Peru

Peru family holidays

Peru is one of our favourite South American destinations for a family holiday. It has a winning blend of incredible archaeological ruins, spectacular scenery, unique eco-systems and colourful markets. This is a country that is full of majesty and spectacle but which also offers a well-developed tourist infrastructure. This ensures a range of excellent boutique hotels, exciting activities and superb restaurants.

Peru family holiday - young boy on a home stay holding a lamb

Back to basics on a Peru family holiday

Who can resist the lure of the remarkable Inca civilisation and the incredible site of Machu Picchu? It’s impossible not to be charmed by the cobbled streets of Cusco, the delightful churches of Arequipa and the clear waters of Lake Titicaca. Even the kids will love to hike through the spectacular Sacred Valley, peppered with ancient ruins, friendly villages and houses covered in bright pink bougainvillea.

There’s a wonderful food scene, some of the best markets on the continent, and a truly remarkable diversity of landscapes from the lofty peaks of the Andes to the misty jungles of the Amazon.

Family with teenagers on holiday in Peru, Latin America travel guide

Hiking in the Andes

Why take the kids to Peru?

Peru offers an incredible range of activities, whatever your interests, and a Peru family holiday will be a massive adventure for children.

Our top activities on a Peru family holiday include:

Exploring Machu Picchu and its awe-inspiring views
Taking in the sounds on an Amazon night walk
Zip-wiring in the Sacred Valley
Bargaining for gifts in Cusco’s central market
Experiencing the floating Uros Islands of Lake Titicaca
Hiking the spectacular Inca Trail
Sampling delicious local cuisine on a food tour in Lima

Animal lovers will enjoy searching for tarantulas in the Amazon and watching condors fly on thermals above the Colca Canyon. History buffs will love exploring the nooks and crannies of the Inca ruins and wandering the streets of Cusco. There’s always something different to do, and this ensures that the children will remain engaged throughout.

Check out our Peru with Kids blog for more ideas and photos of some of our favourite activities on a Peru family holiday.

Exploring the Amazon by boat

Getting around Peru

This is a large country and any family holiday in Peru will require the use of internal flights to connect key locations. These are reliable and quick and mean that you can hop from the Amazon to the Andes in a day.

Trains are also important in Peru, particularly for the journey to Machu Picchu which can only be accomplished on foot (as part of a four day trek) or on the rail route from Cusco. Also of note is the fabulous high altitude train across the spectacular scenery of the altiplano en route between Cusco and Lake Titicaca.

With the planning of any family holiday in Peru, we will always be mindful of the altitude, ensuring that you gain elevation slowly so as to maximise the time for acclimatisation. Speak to one of our experienced team for more detailed advice.

Family at Machu Picchu, Peru with kids itinerary

Reach iconic Machu Picchu on foot or by train

Family holiday itineraries to Peru

All of our Peru itineraries are bespoke which means that they are tailor-made for your own specific family. We always take into account the ages of your children, your interests, your budget and so on.

However, to give you an idea of what you could do on a family holiday in Peru, have a look at our sample itineraries, Highlights of Peru (2-weeks) and Highlights of Peru (3-weeks).

Also check out some of the other places that you might like to visit on your trip and if you need further inspiration, have a look at our Peru photo gallery.

Lastly, don’t forget to check what the weather will be like at the time that you want to travel. Or simply give us a ring and we’ll be delighted to advise you on the best Peru family holiday for you.