Family Adventure: Trekking the Choquequirao Trail in Peru

Reaching New Heights
Today was a day of incredible physical challenges, cultural immersion, and delicious discoveries. As we continue our trek, I'm constantly reminded of the strength and resilience of my family, and the beauty of this country. It's moments like these that make me so grateful for the opportunity to explore the world with my loved ones.

The morning started early, as usual, with the sun barely peeking over the horizon. After a quick stretch and packing up our gear, we headed to El museo de la papa rest for breakfast. I was excited to try some local flavors before hitting the trail. Elena was especially excited about the prospect of potatoes for breakfast, a testament to her adventurous spirit, which I am very proud of.

The restaurant was cozy and welcoming, with the aroma of freshly brewed coffee and spices filling the air. We ordered a variety of dishes, including some traditional Peruvian breakfast staples. The potatoes, of course, were the star of the show – prepared in ways I couldn't have imagined. It was a hearty and satisfying start to what promised to be a challenging day.


Discover Peru's rich culinary heritage at El Museo de la Papa in Urubamba – where every dish tells a story about potatoes!
With our bellies full and our spirits high, we set off on our Choquequirao trekking adventure. The trail was steep and winding, and the air was thin. I must admit, there were moments when I questioned my sanity, but the stunning views kept me going. Maximilian, ever the supportive husband, kept encouraging me, while Elena skipped ahead with boundless energy, reminding me why we embarked on this journey in the first place. The weather in September is lovely, with warm and sunny days, perfect for trekking.

As we climbed higher, the landscape transformed into a breathtaking panorama of snow-capped peaks and lush green valleys. I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe and wonder at the sheer scale of nature. It was a humbling experience, one that made me appreciate the simple things in life. We even spotted a condor soaring overhead, a majestic sight that left us speechless.

Sometimes, the greatest adventures are the ones that push us beyond our comfort zones, revealing strengths we never knew we had.

Around midday, we stopped for lunch at Inka Wasi Restaurant. I was really looking forward to this, as I had heard great things about their Peruvian cuisine. We were all starving after the morning's trek, so we ordered a feast of local specialties. Elena was particularly fond of the Lomo Saltado, while Maximilian devoured the Arroz Chaufa. I tried the ceviche, which was incredibly fresh and flavorful. It was the perfect fuel to keep us going for the rest of the day.


Discover the heart of Peru through authentic flavors at Inka Wasi Restaurant in Aguas Calientes.
After lunch, we continued our trek towards Choquequirao, the Cradle of Gold. The trail became even more challenging, with steep ascents and rocky terrain. But the thought of reaching the ancient Inca city kept us motivated. We pressed on, one step at a time, supporting each other along the way. I made sure Elena was drinking enough water, still kicking myself for forgetting the sunscreen and insect repellent.

Finally, after hours of trekking, we reached Choquequirao. The sight that greeted us was nothing short of spectacular. The ancient city stood majestically on a hilltop, surrounded by towering mountains and lush valleys. It was a truly awe-inspiring sight, one that made all the hard work worthwhile.

We spent the afternoon exploring the ruins, marveling at the intricate stonework and the ingenuity of the Inca people. Elena was fascinated by the llama rocks, ancient designs found nowhere else in Inca architecture. I tried to imagine what life must have been like here centuries ago, and I felt a deep connection to the past. The site was less crowded than Machu Picchu, offering a serene experience.

As the sun began to set, we started our descent back down the mountain. The trail was even more treacherous in the fading light, but we were determined to make it back to camp safely. We moved slowly and carefully, helping each other navigate the rocky terrain. I was so proud of Elena, who showed incredible resilience and determination throughout the day. I am also proud of Maximilian, who has been a great support for both Elena and I.

Back at camp, we were exhausted but exhilarated. We had conquered Choquequirao, and we had done it as a family. It was an experience that we would never forget. After a quick shower, we headed to Ponchos Machupicchu Restaurant for dinner. We were all craving some hearty comfort food, and Ponchos did not disappoint.


Experience authentic Peruvian flavors at Ponchos Machupicchu Restaurant in Aguas Calientes – your gateway to delicious cuisine near Machu Picchu.
The restaurant was warm and inviting, with a cozy atmosphere and friendly staff. We ordered a variety of dishes, including some traditional Peruvian stews and grilled meats. The food was delicious and satisfying, the perfect reward for a long day of trekking. Elena enjoyed a child-friendly pasta dish. Maximilian and I shared a bottle of local wine, toasting to our successful day.

After dinner, we decided to treat ourselves to a nightcap at Cholos Brewpub. I had read about their impressive selection of Peruvian craft beers, and I was eager to try some. The pub was lively and bustling, with a mix of locals and tourists enjoying the evening. We ordered a couple of beers and sat at the bar, soaking in the atmosphere.


Experience the vibrant atmosphere and local flavors at Cholos Brewpub, a must-visit bar in the heart of Cusco's historic center.
The beer was excellent, a refreshing and flavorful end to a long day. Elena enjoyed a non-alcoholic beverage, while Maximilian and I sampled a few different brews. We chatted with the bartender, learning about the local beer scene and the history of the pub. It was a fun and relaxing way to unwind after our Choquequirao adventure.

As I sit here now, writing this blog post, I can't help but smile. Today was a day of triumphs and tasty treats, a day that I will cherish forever. We conquered Choquequirao, we savored Peruvian cuisine, and we enjoyed local brews. But most importantly, we did it all as a family. And that, my friends, is what travel is all about.

Tomorrow, we plan to continue exploring the Choquequirao Trail and visit the Sun Gate. I'm excited to see what other wonders this incredible trek has in store for us. I'm also looking forward to experiencing more of the local culture and cuisine. I'll be sure to share all the details with you in my next blog post. Until then, happy travels!

I am looking forward to tomorrow’s breakfast at Mapacho Craft Beer Restaurant. I wonder if they serve beer for breakfast? Just kidding! Or am I?

Looking back on the day, I am reminded that the Choquequirao trek is not suitable for the average hiker. It requires a good level of fitness and a spirit of adventure. But for those who are up for the challenge, it is an experience that will change your life. The trek will take you through a variety of landscapes, from high mountain passes to lush cloud forests. You'll encounter a rich array of flora and fauna, and you'll have the opportunity to connect with the local culture. And of course, you'll get to explore the magnificent ruins of Choquequirao, a testament to the ingenuity and artistry of the Inca people.