Exploring the Sacred Valley: A Cultural Odyssey with Family

A Day of Heart and History

Today was a beautiful blend of compassion and culture here in the Sacred Valley. From rescuing animals to immersive history lessons, the day was filled with moments that touched my heart and expanded my understanding of this fascinating region. Liam and I started our day with a hearty breakfast, setting the stage for the adventures that lay ahead.

The morning began with a visit to the Cochahuasi Animal Sanctuary. The sanctuary is located about 30 minutes outside of Cusco, offering a safe haven to animals rescued from illegal trafficking and mistreatment. I was particularly moved by the stories of the Andean condors, majestic birds that are a symbol of the Andes. Seeing these incredible creatures up close, learning about their rehabilitation, and the sanctuary's conservation efforts was truly inspiring.

We had the opportunity to feed some of the animals, including the alpacas, which was such a fun and heartwarming experience. It’s wonderful to see an organization so dedicated to the well-being of these creatures. The sanctuary is family-run, and you can really feel the love and dedication that goes into caring for these animals. Supporting places like Cochahuasi aligns perfectly with our sustainable travel ethos.


Explore the Cochahuasi Animal Sanctuary, a wildlife refuge near Cusco dedicated to the rescue and rehabilitation of native Peruvian animals.

Travel is more than seeing the sights; it is about experiencing the heart of a place.

Next on our itinerary was the Museo Inkariy, a place that Liam and I had been eagerly anticipating. Located between Urubamba and Pisac, this museum offers a comprehensive journey through Peru's pre-Columbian cultures. The museum is uniquely designed, with eight different pavilions, each dedicated to a major civilization, including Caral, Chavín, Paracas, Moche, Nasca, Wari, Lambayeque, Chimu, and Inca. The Mérida family, a family of artists, conceived and designed the museum to showcase the most important pre-Hispanic Peruvian cultures in an entertaining and modern manner.

Each pavilion features two rooms: one detailing the history with key artifacts and overviews in both Spanish and English, and the other presenting life-sized figures in compelling scenarios that bring the past to life. I was particularly impressed by the attention to detail in the statues, which were meticulously researched to accurately represent the body types and facial structures of each culture. It’s like stepping back in time and witnessing history unfold before your eyes. I found it so fascinating to learn about the cultures that pre-dated the Incas. It really puts into perspective how the Incas built upon the knowledge and traditions of those who came before them.


Explore the rich heritage of the Andes at Museo Inkariy, where art, culture, and history come together in breathtaking Calca.

After our historical immersion, we were ready for lunch. We headed to Picanteria Tradicional Mama Cecilia in Urubamba. This charming restaurant is known for its authentic Peruvian cuisine, and it did not disappoint. The restaurant is dedicated to traditional Peruvian cuisine.

We tried a variety of dishes, including some delicious local specialties. The flavors were rich and comforting, and the ambiance was warm and inviting. It felt like we were dining in someone's home, surrounded by the aromas of traditional cooking. This was exactly the kind of authentic experience we were hoping for. It was the perfect spot to relax and refuel after a morning of exploration.


Experience authentic Peruvian cuisine at Picanteria Tradicional Mama Cecilia in Urubamba – where tradition meets flavor.

With our bellies full and spirits high, we decided to do a little shopping. We stopped by Kumi Shop in Urubamba. It was a great place to find organic and vegetarian delights, and discover unique Peruvian handicrafts, art, and a vibrant atmosphere that celebrates local culture. I picked up a few small souvenirs, including a hand-woven bracelet and some locally sourced tea. Supporting local businesses is important to us, and it felt good to contribute to the community in this way.


Discover Kumi Shop in Urubamba, your destination for organic and vegetarian delights, where healthy eating meets local flavors.

For dinner, we chose Killawasi Restaurant, enticed by its reputation for fine dining. The restaurant serves seasonal Andean cuisine, and all ingredients are locally sourced. I was excited to try some innovative dishes that highlighted the unique flavors of the region. The dishes were delicious, offering a modern twist on traditional flavors. It was a wonderful way to end a day filled with cultural and culinary discoveries.


Experience authentic Peruvian cuisine amidst stunning landscapes at Killawasi Restaurant in Urubamba.

As the day winds down, I find myself reflecting on the incredible experiences we've had. From the heartwarming animal encounters at Cochahuasi to the immersive history lessons at Museo Inkariy, and the delightful culinary journey through local flavors, every moment felt special and meaningful. I am constantly amazed by the richness and diversity of Peruvian culture.

Tomorrow, we're planning to visit the Pinkuylluna archaeological site and Inti Punku Sun Gate. I'm particularly excited about the Inti Punku Sun Gate, as I've heard it offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. We'll be having breakfast at Casa Colonial Restaurante & Bar, lunch at Hacienda Huayoccari, and dinner at El Huerto Restaurant, and perhaps a drink at Saqras Resto Bar Urubamba. Another day of exploration and adventure awaits, and I can't wait to share it with you all. I'm so glad we packed our hiking boots; it seems like we'll be needing them!

The Sacred Valley continues to surprise and delight us at every turn. It's a place where history, nature, and culture intertwine to create an unforgettable travel experience. I feel so grateful to be here with Liam, sharing these moments and creating memories that will last a lifetime. It's moments like these that remind me why I love to travel – to discover new places, connect with different cultures, and expand my understanding of the world. I'm already looking forward to what tomorrow will bring!

The sun has set, painting the sky with hues of orange and purple. As I sit here writing, I can hear the gentle sounds of the night – the chirping of crickets, the rustling of leaves, and the distant murmur of the river. It's a peaceful and serene atmosphere, and I feel a deep sense of contentment. This is exactly what I needed – a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, a chance to reconnect with nature, and an opportunity to immerse myself in a new culture.

I'm also reminded of how fortunate I am to have Liam by my side. He's not just my husband, but also my travel partner, my confidant, and my best friend. We share a love for adventure, a curiosity about the world, and a desire to make a positive impact wherever we go. Traveling with him makes every experience even more special, and I cherish the memories we create together. It makes me feel grateful for our time together and hopeful for the days to come.

Goodnight from the Sacred Valley, everyone! Until tomorrow...