Peru with kids: 5 destinations you cannot miss

Peru is definitely a destination for travelers who want to enjoy ancient culture, exquisite cuisine, and unique landscapes. But who said you can’t have these experiences with the little ones? Here we share five destinations you shouldn’t miss when traveling in Peru with kids or you run the risk of never being forgiven for not taking them with you.

#1 Lima: biking along the beach, street art, and treasure hunting at Larco Museum

A walk along the Malecón of Barranco (Lima bohemian district) and Miraflores is an experience everyone visiting Lima should have. An excellent way to enjoy the views of the Pacific Ocean is by bike. This activity enchants children and adults alike, and with the help of your guide, you’ll enjoy some of the most spectacular views of the city.

For a more creative experience, get your hands on some spray paint and learn from one of Lima’s most renowned street artists as you create your own piece of art right on the city’s streets.

Another must when traveling with children to Peru is a visit to the Larco Museum, one of the best museums in South America. Don’t worry, your kids won’t get bored but just have tons of fun participating in treasure hunts, recreating ancient battle scenes, and creating their own comic strips, all while they’ll learn about Peru’s rich history in a playful and fun way, don’t miss this!

#2 Sacred Valley: crafts, llama walks, and glamping under the stars

 An excellent option for little artists is visiting local artisans in the Sacred Valley, who will share their knowledge of pottery and painting during a half-day workshop. Get your hands dirty in a pottery or painting class and take your own piece of art back home.

Later on, you can get a bit more adventurous with a walk alongside llamas by the Llama Pack Project. Feed and learn about these fluffy animals as you walk with them through the breathtaking landscapes of the Sacred Valley of the Incas. This initiative works to recover traditional uses and breeding of pack llamas for tourism, promoting sustainable rural development and ecosystem conservation.

To end the day, don’t miss a night under the stars in the Sacred Valley at Qhispikay Glamping, or, if you’re up for something more daring, spend the night hanging from a cliff at the Skylodge. Both options offer unforgettable outdoor experiences while still providing all the comfort your family deserves on a dream vacation.

#3 Cusco: fun archaeology, traditional bread making, and chocolate!

Cusco city is surrounded by spectacular archaeological sites. However, if you’re traveling with kids, it’s best to choose one or two to avoid overwhelming them. We recommend Sacsayhuaman, an impressive site located very close to the city. Besides being a fantastic place to learn about ancient Andean culture, it also features natural stone slides that are so much fun for children.

If your family is on the artistry side, workshops where kids paint a traditional Torito de Pucará or make a Tanta wawa bread in the Southern Valley of Cusco are a great choice. And for a sweet ending, finish your day making your very own chocolate. While your children learn about the origins of their favorite treat, you get to enjoy some well-earned indulgence too.

#4 Paracas: an oasis, wildlife watching, and good food

Paracas is one of the best destinations in Peru to travel with kids. Just a few hours from Lima, it’s the perfect place for families who want to have fun and relax at the same time. Pack your swimsuits and visit the Costa Rica Oasis, a beautiful lagoon in the middle of the desert where you and your kids can swim and paddle.

While in Paracas, a boat trip to the Ballestas Islands is a must for wildlife watching. Penguins, sea lions, and pelicans are just some of the incredible creatures you’ll spot. For lunch, you can even dive for your own scallops at Inti Mar, a small hotel right by the ocean. In the afternoon, grab your goggles and join a sandboarding adventure in the desert!

#5 Tambopata: short trails, new species, and temporary tattoos in the heart of the rainforest

Kids are bound to fall in love with the Amazon rainforest. At Rainforest Expeditions lodges in Tambopata, children (and adults) can experience the essence of the jungle while enjoying the comfort of beautiful rooms and delicious food prepared with local ingredients.

A two-hour morning trail solving an Amazon mystery, followed by a night walk discovering “new species,” creates the perfect balance of learning and adventure. For families interested in culture, kids can also get a temporary tattoo, just like indigenous communities in the Amazon traditionally do!

We know that planning a family trip to Peru can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. With the right mix of destinations, experiences, and pacing, Peru becomes an inspiring, safe, and enriching destination for travelers of all ages and families with kids.

Now is the perfect time to design your journey through Peru. Let us handle your dream family vacations with authentic experiences and high-end journeys, thoughtfully crafted beyond the usual routes. Tell us more about your family and let’s start tailoring your family adventure!