Trekking the Salkantay Trail: A Peruvian Adventure with Friends

A Day of Discoveries
Today was a day of contrasts, from the demanding yet rewarding hike along the Salkantay Trail to the fascinating historical insights at Intipata, and finally, the vibrant culinary scene of Aguas Calientes. It's amazing how much we packed into a single day, and I'm excited to share every detail with you.

The day began early, as is typical on the Salkantay Trek. The crisp mountain air invigorated me as I laced up my hiking boots, a little disappointed that I had forgotten my portable phone charger. A hearty breakfast at Mapacho Craft Beer Restaurant in Urubamba set us up perfectly for the challenges ahead. The restaurant had a lovely ambiance, and I particularly enjoyed the Peruvian coffee. It was a welcome change from my usual morning routine in Berlin, where I often grab a quick coffee at a local café before heading to school. I made a mental note to try and recreate the flavors of that coffee back home for Greta. I think she would love it.


Experience the breathtaking Salkantay Trek, an unforgettable adventure through the heart of the Andes, leading to the majestic Machu Picchu.

Our main objective for the day was to continue along the Salkantay Trek. The trail snaked its way through stunning landscapes, offering panoramic views of the Andes. The hike was challenging, but the breathtaking scenery made it all worthwhile. It reminded me of hiking in the Thai mountains back in Lampang, but with a completely different kind of beauty. The snow-capped peaks were majestic, and the valleys were lush and green. I made sure to take plenty of photos, hoping to capture the essence of this incredible place. I want to share these views with Lila when I get back home.

Later in the morning, we reached Intipata, an Inca archaeological site. The name Intipata translates to Place of the Sun in Quechua. The site is known for its impressive agricultural terraces, which were once used to cultivate crops such as potatoes, corn, and quinoa. As we explored the ruins, our guide shared stories about the history and significance of the site. I learned that Intipata was not only an agricultural center but also a strategic control point, used to monitor travelers on their way to Machu Picchu. The views from Intipata were stunning, offering a panoramic vista of the Urubamba Valley. The terraces blended seamlessly with the natural landscape, creating a breathtaking harmony.


Discover the breathtaking vistas and rich history of Intipata, an archaeological gem along the Inca Trail, perfect for adventurous travelers.

Sometimes, the most rewarding experiences are the ones that challenge you the most.

The intricate stonework and the sheer ingenuity of the Inca people were truly impressive. It's fascinating to see how they were able to build such sophisticated structures in such a challenging environment. I thought about how different this was from the classrooms I am used to teaching in Berlin. It gave me a greater appreciation for the rich history and cultural heritage of Peru.

After a morning of hiking and exploration, we stopped for lunch at Govinda Restaurant VEGANO. As a vegan restaurant, I was excited to try their offerings. The food was delicious and flavorful, showcasing the diversity of Peruvian cuisine. I especially enjoyed the vegan versions of traditional dishes. It's always interesting to see how different cultures adapt and create vegan options. I am looking forward to trying some of these recipes when I get back to Berlin. Greta will be thrilled!


Experience authentic Peruvian vegan cuisine at Govinda Restaurant VEGANO in Aguas Calientes – where tradition meets sustainability.

In the afternoon, we had some free time, so I decided to do some shopping at Munaycha Outdoor. I was hoping to find a replacement for my forgotten portable phone charger, but I also wanted to pick up some souvenirs for my family. The shop had a wide selection of outdoor gear and local crafts. I ended up buying a beautiful hand-woven scarf for Greta and a small wooden toy for Lila. I also found a portable charger, so I was finally able to recharge my phone. It's a small thing, but it made a big difference. It will be great to take more photos tomorrow.


Explore the great outdoors with quality gear from Munaycha Outdoor in Cusco, your gateway to adventure in Peru's stunning landscapes.

As the day drew to a close, we settled in for dinner at Ponchos Machupicchu Restaurant. The restaurant had a warm and inviting atmosphere, and the staff were incredibly friendly. I ordered a traditional Peruvian dish, which was bursting with flavor. The ingredients were fresh and locally sourced, and the presentation was beautiful. It was the perfect way to end a long and eventful day. I savored every bite, knowing that tomorrow would bring even more adventures.


Experience authentic Peruvian cuisine with stunning views at Ponchos Machupicchu Restaurant in Aguas Calientes.

Reflecting on the day, I am struck by the incredible diversity of experiences we had. From the physical challenges of the Salkantay Trek to the historical insights at Intipata and the culinary delights of Aguas Calientes, every moment was filled with wonder and discovery. I am grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with my friends, and I am excited for what tomorrow holds. We will be visiting the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu and the Sun Gate, two of the most iconic landmarks in Peru. I can't wait to see them with my own eyes and learn more about the history and culture of this amazing place.

I am also grateful for the opportunity to connect with nature and disconnect from the stresses of everyday life. The Salkantay Trail has been a transformative experience, and I am already looking forward to planning my next adventure. Perhaps I'll bring Greta and Lila next time so they can experience the magic of Peru for themselves.

For now, though, it's time to rest and recharge. Tomorrow is a big day, and I want to be ready to make the most of it. I'll be sure to share all the details with you in my next blog post. Until then, safe travels and happy exploring!

P.S. I almost forgot to mention, I did miss an extra pair of socks today. Note to self: always double-check the essentials!