Peru With Kids: 14 Amazing Things To Do In 2024
Peru is undeniably an exciting family-friendly destination. With its colourful, friendly atmosphere, breathtaking scenery, and iconic sites, you’ll find something to please everyone in Peru, from kids to teenagers and adults.
We spent three weeks in Peru, visiting ancient Pisac ruins, colourful markets, spectacular mountains, dense rainforest, and the world’s largest lake. The rich Peruvian culture and cuisine were a real hit with all of us, and our kids have rated Peru as one of their favourite countries in the world, and we’d agree!
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Things To Do In Peru With Kids
Situated in South America, Peru is a perfect family-friendly destination. Steeped in Mayan, Aztec, and Inca history with hundreds of archaeological sites, stunning landscapes, and diverse wildlife, your itinerary will be packed.
Kids will enjoy spotting alpacas, condors, and guinea pigs or participating in many action-packed adrenaline activities, which will break up the sightseeing in one of the most biodiverse countries in the world.
1 | Explore The Sacred Valley With Kids
Peru’s Sacred Valley is an archaeological open-air museum with many facinating Inca sites. It is a perfect starting place to acclimatise before exploring Peru with kids.
Take a guided tour to experience the valley’s spectacular views, including amazing stepped terraces, a handicraft market in Pisac, salt pools in Urubamba and the impressive Ollantaytambo ruins.
If you’re looking for added adventure, this area is favoured for hang gliding, rafting and ziplining.
2 | Cusco With Kids
Once the ancient capital of the Inca Empire, Cusco is recognised as one of the most beautiful cities in South America (it certainly gets our vote!). Proclaimed by the Incas as ‘the navel of the world’, Cusco is the most visited city in Peru due to its rich history, fascinating legends and access to Macchu Picchu.
Cusco’s atmosphere, colourful markets, and Peruvian handiwork make for a pleasurable visit with kids. Many restaurants and cafes serve traditional Peruvian cuisine, such as the delicacy ‘Cuy’ (Spanish for Guinea Pig!). It was not quite to our taste, but it was worth trying.
There is a high risk of altitude sickness in Cusco, especially if you come from Lima, which is 3400m lower (we certainly found it tiring walking up the street!). Stay a few nights to give yourself plenty of time to acclimatise.
3 | Take A Selfie With An Alpaca
As 70% of the world’s alpacas live here, a selfie with an alpaca is necessary when visiting Peru with kids.
Our kids adored meeting these large-eyed, fluffy animals. The whole family had the chance to learn about preparing and dying their fleece to produce very warm, lightweight, soft, and water-resistant clothing. These clothes make iconic souvenirs that can be purchased in Cusco.
4 | Visit Machu Picchu With Kids
The lost city of Machu Picchu was constructed in 1452 but abandoned 100 years later. The ancient citadel was rediscovered in 1911 and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a modern world wonder that intrigues families in Peru.
Among other reasons to visit Machu Picchu, our kids enjoyed discovering the mysterious archaeological terraced rows, the mazelike Inca stonework, and grazing alpacas, making it a popular destination for kids.
Tourists can also hike to the peak of Huayna Picchu for a 360-degree view of Machu Picchu and the surrounding valley. However, this activity is unsuitable for those under 12 years old and must be booked before visiting.
➡️Book a guided tour of Machu Picchu from Aguas Calientes
5 | Trek The Inca trail To Machu Picchu With Kids
Peru is a perfect destination for trekking in different terrains with scenic landscapes. There are many different hikes, varying in length, elevation and difficulty, but the iconic Inca Trail is a world-famous hike that covers 26 miles over four days.
Due to the altitude of 4215 metres at the highest point of ‘Dead Woman’s Pass,’ the trek is moderately difficult and best suited to older children. The route follows the original path the Incas’ took to Macchu Picchu.
The trek ends at the Sun Gate of Macha Picchu, where you are greeted with fantastic views of the Temple of the Sun and the sacred Intihuatana pyramid.
➡️Book in advance to guarantee a ticket to hike the Inca Trail
6 | Visit Lima
Lima is a big cosmopolitan city in Peru with many historical sites, museums, and churches. We thought the Huaca Pucllana pyramid was unreal, and the Cathedral was stunning with intricate detail.
Lima is also a good destination for surfing and hang gliding.
Larcomar Shopping Centre and Plaza Norte Peru are two favourites for shoppers, while nature lovers can visit John F. Kennedy Park and Miraflores Central Park.
➡️ Take a family city tour of Lima to see the best sites
7 | Explore Arequipa With Kids
Arequipa, in the South of Peru, is known as the ‘white city’ due to its beautiful white volcanic stone-built colonial town. Three volcanoes in the area make it a perfect place to explore with kids.
Take a stroll around the beautiful Plaza de Armas.
As well as exploring the town, you can also rock climb, visit the thermal springs and explore the rich array of Inca ruins in the area staying in Arequipa as a base.
8 | Hike Cañón Del Colca with kids
You can hike the second deepest canyon in the world, Cañón del Colca, which is 62 miles (100 kilometres) long and more than twice as deep as the Grand Canyon.
If hiking is too much for the kids, a view from the top is impressive, especially with the massive Andean condors soaring overhead or descend to the river for some rafting.
9 | Visit The Ballestas Islands With Kids
The Ballestas Islands are a ‘must-visit’ destination whilst in Peru with kids. Often compared to the Galapagos Islands, but significantly cheaper, you’ll find many different species of marine life, including sea lions, dolphins and thousands of birds, including penguins, blue-footed boobies and puffins.
Kids of all ages will enjoy the boat ride and the prospect of spotting different wildlife.
10 | Lake Titicaca With Kids
Peruvian legend has it that Lake Titicaca is the birthplace of the Inca empire. Its magical atmosphere makes it a special stop when travelling in Peru with kids. At 3800 metres, Lake Titicaca is the world’s highest navigable lake and borders Peru and Bolivia.
One of the main attractions for many tourists is the 42 popular man-made floating reed islands of Uros.
We visited the fascinating indigenous Uros community for the day to see captivating demonstrations, traditional dancing, weaving, and interact with the Uros people. Alternatively, you can stay in a bungalow overnight on the floating island.
11 | Explore The Amazon Rainforest With Kids
Over 60% of Peru is covered in rainforest, and staying in the Amazon can be an exciting experience for the whole family. With over 4000 unique species hiding under the canopy, you’ll leave having spotted some incredible tropical animals and bugs.
We stayed at the Inca Terra Field Station, an eco-camp deep in the jungle. The world was quickly left behind as we took to the mighty Amazon River by canoe.
Escorted activities kept us busy exploring the rainforest. Excursions include National Parks, uninhabited islands, treetop nature walks, and night boat rides, all options for adventure-hungry kids. Quiet time allows you to become fully absorbed into the rainforest around you. An Amazon adventure is a memory you and your kids will keep forever.
12 | Huacachina Oasis And Sand Dunes
Huacahina is the last remaining natural oasis in South America. It offers a range of fun and adventurous activities.
Being home to the most extensive sand dunes in South America, this is the perfect place for sandboarding, hiking, dune buggies and watching the sunset when visiting Peru with kids.
The oasis is safe to swim in, but it is not inviting – there are paddleboats for hire. If time allows, you can camp in the desert or stay in one of the many available hotels nearby.
➡️Click here to book your luxury Oasis Tour
13 | Hike Rainbow Mountain
Rainbow Mountain, known initially as Vinicunca in the Andes Mountains, was recently discovered for its magnificent coloured sand.
Many visitors come on day trips to see these mysterious landscapes in Peru. The hike is challenging despite being relatively flat until the end when you climb over 5,200m above sea level. It is a good idea to acclimatise first.
The hike suits over 8-year-olds, but many younger children complete the challenge.
➡️Check out the popular Rainbow Mountain day trip
14 | Fly Over Nazca Lines
Nazca Lines are another ancient mystery in the Peruvian desert. Undiscovered until 1930, the series of large patterns and shapes in the desert, such as a monkey and a hummingbird, are now a popular visitor attraction.
The lines are thought to be at least 1,500 years old and part of a giant astronomical calendar. They are located 200 miles from Lima and can only be seen by booking a 35-minute flight.
Where To Stay In Peru With Kids
Travelling in Peru can result in long travel times between locations. When travelling to Peru with kids, selecting the right location can make or break the trip. Here are our family recommendations for Cusco, Puerto Maldonaldo and Lima.
Accommodation In Cusco With Kids
No visit to Peru would be complete without a stay in ‘one of the most beautiful cities in South America’. The Spanish influence here comes from its beautiful architecture, cobbled streets, and terracotta roofs. Staying within walking distance of the main square makes a perfect spot to stay in Cusco with kids.
📍Best Budget Spot: Hotel Cusco De Mis Suenos
This budget-friendly hotel is in an attractive area in the centre of Cusco. It is less than a 5-minute walk to the Hatun Rumiyok, the Religious Art Museum, and the famous Santo Domingo Church.
📍Best Mid-Range Spot/Luxury: Los Portales Cusco
This traditional 3-star hotel is in the heart of Cusco, close to local tourist attractions. Cusco Cathedral, Plaza de Armas and Iglesia San Pedro are an easy walk away, as are the bustling Estadio Garcilaso de la Vega and Downtown areas. We recommend this hotel for its family-friendly staff, excellent breakfast, and comfortable rooms. They also held our luggage for four days while we trekked the Inca Trail.
Accommodation In The Amazon Rainforest With Kids
Who hasn’t dreamt of exploring the Amazon rainforest or escaping the city’s constant noise and pollution? The Amazon rainforest is growing in popularity, and staying here no longer means sleeping in hammocks exposed to the canopy.
There are several areas to choose from when visiting the Amazon Rainforest in Peru, from the remote city of Iquitos in the Northeast to Puerto Maldonaldo in the South.
For ease of access, we stayed in Puerto Maldonaldo, the capital city of the Madre de Dios region, also referred to as the gateway to the southern Amazon Jungle.
📍Best Mid-Range Spot/Luxury: Amazon Field Station by Inkaterra
Amazon Field Station by Inkaterra is an excellent option for families looking for something luxurious and adventurous.
Ideally located only 24km from Puerto Maldonaldo, the jungle is teeming with wildlife. You will enjoy luxurious jungle accommodation, tailored service to your needs and private rainforest guides. We had adjoining ensuite cabins making it an excellent option for family accommodation.
Accommodation In Lima With Kids
As the capital city, Lima is your route in and out of Peru and has excellent links to the rest of the country. We stayed in Lima on both arrival and departure to Peru. The main tourist areas to remain are Centro, Miraflores and Barranco.
Consider your reason for staying in Lima. If you are only there for onward travel, it may be best to stay near the airport. Stay close to the centre if you are exploring the city for more than a day.
📍Best Budget Spot: La Paz Apart Hotel
A perfect choice for families travelling on a budget. Clean, comfortable and with excellent service. La Paz Apart Hotel is located near the beach in Miraflores, a neighbourhood in Lima with great shopping.
📍Best Mid-Range Spot/Luxury: INNSiDE by Meliá Lima Miraflores
INNSiDE by Meliá is another excellent hotel in the Miraflores area of Lima. The four-star rating includes a luxury restaurant, a fully kitted-out gym, an outdoor pool and a 24-hour concierge.
Best Time To Visit Peru With Kids
Peru is located on the west coast of South America, bordering Ecuador, Colombia, Brazil, Bolivia, and Chile. The country stretches from the Pacific Ocean over the Andes mountain range to the Amazon, which means that the weather conditions in one area of Peru differ hugely from others.
Coastal temperatures vary depending on the time of year, whereas the Huacachina desert is always hot and extremely dry, regardless of the season.
Summer In Peru
Summer in Peru is from December to March. There might be better times to travel to Peru, as it coincides with frequent heavy rain showers. If you do choose to travel in summer, be prepared with raincoats! It is worth remembering that some treks, such as the Inca Trail, are closed for safety and maintenance during February. Temperatures in the Andes can get relatively low when it rains.
Winter in Peru
Winter in Peru (May to September) is a great time to visit Peru with kids. It is the driest season, with clear sunny days and star-filled night skies. But this also brings high volumes of visitors. If you are visiting the Amazon, be prepared for it to be hot and humid during the winter.
shoulder season In Peru
It would be best to consider the shoulder seasons (April to May or September to December). This is regarded as the ultimate time to visit Peru with kids. Weather conditions are excellent (warm days and minimal rain), with fewer visitors, equalling quieter destinations.
We visited Peru in July, and the weather was perfect for all the areas we toured. It did get cold in the evenings, but the days were warm and sunny.
Getting Around Peru With Kids
With vast distances between destinations in Peru, you need to consider how best to travel. Peru is an inexpensive and relatively safe country to travel around with kids.
By Air
Flying into Peru is usually the best choice if you travel from outside South America. Once in the country, planes are used like buses, although often the quickest and most convenient option it is also likely the most expensive.
It is worth taking some time to compare routes and prices, with indirect flights sometimes being cheaper than direct flights. LatAm is the main airline operating both internationally and within Peru.
By Bus
Buses are the cheapest and the most popular form of transport in Peru. They are convenient and relatively reliable. As for safety, be aware accidents are common in Peru.
There are many bus companies to choose from that allow you to travel long distances across the country. These have reasonable safety records but do check reviews before booking.
By Car
Hiring a car in Peru with kids is not recommended due to poor road conditions and personal safety concerns. Hijacking and petty crime can happen in any country when travelling by road, and Peru is no different. Remaining vigilant is essential, but taking a licensed taxi is safe and relatively cheap.
We used private taxis several times and usually felt safe. However, occasionally, we had doubts about the reliability and safety of the vehicle.
Our tip is to always use a reputable transport company in Peru.
By Train
There are only a few train routes through Peru, but they are expensive (and luxurious!). Rail is not the most convenient way to travel to Peru with kids.
The exception is the train to and from Machu Picchu. The scenic train takes an average of 3 hours from stations near Cusco (Poroy or Ollantaytambo) to Machu Picchu.
Visiting Peru With Kids FAQs
If you are still undecided on whether Peru is a perfect destination, the following may help.
Peru offers incredible variety, fascinating wildlife, friendly people, Inca history, colourful markets and a great selection of food. The diverse range of activities makes it a perfect destination for families with kids. From Alpacas to mysterious legends and fun activities, Peru will capture your imagination whether you are 7 or 97!
Peru is generally a very safe country. However, it is still a good idea to take sensible precautions and be aware of things that could disrupt your travel. There is an extremely low risk of malaria. Please check before you travel to ensure you know the recommended precautions.
Two weeks will allow a family to have many adventures and visit iconic Peruvian sites. That said, you could easily spend a month or longer in Peru with your kids to fully exposure yourself to the culture.
Peru is one of the cheapest South American countries, making it an excellent destination for families with kids.
Final Thoughts: Peru With Kids
Peru is a fantastic country with a wide variety of sights and activities. No matter what you choose, whether it’s trekking, sightseeing, spotting exotic animals, learning the ancient Incan history or perhaps even sledging down a sand dune, your kids will love it.
As a budget- and family-friendly destination, Peru should definitely top your list.
