Trekking the Salkantay Trail: A Peruvian Adventure with Friends

Echoes of the Inca Trail

Today was a day of breathtaking vistas and profound historical immersion. As we continue our trek along the Salkantay Trail, the spirit of the Inca civilization seems to linger in every stone and every cloud. It's incredible to think about the people who walked these paths centuries ago, their lives and stories woven into the very fabric of this land.

Our day began, as it often does on this adventure, with a hearty breakfast at Chullos Restaurant & Craft Beer. The morning air was crisp, carrying the scent of the Andes. I opted for a traditional Peruvian breakfast, fueling up for the day's hike. The cozy atmosphere of the restaurant, combined with the friendly faces of the staff, made it a perfect start to the day.

With our stomachs full and spirits high, we set off towards Puyupatamarca, also known as the 'Town in the Clouds'. The trail wound its way through the mountains, offering stunning views of the Urubamba Valley. The higher we climbed, the more dramatic the landscape became. It felt like stepping back in time, imagining the Inca messengers traversing these very paths.

Arriving at Puyupatamarca was an awe-inspiring experience. Perched at over 3,600 meters, the site truly lives up to its name. The intricate stone structures, well-preserved terraces, and ceremonial baths spoke volumes about the advanced engineering and spiritual practices of the Incas. Exploring the ruins, I was struck by the ingenuity and resilience of this ancient civilization. The site served as a crucial way station along the Inca Trail, and you could feel the history in the very air. I took some time to wander through the ruins, imagining what life must have been like here centuries ago. The views of the surrounding mountains were simply spectacular.


Explore the breathtaking ruins of Puyupatamarca, an Incan archaeological gem with panoramic views and rich history in the heart of the Andes.

“The best view comes after the hardest climb.”

After thoroughly exploring Puyupatamarca, we continued our journey towards Cusco. Our next stop was the Mirador desde el Cristo Blanco, a vantage point offering panoramic views of the city. The statue of Cristo Blanco, a gift from the Palestinian community in Cusco, stands tall, watching over the city.

Reaching the Mirador required a bit of a climb, but the reward was well worth the effort. From this height, Cusco unfolded beneath us in all its glory. The red-tiled roofs, the bustling Plaza de Armas, and the surrounding mountains created a breathtaking panorama. I could spot many of the landmarks we had visited in previous days, a reminder of how far we had come. I spent a long time at the Mirador, simply soaking in the view and reflecting on our journey.


Discover the stunning views of Cusco from Cristo Blanco, a must-visit observation deck showcasing the beauty of the Andes and the city's rich heritage.

As the sun began to set, casting a golden glow over Cusco, we made our way down into the city. For dinner, we decided to try Taywa, a restaurant recommended by several locals. It was a delightful culinary experience, with traditional Peruvian dishes prepared with a modern twist. The ambiance was warm and inviting, the perfect way to end a day filled with exploration and wonder.

Later in the evening, a few of us decided to check out The Library, a speakeasy in Cusco. Apparently, it's hidden behind a bookshelf in Micaela's restaurant. It sounded intriguing, and I was eager to experience Cusco's nightlife. Finding the entrance was quite the adventure. Pushing the right spot on the bookshelf revealed a dimly lit, cozy bar with a literary theme. The bartender was a true mixologist, crafting unique cocktails inspired by classic literature. I ordered a drink called 'The Great Gatsby', a concoction of gin, elderflower liqueur, and a splash of champagne. It was the perfect way to unwind after a long day of hiking and exploring.

Sitting in The Library, sipping my cocktail, I couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude for this incredible journey. The Salkantay Trail has challenged us, inspired us, and connected us to the rich history and culture of Peru. Sharing these experiences with my friends has made it all the more special. Greta would have loved this place, I thought, as I imagined telling her all about it when I got back to Berlin. I made a mental note to try and recreate that cocktail for her when I returned.

Tomorrow, we continue our trek, with Machu Picchu on the horizon. I'm excited to see what wonders await us as we delve deeper into the heart of the Inca civilization. We'll be visiting the Salkantay Trek Machu Picchu and the Sacred Rock at Machu Picchu. I'm also planning to stock up on some camping equipment at Speedy Gonzalo Camping Equipment, just to be on the safe side. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings!

I'm also looking forward to breakfast at Mapacho Craft Beer Restaurant and lunch at El museo de la papa rest before ending the day at Govinda Restaurant VEGANO.

As I drifted off to sleep, I thought about Lila and how much she would have loved exploring the ruins of Puyupatamarca. I promised myself that one day, I would bring her here to experience the magic of the Andes firsthand.

What an incredible journey this has been!