Sofia's Solo Exploration of Machu Picchu

Adios, Machu Picchu!

As my Peruvian adventure draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the incredible journey of self-discovery and awe-inspiring sights I've encountered. Today, my final day at Machu Picchu, was a poignant reminder of the magic this ancient city holds. I was determined to soak in every last bit of its energy before heading back to Haarlem and my family.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at missky organic fusión. I opted for a traditional Peruvian breakfast, which fueled me up for the day’s adventures. As Andrea Carnero mentioned in their review, the food here is authentic, and it was the perfect way to start my last day in Aguas Calientes.


Experience authentic Peruvian flavors with fresh organic ingredients at Missky Organic Fusión near Machu Picchu.

First on the agenda was El Templo del Sol, the Temple of the Sun. This sacred site, as the name suggests, was built by the Incas to honor the sun, one of their most important deities. Only priests and the elite were allowed to enter, adding to its mystique. The temple's strategic location in the religious sector of Machu Picchu made it a must-see. The stonework was incredible, and I tried to imagine the ceremonies that once took place within those walls. It's amazing to think that this temple was constructed in the mid-15th century!


Explore El Templo del Sol, a breathtaking Inca temple in Aguas Calientes that offers rich history and stunning views of the Andes mountains.

Wandering through the temple, I felt a deep connection to the past. The Incas were so in tune with the natural world, and their reverence for the sun was palpable. I took a moment to close my eyes and feel the energy of the place, imagining the priests offering their prayers to the sun god. It was a truly spiritual experience, one that I will carry with me long after I leave Peru.

Sometimes, the most profound journeys are those that lead us back to ourselves.

Next, I set my sights on the Sun Gate, or Inti Punku in Quechua. The hike to the Sun Gate was invigorating. The path was part of the ancient Inca road network, and I could feel the history beneath my feet. The altitude definitely added a challenge, but the views along the way were more than worth it. As I climbed, I was surrounded by the stunning Andean landscape, with lush greenery and towering peaks in the distance.


Discover the breathtaking views from Sun Gate, the iconic entrance to Machu Picchu, and immerse yourself in the rich history of the Inca civilization.

Reaching the Sun Gate was an unforgettable moment. Perched high above Machu Picchu, it offered a panoramic view of the entire city. I could see the intricate stonework, the perfectly terraced fields, and the majestic Huayna Picchu in the background. It was easy to imagine the Incas using this gate as a control point, guarding the entrance to their sacred city. I took my time to soak in the view, knowing that this was a sight I would never forget.

According to what I read, the Sun Gate is strategically aligned with the sun during the solstices, a testament to the Inca's advanced understanding of astronomy. It’s amazing to think of how the sun's rays would pass through the gate, illuminating the city and blessing it with life-giving energy. I could almost feel the warmth of the sun on my face as I stood there, connecting with the ancient wisdom of the Incas.

After a morning of exploring, it was time for lunch. I decided to try Apu Inti Restaurante, known for its traditional Peruvian cuisine and stunning mountain views. I ordered the lomo saltado, a classic dish of stir-fried beef, onions, tomatoes, and potatoes. It was absolutely delicious, and the perfect way to refuel after my hike. The restaurant's warm ambiance and friendly staff made me feel right at home, and I enjoyed chatting with the locals about their culture and traditions.


Experience authentic Peruvian cuisine at Apu Inti Restaurante in Aguas Calientes, featuring delicious alpaca dishes and traditional favorites.

With my belly full and my spirit rejuvenated, I spent the afternoon wandering through the shops of Aguas Calientes. Pachamama Treasure caught my eye with its vibrant display of colorful clothing and authentic Peruvian crafts. I couldn't resist picking up a few souvenirs for Alessia and Pieter, wanting to bring a piece of Peru back to them. The shop was a treasure trove of unique finds, and I enjoyed browsing through the textiles, jewelry, and artwork.


Discover unique Peruvian fashion at Pachamama Treasure, where sustainable style meets cultural heritage in the heart of Aguas Calientes.

For my final dinner in Aguas Calientes, I chose Restaurante Fabrizzio’s. I decided to try their fusion cuisine, a mix of Peruvian and international flavors. The Pisco sour was delicious! It was the perfect way to end my culinary journey through Peru. As I savored my meal, I reflected on all the incredible experiences I had had during my trip. From the bustling markets of Cusco to the serene beauty of Machu Picchu, Peru had captured my heart.


Experience authentic Peruvian cuisine at Restaurant Fabrizzio’s in Aguas Calientes – your perfect stop after exploring Machu Picchu.

As I prepared to leave Machu Picchu, I felt a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to have experienced such a magical place. The ancient city had touched my soul, and I knew that I would carry its energy with me always. I thought of Pieter and Alessia, and I knew that I would return to them with a renewed sense of purpose and a deeper appreciation for the beauty of the world.

This solo journey to Machu Picchu has been more than just a trip; it's been a transformative experience. As a freelance translator, I often find myself caught up in the details of language and communication. But here, surrounded by the ancient stones and breathtaking landscapes, I've been reminded of the power of silence, of observation, and of simply being present in the moment. It’s a lesson I will carry back with me to Haarlem, influencing my work and my relationships.

Tomorrow, I'll begin my journey back to Amsterdam, filled with memories and stories to share. While I’m eager to see Pieter and Alessia, a part of me will always remain in the Andes, wandering through the ancient ruins and feeling the spirit of the Incas. Until next time, Peru!

I am so excited to see my family again, and share all of my stories from this trip with them! I’m sure Alessia will love the little alpaca doll I bought her, and Pieter will enjoy hearing about the history and culture of Machu Picchu. I hope that one day, we can all come back here together and experience this magical place as a family.

As I pack my bags, I can't help but smile, thinking of all the adventures that await me back home. But I know that this journey to Machu Picchu will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the power of solo travel and the beauty of the world.

Even though I am excited to go home, I will miss the friendly faces, the delicious food, and the vibrant culture of Peru. I am so grateful for the opportunity to have experienced this incredible country, and I hope to return again someday.

And to all of you reading this, I hope that my journey has inspired you to step outside your comfort zone and explore the world. Whether it's a solo trip to Machu Picchu or a weekend getaway to a nearby town, there's always something new to discover. So go out there, embrace the unknown, and create your own unforgettable memories.

Thank you for joining me on this adventure. Until next time, happy travels!