Ultimate 2-Week Peru Itinerary for Families + 10-Day & 3-Week Options

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Last Updated on December 21, 2025 by Ariana Svenson

Looking for a 2 week Peru itinerary for your Peru family holidays?  If you’re planning a trip to Peru with Kids, there are so many different Peru family itineraries, activities and experiences you could choose from, whether trekking Machu Picchu, exploring the bustling streets of Lima or venturing into the Amazon jungle.

Peru, South America is a country that captures the imagination like no other.  Its’ breathtaking landscapes, fascinating history, and vibrant culture make it a remarkable destination for an unforgettable family vacation.  Here I’ll take you through the ultimate 2 week Peru itinerary and even a 3 week Peru itinerary if you have more time on your hands.  If you’re short of time, I also have an amazing 10 day Peru itinerary to show you.

We have lots of experience planning Peru family adventures.  We have designed you a foundation from which you can build your own Peru itinerary (with kids).

If you are limited with time, we would recommend the minimum family holiday in Peru should be 10 days.  During that time, limit yourselves to Cusco, the Sacred Valley area.  If you are Googling packages, you might see this described as a Machu Picchu family vacation.  The reason for this suggestion is that as you will be traveling to Cusco and Machu Picchu, which are high altitude areas.  At 3400 m (11,150m), Cusco is one of the highest cities on earth.  The most important thing for your kids (and your bodies) will be to acclimatize slowly and not push the body.

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 2 Weeks in Peru Enough?

I think that a 2 week Peru itinerary is a great introduction to this fascinating country.  You can see all the major attractions, get a taste for the amazing Peruvian food, and learn enough about the culture that you might want to plan a return trip.

I’ve lived in Peru for over 10 years, and since I moved back to Australia have visiting Peru regularly with first 1 child, then 2, and then 3 children!  In fact, I am in the throes of planning a 2023 trip right now and am using my research and updated ideas in this post.  That’s the thing – my advice is based on many visits (not just one holiday) and also up-to-date information about what is the best thing to visit now, not a few years ago.

On this 2023 trip, we will spend over a month in Peru, with 5 days in the bustling city of Lima, 7 days in the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu, 12 days in Cusco and then 4 days in the Amazon Jungle.  Interestingly, I don’t think that we will be doing any trekking this time!

Whilst you can’t experience everything Peru has to offer in two weeks, you can experience some of the best things.  And, I am confident, you will really enjoy your Peru family holidays.

 

Peru Itinerary 10 Days

This 10-day Peru itinerary incorporates spending time in the beautiful city of Lima, visiting the sacred valley and Machu Picchu and visiting the ancient city of Cusco.

Day 1 – Arrive in Lima: Overnight in Lima

Your activities in Lima will largely depend on what time your flight arrives.  If you arrive late in the day, we’d recommend getting to your room, going to the hotel restaurant (or even ordering room service) and getting a good night’s sleep.

This is not the most glamorous or immersive suggestion.  However, at this point, it is all about ensuring your family are well rested and in good health to have the most amazing Peru holiday!

Our own experience (with many years traveling to altitude) is that your body is better able to deal with the mild effects of altitude sickness if you are well rested and healthy.  Being exhausted from your flights and the dehydration that occurs during flying is not the best way to arrive at altitude.  This is another reason why we spend a couple of days in Lima before heading to Cusco.  Of course this will depend on how much flying you did to get to Lima!

More info at Baby Jet Lag Tips & Overcoming Toddler Jet Lag.  Also, Tips for Acclimating to Altitude with Kids is a must-read.

Where to Stay in Lima

As this is short of time, we recommend staying at Lima’s airport hotel, the Costa del Sol, directly outside the main doors.  Check here for current rates to stay at Costa del Sol Wyndham.

If you are looking for an immersive Peruvian experience, you might want to consider staying in the Historic Centre of Lima.  However, it’s still considered dangerous at night, so many families opt instead for arty Barranco or the upmarket area of Miraflores.  Having stayed in all three areas, it really depends on what you are looking for in an experience.

As a backpacker on an amazing Peru trip, I loved the Centre of Lima, and Barranco is a lot of fun.  Nowadays, travelling with kids, my preference is to stay in Miraflores, which is safe, has a playground, and also western style food like McDonald’s and Pizza Hut!  Miraflores is perfect for your Peru family holidays stay in Lima.  Both my first and second choices for Miraflores hotels have indoor heated pools, as we usually arrive in Lima after long-haul flights, and the kids love to hang out in the pool.  Check out the Casa Andina Premium or the Doubletree by Hilton on Pardo.  On this trip we will be staying at the Crowne Plaza.

If you want to stay longer in Lima, our guide to Things to do in Lima with kids and the Best Hotels in Lima for Families is a good place to start!

Where to Eat in Lima

If you are staying in Miraflores, then you are spoiled for choice with top-end restaurants.  We often head down to Larco Mar, which has a series of restaurants looking over the ocean.  This year we’re taking our daughter to the iconic La Rosa Nautica for her 13th Birthday dinner – and some amazing ceviche.

However, on the other hand, there are plenty of Western food options in the centre of Miraflores (around Parque Kennedy).  It’s good to keep the kids happy, even if you are in the epicentre of the Peruvian culinary scene.

If you want to discover more about Peru before your visit, read our Peru Facts post.

Day 2 of Your 2 Week Peru Itinerary – Exploring Lima

If you have just one day to explore Lima, then I wouldn’t miss a trip into the historic centre to see the President’s Palace and the beautiful cathedral.  The San Francisco Convent is often on the to-do list – depending on your taste.

In the afternoon, I’d head to Larco Museum if you are looking for a general introduction to Peru.  Adventure seekers might choose to fly over Larco Mar or do a surf lesson.

For families, I would plan to stretch your legs on the Malecon (Parque del Amor – Love Park) and then finish the day up at the Magic Water Park circuit.

Day 3 – Fly to Cusco, Transfer to the Sacred Valley / Overnight Sacred Valley

We recommend taking a mid-morning flight into Cusco.  Even national flights in Peru require a 2.5- 3 hour wait time at the airport.  So, a 10 am flight requires being at the airport at 7 am.  If you are staying in Miraflores or Barranco this will mean departing your hotel at 6am (ish) and a 5am rise.  In our world, this puts too much pressure on your families’ body.

After arrival in Cusco, assuming around midday, you should be picked up in a private transfer and transferred to the Sacred Valley.  Even if you are bus type of folks, this is one transfer that I wouldn’t skimp on.  It will help make your Peru family holidays go more smoothly.

If you have chosen to fly to Cusco with younger children, then it is very advisable to get to the Sacred Valley as quickly as you can.  To do so, go via Pisac, which is a lower altitude but a touch slower than the Chinchero route (which takes you up to 3,762 m/ 12,375 feet).  Plus, on the Pisaq route stop, at Awanacancha to get in a visit with some llamas.  This is something to reward the little folks after quite a bit of travel.

Again, make sure you have eaten at the airport!

Where to Stay in the Sacred Valley Peru

In 2023 we are staying at Lizzy Wasi and Taypikala Deluxe, both located just outside of Urubamba.

We originally planned to stay at one of my long time favourites, the Casa Andina Premium in Yanahuara but their family villas were booked out for the dates we wanted, and we prefer to have everyone in the same room.  This is of course a personal preference and if you have older kids, you might like to have adjoining rooms.

For other suggestions read our A Guide to Where to Stay, and the Best Sacred Valley Peru Hotels.

Where to Eat in the Sacred Valley

The Sacred Valley, being a long fertile valley, incorporates a number of towns like Pisac, Calca, Urubamba and Ollantaytambo.  Also, a great deal of the 4 and 5 star hotels, or resorts are located out of the towns in the countryside.

So at the end of a long day of travels, we tend to head to the resort restaurant.  Many offer great Peruvian food and local dishes.  You can certainly find something for everyone to eat on your Peru family holidays.  In Urubamba, we have El Huacatay and Casa Colonial on our to-do list for our 2023 trip.

 

Days 4 & 5 – Exploring the Sacred Valley/ Sacred Valley

Today is a  full day to enjoy the sights and sounds of the Sacred Valley.  Truly, for many people, the highlight of their Peru Family Vacation is the Sacred Valley.  There is space for the kids to run, fresh air and a warmer climate than Cusco, and there is less hype and expectation than Machu Picchu.

While Cusco is exciting and busy, it is also hectic and doesn’t provide the same opportunities for downtime.  In our experience, it is vital that kids get downtime on Peru family tours.

There is so much to do and see in the Sacred Valley.  The best place to start planning is to understand the logistics.  Our post-Sacred Valley Peru with Kids lists in detail the many things to do in the Sacred Valley.  Also, learn facts about the Incas to learn more about this destination.

Note – The classic Sacred Valley Tour that travel agencies promote is a very long day that incorporates ALL the Sacred Valley ruins, like Pisac, Ollantaytambo and Chinchero, as well as sometimes heading out to Moray or the Salineras Salt Pans.  In my experience, that is a long and daunting day for even an engaged adult.  My suggestion would be to focus on one area or set of ruins if travelling with kids.  For me, Moray is out of this world, and the Salineras Salt Pans really cool.

To Trek, or Not to Trek on Your Peru Family Holidays?

You could 4 days of trekking to make this a 2 week Peru itinerary!  If you are keen to trek in Peru with your kids then absolutely you have to answer the question:  Should I Take My Children Trekking in Peru?

For the purposes of these Peru itineraries, if you are set on doing the Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu you need to allow more like 12 or 14 days in Peru.  The Classic Inca Trail is most commonly done in a 4 day variation.  However, if you feel that your kids (and you!) might benefit from a slower pace, then some agencies do offer different variations, like this itinerary from Apus Peru.

For more inspiration on the top destinations for your family vacation in South America, take a look at our guide with great South America travel tips.

A Note About the Inca Trail

Even though this in on most people’s Peru itineraries, you need permits to do this trek as entries are limited to 500 per day, (200 trekkers 300 trekking staff).

Before the pandemic, high season tickets for the Inca Trail sell out 7 months in advance.  In other words – if you are thinking of trekking May through August (the dry season in the Andes, and the ‘best’ season to trek), you should be booking BEFORE Christmas!  Some shoulder and wet season dates don’t sell out until 1-2 months before, but don’t count on it!  At the moment (post pandemic – but still not a recovered tourism industry) permits are selling out 2-3 months in advance. Read more about hiking the Inca Trail with kids in our blog post!

Got your heart set on a trek in Peru but found out you are too late for Inca Trail permits?  Don’t despair, in our opinion, there are many wonderful treks that are off the beaten path and offer insight into the real Peru!  One of the best for smaller children (under 10) is a “trek taster” – the 3 Day Lares Trek.

Day 6 – Travel to Machu Picchu: Overnight in Aguas Calientes

You have two options today, and this will depend on your family’s fitness and interest in trekking when visiting Machu Picchu.  The chose is yours as your Peru family holidays should be as enjoyable as possible.

If you wish to get a taste of trekking through the sun gate into Machu Picchu, but don’t want to do a full trek, then we highly recommend doing the Short Inca Trail (also known as the 2-Day Inca Trail).  We explain how it works here in our Short Inca Trail with a Baby post.

If you are traveling with a baby or toddler – check out our Machu Picchu with a Baby or Toddler guide.  Our hints on Visiting Machu Picchu with Kids will also be helpful.

In 2023 half of our family (grandmother and kids aged 9 and 4) will be taking the train while my 13-year-old will be hiking the Short Inca Trail.  We will be trekking with Apus Peru on their Short 2-Day Inca Trail Trek.  They will organize for us to reunite with our family later in the day, as well as do the Machu Picchu visit the next day.

As the train trip from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes is only 1.5 hours, we are planning for them to have late checkout from our Urubamba Hotel and then take the Vistadome Train (with big windows) to Aguas Calientes.  There are a number of kid friendly activities at the Sumaq Machu Picchu which will keep them entertained.  Check back here to find out which ones we enjoyed the best!

Where to Stay at Machu Picchu

Without a doubt, our pick is the Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo, one of our favourite hotels in the WHOLE world.  You can read my full review of the Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo here.  It is one of our top recommendations for your Peru family holidays hotels.

That is definitely in the splurge-worthy category, so a more budget-friendly option is the Hatun Inti Hotel (large rooms with spa), or to give the Tierra Viva Hotel a go.

We have stayed in Aguas Calientes many times, and these are our family’s personal list of favorites.  You can discover more about this hotel and more of the Best Family Hotels in Machu Picchu here.

Where to Eat in Machu Picchu

There is a wide range of restaurants in Aguas Calientes – our favourite is Café Inkaterra. If you want to eat in Machu Picchu itself, there is only one option – the Tinkuy Buffet Restaurant.  It is a great way to finish your Machu Picchu visit.

 

Day 7 – Visit Machu Picchu & Return to Cusco

If you are traveling with toddlers or young people under 4, then this post gives you a starting point about Trekking with Toddlers in The Andes.  We trekked the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu with a 1-year-old.

Relatively new rules mean that visits to Machu Picchu are now limited to 2 hours, and you must be accompanied by a registered tour guide at all times and follow a specific route around the ruins.  While disappointing for visitors that like to take their time and soak in the atmosphere, it is a good initiative for the long-term sustainability of Machu Picchu.

If you are wondering if you should get up early and be at Machu Picchu at 6 am, I would say – no, not really.  The citadel is often shrouded in mist and clouds in the morning.  Plus, Inca Trail hikers tend to arrive at that time.  I believe the sweet spot is around 9 am before the day trippers from Cusco arrive.  At that time, the clouds should have also cleared.  We will be doing Circuit 2 in 2023 and will report back on how that goes!

After lunch at the Tinkuy Buffet Restaurant, it’s time to travel back to Cusco.  Only limited trains go all the way to Cusco – and they take over 4 hours.  It is quicker to take the train to Ollantaytambo and then a car or van to Cusco (more like 3.5 hours).

All reputable travel agencies will include this transfer in a private van directly to your hotel.  Believe me, after a day at Machu Picchu and quite a lot of travel, you will be glad to be hassle-free and dropped at your hotel door!

What about Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain?

If you are fit and don’t mind heights then you may want to add value to your Peru family holidays by visiting one of the two mountains at Machu Picchu.

Huayna Picchu is particularly steep and difficult and is not recommended for people who are unfit or afraid of heights.  Machu Picchu Mountain is better for children but is still a steep, hard climb.

Day 8 & 9 – Explore Cusco

For the next two days, you will have the chance to explore Cusco.  A fascinating city considered the bellybutton of the world by the Incas.  A fun-filled place to spend a few days enjoying your Peru family holidays.

In Cusco, you see global modernization exist alongside ancient indigenous culture.  Wander into some of the more traditional barrios (those surrounding Mercado San Pedro) and the indigenous culture; its language is alive and well.

If your kids are small (ours were 2 and 5 during our last trip), they will most definitely be itching to get to a playground.  There are some good ones in Cusco.  Read Cusco with Kids.

We also highly recommend the Choco Museo –  See our Choco Museo Cusco Peru Review here.

Other Things to do in Cusco with Kids 

Plaza de Armas or Plaza San Francisco:  These are the main squares in Cusco and often host a variety of events.  Sit down and watch the world go by, watch the street performances and admire the colonial architecture.

San Pedro Market:  This lively market is a fantastic place to introduce kids to the vibrant Peruvian culture and cuisine.  They can discover various fruits, vegetables, spices, and other food items they may not have seen before.  It’s also a great place to find souvenirs.

Museo De Arte Precolumbiano:  Home to a collection of art pieces from ancient Peru.  It offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of the Inca and pre-Inca cultures.

Santo Domingo Church and the Coricancha:  Originally the most important temple in the Inca Empire, the Coricancha was largely demolished by the Spanish, who built the Santo Domingo Church on its foundations.  It’s a fascinating place to explore, with its mix of the Inca ruins and colonial architecture.

Shopping at the Markets:  Cusco is full of small markets selling everything from clothes and toys to handicrafts and souvenirs.  Some popular markets include the San Blas Market and the Cusco Craft Market.  Make sure you check out the local markets on your Peru family holidays trip.

Note:  A general note on the itinerary.  If you look at the list of things to do with kids in the Sacred Valley vs the list of things to do in Cusco and think that the Cusco list appeals to your family more, just cut one of the Sacred Valley days and switch it for a day in Cusco.  This will depend on your likes and interests.  The reason the Sacred Valley days are at the front of the program is to help with acclimatization.  We always recommend for smaller kids that you always build up to a stay in Cusco.

Where to Stay in Cusco

What is there to do and where to stay in Cusco with kids on your Peru family holidays?  Check out Best Family Hotels in Cusco.

Where to Eat in Cusco When You Visit Peru

Oh my, the world is your oyster in Cusco.  There are literally so many different international cuisines, as well as some excellent Novo Andino restaurants from top Peruvian chefs like Gaston Acurio (ChiCha) and Limo in the Plaza de Armas.

If travelling with kids, Jacks Cafe is a Cusco institution with some awesome Western comfort food!  We always head to the best pollo a la brasa en all of Cusco at Los Toldos!

Day Trips from Cusco

Visit Rainbow Mountain:  One of the newest and most famous attractions in Peru is the Rainbow Mountain or Montaña de Siete Colores.

I am not a huge fan of this Insta-attraction, and I have covered the reasons why here in my post about Visiting Rainbow Mountain with Kids.  If you are considering visiting on your Peru family holidays make sure you inform yourself.  If you want to discover more about visiting Rainbow Mountain, you can read our Facts about the Rainbow Mountain post here.

Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain:  Alternatively, you can hike the lesser-known Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain, which does not include as much trekking and is equally attractive!

Apus Peru runs a trekking tour to Palccoyo mountain daily (age 8+).  This does not include as much trekking as a visit to Rainbow Mountain, but it’s equally attractive.  You’ll also see the Red Valley and Ausangate Mountain and stop at Checacupe to see the Colonial and Inca bridges. Read more about the tour here.

Lake Humantay:  Another popular day trip from Cusco is visiting the hyper-blue Lake Humantay.  It is a stunning glacial lake with crystalline turquoise waters surrounded by amazing mountain views.

This is perfect if you want to explore the nature of Peru.  Apus Peru runs a good tour (age 8+) where you’ll get a transfer to the lake and a short trek where you’ll have stunning views and also visit the Visit Tarawasi archaeological site.  Read more about the tour here.

Day 10 – Fly Home or Continue Your Peru Adventure Into the Amazon

Today you will either fly home (via Lima) or head onto the Peruvian Amazon.

We highly recommend the Puerto Maldonado area for reduced travel times and some amazing Amazon experiences.  I’ve stayed on the Rio Piedras and the Rio Tambopata before and love the area.

What If You Have More Time For Your Peru Family Holidays? 

We would recommend spending MUCH more time in Peru than simply 10 days.  However, we built the 10-day itinerary around the idea that people want to visit Machu Picchu and Cusco.  When traveling with small kids, it is important to be kind to their bodies and go slow at altitude.  If you have more time we would add any of these to your Peru itinerary:

14-16 days – Non-Trekking Itinerary with Kids 

Add 1-2 days in the beginning to explore Lima.  We love this city and have documented the best things to do in Lima and the best things to do in Miraflores.  Also, we check out our Lima accommodation guide.

The Best Things to do in Lima for Kids

Lima Peru Hotels –Best Kid Friendly Choices

2 Week Peru Itinerary

If you spend more than 10 days in Peru on your Peru family holidays, you’ll have the chance to explore the Amazon.  Alternatively, you could add one of the activities I have suggested in the 3-week Peru itinerary.

Here’s your ultimate Peru 2 week itinerary:

Day 11  – Exploring the Amazon

For us, when traveling as a family cost and practicality are important.  Visiting the Amazon Jungle of Peru, you need to think about price and its practicality.  That’s why our choice for the Peruvian Amazon is Puerto Maldonado which is a short 1-hour flight from Cusco.

There is a range of top quality lodges in this area (see links below).

Check here for more information and current rates for Posada Amazonas.

Look here for more information and current rates for Hacienda Concepcion.

Check here for more information and current rates for Inkaterra Amazonica.

Puerto Maldonado is a malaria zone.  However, at lower risk (that is, fewer cases in recent years) than other parts of the Peruvian Amazon.  See our post here about traveling to malaria zones with kids.

Day 12 – Exploring the Amazon Rainforest

In 2023 we will be staying with Rainforest Expeditions at the Refugio Amazonas.  We have chosen the 4 days/ 3 nights family expedition to the Peruvian Amazon for our Peru family holidays coming up.

While we are obviously travelling with kids and a family oriented tour is going to tick the boxes for them, I wanted to go further into the jungle to the Tambopata Research Centre.  This required many more hours in the boat travelling up river and I decided that it would not be an appealing idea for my autistic son.

There are a wide range of specific activities targeted for kids including a scavenger hunt, and tattooing with natural plants.  We are most excited to paddle around around the Oxbow Lake – and my son will be particularly looking for capybaras.

We also are excited to visit the The Chuncho Clay Lick which possibly attracts more large macaws than any other clay lick in the world.  I can also see the kids getting really excited about throwing a drone from a 35-meter-tall canopy tower with views across the tops of the rainforest.

Day 13 – Travel from the Amazon to Lima

This is largely a travel day, with our departure from the lodge at around 9am, in order to catch a midday flight from Puerto Maldonado to Lima, arriving mid-afternoon.

With an early morning flight out of Lima the next day, we decided to stay at the airport hotel Hotel Costa del Sol Wyndham Lima Aeropuerto.  This hotel has a walkway right from the hotel to the airport door!  Relax after your trip with a free welcome drink and free breakfast.  The hotel also has a spa, indoor pool, hot tub and sauna as well as a 24-hour gym.  I will be writing a full review of this hotel after our trip.

Day 14 –  The End of the 14 Day Peru Itinerary – Onward Travel

If you’ve chosen a 2 week Peru itinerary, it’s time to head home.  Arriving at the airport will be easy if you’ve opted for the Wyndham Airport Hotel.

If you’re tempted to plan a 3 week Peru itinerary, read our Peru itinerary 3 weeks below!

Peru Itinerary 3 Weeks

If you have the chance to spend more time in Peru  – that’s wonderful news.  This Peru travel itinerary will take you through how to spend another week in Peru!  With an extra 7 days in Peru, then you can add to the above itinerary by adding some of the amazing experiences listed below!  You will really get a chance to explore all Peru has to offer on your Peru family holidays.

If you chose to visit the Amazon in our 2 week itinerary, you could stay there for a bit longer before moving on to one of the options below.

In addition to adding more time in Lima (the capital city), a trek and a short trip to the Peruvian Jungle (bringing you to 14-17 days) there are a number of other sites you can consider to take your trip to 21 days.  This would enable you to spend a good amount of time in Peru.  You would feel that you have seen all the major highlights in the popular touristy areas.  Here are the kinds of things you could add onto your trip if you choose to travel in Peru for 3 weeks.

Add an Extra Day to Your Trek:  An Immersive Experience in the High Andean Communities

Add a day to your Peru trek for an unforgettable experience in Huilloc, an Andean community just 30 minutes from Ollantaytambo.

Engage in a cultural immersion by visiting a Quechua family.  Get a taste of life in the rural Andes with things like learning about the traditional dress.  Find out more about this tour here.

Go on a Huaran Weaving & Eco Tour

Elevate your Andean trek with a unique eco-tour.  Join Master Weaver Andrés Sallo and the talented Munay Urpi association for an enriching weaving experience.  Learn about traditional dyeing techniques and experience an immersive, hands-on weaving workshop.  Find out more about the tour here.

Visit Colca Canyon to See Condors: A 3-Day Tour

Adding 3-4 days for Arequipa and the Colca Canyon at the beginning of your trip, after Lima.  This allows you to acclimatize super slowly and properly.  We enjoyed Arequipa with kids.  Plus, the Colca Canyon is a bucket list experience, with condors and lots of stunning views.

If you want to visit the Colca Canyon, I recommend this tour with Apus Peru.  Here’s what you can expect:

Day 1:  Begin in the White City.  Here you’ll be spellbound by its exquisite architecture, sacred churches, and the iconic Santa Catalina Monastery.

Day 2:  Journey from Arequipa into the heart of the Andean pampa.  Marvel at the breathtaking peaks of the Chila Mountain Range, home to both dormant and active volcanoes, and witness the grace of vicunas grazing in the wild.

Day 3:  The pinnacle of this tour awaits on Day 3!  Visit one of the world’s deepest canyons, the Colca Canyon, before heading back to Arequipa.

Read more about this tour here.

Spend Time with a Family on a Remote Island in Lake Titicaca [4 Days]

You could add a 2-3 day Lake Titicaca to the end of your trip.  It is a high altitude city at 3800m and it pays to be well acclimatized.  The lake is home to floating islands built by the Uros tribe!  It is also bitterly cold and many accommodation options on the lake are homestays, so really basic.  We wouldn’t recommend Lake Titicaca for kids under 8 or even 10.

Spending time on a remote island is a perfect way to end your Peru adventure.  You will travel from Cusco to Puno by bus, with some important sightseeing stops along the way!  Once on the island, enjoy two days visiting the islands of Lake Titicaca, including an overnight homestay in a traditional indigenous village on the island of Amantani.

On day 4, you will be taken to the airport in nearby Juliaca for onward travel.

Read more about the your here.

Visit the South Coast of Peru

This is a particularly appealing option for those planning Peru family holidays during the December – February period.  That is Cusco and Machu Picchu’s wettest period and in the mountains it can be grey and misty.  On the other hand, the South Coast of Peru is sunny with blue skies for a few months of the year and has a distinctly “Latin” feel (vs the more Andean feel that you have in Cusco, Puno, or Arequipa).

We would highly recommend adding 3-4 days in this area.  We’ve enjoyed staying on the south coast for a few days.  Not only are there plenty of wine-tasting opportunities at places like the Tacama Winery, animal lovers can head out to the Ballestas Islands, and others will want to do an overflight of the Nazca Lines.

Very high on our list for 2023 was a trip to Huacachina to ride the dune buggies.  This was at the request of my 9 year old boy.  You can also try sand boarding on the dunes.  The dunes are a natural wonder and must-see if visiting the Southern Coast of Peru. They are a surreal sight!

Where to Stay on the South Coast of Peru

There are lots of places to stay on the South Coast of Peru.  You can view our post about the most amazing hotels on Peru’s Southern coast here.

Places we have stayed on the South Coast

• Hacienda San Jose, in Chincha
• Vinas Queirolo in Ica
• Hotel Paracas in Paracas

Nazca Lines on Your Peru Family Holidays

While the Nazca Lines are very interesting historically, I don’t feel that it would be particularly good for kids under 10.  We haven’t been there with children ourselves, and it is not on the priority list.  Mumma traveler says it is one of her least favorite experiences in Peru.

She has flown the lines several times and each time felt underwhelmed.  Also, read about the safety record of the flights.  They have improved a lot in recent years but worth knowing what the planes are like.

You Could Consider Bolivia!

If you have plenty of extra time, you might want to continue over the border to Bolivia.  Keep in mind Bolivia charges a whopping $160 visa fee to US citizens!

For example, you can travel first to Puno and Lake Titicaca.  From there, I would take the Transturin Ferry across to Copacabana, where you can visit Isla del Sol and then onto La Paz, one of the highest cities in the world.  High, hard and cold, if you are an adventure seeker, you might want to consider visiting the spectacular Salar De Uyuni and surrounding areas.

Discover more about Bolivia in Our Bolivia Facts post.

If you are interested in combining your trip to Peru with a neighboring country check out the Safest South American Countries – by Rank.

If You Need Help Planning Your Peru Family Holidays

I put my original Peru itinerary together with the help of Apus Peru, a Peruvian tour company based in Cusco.  They are locally owned and support local NGO and I prefer my travel money to go to the community as much as possible.

Trips are fully customizable whether you opt to spend 10 days in Peru, 2 week Peru itinerary or even follow a 3 week Peru itinerary.

Get your kids excited about Peru’s culture and history with our top picks for Peruvian Children’s books.

The Verdict – Planning the Best Peru Family Holidays

I hope how much we love Peru is shining through as you have read this information about planning a Peru family holiday (or Machu Picchu family adventure).  We know that we some good planning, research and organization you will have an amazing time in Peru as well.  It is a beautiful country, not only with amazing scenery but a truly incredible living culture, delicious food and welcoming people.

If you don’t feel that you can organize your Peru holiday on your own, please don’t hesitate to contact us to design you an awesome Machu Picchu vacation package!

 

Like It> Pin It> Ultimate 2-Week Peru Itinerary for Families + 10-Day & 3-Week Options

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