Peru is a land of wonder, packed with adventures, vibrant culture, and breathtaking natural landscapes that can excite travelers of all ages. From ancient ruins to lush rainforests and colorful markets, Peru offers endless possibilities for family fun. Traveling to Peru with kids is an experience that allows you to bond over incredible sites, meet friendly locals, and create memories that will last a lifetime. With Peru travel packages from India readily available, planning your Peruvian family adventure is easier than ever. Here’s a guide to the top family-friendly activities in Peru, guaranteed to keep everyone entertained and engaged.
Explore the Mystical Ruins of Machu Picchu
No trip to Peru is complete without visiting the world-renowned Machu Picchu, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. While it’s a must-see for anyone traveling to Peru, Machu Picchu is surprisingly accessible and exciting for kids, too!
- What to Expect: The Inca citadel is a fascinating place for children, with its maze-like terraces, ancient temples, and llamas grazing on the grounds. The combination of awe-inspiring scenery and ancient mysteries will captivate both kids and adults alike.
- Getting There: Many Peru travel packages from India include a train ride to Machu Picchu from Cusco. The train journey itself is a treat, offering breathtaking views of the Andean mountains and the Urubamba River.
- Tips for Families: Try to arrive early in the day to avoid crowds and take frequent breaks. Guided tours are available, and many guides are skilled at engaging children by sharing stories about Incan life and legends.
Take a Boat Ride on Lake Titicaca
Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake in the world, is an extraordinary place where families can enjoy a unique cultural experience. The lake is home to several indigenous communities, including the Uros people, who live on floating islands made from reeds.
- What to Do: Take a boat ride to the floating islands and learn how the locals build their homes from totora reeds. Kids will love exploring the islands and seeing traditional reed boats. You can also visit Taquile Island, where you’ll witness the beautiful traditional clothing and learn about the weaving techniques practiced by locals.
- Why Kids Will Love It: The novelty of the floating islands, combined with the friendly Uros people, makes Lake Titicaca an exciting adventure for kids. They’ll enjoy learning about a lifestyle so different from their own and may even get to try traditional fishing methods.
- Family Travel Tip: Bring plenty of sunscreen and layers, as the sun can be intense at this altitude. Many Peru travel packages from India include a guided boat tour, which is an easy and informative way for families to experience the lake.
Discover Wildlife at the Amazon Rainforest
The Amazon Rainforest is one of the most biodiverse places on Earth and a perfect destination for families who love nature and wildlife. In Peru, the Amazon can be accessed from the town of Puerto Maldonado, which serves as the gateway to this amazing ecosystem.
- What to Expect: Stay at a family-friendly eco-lodge and join guided tours to explore the forest. Kids will be thrilled to see monkeys, parrots, and perhaps even pink river dolphins. Many lodges offer activities like jungle walks, canopy tours, and night safaris, giving you and your family a chance to experience the Amazon’s magic both day and night.
- Why It’s Great for Kids: The Amazon is like a living science classroom, full of exotic animals and plants that children might have only seen in books or on TV. Walking through the jungle, hearing the sounds of the rainforest, and seeing animals up close will leave a lasting impression on kids.
- Travel Packages: Many Peru travel packages from India include Amazon excursions. Opt for one with a reputable guide who can point out interesting wildlife and make the trip both safe and educational for kids.
Go Sandboarding in Huacachina
Huacachina is a small oasis town surrounded by massive sand dunes, located near Ica. This unique destination offers a fun and adventurous side of Peru, perfect for families looking to try something new.
- Activities to Try: Sandboarding and dune buggy rides are the main attractions here. You can rent sandboards and take on the dunes at your own pace, or for a more thrilling experience, join a dune buggy tour that will take you across the sand hills at high speed.
- Why Kids Will Love It: For kids, sandboarding is like sledding, but on sand! The experience is exhilarating, and the thrill of racing down the dunes will be a highlight of the trip.
- Travel Tips: Be prepared for hot weather, and wear comfortable clothing that can get sandy. Many travel packages from India to Peru include side trips to Huacachina, so be sure to inquire about adding this unique adventure to your itinerary.
Walk Among History at the Sacred Valley
The Sacred Valley, stretching between Cusco and Machu Picchu, is rich in history, stunning landscapes, and local culture. This valley is dotted with ancient ruins, charming towns, and colorful markets, making it a fantastic family-friendly destination.
- Places to Explore: Visit the archaeological sites of Pisac and Ollantaytambo, which offer fascinating glimpses into Inca life. In Pisac, you’ll also find a famous market where kids can pick up souvenirs and sample local snacks.
- Why It’s Great for Families: The Sacred Valley offers a mix of educational and fun activities, from exploring ruins to interacting with local artisans. It’s a more laid-back experience than some of the other major sites, making it ideal for families with younger children.
- Included in Packages: Most Peru travel packages from India include a tour of the Sacred Valley, complete with stops at some of the region’s most significant sites.
Visit the Animals at Parque de la Reserva (Magic Water Circuit) in Lima
For an evening of fun in Peru’s capital city, visit the Magic Water Circuit at Parque de la Reserva in Lima. This is a modern park with a twist—it features a series of illuminated fountains that make for a magical family outing.
- What You’ll Find: The park has 13 different fountains, some interactive, where kids can run and play. The fountains are beautifully lit at night, and some even have laser shows projected onto the water.
- Why It’s Great for Kids: The Magic Water Circuit is a fantastic place for kids to burn off energy while enjoying the visual spectacle of illuminated fountains. They’ll love running through the water and watching the colorful displays.
- Travel Tips: The park is best visited in the evening when the lights and fountains are at their best. If you’re planning a multi-day trip to Lima as part of your Peru travel package from India, make sure to include this unique attraction.
Take a Cooking Class in Cusco
For families who love food, a cooking class in Cusco is a fantastic way to learn about Peruvian culture and cuisine. From ceviche to empanadas, Peruvian food is a delightful fusion of flavors, and a hands-on class is a fun way to experience it firsthand.
- What to Expect: Many cooking classes begin with a visit to the local market, where you’ll learn about the ingredients used in Peruvian cooking. Back in the kitchen, a chef will guide you through preparing a traditional meal, which you’ll get to enjoy together afterward.
- Why Kids Will Love It: Kids often enjoy hands-on activities, and a cooking class is a perfect way to introduce them to new foods. It’s also a fun way for the whole family to work together and enjoy the fruits of their labor.
- Travel Packages: Some Peru travel packages from India include culinary experiences, so check to see if a cooking class is available as part of your Cusco itinerary.
Marvel at the Colca Canyon
For families who enjoy outdoor activities, a trip to the Colca Canyon is a fantastic addition to your Peruvian adventure. Known as one of the world’s deepest canyons, Colca offers breathtaking views and opportunities to spot Andean condors, traditional villages, and thermal springs.
- What to Do: You can hike along the canyon trails, visit traditional villages, or simply enjoy the view from a comfortable spot. Kids will be fascinated by the massive condors gliding through the air.
- Why It’s Great for Families: The Colca Canyon is an opportunity to experience Peru’s natural beauty and see traditional life in rural villages. Kids will love spotting wildlife and exploring the canyon’s rugged terrain.
- Included in Travel Packages: Some Peru travel packages from India offer guided tours of the Colca Canyon, making it easy for families to explore this remarkable destination safely.
Final Thoughts
Traveling to Peru with kids is an incredible adventure that offers diverse experiences for every member of the family. From the ancient wonders of Machu Picchu to the vibrant energy of the Amazon, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful country. With Peru travel packages from India, families can enjoy well-organized trips that include transportation, accommodations, and guided tours, allowing you to focus on making memories with your loved ones. So pack your bags, and get ready to explore the best family-friendly activities in Peru—an experience you’ll cherish for years to come!