I arrived in Urubamba by car on the first day of my trip to Peru via Cusco. The drive was spectacular going through the mountains and valleys. Never have I seen such bright green landscapes and high mountains. I stayed at the hotel Sol y Luna which was not far from the center of town. It was at the restaurant on the property that I had my first experience with the local fare of guinea pig, alpaca, and pisco sours. If I had to relate my experience to what I am familiar with, I would have to say that guinea pig reminded me of chicken, alpaca was a bit gamier, and the pisco sours were similar to margaritas with no salt. I was so excited the next day to take a car for almost 2 hours partially up a dirt road to the highlands and visit a small village. The houses were made of rock and mud with thatched roofs. They consisted of one big room with small windows. In the corner was an area for cooking and on the other side of the room were beds made from wood and animal skins. Chickens roamed in the yard and the guinea pigs lived scurrying across the dirt floor of the houses. The living conditions were really basic but the people didn’t seem be affected by it. Everywhere I looked, everyone had a smile on their face. Visiting the village was my best experience while visiting Urubamba. If I ever have a chance to go back I would do it again in a heartbeat.

 The valley on the way to Urubamba

The Andes

Flowers outside my room

Pisco sour…don’t knock it until you try it

Young girl herding sheep on the way to the village

Typical house in the village

Woman spinning thread to make clothing

Traditional garb in the highlands

Young girl carrying her baby sister

Raquel…she stole my heart

Guinea Pig…it’s what’s for dinner

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