Exploring Inca ruins, watching Amazon wildlife, riding dune buggies, rafting on river rapids, petting alpaca, learning to make chocolate – Peru has so much that will captivate children and adults alike. So if you want to explore this fascinating country with your family, this guide will tell you all you need to know – from the best destinations and activities, to how to prepare for challenging terrain.
## A Comprehensive Guide to Family Travel in Peru
**Overview**
Peru, a land of ancient mysteries and breathtaking landscapes, presents an unparalleled opportunity for families seeking adventure and cultural immersion. From the enigmatic Nazca Lines etched into the desert to the awe-inspiring Inca ruins of Machu Picchu, Peru is a history book come to life, ready to captivate children and adults alike. The country’s natural wonders are equally compelling, offering journeys to towering volcanoes, plunging canyons, serene high-altitude lakes, and the lush, vibrant depths of the Amazon jungle.
Peruvians possess a deep affection for children, ensuring that young travelers are welcomed with open arms and genuine smiles throughout their journey. Families can engage in a plethora of kid-friendly activities, ranging from heartwarming visits to llama farms where they can interact with these gentle creatures, to thrilling experiences like sandboarding down towering dunes and paddling kayaks across pristine waters. They can also delve into the traditional arts, learning to construct structures with adobe materials, mastering the art of cooking in clay ovens, and even crafting their own delectable chocolate treats.
However, embarking on a Peruvian adventure with your family requires careful consideration. The vast distances between destinations necessitate strategic planning. The high altitudes prevalent in many regions can pose challenges, and the intensity of the sun demands vigilant protection. Travelers must also be mindful of varying sanitation standards and the presence of mosquitoes in certain areas. With thorough preparation and a proactive approach to these potential hurdles, a family vacation in Peru can be transformed into an unforgettable and enriching experience.
**Getting Around**
While independent travel within Peru is possible with meticulous planning, entrusting your transportation arrangements to experienced tour operators offers enhanced safety and convenience, particularly when traveling with children. These professionals possess an intimate understanding of the local terrain and logistical nuances, ensuring seamless transitions between destinations.
Peru boasts an extensive network of regular bus services that traverse the country, connecting major cities and tourist hotspots. However, the quality of vehicles and the condition of roads can vary significantly. For families, the duration of bus rides should be carefully considered. Journeys exceeding three or four hours can be challenging for younger children, potentially leading to restlessness and discomfort. To mitigate this, consider focusing your itinerary on a specific geographical region or opting for internal flights. These flights, typically lasting an hour or less, provide a swift and comfortable means of traversing the country. Flights between Lima and Cusco, Lima and Iquitos, and Cusco and Puerto Maldonado are particularly recommended to save time and minimize travel fatigue.
Taxis offer a convenient mode of transportation within cities and for reaching more remote locales. However, prioritizing safety is paramount. Always utilize reputable taxi companies, ideally those recommended and booked through your hotel or a trusted travel agency. Within Lima, a sightseeing bus tour presents an excellent opportunity for families to familiarize themselves with the city’s layout and iconic landmarks, providing a comprehensive overview of its rich history and vibrant culture.
**When to Go**
The optimal time to visit Peru depends on the regions you plan to explore. In the mountainous regions and the Amazon jungle, the rainy season typically peaks between December and April, with occasional rainfall extending into October and November. The driest period, offering the most favorable conditions for outdoor activities, falls between June and August. May, June, and September emerge as particularly attractive months for a visit, striking a balance between pleasant weather and fewer crowds, allowing for a more relaxed and immersive experience.
Along the coast, Lima is renowned for its persistent fog and cloud cover, which can linger for much of the year. The period from December to April tends to be warmer and wetter, while May to November experiences cooler temperatures and increased cloudiness. Temperatures in Lima generally range from a comfortable 54°F to 77°F (12°C to 25°C). Further north along the coast, the rainy season brings hotter and wetter conditions, while the southern deserts experience drier and cooler temperatures.
**Before You Go**
When considering a family trip to Peru with very young children, particularly babies and toddlers, it may be prudent to postpone the journey until they are older and better equipped to appreciate the diverse experiences the country has to offer. While Peruvians adore children and readily provide necessities such as diapers and baby milk in major supermarkets, high-altitude environments and the Amazon jungle are not ideally suited for infants and toddlers.
To maximize the enjoyment and engagement of your children, pre-trip preparation is essential. Ignite their curiosity by immersing them in the culture and history of Peru through educational TV programs and captivating books on the Incas, the Amazon rainforest, and other relevant topics. Enrolling them in Spanish classes, or encouraging them to enhance their existing language skills, will further enrich their experience, allowing them to connect with locals and navigate their surroundings with greater ease.
**Health and Safety**
**Vaccinations and Disease:**
Prior to traveling to Peru, consult with your family doctor to discuss necessary vaccinations and health precautions. Vaccinations for Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and Yellow Fever are commonly recommended. Rabies is present in Peru, so it’s crucial to advise your children to avoid contact with street dogs and other wild animals.
**Mosquitoes and Malaria:**
If your itinerary includes travel to the northern coast or the Amazon jungle, mosquito protection is paramount. Encourage everyone to wear long sleeves and long pants, especially during the evenings, and to consistently apply insect repellent. Malaria is a concern in the Peruvian Amazon, although it is less prevalent than in Africa and Asia. Discuss the potential need for anti-malarial pills with your doctor, carefully considering potential side effects. Avoid taking toddlers and babies to jungle areas, as Yellow Fever vaccinations and Malaria medication are generally not safe for this age group.
**Food and Drink:**
Due to its status as a developing tropical country with sanitation challenges, stomach bugs are a common concern in Peru, particularly for children. Potential sources of illness include shellfish, pork, unwashed salad, unpeeled fruit, and ice. While top-tier hotels and restaurants typically adhere to high hygiene standards, it’s wise to avoid these foods in less expensive establishments, and especially from street vendors.
**Altitude and Sun:**
Much of the Peruvian highlands lies above 2000 meters (6,500 feet), with Cusco and Puno soaring above 3000 meters (9,800 feet). Altitude sickness can be a significant factor, particularly for travelers arriving directly from Lima or other sea-level locations. Symptoms can include headaches and dizziness. The best remedy is to take it easy upon arrival, consume light meals rich in carbohydrates, and consider descending to a lower altitude destination like Pisac or Ollantaytambo before ascending to Cusco. Due to its proximity to the Equator, the sun’s intensity in the highlands is extreme, even on cold days. Ensure everyone applies ample sunscreen and wears hats.
**Crime:**
Be vigilant against pickpockets, especially in crowded tourist areas and on public buses. Keep valuables to a minimum and out of sight. Store money in a secure belt worn on your person, and exercise extra caution with cameras. If your children are taking photos, maintain a firm grip on their cameras in busy areas and on public transportation.
**Tour Operators:**
Peru boasts a plethora of tour operators, and regulations have improved in recent years. However, verifying tourist office accreditation before booking is still essential. If the tour involves specialized activities such as climbing or rafting, inquire about relevant international certifications.
**Activities**
**Archaeology and History:**
Peru is a treasure trove of archaeological wonders, captivating children with an interest in history, especially if they have explored these subjects before their trip. The Inca sites around Cusco, the Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu stand as the most renowned attractions. However, other regions beckon with their own historical marvels. Trujillo, Chiclayo, and Chachapoyas in the north offer captivating insights into pre-Inca cultures. In the southern desert, the mysterious Nazca Lines await discovery, while in the north, the adobe structures of Huaca de la Luna and Chan Chan, along with the fortress of Kuélap, offer glimpses into ancient civilizations.
**Beaches:**
While Peru is not primarily known for its beaches, numerous excellent spots for sunbathing and swimming can be found along the coast, providing a refreshing break for children seeking sun and sea. To escape Lima for a few hours, the beaches at Punta Hermosa and San Bartolo offer convenient options. Further south, Paracas Reserve boasts beautiful beaches and opportunities for birdwatching. The finest beaches are located far to the north at Mancora and near Chiclayo, but consider flying to these destinations due to the long distance from Lima.
**Birdwatching:**
Peru is a paradise for birdwatchers, so be sure to pack binoculars. The Amazon jungle, particularly near Puerto Maldonado, Manu National Park, and the lodges near Iquitos, offers unparalleled birdwatching opportunities. In the mountains, the majestic Andean condors are a highlight, particularly common in the Colca Canyon region.
**Hiking and Trekking:**
Peru offers a wide range of hiking and trekking options to suit all fitness levels. For children who are fit and enthusiastic, the Huaraz region is a haven for climbers and hikers. While the full-length Inca Trail may be too challenging for children, a shortened one or two-day version can be a rewarding experience. Other options include hikes into the Colca Canyon, explorations of ruins in the Chachapoya region, and treks around Lake Titicaca. Always pace yourselves, allow time for acclimatization to the altitude, and engage a registered guide.
**Horse-riding:**
Horse-riding provides a more leisurely way for children to explore the mountains. Horses and guides can be readily hired through operators in the Cusco and Sacred Valley region, as well as in Huaraz and areas further north.
**Rafting and Kayaking:**
Peru’s rivers, cascading from the Andes towards the coast and jungle, are ideal for rafting and kayaking. Gentle rafting suitable for families can be found in the Cusco region, while a relaxed kayaking session is a superb way to experience Lake Titicaca. More challenging rafting, unsuitable for young children, is available elsewhere in the Sacred Valley and in Huaraz. Canoeing is an essential component of any Amazon trip, offering a fantastic way for kids to explore quiet tributaries.
**Where to Go: Family-Friendly Destinations**
**Cusco and the Highlands:**
The most popular tourist region in Peru, encompassing Cusco, the Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu, is exceptionally family-friendly. Given that many attractions are historical, spark your children’s interest in Inca heritage before your journey. For lighter entertainment, children will delight in learning the entire chocolate-making process “from bean to bar” at the ChocoMuseo in Cusco. Sweet-toothed youngsters will appreciate the abundance of homemade ice cream in Cusco, and adventurous eaters might even sample *cuy*, whole roasted guinea pig. A visit to a llama farm, such as Awana Kancha on the road to Pisac, is another great option.
Horse-riding, hiking, rafting, and kayaking opportunities abound in the mountains, ensuring that active kids remain engaged. Lake Titicaca is another captivating destination, but prepare for cold temperatures and high altitude. Kayaking is a highly recommended family activity here. Observing condors at the Colca Canyon is an unforgettable experience, followed by a relaxing soak in the thermal baths. The Huaraz region caters more to teenagers with an interest in hiking.
**Lima and the Coast:**
Lima, a bustling metropolis, offers a diverse culinary scene. Introduce children to the delights of fish *ceviche* and Peruvian-Asian fusion cuisine. Stroll along Malecon Rimac and savor the sweet creamed rice and *mazamorra morada*, a delicious warm purple pudding. Don’t miss the spectacular Water and Sound Show, held every afternoon at 4 pm at Parque de la Reserva in the city center. A ChocoMuseo, similar to the one in Cusco, offers engaging workshops on chocolate making. Other family attractions include Minimundo, showcasing miniature replicas of Lima and Peruvian landmarks, the science exhibits at the Interactive Imagination Museum, and the Planetarium.
Beaches along the coast offer sun and sea, but bear in mind that conditions can be cool and cloudy at times. Consider a boat trip to the Ballestas Islands to observe sea lions, seals, and penguins. Combine this excursion with a visit to Ica, where children can enjoy sandboarding and dune buggy rides. A flight over the Nazca Lines can be thrilling for older children, but younger ones may find the turbulence unsettling.
In northern Peru, children can explore the adobe ruins around Trujillo and Chiclayo, participate in adobe workshop building using soil and bamboo, and learn to cook Pachamanca style in a clay oven.
**The Amazon Jungle:**
Peru offers a spectrum of jungle experiences, ranging from “jungle-lite” options to immersive excursions into primary rainforest. The former is generally better suited for families, particularly near Puerto Maldonado. Refugio Amazonas stands out as a family-friendly lodge, complete with a Children’s Rainforest Playground, jungle trails, and activities tailored for kids.
B-2122