FAMILY PERU TRIP

Day 1: Lima City

Lima, the capital of Peru is the first stop on this Peru family vacation. The majority of people who arrive to Peru, generally arrive to Lima Airport and spend a day relaxing or exploring the city.  Whether you are fascinated by history, art, or culture, there are a plethora of things to do in Lima with children. Visit the Plaza De Armas in Lima´s downtown area, San Francisco and its spookily famous catacombs and the government palace, all found in the historic city centre. Then try some of the best churros on the planet a super popular favourite with the little ones. Lima has a wide variety of accommodations for families planning their Peru family vacation. There are three main neighbourhoods in Lima that most travellers stay on their Peru vacation, Miraflores, San Isidro, and Barranco. Each one appeals to different tastes. Miraflores is the most popular neighbourhood for visitors. It’s filled with restaurants, bars, shopping, and all of the amenities you could ever need. The famous Kennedy Park, The Malecon, on the sea front and the stunning Larcomar shopping mall are all found in Miraflores. San Isidro is one of Lima’s most exclusive neighbourhoods and has many luxury properties. It has great restaurants like celebrity chef Gaston Acurio’s internationally famous “Astrid y Gaston”, leafy squares, and high-end accommodations. San Isidro is Lima’s financial district, so has fewer obvious tourist sites to visit. However, it is an urban oasis away from the hustle and bustle of the historical centre and is a little more upscale than Miraflores. Barranco is a great neighbourhood for people interested in the bohemian and overflowing with museums, art, music and funky cafes. Barranco is a 10–15-minute taxi ride from Miraflores, but offers a very different vibe. Accommodation options are generally smaller, with boutique hotels and guesthouses with a more intimate vibe.

If you are only in Lima for a short amount of time, a lot of families opt to stay in an airport hotel. Especially if you have an early morning flight to Cusco or other parts of Peru. This will make your trip to Peru with kids so much easier. If you do stay near the airport, be aware that the area of Callao, is not a tourist district and does have a reputation as an unsafe area, especially when walking around at night time. That said, if you’ll just be going to your hotel for a night’s sleep and then returning to the airport in the morning, there is little reason to worry.

Day 2: Fly to Cusco, Explore the Historical City Centre

Cusco is a must-visit when planning a trip to Peru with kids, even if you only spend a short time in Peru. Most activities can be found near the Plaza de Armas, Cusco´s main square. Nearby, you can walk the cobblestone streets and see Cusco’s 16th-century cathedral. Make sure you go inside and have a look at artist Marco Zapata’s painting of The Last Supper, with a twist! Then, head to the colourful San Pedro Market, which is an explosion of tastes, smells and flavours with everything from medicinal plants and local food to handicrafts and Peruvian fruit and flowers. Make sure you sample one of the delicious fresh fruit juices for a vitamin hit.

Visit the Traditional Textile Centre of Cusco to learn more about Peru’s rich artistic textile traditions. Children of all ages, will also love the Bean 2 Bar chocolate making class at the Choco Museo. Explore the museum, learn all about the chocolate-making process, then take your creations back home, if they make it that far! You can book a Bean-to-Bar Chocolate Workshop or we can arrange this delectable tour for you and your family. Take a Peruvian Cooking Class and Local Market tour in Cusco, suitable for families with children over 10 years old. Or, try the fully hands-on Peruvian Cooking Class & San Pedro Market Guided Visit with The Rooftop kitchen which is a private tour for all age groups.

Optional*

If you have an extra few days in Cusco, take a tour of the 4 local Cusco ruins on horseback, or sign up for an incredible trek to Machu Picchu such as trekking along the Inca Trail o Machu Picchu for the ultimate iconic experience. If your children are young, then you can hike the 2-day Short Inca trail for the Inca trail experience but without the camping. If you have the time, there are plenty of other activities to add to your Cusco itinerary. Spend the morning wandering the stunning narrow streets of the San Blas neighbourhood, which sits up the hillside from the Plaza de Armas. This bohemian neighbourhood overflows with local craft stores, art galleries, and great restaurants. Not to mention, lots of charming cafes offering stunning views over Cusco city.

Sacsayhuaman

To experience up close some of the Inca’s impressive construction techniques, head to Sacsayhuaman. Children will love this ancient Inca site, featuring huge stone walls. There are also massive Inca stone slides that children can whizz down….. a true Inca adventure park! The site is accessible by foot or taxi, so you can visit without a tour. Here, you can appreciate the mystery of how the Incas carved and carried so many gigantic stones without modern machinery or tools. To learn more about the history behind the Sacsaywaman archaeological site, ask us at Kallpa Travel for the best tour of this site and the other sites close by.

Awanakancha Camelids Centre

If you have an extra day on your Peru family vacation, visit the Awanakancha Camelids Centre to see llamas and shop for alpaca and vicuña clothing and accessories, or head further downhill to the Pisac Market. In Pisac Market be prepared to bargain and do be aware that much of what is labelled as “Baby Alpaca” wool is either synthetic or regular alpaca or lambswool. Both Awanakancha and the market are located in Pisac, found only an hour outside of Cusco.

Where to Eat in Cusco with Children

For a great meal while in Cusco, don’t miss the delicious and creative takes on classic Peruvian dishes at Morena right off of the Plaza de Armas. If you want to try guinea pig, Pachapapa is always a good option. For vegans and vegetarians, Green Point is the pick of the vegetarian restaurants Cusco is famous for its cuisine with so many tasty Andean specialities, so make sure you try some of the more unusual gastronomic delights.

Where to Stay in Cusco with Children

Cusco has a wide range of accommodation options for all different budgets. Families can book a room at Inkaterra La Casona, a boutique hotel located in a historic 16th-century manor in lovely Plaza Nazarenas square. It’s also a few minutes away from Plaza de Armas and the historic city centre. Located in central Cusco in front of the Koricancha, Palacio del Inka Hotel Cusco Luxury Collection is another great option for families. Art lovers will adore the world-class art collection on-site! Families also like the more boutique hotels in The San Blas neighbourhood, among other options.

Day 3: The Sacred Valley

The Sacred Valley of The Incas is one of those iconic Inca destinations to visit during a Peru family vacation. Located in the foothills of the Andes Mountain Range, it’s home to a number of Inca archaeological sites and spectacular landscapes. Most people pass through this stunning valley on their way to the magnificent Machu Picchu however it is highly recommended to spend some time in the Sacred Valley and explore its hidden treasures. Intrepid families can enjoy a river rafting trip down the Vilcanota River on a half-day or full-day tour and rafting trips are available for children of 10 years-old and over. Enjoy class II and III rapids, along the way with more white water in the rainy season from November to March! Another excellent adventure activity in the Sacred Valley is a spectacular zipline, to experience the Sacred Valley of the Incas from a completely different perspective.

Depending on your personal interests and what you want to see in Peru, you may want to spend extra time in the Sacred Valley on your Peru family vacation. Ollantaytambo, a quaint mountain village known for its cobblestone streets, ancient ruins, and friendly locals. The entrance to the archaeological site is in the far end of the town. After a climb up the giant steps, with impressive views as the reward, explore the town, shop at the market, and grab something to eat at one of the many restaurants. Most tours to Ollantaytambo are combined with a visit to Pisac. As such, tours typically visit Pisac first in the morning, stop for lunch, and then arrive in Ollantaytambo in the afternoon. If you want to have the site all to yourself, it’s best to arrive in the morning when you’re not competing with dozens of tour buses.

If you have the time, it is recommended to visit the Moray archaeological site. Resembling natural Roman amphitheatre, it is still a mystery why the Incas built these circular terraces. Archaeologists believe that the site was used as an experimental crop-growing area. Each terrace has its own micro-climate with different elevations, climatic conditions, and soil compositions. Others will tell you that Moray was an alien landing site. Whatever its original purpose, it makes for fascinating viewing etched into the rolling hills of The Sacred Valley.

This trip is usually combined with a trip to the Maras Salt Pans. Maras, a small town near Moray, is known for its salt evaporation ponds that date back to Inca times. Families can visit the town with a tour guide, explore on their own, or book one of many organized tours departing from Cusco and other towns around the Sacred Valley. For anyone looking for something a bit more active, a few tour operators also offer ATV tours and mountain bike tours in this part of the Sacred Valley that visit both Maras and Moray. 

Where to Stay in the Sacred Valley with children

Many travellers also choose to spend some time in the Sacred Valley at the beginning of their Peru trip because the altitude is significantly lower than that of Cusco and allows for better acclimatization. Another bonus is that many of the hotels and guesthouses here can arrange all sorts of great family-friendly activities, like cooking classes, traditional handicraft workshops with local artisans, outdoor activities, bike rides, etc. Depending on which towns you plan to visit, you can stay at Inkaterra Hacienda Urubamba, a hacienda-style hotel located between Cusco and Machu Picchu. Sol Y Luna is another popular option for families who want to stay in charming, bungalow-style houses. Located in a rural area of Urubamba, the Tambo del Inka, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa offers a spa for parents, a pool for children, and a games room.

Day 4: A Day Trip to Machu Picchu

Staying in the Sacred Valley offers families the perfect base to visit Machu Picchu on their Peru vacation. From Urubamba, you can head to Machu Picchu by taking a three-hour train ride with Peru Rail. On the Hiram Bingham Train, families can ride through the scenic Andean landscapes on a 1920s-style Pullman train accompanied by cocktails and live Peruvian music. Your ticket also includes a bus ticket from the station, located in Aguas Calientes, up to the majestic Inca site of Machu Picchu, as well as a ticket to enter with a tour guide. Explore the impressive ruins, see llamas roaming, and climb the Huayna Picchu Mountain. For a break, enjoy lunch and afternoon tea at the Sanctuary Lodge, also included in your ticket.

Where to Stay in Machu Picchu with Children

Many families staying in the Sacred Valley choose to take a day trip to Machu Picchu. Then, they return to their hotel later, since there are more options in the Sacred Valley for families. However, if you want to stay overnight, we suggest the Sanctuary Lodge. It’s the only accommodation located directly next to the ruins. A bonus to staying at the Sanctuary Lodge is that you can opt for the impressive sunrise breakfast overlooking Machu Picchu. As you’re right onsite, you can also visit before other tourists have started to arrive.

Located in the nearby town of Aguas Calientes, families can also stay at ​​Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel, a village-style hotel that’s only 5 minutes away from the train station. While visiting Machu Picchu is doable in one day, families generally prefer to stay in Aguas Calientes. You can explore at your own pace, enjoy the town, and soak in the hot springs.

Day 5: Trek Rainbow Mountain

Once you have returned to Cusco, another popular day-trip is to visit the remarkable Rainbow Mountain. Famous for its natural stripey colours, this impressive mountain in Peru is also known as Vinicunca. It’s a bit difficult to visit alone unless you have hired a vehicle, so we recommend a tour from Kallpa Travel.  You’ll start your hour-long ascent at the foot of the Ausangate mountain range before reaching the highest point on Rainbow Mountain. Then, continue down for another hour.

Though this may be a long day for young children, it’s a good option for families who are short on time and want to visit in one day. The tour includes breakfast, lunch, transportation to and from your hotel. etc. This is another iconic destination to visit and well-worth a visit on your Peru family vacation. Kids will love the chance to see Andean wildlife and see the stunning red hills! Rainbow Mountain is a very popular day trip from Cusco which means there are usually a lot of people visiting the mountain at any given time. If you want to visit Rainbow Mountain when there are no people there, ask us at Kayllpa Travel for our specialist tailor-made tour itineraries that include a homestay in the region with an authentic local Andean family….an incredible immersive experience especially for the children in the group.

Day 6: Explore the Amazon Rainforest at Tambopata

July and August are popular months to visit the Peruvian Amazon. This biodiverse region is filled with breath-taking flora, fauna, and wildlife. From Cusco, reach one of the closest access points to the Tambopata National Park, a beautiful confluence between the Tropical Andes and the Amazon. At around 3 hours away, it’s best to visit this destination when you’re in the general area of Cusco. Certainly, if you’re planning a trip to Peru with children, this is an authentic Amazon experience!

If you book a tour, you’ll likely be staying at one of the jungle lodges in the region. We recommend The Rainforest Expeditions Posada Amazonas or Refugio Amazonas, whose included jungle tours include exciting activities for children caiman spotting, a visit to an Oxbow Lake to see giant river otters, macaws on a clay lick tours, jaguar walks, river rafting, zip-lining, tree canopy tours amongst others. Another good option is the Inkaterra Reserva Amazonica, an eco-lodge located right in front of the Madre De Dios River. Hotel Enai is another popular option for families. However, it’s more of a typical hotel with an on-site pool and restaurant.

Day 9:  Puno & Lake Titicaca

Planning a Peru family vacation usually will include a visit to the highest navigable lake in the world, Lake Titicaca. This beautiful, gigantic yet tranquil lake is located around 8 hours from Cusco and accessible by bus or train. A coach is the most economical option for families. There is also a service which stops off at a number of archaeological sites along the way, following the “route of the sun” However, if you want to ride in style, we suggest taking the Peru Rail Titicaca Explorer for the ultimate luxury train ride. Lasting around ten and a half hours, this journey isn’t for finicky kids, but you’ll be rewarded with breath-taking views of the Peruvian Andes as you cross-part of the sweeping Andean altiplano. This geographic area includes large sections of Peru and Bolivia and the environment and scenery are starkly different from that of Cusco and its surrounding area; as you travel, you’ll see the mountains and green vegetation slowly give way to expansive open spaces and a stark, unforgiving landscape. A gourmet lunch, afternoon tea, and live music performances are included in your train ticket, and guests can wander between cars for the best views.

Lake Titicaca with Children

Once you reach Puno, you should take a tour of this magnificent lake, which is home to many different types of animals and plants unique to the region. This immense lake is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s also a haven for migratory birds, making it the perfect family activity. You can also enjoy an immersive experience by staying with a homestay family on the island of Amantani. Here you can learn all about the Titicaca way of life, dress up in traditional clothing and play football with the local children.

What to Do in Puno with children

Once you are back in Puno, eat at a local restaurant and explore the city. Some other things to do with kids include visiting Parque Pino, Plaza de Armas, and seeing the historic cathedral. Puno is one of the major urban centres of the altiplano and is a centre for folkloric traditions. Many evenings of the year, universities, workers’ clubs, athletic teams, and all sorts of other groups will take to the main street in fabulous colourful outfits for music and dance-filled parades. The main parade in Puno, is the Virgen de la Candelaria festival held in February each year.

Day 11: Fly Back to Lima & Experience its Foodie Scene

Since Lima is where most travellers fly to and from the United States, we suggest starting and ending your trip here. Take a trip to the colourful lights and water show, the children will love it! Families also visit Miraflores Central Park, a sprawling park filled with sculptures, and enjoy the great views along the Malecon boardwalk on the cliff edge. Around dusk, be sure to head over to Barranco’s famous “bridge of sighs”, for a stunning view and an atmospheric wander in this very cool, lantern-lit bohemian neighbourhood.

Best Restaurants in Lima with Children

Lima is also a fantastic city for foodies. If you’re looking for kid-friendly restaurants, it won’t be hard to find delicious dishes across the city – even if your kids are picky eaters! If you’re staying in Miraflores, families who love seafood can visit Astrid y Gastón.  Or, try some of the best ceviche’s in Peru at La Mar, which has a laidback atmosphere perfect for kids. Isolina Taberna Peruana, a favourite in Barranco serves comida criolla, food typical of the coast. Then, in Miraflores, all along Avenida Mariscal La Mar you will find a plethora of eateries at midrange to higher-end prices, mostly specializing in ceviche and seafood. El Mercado is one excellent option. For anyone looking for a coffee, a sweet treat, or fabulous salads and sandwiches, El Pan de la Chola is a can’t miss. Panchita is another great family-friendly option with English-speaking staff where you can try a whole host of Peruvian cuisine. For a typical Peruvian lunch, Al Toke Pez was a little-known hole-in-the-wall in the Surquillo neighbourhood (just across from Miraflores) before it got featured in Netflix’s “Street Food” documentary.

Optional: Paracas

Paracas is a coastal city around 4 hours south of Lima, known for its access to the Ballestas Islands and the Paracas National Reserve.  Plus, pass other historic sites on the way, like El Candelabro, a large prehistoric petroglyph. Then, venture through Peru’s secret slave tunnels to learn more about the people who lived there. Also known as the “Galapagos of Peru,” the Ballestas Islands present endless chances to see penguins, sea lions, starfish, birds, and other exotic wildlife. After, head to The Paracas National Reserve to see more wildlife. Play on the beach and see where Earth’s driest desert meets the Pacific Ocean!

Day 12: Departure Day

On the final day of your Peru family vacation, it’s time to say goodbye.  One way to make it less stressful is by bringing one of your child’s favourite stuffed animals. Or, a toy that reminds them of home. You can also pack your suitcase with snacks and a portable DVD player to watch a movie together on the way back. Hopefully, your memories of your Peru trip will stay with you long after you’ve returned home! Ask us at Kallpa Travel for a family-focussed customized Peru trip so that you can make sure you visit all the signature sights of Peru and also keep the children entertained during your Peru trip!

Included:

• 9 nights’ accommodation in carefully selected hotels in the category of your choice
• Professional English-speaking tour guide
• Professional Driver and private land transfers
• Round Trip Expedition Train to Machu Picchu
• Round Trip Bus Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu
• Machu Picchu entrance ticket
• All transfers and land transportation
• Entrance tickets to the archaeological sites and other attractions visited
• All Jungle Excursions
• All meals in the Amazon
• Internal flights (Lima-Cusco-Puerto Madonado-Puno-Lima)

Services NOT Included:

• International flights
• Meals other than those mentioned in the itinerary
• Tips/ gratuities
• Travel Insurance
• Entrance to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (please ask if you would like us to include this option).