Exploring the Sacred Valley: A Cultural Odyssey with Family

Sacred Stones and Golden Flavors

Today was a day of diving deep into the heart of Cusco, exploring its ancient roots and savoring the flavors that make this region so unique. It was a beautiful blend of history, culture, and culinary delights, a true feast for the senses. Liam and I set out with a sense of excitement, eager to uncover the secrets hidden within these ancient stones.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast – well, as hearty as I can get with the altitude still playing games with my appetite. We started with Choclo con Queso, a traditional Cusquenian dish that I had been looking forward to since we landed. It's simple, really: giant kernels of Andean corn paired with fresh, salty cheese. But the taste? Absolutely divine! The sweetness of the corn combined with the salty cheese was the perfect way to kick off our explorations. We found a small, unassuming spot that served it up just right. I even managed to snap a few photos for my food blog – the vibrant colors were just too good to resist.

After breakfast, our first stop was the Temple of the Moon. It was a bit of a trek to get there, but oh-so-worth it. As we climbed, the views of Cusco sprawling below us were simply breathtaking. The Temple itself is nestled in the hills, a serene and mystical place that feels worlds away from the bustling city. I learned that it was likely built by the Killke people, long before the Incas, and later refined by them. The energy there was palpable, a sense of ancient history and spiritual connection. I could almost feel the presence of those who had walked these paths centuries ago. Liam, ever the history buff, was in his element, reading every inscription and soaking in the atmosphere.

The Temple of the Moon is carved into a monolithic bedrock, with caves containing altars that are struck by sunlight and moonlight on certain nights. The carvings of the snake, puma and what some say is a vagina, were incredible. It is believed to be a very feminine temple. We explored the caves, marveling at the precision and artistry of the ancient builders. I even found a quiet spot to meditate, closing my eyes and connecting with the energy of the place. It was a truly special experience, one that I will cherish forever.


Explore the Temple of the Moon, an ancient Inca site near Cusco, offering breathtaking views and a rich cultural experience.

The best journey always takes us home, in ways we may not expect.

Next on our itinerary was Qorikancha, the famed Temple of the Sun. This was a complete contrast to the Temple of the Moon, grand and imposing, a testament to the power and wealth of the Inca Empire. Qorikancha, meaning The Golden Temple, was once covered in sheets of gold and filled with golden statues. It was the most important temple in the Inca Empire, dedicated to Inti, the Sun God. The Spanish colonists built the Convent of Santo Domingo on the site, demolishing much of the temple but incorporating its foundations into the church. The contrast between the Inca stonework and the Spanish colonial architecture was striking, a visual representation of the clash of cultures that has shaped Peru's history.


Explore Qorikancha, the Temple of the Sun in Cusco, Peru, a breathtaking blend of Incan history and colonial architecture.

I was fascinated by the intricate stonework, the massive blocks of stone fitted together with such precision that not even a knife blade could fit between them. It was a marvel of engineering, a testament to the ingenuity and skill of the Inca builders. Liam and I spent hours wandering through the complex, exploring the different temples and chambers, learning about the history and significance of this sacred place. It was truly awe-inspiring.

By this time, we were both famished, so we decided to grab some lunch. We opted for Pizza Wasi, a local pizza place that came highly recommended. Now, I know what you're thinking: pizza in Peru? But trust me, this was no ordinary pizza. It was wood-fired, with fresh, local ingredients, and it was absolutely delicious. We shared a couple of pizzas, savoring every bite, and washed it down with some local beer. It was the perfect fuel for the rest of our day's adventures.


Savor authentic Italian pizza at Pizza Wasi in Urubamba – where every bite tells a story of tradition and flavor.

Our final stop for the day was Guzz Alpaca, a shop specializing in alpaca products. I had been wanting to buy a new alpaca scarf, and this seemed like the perfect place to find one. The shop was filled with beautiful, soft alpaca sweaters, scarves, hats, and blankets. I spent ages browsing, feeling the different textures and admiring the intricate designs. I finally settled on a beautiful, soft alpaca scarf in a vibrant shade of blue. It was the perfect souvenir to remind me of our time in Cusco.


Discover the vibrant world of Peruvian handicrafts and organic products at Guzz Alpaca in Urubamba, a must-visit for every traveler seeking authenticity.

Shopping for alpaca wool in Cusco can be tricky, as there are many vendors selling fake alpaca fibers. A good way to check if something is pure alpaca is to see if it's cold to the touch. Pure alpaca and baby alpaca will be cold, while the synthetic materials will not. Baby alpaca is going to be more expensive and softer. I made sure to check for these things before making my purchase.

For dinner, we decided to try Wiñay Wayna Restaurant, named after the Inca site on the Inca Trail. The restaurant had a cozy atmosphere and served traditional Peruvian cuisine. We ordered a variety of dishes, including some delicious stews and grilled meats. It was the perfect way to end a day of exploring and immersing ourselves in the local culture.


Experience authentic Peruvian barbecue amidst stunning landscapes at Wiñay Wayna in Urubamba.

As I sit here now, writing in my travel journal, I can't help but feel grateful for the experiences we had today. Cusco is a city that truly captivates the soul, a place where ancient history and vibrant culture come together in a unique and unforgettable way. Tomorrow, we're planning to visit Catarata Poc Poc and the Qhalispuqyo Ruins. But for now, I'm content to savor the memories of today, the sacred stones, the golden flavors, and the treasures we discovered in the heart of the Sacred Valley.

It’s funny, isn’t it? How travel can sometimes feel like you’re piecing together a puzzle. Each day brings a new piece, a new experience, a new understanding. And slowly, but surely, the bigger picture starts to emerge. I feel like I’m beginning to understand Cusco, its history, its people, its spirit. And I can’t wait to see what other pieces tomorrow will bring. Good night from Cusco!

As I reflect on the day, I realize that the true essence of travel lies not just in seeing new places, but in connecting with them on a deeper level. It's about immersing ourselves in the local culture, savoring the flavors, and learning about the history and traditions that have shaped these places for centuries. It's about opening our minds and hearts to new experiences and perspectives, and allowing ourselves to be transformed by them. And it's about creating memories that will last a lifetime.

And speaking of memories, I can't forget to mention the friendly locals we met along the way. From the woman selling Choclo con Queso on the street corner to the artisan at Guzz Alpaca, everyone we encountered was warm, welcoming, and eager to share their culture with us. It's these interactions that truly make a trip special, the human connections that remind us that we're all part of something bigger than ourselves.

So, as I drift off to sleep tonight, I'm filled with gratitude for the opportunity to experience this incredible place and to share it with all of you. I hope that my words have inspired you to add Cusco to your travel bucket list and to embark on your own journey of discovery. And who knows, maybe our paths will cross someday, and we can share a Choclo con Queso together!

Until then, stay tuned for more adventures from the Sacred Valley. Tomorrow promises to be another day filled with exploration, discovery, and cultural immersion. I can't wait to see what awaits us!

One last thought before I sign off: travel is not just about ticking off destinations on a list; it's about creating memories, forging connections, and expanding our horizons. It's about embracing the unknown and allowing ourselves to be transformed by the experience. And it's about coming home with a newfound appreciation for the world and our place in it. So, go out there, explore, discover, and create your own unforgettable travel stories!

Safe travels, everyone!