of a few stars and planets, which was a magical experience.

The Cusco Planetarium is located near the archaeological park of Saqsayhuaman, which gives it a natural and serene atmosphere. It was a unique experience that combined astronomy with the cultural richness of the Inca civilization.

A Final Feast at La Huerta Del Tata

To end my day, I chose La Huerta Del Tata for dinner. The restaurant has a great location, making it easy to reach. The atmosphere was cozy and inviting, with beautiful decor that added to the overall dining experience. I decided to try the *ají de gallina*, a creamy chicken stew that is a staple of Peruvian cuisine. It was rich, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying, the perfect way to end a day of exploring Cusco.


Discover authentic Peruvian flavors at La Huerta Del Tata in Cusco - where tradition meets taste in a cozy setting.

As I walked back to my hotel, Wayra Dreams, I reflected on the incredible day I had. From the ancient history of the Inka Museum to the celestial wonders of the Planetarium and the sweet indulgence of ChocoStore, Cusco had truly captivated me. Tomorrow, I plan to explore Huaca Sapantiana, Calle Loreto, and Qochapata, continuing my exploration of this fascinating city. Perhaps I'll even stop by the Black Cat Bar for a nightcap.


Experience the perfect blend of comfort and convenience at Wayra Dreams Hotel in Cuzco, with easy access to attractions and a relaxing atmosphere.

I'm also mindful that my time in Cusco is drawing to a close, with only a few days left before I head back to Bristol. I need to start thinking about souvenirs for Eleanor and Kenji. Maybe I’ll find something special tomorrow.

For now, though, I'm content to savor the memories of today and look forward to whatever adventures tomorrow may bring.