Peru with Kids: A Refined Family Travel Guide

Peru with kids can be one of the most rewarding holidays you can have, with all the varied offerings of South America condensed into one small country. Discover the wonder of Machu Picchu, one of the world’s greatest archaeological discoveries, while the kids try to spot capybaras and monkeys on a guided trek in the Amazon, or make their way along the Scared Valley.

When planning a family trip to Peru it is important to consider a few things. Altitude, distance between destinations and the pace of the trip. In this guide we cover where to go, fun activities for kids and how to ensure that the whole family has an enjoyable time.

Let's get into it!

Peru is a great family travel destination if you plan accordingly, allow time to acclimatise and leave some time between destinations. It is also very rewarding to travel with children from about 6+ years old, as they can tolerate walking and long days. Keep in mind the high altitude of the Andes at Cusco (3,400m / 11,150ft), and the uneven roads you might encounter.

Peru is a great family holiday destination with many exciting cultural, natural and adventure experiences. Rather than trying to do too much and covering too much ground, it’s generally better to focus on a smaller area and choose a few locations within easy reach of each other. Our top recommendation for families is to centre themselves in the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu.

The Sacred Valley is one of the best places to visit in Peru, if you are looking for an inspiring cultural experience at a slightly lower altitude than Cusco. Here your children can explore ancient Inca sites, visit vibrant markets and get a flavour of life in traditional Andean villages, with plenty of things to do in Cusco for families. Taking the scenic train to Machu Picchu is always a thrilling highlight to any holiday here and with sufficient time allows for an unhurried stay in this enchanting region.

Machu Picchu is a truly memorable experience and most families with children of 6 - 7 and above will find it rewarding as long as their children can manage uneven terrain and moderate walking. Taking the bus up to the site rather than the train helps. A morning visit is also recommended to avoid crowds. While there is a fair bit of physical effort required to get around the site, it is achievable with a reasonable pace and does not have to prove tiring.

Lima is a straightforward and comfortable way to get to know Peru. Families will have a good time strolling along the coast and visiting the parks in Miraflores, with plenty of options when deciding what to do in Lima. Besides that, they can also enjoy top-notch gastronomy that is also suitable for children. You can fit Lima either at the start or the end of your trip, since it will help with adjusting to the higher altitudes.

As dramatic a contrast to the Andes as you can get, a trip to the Amazon offers incredible nature & wildlife experiences in Peru, with close encounters in a safe and guided setting. Staying in high-end lodges ensures maximum comfort, as you’re guided through a programme of activities including boat trips, treks through the dense jungle and a vast range of wildlife spotting opportunities. An excellent way for families to encounter one of the world’s most special environments in a safe and secure manner.

The deepest lake in both Latin America and the Andes, Lake Titicaca is a beautiful and diverse destination with numerous traditional communities, stunning views and varied flora and fauna. Due to its high altitude it is not as recommended for younger children. However with careful planning it makes a wonderful addition to a trip to Peru.

There are plenty of things to do in Peru, from exploring the ancient Inca sites to discovering the beauty of nature. Perú provides an excellent mix of interactive history, outdoor activities and comfortable tourism infrastructure that allows for an excellent balance of kids’ engagement and participating in activities.

Visiting sites such as Machu Picchu, Ollantaytambo and Pisac is a great cultural and historical experience in Peru. Your children can walk the same streets, visit the same temples and see the same agricultural terraces that were used thousands of years ago by the Incas. These places are open air and very visual which captures their imagination and creates an unforgettable experience that is in a completely different league to learning about history in a dry educational setting.

One of the big highlights for many families is the train trip to Machu Picchu. Often referred to as the slow train, it takes you on a beautiful route right alongside the Urubamba river, and offers more than adequate space to sit comfortably with your family. Your kids can look out of the windows all day long while you all take the weight off your feet. No hiking needed!

Exploring the Amazon affords children with the opportunity to see many animals they have never seen before such as monkeys and exotic birds, as well as river species as well! All trips and excursions are guided in order to ensure the children's safety whilst having a fun and educational time. The way lodges operate ensures that children have a meaningful experience of the rainforest environment, yet at the same time also have a comfortable holiday.

A hands-on cultural experience is a great way to add a new dimension to your family trip to Peru. You can learn to cook local dishes at a cooking class, experience Peruvian crafts at a textile workshop, or visit a local community to gain a real understanding of Peruvian culture and way of life. This can be a truly memorable experience for your children, allowing them to connect with the culture in a way that simply touring does not.

The diverse landscape offers plenty of opportunities for adventure travel in Peru, even for families. Light family treks can be arranged in the stunning surroundings of the Sacred Valley, while families with older children may also enjoy horse riding through wonderful countryside and sandboarding in Huacachina. This excellent mix of history and culture with active outdoor fun is sure to captivate all ages.

Planning a trip to Peru with kids also involves balancing distance, changes in altitude and the different kinds of land you will encounter when moving from area to area. With proper planning you will be able to comfortably and easily participate in many activities and explore different locations. This will give kids a chance to have a good time at each spot without feeling hurried or overwhelmed.

The dry season in Peru, which runs from May to September, is considered to be the best time to visit with kids as the weather is more stable and clear. In the city of Cusco and the Sacred Valley the daytime temperature is generally in the range of 18 - 21°C (65 - 70°F) although the evenings can be cool and nights even colder. The coastal capital of Lima also enjoys relatively mild temperatures throughout the year, ranging from 16 - 21°C (60 - 70°F).

Traveling in Peru is most efficient when mixed with domestic flights and strategic overland legs. Flights can dramatically reduce lengthy days of travel, and on the ground, private transfers provide greater scheduling flexibility and an easier, more comfortable journey. Train travel to Machu Picchu is another popular, practical and wonderful way for families to travel in comfort whilst at the same time taking in the country's stunning

Acclimating to the altitude is a big consideration for any family traveling in Peru. To help assist with this, start in Lima before moving into the Sacred Valley and then onto Cusco to have plenty of time to adjust. Ensuring that the children drink plenty of water, performing less energetic tasks for a day or two and taking plenty of rest is recommended. A bit of fatigue and / or a headache can be expected when climbing to high altitude and are usually no more than a nuisance.

Peru as a whole is considered a safe country for families. High-end resorts and accommodations will ensure that your expectations are met and using a local tour operator will ensure a smooth running trip. Local food at high-end restaurants are also of a high standard and children will be well taken care of. We always recommend getting travel insurance, as it provides peace of mind. Another thing to be mindful of is sun protection in Peru, as the high altitude significantly increases UV rays.

Peru has really good options for high-class lodging that are just perfect for family use, mixing luxury, ample rooms, and excellent attention to detail. A great number of hotels and lodges, even the most urban and fashionable ones, are child-friendly while still keeping their top quality standards, so it does not become a chore to maintain a calm and pleasant pace during your travels.

These accommodations are a highlight of luxury travel in Peru, offering generous spaces set in nature and providing families with a serene and relaxed environment. Being at a lower altitude than Cusco is an advantage as it makes it simpler for tourists to acclimatize, and on top of that, big rooms, outside areas, and specially organized activities give kids the opportunity to have fun and roam freely rather than being stuck indoors and potentially getting overwhelmed.

Some of the boutique hotels in Cusco can trace their roots back to colonial times. Many have been tastefully refurbished and offer delightful, and typically family friendly, places to stay. Families usually love the location and the friendly staff, along with the excellent interior design of these beautifully maintained buildings. A haven of peace and tranquility after a busy day touring.

Staying at an all inclusive lodge is one of the easiest ways to holiday in the Amazon with children. Activities, meals and transfers are usually included in the price and there's a great deal of organisation, with set times for excursions and food. And with plenty of safety precautions in place and guides on hand to lead the fun, families can feel at ease while learning about the fascinating jungle environment.

Luxury hotels in Lima, such as those located on the coast in areas like Miraflores, feature stunning ocean views, generous rooms and superb quality service that is ideal for families. With fully equipped facilities including pools and proximity to several parks and dining options, these hotels are also an excellent accommodation choice for the start and end of your Peru trip.

A good itinerary will help balance the amount of time you are on the move, the time you take to adjust to altitude and ensures you make the most of your time doing all the things you came to do.

Days 1–2: Lima

After flying all the way here you will probably need a day or two to get over any jetlag and find your feet. In Lima we would recommend staying in the city's coastal area, in particular Miraflores, which has gentle strolls along the cliff, pleasant parks, and plenty of excellent restaurants. Keep the pace here relaxed. It's best to acclimatise your body in an easy-going environment before ascending to the altitude of the Andes.

Days 3–5: Sacred Valley

A wonderful alternative to Cusco, with lower altitude and an opportunity to get used to the elevation, gradually. Take your time here to really experience the Sacred Valley in your own way. Visit Inca sites, explore local markets, and linger in villages, or race ahead to your own favourite spots, as you enjoy the best of history, culture and geography.

Day 6: Machu Picchu

Taking the train and using the bus from the train station to Machu Picchu makes for a slightly more leisurely day. A slower pace of sightseeing at the site allows plenty of time to amass energy for a full but balanced day.

Days 7–8: Cusco

Continue on to Cusco. Here you will have a bit more time to acclimate to the altitude and take things a bit easier with some light touring, local experiences and just strolling about the old town of Cusco.

Let’s see now some tips that will help you plan and enjoy your trip to Peru with kids!

Peru with kids can be an amazing experience for all family-members. There are plenty of opportunities for relaxation, fun, education and learning that will benefit both the parents and the children as well! With proper planning and choosing the right places to stay and activities to do, you can ensure that neither the altitude, nor the distances or uneven terrain will be a challenge.So, if you think you and your family are ready to discover the wonderful country of Peru, talk with Tailored by Locals first. Share your thoughts, needs and preferences, and a local expert will design a travel itinerary that matches those specifications and ensures a safe and enjoyable trip for you and your kids!