Curator’s statement
Peru is a destination where adventure, history, and culture come together in a way that feels meaningful for the entire family. Traveling there with my 7-year-old son showed me how engaging the country can be for children, from meeting llamas and exploring ancient Incan sites to riding the train through the Andes. With thoughtful planning and a slower pace, Peru offers families an unforgettable opportunity to learn, connect, and experience something completely different together.
The Fora Difference
Book with Mindy Goldsand to access exclusive perks and experiences on your trip.
Killer perks
Free upgrades, spa credits and more—we got you
Personalized recs
Customized travel planning for your style
Insider knowledge
Expert advice from people who’ve actually been there
Where to stay in Peru
Unlock perks by contacting Mindy Goldsand to book your trip.
Things to do in Peru
Dylan testing out his new Peruvian flute from the Pisac Market, one souvenir we definitely heard for the rest of the trip!
Explore Machu Picchu with a private guide
A knowledgeable guide can bring the ancient citadel to life through stories and details that keep children engaged. For younger kids, consider arranging a separate guide who can tailor the experience to their interests and attention span.
Ride the train through the Andes
The scenic journey to Machu Picchu is an experience in itself, with dramatic mountain and river views along the way. Families can choose from comfortable sightseeing trains or the luxurious Belmond Hiram Bingham.
Meet llamas & alpacas
A private llama or alpaca experience is especially memorable for children, giving them an opportunity to interact with the animals while learning about their importance to Andean culture.
Visit the Maras salt ponds
Thousands of cascading salt pools create one of the Sacred Valley’s most unusual landscapes. Children will enjoy seeing how salt has been collected here using traditional methods for generations.
Explore the agricultural terraces at Moray
These enormous circular terraces are visually impressive and offer a fascinating introduction to Incan innovation. A family-friendly guide can explain how the Incas may have used the terraces to experiment with different growing conditions.
Have lunch at Hacienda Sarapampa
This beautiful working corn farm offers a delicious meal alongside an engaging introduction to Peruvian agriculture and culture. It was one of our favorite Sacred Valley experiences and provides a welcome change of pace from touring ruins.
Discover Ollantaytambo
This historic Incan town features impressive ruins, cobblestone streets, and water channels that still flow through the village. The climb can be challenging, so take it slowly and allow time to enjoy the surrounding mountain views.
Wander through Cusco
Spend time exploring Cusco’s courtyards, artisan shops, historic streets, and colorful markets without an overly structured schedule. Be sure to leave time for hot chocolate, souvenirs, and a relaxed afternoon at the hotel.
Experience Lima’s culinary scene
Lima is one of the world’s great food destinations, with options ranging from approachable Peruvian classics to internationally celebrated tasting menus. Families can sample ceviche, lomo saltado, causa, empanadas, and Peru’s incredible avocados.
Places to eat & drink in Peru
Hanging out with and feeding the llamas at Mountain View Experience Restaurant
El Huacatay (Urubamba)
Hidden behind an unassuming entrance, El Huacatay has a charming garden setting and serves creative Peruvian cuisine using ingredients from the Sacred Valley. The relaxed atmosphere and children’s options make it an excellent choice for families.
Hacienda Sarapampa (Sacred Valley)
More than just a restaurant, Hacienda Sarapampa offers a beautiful farm-to-table lunch on a family-owned corn farm. The experience combines wonderful food with an introduction to Peruvian agriculture and culture, making it one of our favorite meals of the trip.
Mauka at Palacio Nazarenas (Cusco)
Created by acclaimed Peruvian chef Pía León, Mauka highlights ingredients and culinary traditions from across the Andes. The setting within the serene Palacio Nazarenas is beautiful, and the ceviche was one of my favorite dishes of the trip.
Pachapapa (Cusco)
Located in a colonial courtyard in the San Blas neighborhood, Pachapapa is a welcoming place to try traditional Cusqueñan and Peruvian specialties. Its comfortable outdoor setting and varied menu make it approachable for families.
Maido (Lima)
Maido offers an innovative Nikkei dining experience that blends Japanese techniques with Peruvian ingredients. It is a longer, more elevated meal, but adventurous older children and food-focused families may find it to be one of the highlights of their time in Lima.
Mountain View Experience (Maras)
Enjoy a meal or private picnic surrounded by sweeping views of the Andes, with friendly llamas and alpacas often nearby. The combination of beautiful scenery, local Peruvian food, and animal encounters makes this an especially memorable experience for families.
Need to know
Begin in the Sacred Valley before staying in Cusco, as its lower elevation gives families more time to acclimate. Keep the first day light, and stay hydrated to help with acclimatization.
Machu Picchu tickets, train reservations, and guides should be arranged well in advance. Pack layers, comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, insect repellent, rain protection, and a small day bag, as luggage allowances on the trains may be limited.
Build flexibility into the itinerary because weather, landslides, or railway disruptions can occasionally affect travel to Machu Picchu (this happened to us)! Travel insurance and a reliable local partner are especially important, and I recommend leaving some unscheduled time rather than planning full touring days back-to-back.
Private guides and transfers are well worth the investment for families, allowing the pace and storytelling to be tailored to the children. Most importantly, do not try to see everything. Peru is best enjoyed slowly.
Travel Advisor
Mindy Goldsand
Mindy Goldsand
Get in touch with Mindy Goldsand
Did you like this guide? Reach out to customize and book your own experience. Or, just to chat about travel in general.
For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Peru page.