Family Adventure: Trekking the Choquequirao Trail in Peru

A Day Among the Clouds

Today was nothing short of magical. As we continued our Choquequirao trek, I felt an incredible sense of accomplishment and awe. The blend of history, culture, and natural beauty was simply breathtaking. It’s days like these that remind me why I love to travel and share these experiences with my family.

The day began with a hearty breakfast at SUMAQCHA RESTAURANT in Cusco. We needed to fuel up for the day's adventures, and SUMAQCHA did not disappoint. The restaurant is known for its traditional Peruvian cuisine and friendly, hospitable service, making it the perfect place to start our day. I opted for a classic *desayuno criollo*, complete with tamales, fresh bread, and strong Peruvian coffee. Elena enjoyed her usual pancakes, while Max went for the *huevos revueltos*. Fully energized, we set out to explore more of Cusco before heading back to the trail.


Discover authentic Peruvian cuisine at Sumaqcha Restaurant in Cusco's historic Plaza de Armas - a culinary delight amidst stunning views.

Our first stop was Artesanias Maki, a charming shop where we hoped to find some unique souvenirs. The vibrant colors and intricate designs of the local crafts immediately caught Elena's eye. We spent a good hour browsing through textiles, ceramics, and jewelry, each piece telling a story of Peruvian artistry. I picked up a beautiful hand-woven scarf, while Elena chose a small, colorful llama figurine to remind her of our trek. Supporting local artisans is something I deeply value, and Artesanias Maki provided the perfect opportunity to do so.


Discover the essence of Peru at Artesanias Maki, where traditional craftsmanship meets modern style in Aguas Calientes.

The true value of a journey lies not just in seeing new places, but in the connections we make and the memories we create along the way.

For lunch, we decided to try Chull's - Peruvian Cuisine & Craft Beer, a spot recommended for its authentic Peruvian dishes and impressive selection of craft beers. The atmosphere was lively and welcoming, and the menu offered a wide range of options. I decided on the *aji de gallina*, a creamy chicken stew that was rich in flavor and incredibly satisfying. Max chose the *lomo saltado*, a classic Peruvian stir-fry with beef, onions, and peppers. Elena, always a fan of simpler fare, enjoyed some delicious *yuca balls*. Of course, we couldn't leave without sampling some of the local craft beers. The *cerveza artesanal* was the perfect complement to our meal, adding a refreshing touch to the experience. The staff was incredibly attentive, making our lunch even more enjoyable.


Experience authentic Peruvian cuisine and craft beer at Chull's in Cusco - where tradition meets flavor.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to Yaku Restaurant for dinner. This restaurant is known for its emphasis on organic and local products, sourced directly from their farm in the Sacred Valley. The ambiance was cozy and inviting, with a touch of rustic charm. The presentation of each dish was truly a work of art, reflecting the care and attention to detail that went into its preparation. I opted for the alpaca steak, which was cooked to perfection and served with sweet potatoes. Max chose the local trout, prepared in a traditional Peruvian style. Elena, surprisingly adventurous, tried a small portion of my alpaca steak and declared it delicious. The service was impeccable, and the staff went out of their way to ensure we had a memorable dining experience.


Experience exquisite Peruvian cuisine at Yaku Restaurant in Cusco - where tradition meets innovation in every dish.

Today was more than just a day of trekking; it was an immersion into the heart of Peruvian culture and cuisine. From the bustling shops to the cozy restaurants, every moment was filled with new discoveries and delightful surprises. I am grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with my family, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Looking ahead to tomorrow, we'll be leaving Cusco and heading towards new adventures. We plan to have breakfast at Taywa, lunch at Ponchos Machupicchu Restaurant, and dinner at KUSYKAY Peruvian Craft Food. We might even check out the Black Cat Bar Cusco for some craft cocktails. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings!

The Choquequirao Trek is proving to be more challenging than the Inca Trail, but the rewards are immense. The sense of accomplishment, the stunning scenery, and the opportunity to connect with my family make it all worthwhile. As we settle into our campsite tonight, I am filled with gratitude for this incredible journey and the memories we are creating together.

I am so glad that I decided to bring my family on this trip, and I am excited to see what the rest of our adventure holds. Elena is learning so much about history and culture, and Max is enjoying the challenge of the trek. As for me, I am simply grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with the people I love most in the world.

Despite a few minor setbacks, like forgetting sunscreen and insect repellent, we've managed to adapt and make the most of every situation. It's these little challenges that often lead to the most memorable moments, and I wouldn't trade them for anything. I am reminded of a quote from a fellow traveler I met in Cholula:

Sometimes, the best souvenirs are not things, but moments.

And with that, I bid you goodnight from the heart of the Andes. Until tomorrow!

With so much artisanal work, I am also reminded of Ruraq Maki, a fair that I have visited back in Germany showcasing the talent and traditions of Peruvian artists. I´ll need to plan a trip back to Peru to visit it again!

This experience is just enriching our understanding of the world, and our bond as a family.

I am glad we chose to come here in September, as the weather is mild and the scenery is stunning. As we move forward, I am eager to embrace whatever comes our way, knowing that each day will bring new adventures and unforgettable memories.

I´m looking forward to sharing more of our journey with you all. Stay tuned for the next installment of our Choquequirao adventure!