Peru · Things to do
5 things to do in Peru with kids
The five best things to do in Peru with kids are visiting Machu Picchu, exploring Cusco's old town, wandering the Sacred Valley, a trip to Rainbow Mountain, and meeting the llamas of the Andes. Altitude is the main challenge, so spend your first nights lower in the Sacred Valley, move slowly and consider skipping Rainbow Mountain with young children.
What to do, in order
- 1
Stand at Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu is an Inca citadel on a ridge above the Urubamba River, reached by train to Aguas Calientes and a short bus up. Entry is by timed ticket, and slots sell out, so book months ahead in the dry season. It sits lower than Cusco, so most people find the altitude easier there. Arrive early for fewer people and clearer light, wear shoes with grip and keep children away from the terrace edges. Plan for a full day, with an overnight in Aguas Calientes if you want a relaxed start.
- 2
Explore Cusco's old town
Cusco was the capital of the Inca empire, and its centre still shows it: Inca stone walls support Spanish colonial balconies and churches. Walk around the Plaza de Armas, then to the Qorikancha, an Inca temple with a church built on top. At about 3,400 metres, the city is high, so take the first day slowly, drink water and avoid heavy meals. Cobbled streets are steep, and a baby carrier is easier than a stroller. Evenings are cold in every season.
- 3
Wander the Sacred Valley
The Sacred Valley runs north-west of Cusco and is lower, at around 2,800 metres, so many families sleep here first. Highlights include the market and terraces at Pisac, the Inca fortress town of Ollantaytambo, the circular terraces of Moray and the salt pans at Maras. Distances are short, and walks are gentle, so it suits children better than the high mountains. Hire a driver for the day, since sites are spread out. Ollantaytambo is also the main train station for Machu Picchu.
- 4
Hike Rainbow Mountain
Rainbow Mountain, Vinicunca, is a striped ridge reached by a long drive and a steady uphill walk, and it is one of the highest day trips in Peru, at around 5,000 metres. Altitude sickness is a real risk, and it is not a good choice for young children or anyone who has not acclimatised for several days. If you want a coloured-mountain view, ask about Palccoyo, a shorter walk. Talk to a doctor before the trip, and be ready to turn around.
- 5
Meet the llamas
Llamas and alpacas are part of daily life across the Andes, and children love them. You will see them near ruins such as Sacsayhuamán above Cusco, on the road through the Sacred Valley and in markets and weaving villages, where women in traditional dress often pose with them for a tip. Llamas have longer, banana-shaped ears and alpacas are smaller and fluffier. Keep a respectful distance, avoid the face and do not feed them. Weaving cooperatives are a good place to learn about alpaca wool.
Plan it
- Best time
- May to September is the dry season, with clear skies and cold nights. October and April are good shoulder months. December to March is the rainy season, with fewer visitors.
- How long
- Ten days suits a first visit: two in the Sacred Valley, two in Cusco, a night or two at Machu Picchu and slack for weather.
- Getting around
- Trains run from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes for Machu Picchu. In Cusco and the valley, taxis and hired drivers are the practical choice. Flights connect Lima to Cusco in about an hour and a half.
Good to know
- Spend your first nights in the Sacred Valley before going up to Cusco. The lower altitude eases adjustment.
- Carry cash in small notes for markets, tips and toilets.
- Ask a doctor about altitude medication before travelling with children.
Frequently asked
Is Peru safe for children? +
Yes for most families, with normal precautions. The main risks are altitude, stomach upsets and petty theft in busy areas. Use filtered water, take it slowly in Cusco and keep valuables close.
How do you get to Machu Picchu with kids? +
By train from Ollantaytambo or Cusco area stations to Aguas Calientes, then a short bus up to the site. Book train and entry tickets well ahead. The journey is easy, and children usually enjoy the train.
Is altitude sickness a problem for children? +
It can be. Children can be affected as adults are, and may not be able to describe symptoms. Acclimatise slowly, keep activity light on arrival, drink water and consult a doctor before the trip.
When is the best time to visit Peru? +
May to September is the dry season and most reliable for Machu Picchu and trekking. It is also the busiest. The wet months from December to March bring rain, mud and fewer people.