Trekking the Salkantay Trail: A Peruvian Adventure with Friends

Lost in Wonder: Machu Picchu Beckons

Today was a day I had been dreaming about for years – exploring the mystical Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu. After ten incredible days trekking through the Peruvian Andes with my friends, the culmination of our journey was finally here. Waking up with a mix of excitement and anticipation, I knew this day would be etched in my memory forever.

The day began with an early start, fueled by the sheer excitement of what lay ahead. We made our way to the Tampu Restaurant at Sanctuary Lodge for breakfast. The restaurant was beautiful, with floor-to-ceiling windows that flooded the space with light and offered stunning views of the surrounding greenery. It felt like we were dining right in the heart of the mountains. The selection of international and Peruvian dishes was impressive, and I enjoyed sampling a bit of everything, while keeping an eye out for the exotic local birds flitting about outside.


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

After breakfast, we eagerly entered the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu. The air was thick with mist, adding an ethereal quality to the already awe-inspiring ruins. As we walked through the Sun Gate, the clouds parted, revealing the iconic city in all its glory. The sight was simply breathtaking. The sheer scale of the place, the intricate stonework, and the panoramic views left me speechless. It was surreal to finally be standing in a place I had only ever seen in pictures.


Explore the breathtaking ruins of Machu Picchu, an archaeological wonder of the Inca Empire set amidst stunning Andean landscapes.

We spent hours wandering through the ancient city, exploring every nook and cranny. Our guide shared fascinating stories about the history and culture of the Inca people, bringing the ruins to life. I learned about their advanced engineering skills, their deep connection to nature, and their complex social structure. Every stone seemed to whisper tales of a civilization lost but not forgotten.

To walk in the shadow of SALKANTAY TRAIL PERU is to connect with a landscape imbued with deep spiritual significance.

Discover the majestic beauty of the Salkantay Trail, an unforgettable trekking experience leading to the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu in the heart of the Andes.

For lunch, we ventured to the Tree House Restaurant in Aguas Calientes. This charming restaurant, nestled in the boughs of trees, offered a welcome respite from the crowds. The climb up the steps to reach it was worth the effort. The atmosphere was cozy and romantic, with a zen vibe, wooden structure and friendly staff. I opted for the alpaca steak, a local delicacy, while others in our group tried the goat cheese and mushroom ravioli. The food was delicious, and the presentation was beautiful. It was the perfect place to relax and refuel before continuing our exploration.


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

In the afternoon, we visited the Typical peru Travel Craft SAC. I wanted to find a special souvenir to remind me of this incredible journey. The shop had a wide array of handicrafts, from colorful textiles to intricate carvings. I finally settled on a hand-woven scarf, its vibrant colors reflecting the spirit of Peru.


Experience the beauty and culture of Peru with Typical Peru Travel Craft SAC, your trusted sightseeing tour agency in the heart of Cusco.

As the sun began to set, we made our way back to Aguas Calientes for dinner at Full House Peruvian cuisine & craft beer. The restaurant had a lively and welcoming atmosphere, with panoramic views of the river. I enjoyed a hearty meal of traditional Peruvian cuisine, accompanied by a refreshing craft beer. It was the perfect way to end a perfect day. The lively energy was balanced by attentive service and soft music.


Experience authentic Peruvian cuisine and craft beer in Aguas Calientes near Machu Picchu for an unforgettable culinary adventure.

Reflecting on the day, I felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude. I had finally fulfilled a lifelong dream, and it had exceeded all my expectations. Machu Picchu was more than just a collection of stones; it was a place of magic, mystery, and profound beauty. I was grateful to have shared this experience with my friends, and I knew that the memories we made would last a lifetime.

Tomorrow, we will be saying goodbye to Machu Picchu as we hike to Puyupatamarca and Mirador desde el Cristo Blanco. I am already looking forward to the stunning views and new adventures that await us.

I must remember to charge my portable phone charger tonight as I nearly forgot to do so last night, and it was a close call with the phone battery! I also need to make sure my hiking boots are in good shape for tomorrow!

What a day! I'm off to bed now, dreaming of Inca trails and mountain views.

Aguas Calientes: More Than Just a Gateway

Aguas Calientes, also known as Machu Picchu Pueblo, is the town nestled at the foot of Machu Picchu. While many see it merely as a stopover, I discovered it has its own unique charm and is worth exploring.

The town itself is quite small and can easily be explored on foot. The main street is lined with restaurants, shops, and hotels, catering to the throngs of tourists who pass through each day. Despite the crowds, the town has a lively and welcoming atmosphere.

One of the highlights of Aguas Calientes is its namesake – the hot springs. After a long day of hiking, soaking in the warm, mineral-rich waters is the perfect way to soothe tired muscles. The hot springs are located a short walk from the town center and offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

Another must-see attraction in Aguas Calientes is the Manco Capac Plaza. This central square is named after the founder of the Inca civilization and features a statue of him standing tall in the center. The plaza is a great place to relax, soak up the atmosphere, and take some photos.

For those interested in learning more about the local culture, a walk along the river is a must. The river walk features a series of statues depicting important figures in Incan history. It's a beautiful and peaceful way to connect with the past.

Aguas Calientes is also a great place to sample Peruvian cuisine. From traditional dishes like alpaca steak and trout ceviche to international fare, there's something to suit every taste. Be sure to try some of the local craft beers as well.

While Aguas Calientes may be overshadowed by Machu Picchu, it's a town with its own unique character and charm. It's a place where you can relax, rejuvenate, and immerse yourself in the local culture. So, next time you visit Machu Picchu, be sure to spend some time exploring Aguas Calientes as well.

Culinary Delights in Aguas Calientes

Aguas Calientes offers a surprising array of culinary experiences, from traditional Peruvian dishes to international flavors. Here are some of the restaurants I enjoyed during my visit:

* **Tampu Restaurant at Sanctuary Lodge:** This elegant restaurant offers stunning views and a menu of innovative fusion dishes. It's the perfect place for a special occasion.
* **Tree House Restaurant:** This charming restaurant is nestled in the boughs of trees and offers a cozy and romantic atmosphere. The menu features Peruvian fusion cuisine with a focus on fresh, local ingredients.
* **Full House Peruvian cuisine & craft beer:** This lively restaurant offers a wide selection of traditional Peruvian dishes and craft beers. It's a great place to relax and enjoy the local atmosphere.

In addition to these restaurants, there are many other options to choose from in Aguas Calientes. Whether you're looking for a quick bite or a leisurely meal, you're sure to find something to satisfy your appetite.

Shopping in Aguas Calientes

Aguas Calientes is a shopper's paradise, with a wide variety of souvenirs and handicrafts to choose from. Here are some of the things you can find:

* **Textiles:** Colorful textiles are a popular souvenir in Peru. You can find everything from scarves and shawls to blankets and tapestries.
* **Carvings:** Intricate carvings are another popular souvenir. You can find carvings made from wood, stone, and other materials.
* **Jewelry:** Silver jewelry is a popular item to purchase.
* **Clothing:** Peruvian ponchos are a popular item to purchase.

You can find these souvenirs at the Typical peru Travel Craft SAC and at the Artisanal Market. Remember to haggle for the best price!

Exploring Machu Picchu and Aguas Calientes was an unforgettable experience. I'm so grateful to have had the opportunity to visit this magical place with my friends. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings as we continue our adventure on the SALKANTAY TRAIL PERU.