Last Updated on December 21, 2025 by Ariana Svenson
A Peru family vacation has it all. This country is rich in history, so a visit offers a chance for kids to learn about this fascinating part of the world. They are also guaranteed to have loads of fun along the way!
Another factor making a trip to Peru with family so appealing is that the local people really do adore kids. This means Peru family vacations are packed with local, cultural experiences because the locals love interacting with your visiting children.
We have traveled to Peru with a baby, with a toddler, and then with children and a teen – on our most recent trip, they were aged 4.5, 9, and 13 years old. We’ve experienced various parts of Peru with kids in glorious technicolor during the full range of seasons, from the Andes Mountains to the Amazon rainforest, and have done this with children of different ages.
If you’re planning a Peru vacation from the UK or Australia, also check out our Peru family vacation post. We also cover important info like travel insurance, your arrival transfer, and vaccinations.
This post may contain affiliate links, from which we would earn a small commission, at no extra cost to you. More info in my disclaimer.
Is Peru a Good Family Vacation Spot?
Peru is a great option for a family vacation, as Peruvians are warm-hearted and love children. Peru offers fascinating cultural experiences for children of all ages, from toddlers to teens. In fact, it’s this diversity of experiences that can be matched to pretty much all ages, which is why we recommend Peru for a family vacation.
Is Peru a Good Place to Visit with Kids?
If you are wondering, “Does a family vacation to Peru make sense?”, the answer to this question is most definitely a resounding yes! Peru offers families with kids of all ages a most enjoyable range of experiences. Here you’ll discover intriguing historic sites, enthralling wildlife, incredible biodiversity, colorful towns and cities, and a wealth of breathtaking landscapes. In fact, it is our number one recommendation in our guide to the top family vacation destinations in South America.
Peru is not your kick back and relax at the resort kind of family vacation, however. This is a place for those who like to explore the diversity of the world, plus its people, flora, and fauna.
Perhaps it’s true that there are a lot more activities for tweens and teens in Peru than there are for little ones. However, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t go with younger kids. Rather, simply understand your children’s limitations and go about planning your trip accordingly. We have always had a very rewarding time indeed.
How to Get to Peru from the US
Flights from the US to Peru mainly fly to Jorge Chávez International Airport in Lima.
From here, you can make connections to other major cities like Cusco, Arequipa, or Iquitos. Use comparison websites like Skyscanner, Kayak, or Google Flights to compare prices to get the best prices. Set up price alerts to receive notifications when the fares drop.
The following airlines fly direct from the US to Peru:
Delta, Continental, LAN, and American Airlines are the main airlines that travel directly from the US to Peru. Miami, Houston, and Atlanta are the main airports to get direct flights to Peru. Continental also flies direct from Newark to Lima.
If you are flying to Peru from Australia or the UK, read our How to Plan an Amazing Peru Family Holiday for more information on flights.
Plan Your Peru Vacation with Apus Peru – Incredible Peru Family Vacation Packages
If you’re set on traveling to Peru but need help deciding what to do, booking a family vacation package or guided tour can be a great option, even for families. Apus Peru specializes in unique, eco-friendly adventures with local guides across the Andean region.
Yes – I am a part owner of Apus Peru- but this means that I also have used my unique experiences in traveling to Peru with children in order to create the best itineraries possible. In addition, Apus Peru is committed to making a positive contribution to the local economy and employs Quechua-speaking individuals to provide more opportunities for those living in remote communities.
Whether you want to visit remote communities (sustainably) and learn about the traditional way of life, visit Machu Picchu with kids, or even stay with a local family, Apus Peru is a great go-to for a Peru family tour. From multi-day treks and packages to 1-day tours that would make a great add-on to your Peru vacation, there is so much on offer!
Tours can be booked for 2-12 people, and there is a minimum age of around 8 for treks. Why do we say that? As we all know, kids develop at different rates, and sometimes a mature 8-year-old will be able to cope with a lot; on the other hand, there are 12-year-olds who might find activities hard. Apus Peru works with the parents to try to work out what will be best for the whole family.
Here are some things you could get up to with Apus Peru:
Inca Traditions from Cusco – A Sacred Valley Tour (1 Day)
This one-day tour will enable your family to learn about the culture of Peru. Travel through the sacred valley and see life in a Quechua village called Rumira Sondormayo, and enjoy cultural activities in a traditional rural Andean setting.
Read More About this Tour Here >>>
Lares Trail Family Hike to Machu Picchu – 6 Days/5 Nights
On this trek, you will experience trekking in the high Andean region, discover remote villages and, of course, visit Machu Picchu. You’ll experience the stunning beauty of the area with fewer crowds.
Lares treks are a family-friendly choice, with their more gentle terrain and opportunities for cultural immersion. This family trek has shorter days and incredible cultural experiences, ideal for kids. The whole trekking team is native to the area and knows the trek like the back of their hand.
Read More About this Tour Here >>>
Chichubamba – 1 Day
Departing from Cusco, you’ll get a chance to explore Peruvian culture, Peruvian cuisine, and traditions, as well as see rural Peruvian life and listen to workshops presented by local experts.
By doing this tour, you are helping families improve their quality of life. It’s very popular with families with young children as it is interactive and not too difficult.
Read More About this Tour Here >>>
Palccoyo Mountain from Cusco – 1 Day
This trek is a perfect alternative to Rainbow Mountain for families, and there are far fewer tourists and similar views.
The hike is on a gentler trail with less elevation gain, and you’ll also get the chance to visit the remote village of Checacupe to learn more about high Andean culture AND visit the Palccoyo rock forest.
Read More About this Tour Here >>>
How about Trekking Rainbow Mountain with Kids?
The stuff of fables and legends, kids’ imaginations can run riot at the idea of traveling to the sacred Rainbow Mountain. In reality, though, it’s over-touristed and involves a day that is exceptionally long, cold, and muddy.
More honesty on Rainbow Mountain and children can be found here.
Peru Vacation Itineraries = Plan the Perfect Family Tour
If you want to draw up a schedule of your own for your family vacation in Peru rather than taking a typical Peru family vacation package, be sure to take a look at this Peru Family Holidays Itineraries post for lots of ideas and inspiration, whether you’re planning to visit Peru for 10 days or 3 weeks.
Just remember to set your pace depending on the age of your kids (e.g., shorter transfers and longer stops) and include plenty of downtime (e.g., chocolate workshops and hotel pools). Traveling with kids requires more time and flexibility, but it’s an incredible experience. Make sure you read our family travel tips guide and South America travel tips for more advice!
22+ Amazing Peru Vacation Ideas
If you haven’t spent time on this site before, you may now be realizing that it’s jam-packed with some of our favorite things to do on a Peru family vacation in full depth and detail!
To make life easier for you, we’ve organized this wealth of information into a comprehensive list that’s been broken down by area and activity.
So read on to plan your perfect Peru family trip – the simple way.
Lima
Lima is the ideal first stop on a Peru trip as it’s home to Peru’s main airport. To discover in detail everything you need to know about visiting Lima, make sure you read our guide to the top things to do in Lima and our Lima family-friendly hotels guide.
Here are our top recommendations:
1. Wander the Magic Water Circuit (or Parque del Agua), Lima
- Best Age: For all ages, especially smaller kids.
- Best Time: Do this one after dark. It’s at its best during the warmer months between December and March, but it’s very worthwhile all year round.
- Top Tips: Do pack a swimsuit, a towel, and a change of clothes. Don’t be turned off by long queues at sunset and definitely DON’T pay the ticket scalpers. The lines move fast and entry is only 4 soles per person.
This is a popular stop during a family vacation in Peru – and quite rightly so. Fountain displays, fairground-style amusements, and music may not sound that amazing, but it’s a must on Peruvian family trips.
The water circuit is a world-record-holding fountain show with lights and music! It’s thronged with local families and has a carnival-like atmosphere. Being here may even make you feel like a bona fide Limeño.
2. Take a Cooking Class in Lima
- Best Age: For 8 plus, or younger, as long as they’re able to pay attention and help out. Ideal for tweens and teens.
- Best Time: Any time of day.
- Top Tip: Make sure you are very hungry before you go! It’s the perfect chance for kids to try international cuisine.
Lima, Peru’s capital city, is a firm favorite among foodies from all over the globe, and appealing cafes and restaurants can be found all over the city.
The number one must-try dish is ceviche – an invigorating concoction comprising raw fish prepared with chili, lime juice, and cilantro. You can read more facts about food in Peru in this post.
The majority of Lima cookery classes will include a local market visit, cooking and eating a three-course meal – including, of course, ceviche – and a drink like Pisco or Passionfruit Sour – a delicious lunch. Local cooking classes are very popular with anyone taking Peru family tours, so do book early!
Apus Peru runs cultural tours from Cusco, which include cooking classes. Read more about it here >>>
Pro Peru Tip – If you’ll be staying in Cusco for a while when acclimatizing to the altitude, there are some superb cooking schools there too.
3. Go Paragliding in Miraflores
- Best Age: Minimum age 12 plus, and the child needs to be pretty confident too.
- Best Time: The conditions for paragliding in Miraflores are pretty much perfect all year round. You can book to go almost any day, and it should be a good day for it.
- Top Tip: Eat afterward rather than beforehand.
Miraflores is an extremely safe and walkable area of Lima with parks, beautiful coastal paths, and plenty to do with kids.
During our own Peru family vacation, my kids have always enjoyed watching the paragliders from the Larcomar shopping center or one of the parks dotted along the shore.
If you and they would love the thrill of seeing the colorful capital and stunning coastline from above, then booking a paragliding tour in Miraflores is a must.
4. Swim with the Seals at Callao
- Best Age: For ages 10 plus, with strong swimming ability.
- Best Time: December to February is ideal, as sea lion pups are born around then. Plus, the summer weather makes a dip in the Pacific Ocean a more appealing prospect!
- Top Tip: Do wear the wetsuits provided, as the water will be cold.
A number of operators offer sea lion trips to the Palomino Islands, and the voyage takes about three to four hours from Callao. Callao is where the Lima airport is located! Expect about 20 minutes in the water with the sea lion population. Also, do bear in mind that they can be noisy – as well as very smelly!
The Peruvian Coast
Stretching more than 2,400 kilometers from the arid deserts of the south to the surf towns of the north, the Peruvian coast is a must on your Peru family itinerary.
Here are our top recommendations:
5. Learn to Ride the Peruvian Waves
- Best Age: For 8 plus, or maybe younger if they have decent swimming skills.
- Best Time: The best time for waves is during the summer months between October and March. At this time, the Peruvian coastline attracts more northerly swells. Summertime in northern Peru is hard to beat, with consistent swells, sunshine, and warmer waters.
- Top Tip: Enjoy experiencing one of the most underrated surf spots on the planet.
With year-round offshore winds and consistent swells, Peru is an undiscovered surfing gem. In fact, some believe that Peru, not Polynesia, was where surfing originated. Chicama in northern Peru is also said to be the home of the world’s longest wave.
There are plenty of surf schools in Peru, and they can be found all over the South American country’s coastline.
6. Paracas Peru
- Best Age: 6+ as this activity involves a boat trip.
- Best Time: Mornings are the best time to depart. The weather is cooler and more settled, and you may have more time to explore the islands.
- Top Tip: Come prepared for the considerable stench.
Paracas is located on the west coast of Peru, and from here you can take a boat trip to the beautiful Ballestas Islands. These uninhabited islands are packed with wildlife, including pelicans, penguins, Inca terns, and sea lions. Dolphins are often spotted in the water, too.
Older visitors may also enjoy seeing the huge, ancient geoglyph of a candelabra carved on the hillside and the historic museum relics. Visitors of all ages will love seeing the wildlife and the barren desert landscapes, and of course, relaxing on the white sandy beaches.
Explore more of the southern Peruvian coast in our guide to Peru’s Southern Peruvian Coast With Kids. We can also help with deciding where to stay in our guide to the top hotels on Peru’s South Coast.
7. Driving Dune Buggies or Sandboarding in Huacachina
- Best Age: 6 plus, but the older the better.
- Best Time: All year round.
- Top Tip: Be prepared to get sand out of ALL the places after this one!
The biggest sand dunes on the continent of South America can be found in Huacachina in Peru near Ica. These are ideal for sandboarding and riding around in dune buggies, and you can see why they are considered one of the best spots for sandboarding. You can stand up when sandboarding, as when surfing, or lie down like you do on a bodyboard. Climbing the dunes is also a thrilling experience.
Pro Peru Tip – This experience can be a highlight of family tours to Peru, but do check the operator’s safety record carefully before booking dune buggies.
Check out below ideas for Dune Buggy or Sandboarding guided tours.
Things to do in the Amazon Rainforest on a Peru Vacation with Kids
Visiting the Amazon Rainforest with kids is one of the most unforgettable experiences you can have in Peru, especially with kids who love nature and adventure.
You don’t have to venture too far off the map to experience it either. Whether you choose the accessible jungle lodges near Puerto Maldonado, the remote wonders of Manu National Park, or the river journeys around Iquitos, each corner of the Peruvian Amazon is incredible. Here’s what you need to know:
8. Visit the Amazon Rainforest – The Perfect Peru Family Trip
- Best Age: 5 and upwards. There is a lot of travel by boat and on the water.
- Best Time: The best time to visit the Amazon is during the dry season (July to December), when water levels are lower and hiking trails are in excellent condition for explorers. Although the weather is milder during the rainy season (January to June), there is a better chance of spotting animals.
- Top Tip: There is a lot to consider when planning a trip to the Amazon rainforest, so we hope the following guide helps:
Ok, so if you haven’t been to Peru before, you might think that immersing your family in an Amazonian adventure can be as easy as arranging a stay at an all-inclusive jungle lodge (such as Refugio Amazonas – our favorite)before experiencing everything the rainforest has to offer… but there is a bit more to consider.
This wildlife-rich region is a curious locale and one of the top places to explore while in Peru with kids. So it’s worth considering a family Amazon rainforest vacation at some point.
However, there are some caveats to know about before donning your jungle outfits (find out what to pack here). So, do read the following before booking that Amazon rainforest family vacation!
Where Are You Going to Go Within the Amazon jungle?
There are actually three main areas in Peru from which to visit the Amazon jungle:
- Manu
- Puerto Maldonado (Tambopata National Reserve)
- Iquitos
These are covered in depth here.
The Sacred Valley, Peru: Your Perfect Peru Vacation
When considering Peru family travel, it’s good to know that Cusco and the Sacred Valley are wonderful destinations to visit. Due to the altitude, however, it’s wise to spend time acclimatizing – and that’s best done in the Sacred Valley, NOT Cusco.
As a general guideline, we drive straight from Cusco airport to the Sacred Valley, spending a few nights there to let the kids’ bodies adjust. This is no hardship at all, with lush flower-filled gardens, scenic mountain peaks, and lots to see and do in the area. For all our recommendations, read about the best things to do in the Sacred Valley.
For more information about acclimatizing, read our guide to Acclimating To Altitude With Kids.
Should you happen to be pregnant, we have also written Tips For Traveling To High Altitude And Pregnancy.
Pro Peru Tip – Don’t let the threat of altitude sickness put you off taking a family trip to Peru. If you acclimatize appropriately, this need have no negative impact on your trip at all.
9. Meet the Alpacas and Llamas
- Best Age: Even babies will appreciate seeing an alpaca up close!
- Best Time: All year round.
- Top Tip: Even though the animals you’ll meet in the Sacred Valley are domesticated and used to tourists, remember that they are still animals and may behave accordingly.
Getting up close to and feeding the local animals can be a highlight of any family trip with kids. There are various camelids to meet in the Sacred Valley area, mainly llamas and alpacas.
You can often take pictures of locals in colorful costumes, too (in Cusco), and may be able to feed alfalfa to a group of grateful creatures.
Pro Peru Tip – If you want to get to know llamas even better, we really enjoyed taking this llama trekking tour.
Find out more about the differences between Llamas and Alpacas here, read these fascinating Llama facts for kids, or discover some facts about Alpacas.
10. Take a Horseback Tour of the Mountains
- Best Age: 8 +
- Best Time: April and May are the most beautiful months here, when the mountains are still in all their green glory. The wet season runs from November through February, and the ground can be slippery. Talk to the tour operator to see if they’re able to accommodate you at this time of year.
- Top Tip: Your tour may include a delicious gourmet lunch.
Taking a tour of the Sacred Valley area on horseback can be a great way to see the area and get a local’s perspective. You can visit areas like Maras town, the Moray ruins, and the Salineras Salt Pans. The tours often include a lunch stop taken when riding through the glorious local countryside, and your local guide can teach you and the kids all about what you see along the way.
11. Learn to Make a Pulsera (Bracelet) with a Local & Learn about Native Plants
- Best Age: 5+
- Best Time: All year round.
- Top Tip: Kids will make their own bracelet to take home as a souvenir.
This is probably one of the lesser-known things to do in Peru with kids, but we really enjoyed our visits to the weaving centers in Awanacancha and Chinchero. It was very interesting to see how they turn plants and flowers into dye to color alpaca wool.
These wools are then hand-made into intricate items that can take months to complete. We were in total awe as we watched these creative women turn yarn into glorious patterns. Of course, prices for these items reflect the materials and effort it takes to make them.
Your family can enjoy process demonstrations of traditional textiles, including spinning on a drop spindle, making and using natural dyes, and weaving on a backstrap loom.
Try your hand at creating a bracelet with the help of one of your artisan hosts as your teacher. Check out some great weaving center tours here. Also, read facts about the Incas for more information on the indigenous peoples of the land.
12. Stay in a Traditional Peruvian Home – & Dig Potatoes with your Hosts
- Best Age: Any age.
- Best Time: All year round!
- Top Tip: See how Peruvians really live with this up close and personal experience.
Get an insider’s view of life in the Sacred Valley and local traditions by staying in a local home. You may even be able to help your host dig up some of their potato crop (in season)! As well as learning about local history, culture, and traditions, this is a great way to get close to the environment.
This tour may not be for everyone, as it involves a long ride to reach the land of the Yachaqs. Your family should also feel comfortable socializing with local people on a personal level than usual. Plus, you are faced with very different living conditions than you are used to.
If you do go for it, you may have the chance to try on traditional costumes, see textile-making, gather local produce, and eat lunch with the local people. More info on this option found here.
For more Sacred Valley accommodation options, read our guide to the Best Sacred Valley Peru Hotels.
13. Join in with a Fun Local Fiesta
There are festivals throughout the year in Cusco and the Sacred Valley, many of which are tied to the Catholic feast calendar. Truly, there really is nothing quite like a Peruvian festival.
Kids will love to see the rich, colorful dresses swirling, hear the interesting beats, and experience the overall feeling of fun. Some of the dancers (I’m thinking of those with whips and dead baby llamas on their backs) might be a bit challenging for smaller kids, however. My autistic son also struggles with festival marches, in general – too much unexpected noise and movement.
June is festival month in Cusco – but there is actually plenty to experience all year round. Find out more about Peru festivals here.
Sacred Valley Peru Adventure Activities – Awesome Ideas for Peru with Teens
The Sacred Valley is one of Peru’s most beautiful regions, and there are plenty of adventure activities to experience. This is an awesome place for seeing Peru with teens! The area has established itself as the Peruvian adventure capital, and activities they’ll love may include mountain biking, white water rafting, and zip lining.
Other appealing activities for those doing Peru with teenagers include discovering local markets, sampling local foods, and exploring ancient ruins.
14. Stand Up Paddle Boarding at Lake Huaypo
Your teens and tweens can sample paddleboarding at altitude at the highest fleet of SUPs (stand-up paddle boards) on the planet.
In fact, Peru can be seen as the home of SUPping, as local fishermen began riding on platforms built from reeds here some 3,000 years ago.
Other Adventure Activities
Other popular local activities for tweens and teens include the following:
Via Ferrata
White water rafting
Ziplining
Rock climbing
VVisiting Cusco on Your Peru Family Vacation
We’ve written plenty of guides to help you visit Cusco with kids. For detailed info, read our guide to visiting Cusco with kids and family-friendly accommodation in Cusco.
Here’s what you need to know:
15. Join a Chocolate Making Class at the Chocolate Museum
- Best Age: 4 +
- Best Time: All year round.
- Top Tip: Be prepared for the inevitable sugar rush!
Chocolate-making classes with the kids all around the Americas have proved so popular that Choco Museo has now started offering “mini chocolate-making classes” for children. These take place daily, only take 45 minutes, and involve working with both milk and dark chocolate.
In the longer tour, Kids will get to see a real-life chocolate factory and make their own sweets by using chocolate molds. The experience lasts for around two hours and takes place in groups of up to 15. You even get to take away your own chocolate creations!
Read our full review of the Choco Museo in Cusco here. There are also Choco Museos in other locations, including Ollantaytambo, Arequipa, and Lima.
Contact Apus Peru about their cultural tours for more information on chocolate-making classes and more! Further information here >>>
16. Learn the Local Lingo with a Spanish Lesson
- Best Age: 8+
- Best Time: All year round.
- Top Tip: Combine fun and learning during your days with a short children’s Spanish class for kids.
Taking a brief Spanish class for children can give them an introduction to the language. It’s an immersive experience – and more likely to encourage them to listen to local people thereafter.
There are multiple schools in Cusco and the Sacred Valley area. Make sure you ask the school about their experiences with your child’s age, as I’ve personally found they are a bit too structured for my kids. (Like you need to work which teacher and style works best for your children).
17. Enjoy an Andean Music Experience
- Best Age: 8+
- Best Time: All year round.
- Top Tip: Some patience is required to listen, learn, and make an instrument.
These classes allow kids to try playing all kinds of local and Andean instruments. They’ll also make their very own zampoña to take home and practice with!
Alternatively, if you don’t want to do a workshop, we recommend having lunch at La Cusquenita, where you are served up local fare, and then have an interesting dance and music show. My kids have loved it each time we visit over the years.
18. Shop Till You Drop at Local Markets
- Best Age: All ages – even babies will appreciate you buying them a fluffy new alpaca toy!
- Best Time: Any time the stores and markets are open.
- Top Tip: Don’t bargain too hard; this is people’s livelihood.
All vacations in Peru should include a visit to the world’s most colorful markets. Pisac Market is the biggest and best-known in Cusco, but it’s quite touristy and expensive.
The local Quechua-speaking people come here to stock up on goods and sell their wares. Prices are very affordable, and clothing or soft toys make great souvenirs.
Pro Peru Tip – Other markets to visit in Peru include the ones in Aguas Calientes, near the Ollantaytambo ruins, and in Chinchero.
Machu Picchu – A UNESCO World Heritage Site
While at first glance, a Machu Picchu family trip may not seem like an ideal option, it is certainly worthwhile! I’ve visited Machu Picchu multiple times with my 3 kids, kids of all ages, from a baby right up to a teen, and I have so much advice to share!
Make sure you read my guides to:
Find the best Machu Picchu accommodation options in this guide.
Visiting Machu Picchu with a baby/toddler
19. Take a Train Trip to Mystical Machu Picchu – Ollantaytambo and Aguas Calientes
- Best Age: Any age – even toddlers can get excited by the prospect of a train ride.
- Best Time: During daylight hours.
- Top Tip: Pay extra to go on the Vistadome Service, which has panoramic windows.
Honestly, the appeal of Machu Picchu family tours really depends on the age of your kids. When my children were aged just 5 and 2, they loved taking the train to Machu Picchu! At 4.5, 9, and 13, they also thought it was pretty cool. It’s 1 hour and 40 minutes, it’s not too onerous for them.
The truth is, you don’t have to take Machu Picchu private tours to see something of this world-famous site. Peru Rail provides the service between Ollantaytambo and Aguas Calientes, the settlement right below the sacred site.
En route, you’ll experience great service and Peruvian hospitality while passing ancient ruins, farmland, mountain ranges, and even rainforest.
20. Do Machu Picchu with Kids
- Best Age: 8+
- Best Time: Machu Picchu is unforgettable all year round, though the dry season is considered best.
- Top Tip: Be prepared!
What about Machu Picchu trek tours with kids? Despite your dreams of taking Machu Picchu family tours, it’s debatable whether the lost city of Machu Picchu will actually be the highlight of your holiday in Peru.
While I’ve visited with kids aged 1, 2, 4.5, 5, 9, and 13, I do think that was more about me than them, if the truth be told.
I really wanted to visit, but they had to tag along. Now that they are older, though, they are actually curious about these ancient ruins. Here is some great information to get you inspired about the Inca ruins at Machu Picchu.
Machu Picchu is a busy area that’s packed with lots of people. The guides talk a lot, and there are so many steps. My kids, especially the younger ones, liked the animals more than the ruins. The local llamas and birds could just save the day. Remember, you’ll need to book your Machu Picchu tickets in advance. There is a set number of tickets allowed each day to manage visitor numbers.
21. The Inca Trail: Possible with Kids?
So if you have older kids – say 10 and up, you might be wondering whether to trek or not to trek with kids in Peru. I have a lot to say on this matter! So much so that I have written a comprehensive article about whether you should take your kids trekking.
Spoiler alert – you are going to have to be very honest when assessing the fitness of yourself and your children. To take your kids trekking in Peru, they’ll need to be fit, resilient, and used to long hikes. If they haven’t done a lot of hiking in the United States or your home country, then please don’t consider doing this in Peru.
Why not read what I have to say about Hiking in Peru with Kids and taking the Inca Trail with Children?
Additional Ideas for Your Must-Do Peru Family Vacation
Peru has SO much to offer. It doesn’t stop at Lima, Cusco, the Amazon, and Machu Picchu! From floating islands on high-altitude lakes to the stunning Colca Canyon, here are some more places you could add to your Peru family vacation itinerary:
22. Explore Lake Titicaca and the Floating Islands
Lake Titicaca is a famous freshwater lake in Peru that’s also South America’s highest navigable lake. The lake offers stunning views of snow-capped mountains and provides excellent immersive experiences when visiting the islands of Lake Titicaca. There are homestays, weaving communities, and sometimes native wildlife. You won’t want to miss a visit to the floating islands of Uros, which are curious and a lot of fun.
We don’t recommend flying from sea level (eg, Lima) to Puno. It’s a whopping 3800m (12467 Feet) in altitude, and even when you are well acclimatized, you can really feel the lack of oxygen in the air.
The Uros Floating Islands are made from totota reeds by the Uros people. Visiting is a fantastic cultural experience where you can learn all about the indigenous communities who live here.
It’s also very cold on the islands, so keep that in mind when planning your visit.
23. Discover the Lady of Ampato – aka The Ice Maiden
If you have teens with a fascination for the grim side of life and death, they may be intrigued by the story of Juanita, an Incan ice maiden.
Legend has it that she was sacrificed to the Gods somewhere between the ages of 12 and 15. Her body was discovered at Mount Ampato in 1995, well-preserved in ice.
You can visit Juanita in the stunning ‘White City’ of Arequipa. We have enjoyed flying into Arequipa as a first Peru destination for acclimatising.
24. Spot Andean Condors Soaring over Colca Canyon
Colca Canyon lies close to Arequipa and is far deeper than the Grand Canyon in the US. The highlight for many kids and adults is seeing the condors flying in the skies above.
In this area, you may also spy giant hummingbirds, take a soak in the hot natural springs, and discover Incan ruins.
Remember – to cross from Arequipa to the Colca Canyon, you need to cross a very high altitude pass. You should have been in Arequipa for a few days before attempting this!
Top Pro Tips for the Perfect Peru Family Vacation
Find more of my top tips for touring Peru as a family in this post. It includes the timing of your flights, setting your body clocks, acclimatization, taking time for breaks, and learning about Peruvian culture.
Safety
In general, Peru is a very safe destination to visit with children. Peruvians are, on the whole, incredibly warm and welcoming towards children. Culturally, kids are seen as a priority, which bodes very well for your family vacation to Peru. Most of Latin America has ‘Atencional Preferencial’. Meaning Preferential treatment in airports, and institutions for pregnant women, and families with children under 5.
One potential issue to bear in mind when planning a family trip to Peru with very young kids includes the fact that they’re far more likely to get sick than you are. So do be careful with unfiltered water, ice, and foods that may have been washed.
Read our safest countries in South America post for more in-depth information
Pro Peru Tip – Child car seats are not widely used in Peru, so if you’re travelling with a child under 4 then do take your own car seat or ask your tour operator to provide one. This is just one of the reasons why booking with a reputable travel operator is key to having a safe holiday to Peru with a family.
Altitude Sickness
Altitude sickness can affect anyone, regardless of age or fitness level. Some areas of Peru, such as Cusco, are located at extremely high altitudes. Cusco, for example, is 3,400m (11,155 feet) above sea level!
The best way you can avoid altitude sickness is to ascend gradually. In some areas, altitude sickness and the extreme climate are other risk factors to consider. Allowing time for acclimatization is key when taking a Peru family trip to elevated locations.
The risk of altitude sickness increases when flying directly into Cusco from lower elevations. For detailed info about acclimatizing, read our guide to acclimatizing to altitude.
Budgeting
Costs will depend on where you go and how much comfort you want. Accommodation ranges from budget-friendly family rooms (and even camping on some treks) to luxurious Amazon lodges. You’ll also need to budget for food, entry tickets, and activities, as well as the cost of getting to Peru.
Accommodation for Families in Peru
Accommodation prices in Peru can vary widely. On the lower end, you’ll find family rooms start at $50 per night. Just make sure you book your accommodation at least a few months in advance if you’re visiting during a busy time. For in-depth accommodation guides, make sure you read the following:
- The top Lima hotels for families
- Hotels in Cusco for families
- The best Sacred Valley Hotels
- Lodge to lodge trekking in Peru
Book through a family-focused operator + Choosing a Peru Family Tour
Booking with a family-friendly Peru tour operator can make all the difference. Apus Peru specializes in authentic, community-based Peru family tours, including gentle treks, hands-on cultural experiences, and child-friendly itineraries in the Andes. Think private transfers (no scrambling for taxis with tired kids, no negotiating at midnight in Spanish), a dedicated English/Quechua speaking guide, accommodation, and transport logistics all sorted for you!
Experience workshop and hands-on cultural experience rather than ‘look and leave’ stops. Make your own pottery, meet local families, and experience the Sacred Valley with a local guide!
Get in touch with Apus Peru here >>>
Preparing Your Kids to Visit Peru
I firmly and profoundly believe that the best way to get the most out of your family trip to Peru is by preparing the kids well. No matter what the age, you can see some great kids books about Peru that we personally own and highly recommend here.
Or find publications to prepare the adults in this post! Here are some of the best books about Machu Picchu that we recommend.
These Fun Facts about Peru will get children excited about their upcoming Peru family tour. You can also teach them all about these Inca Empire Facts and Machu Picchu facts. These Fun Facts about Alpacas also make an amusing and informative read.
Pro Peru Tip – Find out what to pack for Peru with children in this complete guide.
The Verdict – Taking a Peru Vacation
Whatever your interests and the ages of your kids, there is a lot to do in this country, packed with Inca ruins, the Peruvian Andes, salt pans, colorful cities, and charming people.
This applies whether you book a full-on Peru family tour package or go your own way. There are so many other things to do in Peru, not mentioned in this list, too! See the oxbow lakes of Tambopata, try river rafting, spot wildlife, and learn how to make local handicrafts – the world is your oyster!
There are plenty of Peruvian family resorts and organized Peruvian family vacation packages to pick from. So, you can experience this beautiful, beguiling country together in any way you want to.
Here’s a map of the top places to visit with kids in Peru:
We recommend checking out Apus Peru to find out more about local tours
Like It> Pin It> Must See Places for Your Peru Family Vacation – Plus FAQs, Pro Tips & More
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