Trekking the Salkantay Trail: A Peruvian Adventure with Friends

Cusco's Embrace: A Day of Discovery

The crisp morning air of Cusco greeted me with a promise of adventure. After a restful night, I was eager to explore more of this historic city with my friends. Today was all about delving deeper into the heart of Cusco, from its ancient Inca roots to its vibrant modern culture. I was especially excited to see the famous Plaza Mayor de Cusco and the legendary Twelve Angled Stone.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Café Inkaterra. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee and local pastries filled the air, setting the perfect tone for our explorations. The café was charming, blending Andean and contemporary design. I opted for a traditional Peruvian breakfast, which gave me a taste of the local flavors and fueled me for the day ahead. Greta would have loved this place, she is always so keen on trying new things.

With our stomachs full and our spirits high, we made our way to the Plaza Mayor de Cusco. As we stepped into the square, I was immediately struck by its grandeur and beauty. The Plaza Mayor, also known as Plaza de Armas, is the main public space in Cusco and has been the heart of the city since before the Spanish arrived. The impressive Cusco Cathedral stood on one side, its colonial architecture a testament to the city's layered history. The square was bustling with activity, locals going about their day, and tourists like us, soaking in the atmosphere.

I couldn't help but imagine the Plaza Mayor during the Inca Empire, when it was the site of important ceremonies and celebrations. It was fascinating to think about the history that had unfolded on this very ground. Even now, with the Spanish colonial buildings, you could still see Inca walls in the foundations of many buildings. The blending of cultures was so apparent here.


Experience the vibrant history and culture of Cusco at Plaza Mayor, where stunning architecture meets lively social gatherings in the heart of the city.

The stones whisper stories of empires past, a testament to the enduring spirit of Cusco.

Next on our itinerary was the Twelve Angled Stone. Located on Hatun Rumiyoc Street, it's a short walk from the Plaza Mayor. As we walked, the streets were lined with shops selling handicrafts, jewelry, and clothing. The energy of the city was infectious, and I found myself drawn to the vibrant colors and textures of the local goods. I made a mental note to return later for some souvenir shopping. It's already November, and I need to get something for Lila before Christmas comes around.

We soon arrived at the Twelve Angled Stone, a marvel of Inca engineering. It's a large block with twelve angles that fit perfectly into the surrounding stones without any mortar. I was amazed by the precision and skill of the Inca stonemasons. The stone has withstood earthquakes and the test of time, a symbol of Inca ingenuity and resilience. It was incredible to see something so ancient and so perfectly crafted. No wonder it’s one of the most visited attractions in Cusco.


Discover the Twelve Angled Stone in Cusco, a historical landmark showcasing Inca craftsmanship and architectural brilliance.

After marveling at the Twelve Angled Stone, we decided to immerse ourselves in the local artisan scene. We headed to the Handicraft Center Cusco, a large building near the Plaza de Armas with a wide array of handicrafts. As we entered the center, we were greeted by a kaleidoscope of colors and textures. There were textiles, clothing, jewelry, ceramics, and more. It was a treasure trove of Peruvian craftsmanship.


Explore the Handicraft Center Cusco for unique artisan souvenirs and a glimpse into Peru's rich cultural heritage.

I was particularly drawn to the alpaca wool products. The scarves, sweaters, and ponchos were incredibly soft and warm, perfect for the chilly Andean evenings. I also admired the intricate ceramics, each piece telling a story of Andean life and traditions. I ended up buying a beautiful hand-woven blanket with traditional designs. It will be a perfect reminder of my time in Peru, and it will look lovely in our living room back in Berlin.

For lunch, we decided to try INKA TAMBO restaurant. This was a delightful choice, as the restaurant offered a menu filled with Peruvian specialties. I opted for the lomo saltado, a classic Peruvian dish of stir-fried beef, onions, tomatoes, and potatoes. The flavors were rich and savory, a true celebration of Peruvian cuisine.


Experience authentic Peruvian flavors at INKA TAMBO restaurant in Aguas Calientes – a must-visit culinary destination near Machu Picchu.

As the afternoon wore on, we continued our exploration of Cusco's culinary scene. For dinner, we chose the Tree House Restaurant. This charming restaurant is known for its Peruvian fusion cuisine, blending traditional ingredients with international flavors. The atmosphere was cozy and inviting, and the menu was full of tempting options.


Discover authentic Peruvian flavors at Tree House Restaurant in Aguas Calientes—an enchanting dining experience surrounded by nature.

I decided to try the Cuy confitado, a local delicacy of guinea pig. It was a unique and flavorful experience, a true taste of Peruvian culture. My friends tried other dishes, such as the trout fillet and the goat cheese ravioli, and we all raved about the quality and creativity of the food. The Tree House Restaurant was the perfect way to end our day of culinary adventures.

Before heading back to our accommodation, we took a leisurely stroll through the Plaza Mayor. The square was even more magical at night, illuminated by the soft glow of the streetlights. The stars twinkled above, and the cool night air was refreshing. I felt a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to experience this incredible city with my friends. I thought of Greta and Lila, and how much they would have loved to be here with me.

As I reflect on today's adventures, I am filled with a sense of wonder and appreciation for Cusco. The city's rich history, vibrant culture, and delicious cuisine have captivated me. From the ancient Inca walls to the bustling artisan markets and the cozy restaurants, Cusco has something to offer everyone. I am excited to see what tomorrow brings as we begin our trek on the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. I am a bit nervous about the hike, but I know it will be an unforgettable experience. I am looking forward to seeing the Mirador Viva el Perú and experiencing the nightlife at Sassy Bar & Lounge. It’s time to embrace the challenges and rewards that lie ahead.

Tomorrow, we leave Cusco behind to start on the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. I’m excited to see what the trail holds, and I'm sure I'll have plenty of stories to share. Tonight, though, I'm going to rest up and prepare for the adventure ahead. Wish me luck!

Tomorrow, we are having breakfast at Tampu Restaurant at Sanctuary Lodge, lunch at Julian Restaurant, and dinner at Restaurant Bistro Bar Indio Feliz. What a treat to look forward to!

I can't wait to share more of my adventures with you all. Stay tuned for the next installment of my Peruvian journey!

Safe travels, everyone!

Somchai