Sofia's Solo Exploration of Machu Picchu

Echoes of the Inca Empire

Today, I continued my exploration of Machu Picchu, seeking to understand the stories etched in its stones. The morning mist still clung to the mountains as I set out, a solitary traveler eager to uncover more of this ancient city's secrets. It's amazing to think that just yesterday I was arriving, full of anticipation, and now I'm walking in the footsteps of the Incas, trying to imagine their daily lives and the significance of this place.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at La Boulangerie de Paris - Machupicchu. It felt a bit surreal to find such a charming French bakery nestled high in the Andes. The aroma of freshly baked bread and pastries was irresistible, and I indulged in a pain au chocolat and a strong coffee, fueling up for the day's adventures. It reminded me of the little bakeries Pieter and I used to frequent in Haarlem, a comforting taste of home so far away.


Indulge in authentic French pastries and rich coffee at La Boulangerie de Paris - Machupicchu, a must-visit bakery in Aguas Calientes.

With a full stomach and a sense of excitement, I made my way towards Intimachay, also known as the Cave of the Sun. It's considered an astronomical observatory, far more complex and precise than previously believed. As I climbed the stone steps, I marveled at the Incas' advanced knowledge of astronomy and their ability to align their structures with the celestial movements. It's incredible to think that they used this site to observe the December solstice, a time of great significance in their culture.


Explore Intimachay, the Sacred Cave of the Incas, a tranquil site near Machu Picchu rich in history and natural beauty.

The stones of Machu Picchu whisper tales of a civilization that understood the cosmos and lived in harmony with the mountains.

Standing inside Intimachay, I could feel the energy of centuries past. The cave is strategically positioned to capture the light of the rising sun during the solstice, casting a golden glow on the interior. It was easy to imagine the Inca priests-astronomers, carefully observing the sun's path and using this knowledge to guide their rituals and agricultural practices. The precision of the construction is astounding, a testament to the Incas' skill and ingenuity. It made me think about how different their world view must have been compared to ours, so connected to the rhythms of nature and the movements of the stars.

From Intimachay, I continued my journey to the House of the Guardian to the Funerary Rock. The House of the Guardian, also known as the Hut of the Caretaker of the Funerary Rock, offered a panoramic view of Machu Picchu. It's from this vantage point that the classic postcard photos of the Inca city are taken, with the iconic silhouette of the ruins set against the backdrop of the majestic Andes. The location is about 30 minutes walking distance from the entrance point, along stone steps until you reach this point, located 2,430 meters above sea level.


Experience the breathtaking views and rich history at the House of the Guardian to the Funerary Rock in Machu Picchu, a key highlight of any Peruvian adventure.

The House of the Guardian itself is a simple structure made of stone and adobe. Its thatched roof, made of ichu grass, has been preserved to this day, offering a glimpse into the original architecture of Machu Picchu. Inside, three squared windows provide a complete view of the city and its access points. I could imagine the Inca watchmen standing guard here, protecting their sacred city from intruders.

Just a few steps from the House of the Guardian lies the Funerary Rock, a carved stone monolith believed to have been used for embalming mummies of important Inca figures. It's also thought to have been a site for worshipping celestial gods, such as the sun, moon, and stars. Standing before this ancient altar, I felt a sense of reverence and awe. It was a tangible connection to the Inca people and their beliefs about life, death, and the afterlife. According to the archeological research, it was used as a ceremonial table where mummies were embalmed. To visit it, you must take circuit 2 in the Inca city, which can be done with the Machu Picchu Classic ticket.

After a morning of exploring, I was ready for a break. I stopped for lunch at Munaycha Restaurant, drawn in by the promise of authentic Peruvian cuisine. I savored a delicious trout dish, enjoying the flavors of the Andes. It was a satisfying meal, and the restaurant's cozy atmosphere provided a welcome respite from the crowds of tourists. I made a mental note to try the lomo saltado next time, as I'd heard it was a local specialty.


Discover authentic Peruvian flavors at Munaycha Restaurant in Aguas Calientes - where tradition meets taste in every dish.

In the afternoon, I decided to do some shopping at Artesanias Maki. I wanted to find a special souvenir to remind me of my time in Machu Picchu. The shop was filled with colorful textiles, ceramics, and jewelry, all handcrafted by local artisans. I finally settled on a beautiful woven scarf, its intricate designs telling stories of Inca mythology and Andean culture. I imagined Alessia wearing it, a little piece of Peru to keep her warm in the Dutch winters.


Discover unique handmade clothing and accessories at Artesanias Maki in Aguas Calientes, where local craftsmanship meets vibrant Peruvian culture.

As the day drew to a close, I treated myself to dinner at Chullos Restaurant & Craft Beer. I wanted to try some local craft beers and sample more Peruvian dishes. The restaurant had a lively atmosphere, and I enjoyed chatting with other travelers and sharing stories of our adventures. The beer was excellent, and the food was flavorful and satisfying. It was the perfect way to end a day of exploration.


Experience authentic Peruvian cuisine and local craft beers at Chullos Restaurant & Craft Beer in Aguas Calientes.

Back in Aguas Calientes, I took a moment to reflect on everything I had seen and learned today. Machu Picchu is more than just a collection of ruins; it's a living testament to the ingenuity, resilience, and spiritual beliefs of the Inca people. Walking through its ancient streets, I felt a deep connection to the past and a sense of wonder at the mysteries that still remain.

Tomorrow, I plan to visit the Manuel Chávez Ballón Site Museum to learn more about the history and archaeology of Machu Picchu. I'm also eager to explore Sayacmarca, another fascinating Inca site located in the surrounding mountains. And perhaps, I'll end the day with a pisco sour at the Inka Happiness Cultural Bar, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of Aguas Calientes.

Until then, I'll dream of the whispers of the past, carried on the mountain winds, reminding me of the enduring legacy of the Inca Empire.

The memory of Matera, my hometown in Italy, resurfaced as I wandered through the stone structures. Both places, though geographically distant and culturally distinct, share a palpable sense of history embedded in their very foundations. It's a reminder that the human story is vast and varied, yet connected by a shared desire to create, to build, and to leave a mark on the world. And as I prepare for tomorrow's adventures, I carry with me a renewed appreciation for the power of travel to bridge cultures and connect us to our shared human heritage.