Solo Cultural Adventure in Cusco, Peru

A Journey Through Time in Cusco

Today was a day of diving deep into the heart of Cusco's rich history and culture. From the imposing walls of Saqsaywaman to the artistic streets of San Blas and the fascinating artifacts at the Museo de Arte Precolombino, every moment was a step back in time. It's incredible how much history is packed into this one city, and I'm excited to share my experiences.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at Mr Soup. I decided to try a traditional Peruvian breakfast, which included *pan con chicharrón*, a sandwich filled with crispy pork, sweet potato, and salsa criolla, along with a cup of coca tea to help with the altitude. Fuelled up, I was ready to tackle the day's adventures.

First on the agenda was **Saqsaywaman**, the massive Inca fortress overlooking Cusco. The sheer scale of the stonework is astounding. Each stone, some weighing several tons, fits together with incredible precision. As I walked along the walls, I tried to imagine the Incas who built this place in the 15th century, during the reign of Pachacuti Inca Yupanqui, hauling these stones into place. It’s truly a testament to their engineering skills and organizational prowess. I learned that Sacsayhuaman means 'Royal Eagle' in Quechua. It was more than just a fortress; it was a complex that included temples, and storage depots. Walking through the site, it’s easy to feel the weight of history and the echoes of the past.


Discover the ancient wonder of Saqsaywaman, a breathtaking Incan archaeological site near Cusco, rich in history and stunning landscapes.

The past is never dead. It's not even past.

I spent a good couple of hours exploring the various sections of Saqsaywaman, taking photos and simply soaking in the atmosphere. The views of Cusco from up there are breathtaking, giving a sense of how strategically important this location was. I learned that the site was also the scene of a fierce battle between the Incas and the Spanish in 1536. It’s humbling to stand in a place where such significant events unfolded.

Next, I made my way to the **San Blas View Point**. The walk there was an experience in itself, as I wandered through the narrow, cobblestone streets of the San Blas neighborhood. This area is known as the artisan district, and it's filled with art galleries, workshops, and craft shops. I couldn't resist popping into a few to admire the local artwork and chat with the artists. The San Blas neighborhood is located within the Historic Center of Cusco, and is often referred to as the cultural and artistic district. The walk to the viewpoint involves climbing some steep cobbled streets, but the ascent adds a touch of adventure to the visit, rewarded with one of the best panoramic views of Cusco.


Discover stunning panoramic views of Cusco and the Andes at San Blas View Point, a serene gem in the vibrant heart of Peru's historic city.

Reaching the viewpoint, I was rewarded with a stunning vista of the city. From there, you can see Cusco's clay rooftops, the surrounding mountains, and the picturesque horizon that seems to touch the sky. The San Blas Viewpoint is ideal for those seeking a more relaxed and artistic experience. It's a place where you can sit, contemplate the beauty of Cusco, and at the same time enjoy the cultural richness of the neighborhood. I spent some time there, just taking in the scenery and enjoying the peaceful atmosphere. It's a great spot to reflect on the day's adventures and appreciate the beauty of Cusco.

After soaking in the views from San Blas, I headed to **Museo de Arte Precolombino**. Housed in a beautifully restored colonial mansion, the museum showcases a collection of pre-Columbian art from various cultures across Peru. The museum exhibits in an orderly and evolutionary way: a Hall of Wood, a Nazca, a Mochica, a Huari, a Chimú, an Inca, a Virreinal, and also the Gold Room and the Silver Room. The 403 works of art span from 1250 B.C. until 1532 A.D. and they were selected from a universe of 45,000 objects belonging to the Rafael Larco Herrera Archaeological Museum in Lima. The building itself has a fascinating history, having served as an Inca school, a religious retreat, and a private residence over the centuries. It was revived and conditioned in its 2000 square meters by the BBVA Foundation, Casa Cabrera became the Museum of Pre-Columbian Art of Cusco, the first and only Peruvian museum dedicated to highlighting the art of the country's ancient cultures.


Explore the Museo de Arte Precolombino in Cusco, where ancient artistry meets history in a captivating cultural experience.

The museum is organized into different galleries, each dedicated to a specific culture or time period. I was particularly impressed by the ceramics from the Nazca and Mochica cultures, with their intricate designs and vibrant colors. The gold and silver artifacts were also stunning, showcasing the incredible craftsmanship of the ancient Peruvians. The lighting and displays are very well done, highlighting the beauty and detail of each piece.

By this point, I was starting to feel a bit peckish, so I decided to grab lunch at Pachapapa in the San Blas neighborhood. The restaurant had a lovely courtyard setting, and I ordered a traditional Peruvian dish called *lomo saltado*, which is stir-fried beef with onions, tomatoes, and peppers, served with rice and potatoes. It was absolutely delicious and the perfect way to refuel after a busy day of sightseeing. I also tried *chicha morada*, a sweet drink made from purple corn, which was very refreshing.


Experience authentic Peruvian cuisine at Pachapapa in Cusco – where tradition meets flavor in every dish.

As evening approached, I made my way to LIMBUS RESTOBAR for dinner. I'd heard great things about the views from this place, and it didn't disappoint. Perched on a hilltop, the restaurant offers panoramic views of Cusco, especially beautiful at night when the city is lit up. The modern decor and Peruvian dishes complement the experience, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists. The service was great and all the food options were phenomenal. I got the leche de tigrese trout, and anticuchos (traditional charcoal grill beef heart), with Chicha morada (local juice w boiled purple corn, pineapple juice, and a hint of cinnamon). I also got the Lumbus (experimental) bitter, a bitter based Pisco drink (tasted amazing and served in a bowl of ice with a light to make it extra fancy).


Discover exquisite Peruvian cuisine and stunning views at Limbus Restobar in Cusco – where every bite tells a story.

After dinner, I lingered at LIMBUS RESTOBAR for a while, enjoying the atmosphere and the stunning views. It was the perfect way to end a day filled with history, culture, and breathtaking scenery.

Tomorrow, I'm planning to explore the Sacred Valley, including Moray, the Salt Mine of Maras, and Chinchero. I’m also hoping to do some souvenir shopping at Centro Textil Acllas Cusco. I'm particularly excited to see the unique agricultural terraces at Moray and learn more about the ancient salt production techniques at Maras. It promises to be another day of discovery and adventure!

As I headed back to Hotel Polo Corporativo, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for the opportunity to experience the magic of Cusco. This city is truly a treasure trove of history, culture, and natural beauty, and I’m looking forward to uncovering more of its secrets in the days to come. Even though Sri and Bagus aren't here with me, I feel like I'm collecting stories and experiences that I can't wait to share with them when I get back to Toronto. Maybe we can even try making some *lomo saltado* together!


Experience the heart of Cuzco with comfort and convenience at Hotel Polo Corporativo, just 1 km from the city center, perfect for travelers seeking adventure.

Reflecting on the day, I'm reminded of a quote by the great Inca emperor Pachacuti: “Remember, the one who advances, never stops. ” It’s a fitting sentiment for a place like Cusco, where the past and present are constantly intertwined, and where there’s always something new to discover.

Until tomorrow!