Exploring the Heart of the Andes: A Family Adventure in Cusco

Reaching for the Stars and Saying Goodbye

Today marked the end of our incredible journey through Cusco, and we wanted to make it memorable. We packed our day with a mix of cosmic exploration and culinary delights, a fitting farewell to this enchanting city. It’s hard to believe our eleven days here have flown by so quickly, but I know we’ll carry the memories of Cusco with us for a lifetime.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at DEVA - Cocina Andina. Lena had read great reviews, and we were eager to try their Andean-inspired dishes. The restaurant was cozy, and the aroma of local spices filled the air. I opted for a traditional quinoa porridge, while Lena enjoyed some scrambled eggs with Andean herbs. Kai, of course, went straight for the pancakes. Fueled up and ready for adventure, we set off for our first destination: the Cusco Planetarium.


Explore the wonders of the universe at Cusco Planetarium, where stargazing meets education in a stunning Andean setting.

The Cusco Planetarium is nestled in the hills just outside the city, near the Sacsayhuamán archaeological site. The drive itself offered stunning views of the surrounding landscape. As we ascended, the air grew crisper, and the city below seemed to shrink into a tapestry of red-tiled roofs and winding streets. We were all excited to delve into Inca astronomy and learn about their unique connection to the cosmos.

Upon arrival, we were greeted by the friendly staff and ushered into a small, adobe-style building. The planetarium is family-run, which added a personal touch to the experience. The presentation began with an explanation of Inca cosmology, detailing how they observed the stars and incorporated them into their daily lives. I was fascinated to learn how the Incas saw constellations in the dark spaces between the stars, rather than in the stars themselves. They found shapes of animals and mythological figures, using the night sky as a guide for agriculture and navigation.

The universe is not outside of you. Look inside yourself; everything that you want, you already are.

After the indoor presentation, we ventured outside to observe the night sky through their telescopes. Unfortunately, the weather in Cusco can be unpredictable, and tonight was no exception. A thick blanket of clouds obscured most of the stars. However, the guides were resourceful and used laser pointers to highlight the constellations, sharing stories and myths associated with each one. Even with the limited visibility, the experience was captivating. Kai was particularly intrigued by the Southern Cross and the Milky Way, peppering the guides with questions about black holes and distant galaxies.

Lena, ever the art enthusiast, was particularly interested in how the Incas integrated their astronomical knowledge into their architecture and religious practices. The guides explained how certain temples and sacred sites were aligned with specific celestial events, such as the solstices and equinoxes. It was a testament to the Incas' deep understanding of the cosmos and their ability to harmonize their world with the universe.

From the Planetarium, we decided to embrace a bit of local fun and headed to Rodadero, a natural rock slide near Sacsayhuamán. I had read about it, and it sounded like a unique way to experience a bit of Incan history. The Rodadero is a large, sloping rock formation with smooth grooves worn into its surface over centuries. Legend has it that Incan children used these grooves as natural slides, and the tradition continues to this day.


Explore Rodadero, an archaeological site in Cusco, Peru, revealing the rich history of the Inca Empire amidst breathtaking landscapes.

When we arrived, we found a mix of locals and tourists, all eager to take a turn. Kai, of course, was the first to try it out, launching himself down the slippery slope with a whoop of delight. Lena and I were a bit more hesitant, but eventually, we succumbed to the infectious energy and joined in the fun. It was surprisingly exhilarating, sliding down the ancient rocks, feeling the cool stone beneath us, and laughing uncontrollably. I even managed to capture some hilarious photos of Lena mid-slide, her hair flying in all directions.

After our playful interlude at Rodadero, we were famished. For lunch, we chose Chull's - Peruvian Cuisine & Craft Beer, a place recommended for its modern take on traditional dishes and its selection of local craft beers. We were not disappointed. The restaurant had a relaxed, contemporary vibe, and the menu was full of tempting options. I decided on the trout ceviche, while Lena opted for the ají de gallina, a creamy chicken stew. Kai, predictably, chose the alpaca burger.


Discover authentic Peruvian cuisine and craft beer at Chull's in Cusco - a culinary experience that captures the essence of Peru.

The food was exceptional. My ceviche was fresh and flavorful, with a perfect balance of citrus and spice. Lena raved about her ají de gallina, declaring it the best she had tasted on our trip. Even Kai admitted that his alpaca burger was surprisingly delicious. To complement our meal, I sampled a local craft beer, a dark ale with hints of chocolate and coffee. It was the perfect accompaniment to the rich, savory flavors of the Peruvian cuisine.

As we savored our lunch, we reflected on our time in Cusco. We had explored ancient ruins, hiked through breathtaking landscapes, and immersed ourselves in the vibrant culture of the Andes. We had learned about the Incas, their beliefs, and their remarkable achievements. We had tasted new flavors, met fascinating people, and created memories that would last a lifetime. This trip was exactly what I had hoped for. I wanted to show Lena and Kai a part of the world that was completely different from Berlin, and Cusco delivered.

With the afternoon winding down, we decided to indulge in a final treat before heading back to the hotel. We made our way to the Black Cat Bar Cusco - Craft Cocktails & Spirits, a trendy spot known for its creative cocktails and stylish ambiance. The bar was dimly lit, with plush seating and a sophisticated atmosphere. The bartender was a true mixologist, crafting each drink with precision and flair.


Discover the vibrant atmosphere and expertly crafted cocktails at Black Cat Bar Cusco, the perfect spot for nightlife enthusiasts in the heart of Peru.

I ordered a Pisco Sour, the classic Peruvian cocktail, while Lena opted for a Chilcano, a refreshing mix of Pisco, ginger ale, and lime. Kai, feeling adventurous, chose a non-alcoholic concoction with passion fruit and mint. As we sipped our drinks, we toasted to our incredible journey, to the memories we had made, and to the adventures that lay ahead.

For dinner, we decided to go all out and booked a table at Tunupa Restaurant, known for its traditional Peruvian cuisine and folkloric show. It seemed like the perfect way to end our trip, immersing ourselves in the music and dance of the Andes one last time. The restaurant was lively and colorful, with traditional decor and a stage set for the performance.


Discover authentic Peruvian cuisine at Tunupa Restaurant in Cusco – where tradition meets flavor in a vibrant atmosphere.

We were seated at a table with a great view of the stage, and soon the show began. Dancers in vibrant costumes whirled across the stage, performing traditional dances from different regions of Peru. Musicians played lively melodies on Andean instruments, filling the air with infectious rhythms. The show was a celebration of Peruvian culture, a testament to the country's rich heritage and vibrant spirit. The food was also excellent, a buffet of Peruvian specialties. I tried the lomo saltado, the causa, and the rocoto relleno, savoring each bite and soaking in the atmosphere.

As the evening drew to a close, I couldn't help but feel a sense of melancholy. Our time in Cusco was coming to an end, and I would miss this magical city. But I also felt grateful for the experiences we had shared, for the memories we had created, and for the bonds we had strengthened as a family. This trip had been more than just a vacation; it had been a journey of discovery, a celebration of culture, and a testament to the power of family.

We walked back to the Sonesta Hotel Cusco under the starlit sky, hand in hand, our hearts full of memories. As we packed our bags for our departure tomorrow, I knew that a part of us would always remain in Cusco, in the heart of the Andes. It's difficult to express how much this trip has meant to me. Sharing my love of culture and history with Lena and Kai has been incredible, and seeing them embrace the spirit of Peru has made me incredibly proud.


Experience the rich culture of Cusco at Sonesta Hotel, perfectly situated near historic landmarks, offering modern amenities for all travelers.

Tomorrow, we begin our journey back to Berlin, back to our familiar routines and responsibilities. But we will carry the spirit of Cusco with us, a reminder of the beauty, the wonder, and the magic that exists in the world, waiting to be discovered. Thank you, Cusco, for an unforgettable adventure.

And to my readers, thank you for joining us on this journey. I hope our experiences have inspired you to explore the world, to embrace new cultures, and to create your own unforgettable memories. Until next time, aloha!