Solo Adventure on the Choquequirao Trek

Echoes of the Past, Flavors of the Present

Today was a day of triumph, a day where the ancient stones of Choquequirao whispered stories of the past, and the vibrant flavors of Peruvian cuisine danced on my tongue. The air was crisp, the sun was warm, and my spirit was soaring as I explored the majestic ruins and immersed myself in the local culture. This solo journey is turning out to be even more enriching than I had ever imagined, and I can't wait to share every detail with you.

The morning started early, as it usually does on these treks. I had a quick breakfast at the Green House, a charming little spot that seems to be a popular choice among trekkers. I fueled up with some much-needed energy for the day ahead, anticipating the challenges and rewards that Choquequirao held.


Experience organic Peruvian cuisine at Green House in Aguas Calientes—just minutes from Machu Picchu's breathtaking beauty.

The trek to Cerro Choquequirao was nothing short of breathtaking. The views of the Apurimac River and the surrounding mountains were simply stunning. The trail was challenging, with steep ascents and descents, but every step was worth it. I found myself stopping frequently, not just to catch my breath, but to soak in the panoramic vistas that unfolded before me. Being surrounded by such natural beauty, I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe and gratitude.


Discover the hidden gem of Cerro Choquequirao, where ancient Inca ruins meet breathtaking mountain scenery in the heart of the Peruvian Andes.

Reaching the Choquequirao ruins was an emotional experience. As I wandered through the ancient city, I could almost hear the echoes of the past, the voices of the Incas who once called this place home. The intricate stonework, the terraced hillsides, and the panoramic views all spoke of a civilization that was both ingenious and deeply connected to the land. It was fascinating to learn about the history of Choquequirao, how it served as a control post and a connection between the jungle and the imperial city of Cusco.

To truly appreciate a culture, one must not only see its monuments but also taste its flavors.

After spending hours exploring the ruins, I made my way back down the mountain, my stomach rumbling with anticipation. Lunch at Pachapapa was an absolute treat. This restaurant is known for its traditional Cusquenian cuisine, and it did not disappoint. I savored every bite of the ají de gallina, a creamy chicken stew that was bursting with flavor. The ambiance of the restaurant, with its rustic clay pots and wood-fired oven, added to the overall experience. It felt like I was stepping back in time, enjoying a meal that had been passed down through generations.


Discover authentic Peruvian cuisine at Pachapapa in Cusco – where every dish is a celebration of local flavors and culinary heritage.

With my belly full and my spirit content, I decided to do some shopping at Rummy Outdoor. I needed a few essentials for the rest of the trek, and I was also hoping to find a unique souvenir to take back home. The store had a great selection of outdoor clothing and gear, as well as some beautiful Peruvian crafts. I ended up buying a warm alpaca scarf, a perfect reminder of my time in the Andes.


Discover stylish outdoor apparel and gear at Rummy Outdoor in the heart of Cusco, your gateway to adventure in the Andes.

As the day drew to a close, I treated myself to dinner at Uchu Peruvian Steakhouse. This restaurant is renowned for its expertly grilled steaks and fresh local ingredients, and I was eager to try it out. The steak was cooked to perfection, served on a sizzling hot volcanic stone with a variety of dipping sauces. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, making it the perfect place to unwind after a long day of trekking.


Discover authentic Peruvian cuisine at Uchu Peruvian Steakhouse in Cusco - where tradition meets innovation in every bite.

Today was a day of contrasts, a day of ancient history and modern comforts, of challenging hikes and delicious meals. As I reflect on my experiences, I am filled with a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to explore this incredible region and immerse myself in its rich culture. Tomorrow, I plan to continue along the Choquequirao Trail, with a visit to the Sun Gate on the agenda. I'm excited to see what new adventures await me, and I promise to share every step of the way with you.

The stars are starting to peek out from behind the mountains, a cool breeze is blowing, and I think it's time to rest and recharge for tomorrow's adventures. Good night from the Andes!

I am struck by the ingenuity and resilience of the Inca people. Seeing how they were able to thrive in such a challenging environment fills me with a sense of respect and admiration. Their legacy lives on in the stones of Choquequirao, and I am honored to have had the opportunity to walk in their footsteps.

I must admit, I was a bit worried about embarking on this trek solo. I was concerned that I would feel lonely or isolated, but that has not been the case at all. I have met so many wonderful people along the way, fellow travelers who share my passion for adventure and discovery. I have also found a sense of peace and solitude in the mountains, a chance to connect with myself and the natural world.

I think the most important thing I've learned so far is the importance of being present in the moment. It's so easy to get caught up in the planning and the logistics of a trip like this, but it's essential to take the time to slow down and appreciate the beauty that surrounds you. Whether it's the snow-capped peaks, the vibrant flora, or the warm smiles of the local people, there is so much to be grateful for.

The food here is incredible! I've always enjoyed Thai cuisine, but the flavors of Peru are something else entirely. From the hearty stews to the fresh ceviche, every dish is a celebration of local ingredients and traditional cooking methods. I'm already planning to take a cooking class when I get back to Montreal so that I can recreate some of these dishes for Nang and Ananda.

I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings. The trek to the Sun Gate promises to be another challenging but rewarding experience, and I'm eager to explore more of this ancient land. Until then, I bid you good night and wish you all safe and happy travels.

I'm also thinking about my restaurant back in Montreal. I'm always looking for new ideas and inspiration, and this trip has given me plenty to work with. Maybe I'll add some Peruvian dishes to the menu, or perhaps I'll just try to recreate the warm and welcoming atmosphere of the restaurants I've visited here. Whatever I do, I know that this experience will have a lasting impact on my cooking and my business.

As I drift off to sleep, I am filled with a sense of anticipation for the days ahead. The Choquequirao Trek is far from over, and I know that there are still many more adventures to be had. But for now, I am content to rest and recharge, dreaming of ancient ruins and delicious Peruvian cuisine.