A family trip to Peru is sure to be exciting, educational and memorable. Peru offers a wide array of experiences, and there’s something to keep every child and adult in the party entertained.
To help you decide what to do on your trip, we made this list of the best family activities in Peru. We’ve organized the list by type, so you can choose the activities that best suit your family.
Your guide to travelling to Peru with kids
For Kids Who Love Animals and Nature
- Explore the Amazon with tailored kid-friendly activities. The Tambopata Research Center in the Tambopata National Reserve offers an authentic jungle experience with unrivalled wildlife watching opportunities. Children will love seeing the colourful macaw clay licks, and adults will appreciate the luxury accommodation.
- Swim with sea lions and see Humboldt penguins on the Palomino Islands off the coast of Lima. This full-day excursion is especially popular with older children and teens. Traveling to the islands by private sailboat ensures you can enjoy the wildlife at your leisure.
- The northern beach town of Mancora offers incredible whale watching opportunities. Visit between August and November to see the humpback whales in all their glory. Charter a boat with a marine biologist to have all your questions answered.
For Kids Who Love to Learn
- Learn all about the history of Peruvian chocolate and take part in private chocolate making workshops at the Choco Museo in Lima. Foodie families will love the Peru with Flavor tour, which can of course be tailored to accommodate even young children.
- Crafty kids will love the abundance of traditional textile and pottery workshops offered in Cusco, Chinchero and Ollantaytambo. Children of all ages can make their own souvenirs to bring home.
- The Nazca Lines are a phenomenal collection of geoglyphs in Southern Peru. They depict animals and figures and some measure up to 300 meters (180 feet) in size. Children will love trying to work out what each of the lines represents. The best way to see them is by air, via a short scenic flight.
For Kids Who Love Adrenaline and Sports:
- The Sacred Valley is a geographical marvel in the highlands of Peru. The scenery alone is enough to make it well worth a visit, but the area is also scattered with fascinating Inca ruins and archaeological sites. Families can take short (and easy) one day strolls in the valley or if more adventure is desired, try a multi-day trek.
- Zipline through the Sacred Valley to reach your cliff-edge accommodation at the Sky Lodge Adventure Suites. This adrenaline-pumping adventure is best for older children and brave adults craving something a bit different from their vacation. We’re pretty sure that sleeping 400 metres (1,312 feet) in the air off the side of a cliff is an experience no one will forget.
- If you prefer your adventures a little closer to the ground, try stand up paddle boarding in the Sacred Valley. You’ll still be at high altitude, but your feet will be firmly on the board… hopefully. The calm waters of the lakes are great for complete beginners and seasoned pros alike.
- Race through ancient ruins on speedy ATVs. This is probably the most fun way to take in the history and scenery of the Sacred Valley. This experience isn’t suitable for young children, but is great for adventurous teens and adults.
We know that travelling with children is immensely rewarding but it can also be a little stressful. Aracari designs bespoke family trips to help lighten the load for parents. One recent traveler had this to say about their personal Aracari guide;
“Fernando has a wide range of knowledge from ancient to modern Peru. He has great knowledge of nature: trees, animals & geology. He was very kind, patient and calm when working with our children.”
To book your own family-friendly trip to Peru, get in touch today.