Family Adventure: Trekking the Choquequirao Trail in Peru

Cusco's Charms: A Day of Discovery

Today was a beautiful blend of cultural exploration and gastronomic indulgence in Cusco. After several days of rigorous trekking, it felt wonderful to slow down, soak in the local atmosphere, and enjoy the simple pleasures of this historic city. I was excited to share this experience with Max and Elena, showing them a different facet of Peru beyond the breathtaking trails.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at PERUCHO Restaurant Craft Beer. The reviews I'd read online raved about their prompt service and delicious food, and it certainly lived up to the hype. The atmosphere was cozy and inviting, and we quickly settled in, eager to sample some local flavors. Max opted for a strong coffee to kickstart his day, while Elena was excited about the prospect of trying a Peruvian pastry. I decided on a cup of coca tea, hoping it would help with the lingering effects of the altitude. We all appreciated the homey decor as we enjoyed tasty chicken, hamburgers and pizza.


Experience authentic Peruvian cuisine paired with exquisite craft beers in the heart of Cusco at PERUCHO Restaurant Craft Beer.

After breakfast, we decided to explore the artisanal scene in Cusco. I had heard about Artesanias Intichay, a shop known for its authentic crafts, and I was eager to find some unique souvenirs for our home in Bielefeld. Elena was particularly excited, her eyes wide with anticipation at the prospect of discovering colorful trinkets and handcrafted toys. As we wandered through the shop, I was struck by the intricate details and vibrant colors of the textiles, ceramics, and jewelry on display. Elena, of course, gravitated towards the alpaca wool toys, while Max admired the detailed carvings. I found a beautiful hand-painted ceramic plate that I knew would look perfect in our dining room, a reminder of our Peruvian adventure. The shop was charming, filled with treasures that told stories of the local culture and traditions.


Explore authentic Peruvian textiles at Artesanias Intichay in Pisac, where vibrant craftsmanship meets rich cultural heritage.

The best journeys answer questions that in the beginning you didn't even think to ask.

For lunch, we ventured to Toto's House, a restaurant that had been recommended for its traditional Peruvian cuisine. The restaurant was bustling with activity, a mix of locals and tourists all eager to sample the flavors of Peru. Max and Elena were both curious about trying alpaca, a local delicacy, so we ordered a dish to share. I opted for a vegetarian option, wanting to balance out the heavier meals we'd been having on the trek. The food was delicious, a true representation of Peruvian culinary traditions. Elena was particularly fascinated by the alpaca, remarking on its unique flavor and texture. Max, ever the adventurous eater, declared it one of the best things he'd tasted on our trip. I enjoyed a really good meal.


Experience authentic Peruvian cuisine at Toto's House in Aguas Calientes – where every meal is a celebration of local flavors.

After lunch, with the afternoon sun casting long shadows across the city, we decided to immerse ourselves further in Cusco's cultural scene. We visited the Aqllawasi Chichería - Museo, a place that promised a blend of gastronomy and culture. As we stepped inside, we were immediately enveloped in a warm and inviting atmosphere, surrounded by artwork and artifacts that told stories of Peru's rich history. We sampled traditional dishes made with local ingredients and culinary techniques. Of course, we had to try the chicha, a traditional Andean beverage that embodies the spirit of the region. The staff was incredibly friendly, sharing insights about each dish and the cultural significance behind it. Elena was captivated by the museum section, eagerly examining the artifacts and asking questions about the history they represented. Max and I appreciated the opportunity to learn more about Peruvian culture in such an immersive setting.


Discover authentic Peruvian flavors at Aqllawasi Chichería - Museo while immersing yourself in Cusco's rich cultural heritage.

For dinner, we returned to Aqllawasi Chichería - Museo, drawn back by its unique ambiance and the promise of more culinary delights. We wanted to savor our last evening in Cusco before heading back on the trail tomorrow. We settled into a cozy corner, ready to enjoy a relaxing meal and reflect on our experiences of the day. Max chose a hearty meat dish, while Elena opted for a comforting bowl of soup. I decided to try another local specialty, eager to expand my culinary horizons. As we ate, we shared stories and laughter, reminiscing about our adventures on the Choquequirao Trek and the cultural gems we had discovered in Cusco. It was the perfect end to a perfect day, a reminder of the beauty and richness of Peruvian culture.

As I sit here now, writing this blog post, I can't help but feel grateful for the experiences we've had today. It's moments like these, when we immerse ourselves in the local culture and connect with the people and traditions of a place, that make travel so rewarding. Tomorrow, we'll be back on the Choquequirao Trek Operator, continuing our journey through the Andes. We plan to have breakfast at El museo de la papa rest, lunch at Inka Wasi Restaurant, and dinner at Ponchos Machupicchu Restaurant. I'm excited to see what adventures await us on the trail, but I'll always cherish the memories we made in Cusco, a city that has captured our hearts with its charm and beauty. And perhaps we'll have a nightcap at Cholos Brewpub.


Discover the stunning beauty of Choquequirao with expert guidance from the Choquequirao Trek Operator in Cusco, Peru.

The weather in September around the Cusco area is generally mild during the day, with temperatures around 20 to 25 degrees Celsius. However, it can get quite cool at night, dropping to around 7 to 10 degrees Celsius. It's advisable to bring layers, including a light jacket or fleece for the evenings, and breathable fabrics for the daytime. Also, it's a good idea to have a waterproof jacket or poncho, as there can be occasional rain showers.

As we prepare for the next leg of our journey, I am reminded of a quote I once read by the great Ibn Battuta:

Traveling – it leaves you speechless, then turns you into a storyteller.

And oh, how true that is. Every step we take, every face we meet, every flavor we savor, adds a new chapter to our ever-evolving travel story. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings!