Sofia's Solo Exploration of Machu Picchu

Whispers of the Past

Today was a day of delving deeper into the mysteries surrounding Machu Picchu. I wanted to understand more about the people who lived here and the incredible civilization they built. It involved museums, mountain trails, and many moments of quiet reflection. All of this, naturally, intertwined with the delicious flavors of Peru.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at Green House. I opted for their organic quinoa porridge, which was both wholesome and delicious. Fuelled up and ready for the day, I set off to explore the Manuel Chávez Ballón Site Museum.


Explore the Manuel Chávez Ballón Site Museum, a treasure trove of ancient artifacts in Peru that unveils the rich cultural heritage of the region.

I'd heard it was a great place to get context before venturing further into the region's history. The museum, named after the archaeologist who dedicated much of his life to studying Machu Picchu, is located a short bus ride from Aguas Calientes. It's included with the Machu Picchu ticket, which is a great bonus. The setting itself is beautiful, surrounded by lush greenery and the imposing mountains. Inside, I was immediately drawn into the exhibits, which showcased artifacts unearthed from Machu Picchu. There were pottery shards, tools, and even skeletal remains, each telling a story of daily life in this ancient city.

Sometimes, the most profound connections to the past are found in the smallest of details.

What struck me most was the ingenuity of the Inca people. They were master engineers, architects, and farmers, able to thrive in this challenging environment. The museum highlighted their advanced agricultural techniques, such as creating microclimates on the terraces to grow different crops. It was fascinating to learn about their understanding of astronomy and how they aligned their buildings with the sun and stars. I even saw a copy of the National Geographic magazine from 1913 dedicated to Hiram Bingham's discovery!

After spending a couple of hours at the museum, I decided to venture further afield to Sayacmarca.


Explore Sayacmarca: An Inca archaeological wonder nestled in the Andes, offering breathtaking views and rich cultural heritage.

Known as the Inaccessible Town, it's an Inca ruin located along the Inca Trail. I hopped on a local bus that took me part of the way, and then began a trek up the mountain. The path was steep and winding, but the views were more than worth it. As I climbed higher, the landscape opened up, revealing panoramic vistas of the surrounding valleys and snow-capped peaks. The air was crisp and clean, filled with the scent of eucalyptus and damp earth.

Finally, I reached Sayacmarca. The site is perched on a narrow ridge, surrounded by sheer cliffs. It's easy to see why it was called the Inaccessible Town! The ruins themselves were smaller than I expected, but incredibly well-preserved. There were remnants of houses, temples, and even an aqueduct, all built with the same precision and skill that characterized Inca architecture. I wandered through the site, imagining what life must have been like for the people who lived here centuries ago. It was a strategic outpost along the Inca Trail, a place of refuge and control.

According to what I read, Sayacmarca may not have been purely Inca in origin but possibly a Collas construction that the Incas later improved. It was discovered by Hiram Bingham in 1915 and later renamed Sayacmarca, meaning inaccessible town, due to its remote location. The architecture suggests both ceremonial and residential purposes, featuring a temple of the sun, food stores, and an irrigation system. It felt like stepping back in time, connecting with the spirits of those who had walked these paths before me.

After all that hiking, I was definitely ready for a good meal! I decided to treat myself to lunch at Tampu Restaurant at Sanctuary Lodge.


Experience exquisite Peruvian cuisine with breathtaking views at Tampu Restaurant near Machu Picchu.

It's located right near the entrance to Machu Picchu, and I'd heard great things about its food. The restaurant itself was elegant and refined, with floor-to-ceiling windows offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains. I ordered the Andean trout ceviche, which was incredibly fresh and flavorful. The trout was marinated in lime juice and aji amarillo peppers, giving it a zesty kick. It was served with sweet potato and corn, adding a touch of sweetness and texture. For my main course, I opted for the alpaca steak, which was tender and juicy. It was served with a creamy potato gratin and a rich red wine sauce. The service was impeccable, and the staff were attentive and friendly. It was certainly a splurge, but worth it for the incredible food and atmosphere. Pieter would have loved this!

As the sun began to set, I made my way back to Aguas Calientes. I wanted to experience a bit of the town's nightlife, so I headed to Inka Happiness Cultural Bar.


Discover the vibrant blend of Peruvian culture and culinary delights at Inka Happiness Cultural Bar in Aguas Calientes, a must-visit for all travelers.

It was a cozy little place with live music and a lively atmosphere. I ordered a Pisco Sour, Peru's national drink, and sat back to enjoy the music. The band played traditional Andean tunes, and the crowd sang along. It was a wonderful way to end the day, surrounded by the sounds and sights of Peru.

The bar is known for its perfectly cooked chicken and lomo saltado, but I was still full from lunch. I enjoyed the Pisco Sour and the lively ambiance. It was a great way to unwind after a day of exploring.

Tomorrow, I plan to finally explore Machu Picchu itself, and Intipata! I'm so excited to see the Lost City of the Incas with my own eyes. I am planning on having breakfast at Tao Dulce Salado, lunch at Inka Wasi Restaurant, and dinner at Restaurante Quinua, and maybe a bit of shopping at the Gift Shop.

Back at my room, I reflected on the day's adventures. From the Manuel Chávez Ballón Site Museum to the heights of Sayacmarca and the vibrant Inka Happiness Cultural Bar, every moment was a learning experience. I am so grateful for the opportunity to explore this fascinating country and learn about its rich history and culture. Even missing Alessia and Pieter, I feel so fulfilled with this solo adventure. I am also making sure I have enough battery to take photos tomorrow, since I forgot my portable phone charger!

I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings.