Exploring the Sacred Valley: A Cultural Odyssey with Family

Whispers of the Past

Today was a day of delving into the layers of history that make this region so incredibly fascinating. It’s amazing to think about the civilizations that have risen and fallen here, each leaving their mark on the land and its people. From exploring artifacts recovered from Machu Picchu to wandering through the ruins of a pre-Inca city, every moment felt like stepping back in time. Liam and I, along with the kids, embraced the chance to learn and connect with the rich cultural heritage of Cusco, finding ourselves in awe of the ingenuity and artistry of those who came before us.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Restaurante El WARIQUE DEL TARMEÑO. The traditional Peruvian fare was just what we needed to fuel up for a day of exploration. I savored every bite, trying to capture the essence of the local flavors. It's these small moments, like enjoying a delicious, authentic meal, that truly immerse you in a place. And, as always, I snapped a few photos for my growing collection of food photography – Liam jokes that I spend more time photographing my meals than eating them!


Experience authentic Peruvian flavors at Restaurante El Warique del Tarmeño in Urubamba, where every dish tells a story.

First on our itinerary was the Museo Casa Concha. Housed in a beautifully preserved colonial building, the museum offered a captivating glimpse into the Inca civilization and its connection to Machu Picchu. The Casa Concha itself has an interesting history, having been built on the site of a former Inca palace. The museum houses a remarkable collection of artifacts excavated from Machu Picchu. Walking through the rooms, I was struck by the intricate details of the pottery, the delicate craftsmanship of the jewelry, and the ingenuity of the tools. It was like piecing together a puzzle, each object telling a part of the story of this incredible civilization. I learned that the museum is quite new, only opening in 2011, to receive and present the Machu Picchu collection to Yale University. The kids were captivated by the displays, asking lots of questions about the people who had created these objects so long ago. It's wonderful to see them engaging with history in such a tangible way.


Explore the rich history of the Incas at Museo Casa Concha in Cusco, where captivating artifacts and exhibits bring ancient Peru to life.

History is not just a collection of dates and facts; it's a living narrative that connects us to those who came before us, offering insights into the human experience across time.

After immersing ourselves in the world of the Incas, we ventured further into the past with a visit to Pikillacta, a pre-Inca city built by the Wari culture around 550 AD. Located about 30 kilometers southeast of Cusco, in the province of Quispicanchi, the site was a stark contrast to the intricate stonework of the Inca ruins we had seen previously. Pikillacta, meaning flea town in Quechua, sprawls across a vast area, with remnants of walls, buildings, and streets laid out in a grid-like pattern. As we wandered through the ruins, I couldn't help but marvel at the scale of the city and the advanced urban planning of the Wari people. The kids enjoyed exploring the open spaces, imagining what life must have been like in this ancient city. I read that Pikillacta thrived during the Middle Horizon (600 AD - 1000 AD) as the Wari empire expanded, establishing a major administrative, residential, and ceremonial center in the southern valley. It’s amazing to think that this city was once home to thousands of people, a bustling hub of activity and commerce. The Wari structures are different from the Incas, built of stone and adobe and not carved with Inca perfection. It is believed that Pikillacta Cusco was inhabited by a population of over 10,000 inhabitants, and included up to 700 buildings and 500 warehouses.


Explore Pikillacta: An ancient Wari city offering stunning views and rich history, just a short trip from Cusco.

For lunch, we stopped at Hawa Restaurant in Urubamba, drawn in by its reputation for international cuisine. I opted for the trout, while Liam enjoyed a hearty Caesar salad. The food was delicious, and the ambiance was warm and inviting. We even got to enjoy some live music while we ate. Hawa is known to use a lot of locally sourced ingredients, in some cases from on-property gardens, which aligns with our sustainable travel ethos. The kids were happy with their choices too, and we all left feeling satisfied and energized for the rest of the day.


Discover exquisite Peruvian cuisine at Hawa Restaurant in Sacred Valley, where breathtaking views meet exceptional flavors.

In the afternoon, I was eager to explore the local arts scene, so we visited Laura Most | Workshop & Store ~ Yuri Eslava Cerámica. I love discovering unique, handcrafted items, and this workshop did not disappoint. Yuri Eslava's ceramics were beautiful, each piece reflecting the vibrant colors and patterns of the Andean culture. I picked up a small bowl as a souvenir, a reminder of our time in the Sacred Valley. The workshop had a warm, inviting atmosphere, and it was fascinating to see the artist at work, shaping clay into these beautiful creations.


Explore the charm of Urubamba with unique handmade ceramics at Laura Most Workshop & Store, where tradition meets artistic expression.

As the day drew to a close, we found ourselves at La Makarena Tapas y Piqueos By Chef Jesús for dinner. It was the perfect spot to unwind and reflect on our adventures. We savored a variety of tapas, each bursting with flavor and showcasing the culinary creativity of Chef Jesús. The atmosphere was lively and festive, with locals and tourists alike enjoying the delicious food and drinks. It was a wonderful way to end a day filled with history, culture, and delicious food.


Discover authentic Peruvian flavors at La Makarena Tapas y Piqueos - A must-visit culinary destination in Urubamba.

Tomorrow, we are heading to Cusco to explore the Twelve Angled Stone and Wat'a. I'm looking forward to discovering more of the city's hidden gems and immersing ourselves in its vibrant culture. I am also looking forward to trying the local restaurants: Huaynas Restaurante Campestre for breakfast, Tierra Cocina Artesanal / Urubamba for lunch, and Picanteria Tradicional Mama Cecilia for dinner. And, if we have time, we might even check out Ukumari Cafe Bar for a nightcap.

It’s days like today that remind me why I love to travel. The opportunity to learn about different cultures, to explore ancient ruins, and to connect with the people who call this place home is truly invaluable. And to share these experiences with Liam and the kids makes it all the more special.

As I sit here tonight, reflecting on our adventures, I am filled with a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to explore this incredible region and to share its stories with all of you. The Sacred Valley continues to enchant and inspire, and I can’t wait to see what tomorrow brings.