Peru

Peru offers families a South American adventure that blends ancient history with incredible biodiversity. While often associated with rugged trekking, the country is surprisingly accessible for children, providing opportunities to see wild monkeys, touch ancient Inca stones, and experience a culture distinct from their own.

The journey often begins in Lima. The capital sits on coastal cliffs where families can walk the Malecón in Miraflores, a manicured boardwalk overlooking the Pacific Ocean. A major highlight for younger children is the Circuito Mágico del Agua (Magic Water Circuit), a park featuring massive fountains and light shows that run in the evenings. From the coast, a flight to Cusco introduces the Andes mountains. Because the city sits at over 3,400 meters (11,000 feet), it is often best for families to head immediately to the lower-altitude Sacred Valley to acclimatize.

In the Sacred Valley, history becomes a playground. The fortress of Ollantaytambo allows kids to climb massive stone terraces, while the colorful market in Pisac offers a chance to buy warm alpaca wool hats and see local crafts. The main event, Machu Picchu, is easily reached via a scenic train ride along the Urubamba River, avoiding the need for the strenuous Inca Trail hike. The site itself is a maze of stone houses and green terraces that sparks the imagination of young explorers.

For nature-loving families, the Peruvian Amazon is a bucket-list destination. Accessible via a short flight to Puerto Maldonado, jungle lodges offer boat trips to spot capybaras, caimans, and toucans. Guides are typically skilled at engaging children with stories of the rainforest, making biology fun and interactive. Back in the highlands, many families participate in chocolate-making workshops, learning how cacao beans transform into dessert.

Dining in Peru is family-friendly. While adults might enjoy spicy ceviche (marinated raw fish), children usually love Lomo Saltado, a beef stir-fry served with french fries and rice. Pollo a la Brasa (rotisserie chicken) is another reliable staple found everywhere. For a drink, try Chicha Morada, a sweet, non-alcoholic purple corn juice that tastes like fruit punch.

Practical Considerations: Altitude sickness is a genuine concern; consult a doctor before traveling and plan a slow itinerary to let bodies adjust. Strictly stick to bottled water for drinking and brushing teeth. While major tourist areas are well-policed, keep a close eye on bags in crowded markets and busy plazas.