Fun fact: Peruvian culture is incredibly family friendly. Whether you’re exploring Incan ruins, visiting museums with hands-on activities, or getting up close and personal with wildlife, a family vacation to Cusco and the Sacred Valley can be enjoyable and educational for parents and kids alike. Here are some ideas to help you plan.
Peru, a land of majestic mountains and captivating ancient history, stands as a premier destination, frequently envisioned as a haven for intrepid travelers seeking high-altitude challenges and unconventional explorations. However, beyond its reputation for adventurous pursuits, Peru unveils itself as a remarkably accommodating locale for an unforgettable family vacation, brimming with enriching experiences suitable for all ages. The city of Cusco, with its unique blend of historical significance and modern amenities, presents itself as an ideal gateway into this extraordinary country, a place where families can readily immerse themselves in the wonders of Peru.
Cusco’s allure stems from its enchanting cobblestone streets, which beckon exploration and discovery. Each stone seems to whisper tales of the past, inviting families to wander and uncover the city’s secrets. Interspersed amongst the urban landscape are hundreds of awe-inspiring Incan ruins, silent testaments to a civilization that once thrived in this very place. These ruins offer not only a glimpse into the past but also an exciting adventure for children, who can let their imaginations run wild as they explore these ancient sites. Complementing the historical richness are Cusco’s vibrant festivals, colorful spectacles that immerse visitors in the local culture and traditions, providing a sensory feast that captivates audiences of all ages. Furthermore, Cusco boasts a selection of engaging museums, thoughtfully curated to appeal to younger audiences, providing educational and entertaining experiences that spark curiosity and foster a deeper appreciation for Peruvian history and culture.
Beyond its intrinsic attractions, Cusco offers practical advantages for families, including excellent tourist services. A wide array of hotels caters to diverse preferences and budgets, ensuring comfortable and convenient accommodation options for families traveling with children. The city’s culinary scene is equally diverse, offering a delectable assortment of dining options that cater to every palate, from traditional Peruvian cuisine to international flavors, guaranteeing that even the pickiest eaters will find something to enjoy.
Venture beyond Cusco’s city limits, and you will find yourself immersed in the breathtaking beauty of the Sacred Valley. This region, renowned for its stunning landscapes and historical significance, offers travelers of all ages a sanctuary of wide-open spaces, where the wonders of nature unfold before their very eyes. The vibrant and colorful wildlife that inhabits the Sacred Valley adds another layer of enchantment, captivating children with its exotic beauty. Furthermore, exhilarating journeys by train through the heart of the valley provide an unforgettable experience, transporting families through picturesque landscapes and offering glimpses into the region’s rich cultural heritage.
Embark on a delightful adventure through Cusco’s labyrinthine streets, a journey filled with unexpected twists and turns that will ignite the imagination of children and adults alike. As you navigate the city’s charming alleys, keep an eye out for the opportunity to capture a truly unique and memorable photo op with an alpaca, one of the iconic symbols of the Andes. For an even more remarkable experience, consider retracing the steps of ancient travelers by embarking on a rail adventure from Cusco or Ollantaytambo to the legendary Machu Picchu, a journey that promises breathtaking views and unforgettable memories. Introduce your little ones to the delightful world of Peruvian chocolate at Cusco’s Choco Museo, where they can indulge in sweet treats and learn about the fascinating history of this beloved confection. And with hundreds of captivating Incan ruins scattered throughout the region, there’s no shortage of opportunities for exploration and discovery, allowing families to delve into the rich history of the Inca civilization.
Whatever you choose to include in your itinerary, you’ll discover that traveling with children can significantly enhance your trip to Peru, infusing it with an added layer of joy and wonder. In Peru, as in many other places around the world, the infectious enthusiasm of children serves as a natural bridge across cultural and linguistic divides, fostering deeper connections with the local community and enriching the overall travel experience.
However, it is essential to remember that Cusco’s high altitude requires proper acclimation, particularly when traveling with children. The air at this elevation is thinner, and all travelers, regardless of age, need time to adjust. To ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience, remember to carry water at all times and factor in frequent breaks, especially when planning activities that involve a lot of walking. Taking these precautions will help you and your family fully appreciate all that Cusco has to offer.
## Explore Cusco By Foot — and Make New Furry Friends
Cusco’s urban landscape presents itself as an engaging adventure playground, offering a unique and captivating experience for families with children. Its steep staircases, narrow alleys, twisting streets, and hidden passageways create a sense of exploration and discovery at every turn. Children are naturally drawn to the novelty of such a city, where simply wandering around can provide endless amusement and entertainment for the entire family.
As you explore the city, be on the lookout for street festivals and fairs, which frequently take place along Avenida El Sol and around the Plaza de Armas. These vibrant cultural events offer a glimpse into the heart of Peruvian traditions, showcasing the ingenuity and creativity that go into the elaborate costumes and performances. Regardless of the specific event, Cusco is always awash in color, creating a visually stimulating environment that captivates the senses. Immerse yourselves in the bustling marketplaces, such as the Centro Artesanal Cusco, where you can browse a diverse array of Peru’s exquisite handicrafts, each a testament to the country’s rich artistic heritage. Then, deepen your understanding of traditional weaving techniques at the Center for Traditional Textiles for Cusco, where you can learn about the intricate processes behind these beautiful creations.
Even the everyday street life in Cusco offers a fascinating spectacle for children to observe. At outdoor stands, food vendors skillfully prepare a range of exotic specialties, from the traditionally prepared guinea pig to skewered beef hearts, dishes that are sure to spark curiosity and conversation, whether your children find them fascinating or repulsive. Nearby, Quechua women and children adorned in traditional garb gracefully wander the streets with llamas, alpacas, or donkeys. For a small fee, they will happily pose for a picture or allow you to interact with their gentle animals, creating a memorable encounter that captures the essence of the Andes. Remember to have some change on hand to show your appreciation for this unique cultural experience.
## Sample Sweet Treats, Then Stargaze at the Planetarium
Cusco offers a plethora of museums, each catering to different interests and age groups. However, one museum invariably captures the hearts of children and adults alike: the Choco Museo, a must-stop destination for chocoholics of all ages. Conveniently located just one block from the Plaza de Armas, this delightful museum features engaging exhibits on the history of chocolate, tracing its origins and evolution. But the true highlight of the Choco Museo is its interactive chocolate-making workshops, which take participants through the complete bean-to-bar process. These workshops offer hands-on experiences with various aspects of chocolate making, including segments dedicated to fondue, cocoa, and truffles. Children will relish the opportunity to concoct their own chocolate sweets, experimenting with flavors and creating personalized treats. Even if you’re not planning to take a workshop, be sure to stop by the Choco Museo, as the irresistible aromas wafting from its doors are sure to entice children and adults alike.
After indulging in the sweetness of chocolate, prepare for an astronomical adventure at the Cusco Planetarium. Most evenings around dusk, you can sign up for a tour of the night skies, an experience that will leave you in awe of the vastness of the universe. The tour typically includes pick-up from central Cusco, making it easily accessible for families. Upon arrival, you’ll receive an introduction to the exceptionally clear Andean night skies, renowned for their pristine visibility. Following the introduction, you’ll have the opportunity to gaze at the stars through powerful telescopes, revealing celestial wonders that are often obscured by light pollution in urban areas. The Incas, of course, were deeply fascinated with astronomy, and they incorporated astronomical principles into the design of many of the temples around Cusco and the Sacred Valley. Children will be equally intrigued by the mysteries of the cosmos, as they learn about constellations, planets, and other celestial objects. Viewing the night sky from this vantage point, high above the city, is a truly magical experience, and it provides an excellent way to prepare for further explorations of the Sacred Valley, the ancient heartland of the Incas.
## Discover Ancient Incan Ruins and Let Off Steam in Thermal Pools
Cusco and the Sacred Valley, the very heartland of the Incan Empire, offer an unparalleled opportunity to explore the far-reaching legacy of this ancient civilization. There is hardly a better region to explore as a family. Children, with their innate curiosity and adventurous spirits, will undoubtedly agree. What could be more exciting than playing hide-and-seek amidst the crumbling walls of ancient temples or discovering mysterious ceremonial sites hidden deep within the lush jungle?
While Machu Picchu is undoubtedly the most famous Incan ruin in Peru, there are many other remarkable sites to explore. Qorikancha, located right in central Cusco, stands as a testament to the Inca’s architectural prowess and religious beliefs. Once the wealthiest and most important temple in the Incan Empire, Qorikancha offers children an engaging introduction to the Inca civilization. Just a short distance outside the city, within an easy day trip, lies Sacsayhuamán, a vast and impressive site that provides ample space for kids to run, play, and enjoy the fresh mountain air. It is also another opportunity to encounter the charming alpacas that roam the area. The animals and their owners are usually easy to find around the site, and in exchange for a few coins, they are generally willing to pose for pictures or allow you to interact with the friendly creatures.
Of course, a visit to Machu Picchu is likely on your itinerary. After exploring the iconic ruins, head to Aguas Calientes, also known as Machu Picchu Pueblo, the community closest to Machu Picchu. Here, you can treat your family to a relaxing and rejuvenating experience in the area’s natural thermal pools, a perfect way to unwind after a day of exploring.
## Travel Back in Time and Board a Train to Machu Picchu
One of the must-do experiences in Peru becomes even more appealing when enjoyed as a family. Embark on one of South America’s most unforgettable train rides, starting in either Cusco or Ollantaytambo and traveling all the way to Machu Picchu, the continent’s most visited tourist attraction.
The journey itself is an adventure, taking you through picturesque valleys dotted with llamas and lush, vibrant jungles. The breathtaking scenery is sure to captivate both children and adults alike. At the end of the train ride, you’ll disembark at Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo), the gateway to Machu Picchu. When choosing your train, consider the Vistadome train, which is particularly popular with families. This train boasts large, panoramic windows that maximize the stunning views, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the beauty of the surrounding landscapes. Furthermore, the Vistadome train often features traditional dancing onboard, adding an extra element of cultural enrichment to the journey.
Word count: 1337
B-2096