Ayde Pedraza
CopywriterHi, travelers! I’m Ayde, Cusco-born and raised, an archaeologist, conservator, and architecture lover. I love traveling, hiking, and photographing anything that sparks my curiosity because when a place surprises me, I simply have to learn the story behind it and explore the details that make it truly unique. That usually leaves me thinking, “I have to share this!” So here I am, writing it all down for you.
Articles (23)
Llama Trail, a New Route from Qoricancha to Machu Picchu
Llama Trail is a route created by Responsible Trekking and Travel that connects Cusco’s historic center with Machu Picchu via ancient Inca trails. On the first day,…
Machu Picchu: Tickets, Prices, and Tips
Visiting Machu Picchu is straightforward if you are familiar with the entry tickets, prices, circuits, and the best ways to get there from Cusco. Discover what to…
Cusco Cathedral: History, tickets, and must see works of art
The Cusco Cathedral awaits you in the heart of Plaza de Armas, offering centuries of history, colonial architecture, and remarkable works from the Cusco School of…
Stone of the 12 Angles
The Stone of the 12 Angles in Cusco is one of the most renowned examples of Inca architecture and engineering. Located on Hatun Rumiyoc Street, this massive stone…
Pachamama Ceremony in Cusco: Meaning, Ceremony, and Offerings to Pachamama
Pachamama Ceremony in Cusco is an ancient Andean tradition dedicated to Pachamama. During this ceremony, you can take part in an offering to express gratitude, ask…
Todos los Santos in Cusco: Traditions, T’anta Wawa, and Things to Do
Dare to travel to the Andes in November and experience the spirituality, traditions, and emotion surrounding Todos los Santos in Cusco, celebrated every year on…
Llamas, Alpacas, Vicuñas, and Guanacos: Differences and Where to See Them
Llamas, alpacas, vicuñas, and guanacos are an essential part of the landscapes and culture of the Peruvian Andes. In this blog, you’ll learn how to tell these four…
Huchuy Qosqo: How to get there, routes, treks, History, and what to see
Huchuy Qosqo is an Inca archaeological site perched above the Sacred Valley at around 3,600 m (11,811 ft) in elevation, overlooking Lamay. You can reach it on foot…
Sacsayhuamán Cusco: History, Tickets, Schedules and How to Visit
Sacsayhuamán is one of Cusco's major archaeological sites, renowned for its massive stone walls, ceremonial terraces, and connection to the ancient capital of…
San Pedro Market, Cusco: complete guide, opening hours, prices, and what to see
San Pedro Market is one of Cusco’s most traditional markets and an interesting stop if you want to experience the city beyond its archaeological sites. As you walk…
Coricancha Cusco: History, tickets, hours, and how to visit the temple of the sun
Coricancha, also known as Qorikancha or the Temple of the Sun, was one of the most important sanctuaries in the Inca world and was primarily dedicated to Inti, the…
Cusco Plaza de Armas: History, what to see, and visitor’s Guide
Cusco’s Plaza de Armas is much more than the iconic square you see in photographs of the city. Here, you can experience how Cusco’s Inca past, colonial history, and…
Santa Cruz Trek (Huaraz): Itinerary, price, difficulty, and altitude
The Santa Cruz Trek is a multi day hike through the Cordillera Blanca in Huaraz, Peru. The route covers approximately 47 km (29 miles), reaches an elevation of 4…
Best restaurants in Huaraz: Where to enjoy great food at the foot of the Cordillera Blanca
Are you looking for the best restaurants in Huaraz, Peru? We have gathered options to suit various tastes and budgets, ranging from traditional Ancash cuisine to…
Exotic fruits of Peru: 20 Peruvian fruits you must try
Peru is one of South America's most interesting destinations for discovering lesser known fruits. From the Amazon's aguaje and camu camu to the Andean lúcuma,…
Tara: what it is, characteristics, benefits, uses, and how to plant it in Peru
The tara is a tree native to the Peruvian Andes, recognized for its economic, environmental, and industrial importance. Its pods contain tannins used in the leather…
Elder tree: Characteristics, benefits, and how to identify it
Andean elder tree is much more than a native tree of Peru. Its flowers, berries, and wood have supported andean communities for generations and continue to attract…
Molle, the Inca tree that still gives life to the Andes
The molle is much more than a tree that grows in the andes. For centuries, it has provided food, medicine, shade, and even the ingredients for a ceremonial beverage…
Meet the Chachacomo, one of the andes' most important trees
The chachacomo is a native tree that has been growing in the Andes for centuries. Although it's rarely noticed, it plays a vital role in keeping the high altitude…
Inti Punku Ollantaytambo: Everything you need to know about the Inca sun gate and its spectacular hike
Inti Punku, also known as the Inca sun gate, stands high in the mountains overlooking Ollantaytambo. In this complete guide, you'll find everything you need to plan…