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Peru with Kids: Everything You Need to Know

Peru with Kids | Everything You Need to Know

What a better way to enjoy a family vacation than visiting the intriguing Peruvian lands! This authentic country offers destinations and attractions for everybody, which is why we have gathered some useful tips and information so you can plan the perfect family trip through Peru.

While planning a trip to another country, many of us wonder about safety, the entry requirements, and where to go. We are proud to say that Peru is a family-oriented country, where even the little ones will be captivated by its history, culture, and natural wonders.

For those reasons, we’d like to give you all the tips and details so you don’t miss anything during this vacation that will surely be a memory your kids will treasure for life! Continue reading and learn everything about it.

Planning a Family Trip to Peru: Where to Go?

As we mentioned before Peru’s diversity will leave you wanting for more since there’s so much to do and see that most travelers have had to come back to know more of this Andean gem. If you’re traveling with children to Peru, make sure to feed your kids’ imagination with these unique destinations:

1. Lima
This is the starting point for most travelers that fly to Peru. If you have some spare time in your itinerary, consider adding a few attractions in Lima that will surely leave you breathless:

- Magic Water Fountain Circuit: This famous attraction gathers the world’s largest water fountain circuit, where lights, movement, music, and digital visuals take part to create a visually striking scenery.
- Historic Center of Lima: In this area of the city, you’ll be able to appreciate the contrast between the modern and colonial era. Lima’s historic center was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1991.
- Miraflores District: It’s known as the tourist district in Lima. Here you’ll find the most recognized restaurants worldwide, as well as having spectacular sea views and the opportunity of renting bikes to go around this beautiful neighborhood.
- Barranco District: This is Lima's bohemian district, known for its picturesque streets, live street music, craft markets, galleries, and restaurants.

2. Ica
This is the most visited region in Peru since it comprehends a significant part of the Peruvian coast and deserts. Here are some of the main things to do in Ica that you simply can’t miss:

- Paracas National Reserve: This region has been preserved for being home to over 400 species of flora and fauna. The Paracas National Reserve’s jaw-dropping scenery will be the highlight of your trip since this extensive desert merges perfectly with the Pacific coast.
- Ballestas Islands: This group of islands and rock formations are home to a distinctive maritime fauna since it is home to the Humboldt penguins, exotic birds, and hundreds of sea lions. The Ballestas Islands are often referred to as Peru’s small Galapagos.
- Huacachina: It is the only natural oasis in the continent, known for its remote location in the middle of the desert, and its unique landscapes. Here you’ll be able to do activities such as the Dune Buggy and Sandboarding. It is worth mentioning that this tour is only valid for kids over 10 years old.
- Nazca: Let your kids explore the Nazca pampas on a flight over the Nazca Lines, where they’ll meet the world’s biggest mystery. 

3. Arequipa
Let yourselves get carried away by Peru’s second-largest city, recognized for its colonial architecture and natural wonders:

- Historic Center of Arequipa: This is one of the most beautiful old towns in Peru since most of its structures are built with white ashlar, a volcanic rock found in the Chachani Volcano’s quarries. Make sure to visit the Santa Catalina Monastery while you’re here, famous for being an outstanding example of colonial architecture.
- Colca Canyon: It is one of the unmissable attractions in Arequipa and one of the most recognized natural attractions in Peru because of its otherworldly scenery. Also, the Colca Canyon is home to the third-largest bird in the world, the Andean Condor.

4. Puno
Also known as the Folkloric Capital of Peru, this small town guards the highest navigable lake in the world. Make sure to add this destination to your itinerary and make the most of your experience.

- Lake Titicaca: This famous water body is recognized for gathering over 100 man-made floating islands and for keeping its culture nearly untouched by the outside world. For most families that visit Peru, Lake Titicaca is a must-visit attraction. We highly recommend you spend a night in one of the islands and live this beautiful culture in true depth.

5. Cusco
The Imperial City of Cusco is the main travel destination for most travelers in South America. Here’s where the main Inca settlements and the most iconic natural scenery of the Peruvian Andes lie. Your kids will be amazed by the natural beauty of this place, without leaving behind the opportunity of meeting the famous llamas!

- Sacred Valley of the Incas: This is an archeological circuit that takes you to the most significant Inca ruins, known for their cultural, religious, and military purposes. 
- Machu Picchu: The famous Inca citadel awaits to be discovered, where its remote location, structure, and natural scenery will impress even its younger visitors. Learning about the Inca culture couldn’t be easier than visiting and living it from up close.

These are a few of the many things you can do in Peru. We encourage you to visit our destinations section and learn more about the outstanding attractions in our country.

Peru Entry Requirements for Kids: 2022 Update

There are some certain things to know before traveling to Peru with kids, such as having the correct documentation to enter the country. Therefore we have some useful information for you so you can organize your trip:

- Kids must have a passport with a validity of at least 6 months.
- Proof of residency in their home country.
- If the child is under 12 years old, parents must present a medical certificate of good health.
- For children over 12 years old, a negative PCR test or proof of having the corresponding vaccines will be required due to COVID-19 safety protocols.

If you wish to learn more about the current requirements to enter Peru, make sure to learn everything while you’re here.

Tips for Parents

We know how important it is to have a safe travel experience, especially while traveling with family. Here are some important travel tips so you can experience Peru stress-free.

- Before venturing abroad, check medicines for common flu, fever, and diarrhea with a trusted pediatrician.
- Make sure to have enough cash while traveling to Peru, as well as buying wipes, diapers, and all the essentials for your child before every excursion.
- Backpacks are going to be your new best friend, easy to carry everything while still keeping an eye on your little ones.
- Protect your skin with sunscreen and insect repellent, especially if you’re traveling to the Andean highlands or the jungle.
- If traveling to high altitude locations, make sure to check with your pediatrician about how to prevent and deal with altitude sickness symptoms.
- Try to avoid long and exhausting walks during your stay in the Peruvian highlands on the first day. Make sure everyone is acclimatized before committing to such activities.
- Make sure to pack according to the current weather in Peru.

And last but not least, have fun! Peru will provide an unforgettable experience for you and your family, no matter the time or the regions you visit. Remember, families that travel together, stay together. 

For more details about all the things you need to know before and during your trip to Peru, make sure to check our informative guides. 

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