Highlights of Peru

On this extensive 20-day family trip to Peru, you and your loved ones will have the opportunity to visit Peru most iconic destinations as well as its hidden gems with the whole family. Begin your journey by visiting the famous "small Galapagos Islands," where you can see a diverse range of wildlife in an incredibly pristine environment. As you travel further, you'll come across the breathtaking oasis of Huacachina, a desert paradise surrounded by towering sand dunes ideal for thrilling dune buggy rides and sandboarding.

Continue to the Colca Valley to see majestic Andean condors soaring over dramatic landscapes, and stop by the Cochahuasi Animal Sanctuary to learn about local wildlife conservation. These experiences offer a unique opportunity to connect with nature while also engaging in environmentally responsible tourism.

The journey culminates with a visit to the breathtaking Machu Picchu, an ancient Inca citadel that provides a glimpse into Peru's rich historical tapestry. Explore the highlights of Peru, making this 20-day family Peru itinerary the ideal combination of cultural immersion, adventure, and educational experiences for families looking for a comprehensive and enriching family vacation.

📍 This tour includes sensitive destinations, therefore we request you to be as environmentally friendly as possible.
🍏 All food on this tour is prepared mostly with local ingredients.
🍃 Hotels with this mark are sustainable. We hope you will take them into account when making your reservation

Family trip to Peru Overview

Day 1: Lima
Day 2: Lima: Free Day & City Tour Malecon & Barranco
Day 3: Transfer Lima - Paracas
Day 4: Tour Islas Ballestas; Transfer Paracas - Ica
Day 5: Free Day Huacachina
Day 6: Transfer Ica - Lima
Day 7: Flight Lima – Arequipa; Free Day
Day 8: Tour Ruta del Sillar
Day 9: Tour Colca Canyon
Day 10: Free Day Colca
Day 11: Tour Colca Canyon
Day 12: Flight Arequipa – Cusco; Free Day
Day 13: City Tour Cusco
Day 14: Tour Sacred Valley (Urpis, Maras & Moray)
Day 15: Machu Picchu & Hot Springs
Day 16: Free Day Sacred Valley; Transfer Sacred Valley - Cusco
Day 17: Flight Cusco – Puerto Maldonado; Jungle Excursion
Day 18: Jungle Excursion
Day 19: Jungle Excursion; Flight Puerto Maldonado - Lima
Day 20: Adios! 

 

Welcome to the ultimate family adventure in Peru! This 20-day itinerary is expertly designed to combine cultural exploration, natural wonders, and relaxation, resulting in an unforgettable experience for all ages. From Lima's historic streets to the mysterious depths of the Amazon jungle, every day brings new discoveries and unforgettable experiences. Prepare for a journey that will captivate your family's heart and imagination through Peru's diverse landscapes.

Day 1: Lima

Upon your arrival to the Lima Airport, you will be welcomed by one of our representatives, who will provide a brief introduction to the city and our services while driving you to your hotel in Miraflores. You will have the remainder of the day free to relax and get acquainted with the city at your own pace. Depending on your arrival time, we have plenty of suggestions for you so you can make the most of your first day in Lima.

Day 2: Lima: Free Day & City Tour Malecon & Barranco

Today is at your leisure to explore Lima on your own, enjoy the culinary cuisine in a beautiful restaurant with a sea view or take a stroll along the beach.
In due course, join a guided tour of Barranco and Malecon and visit the bohemian Barranco district, a neighborhood called home by numerous artists, photographers and writers. Stroll through the beautiful streets lined with republican houses, admire the magnificent views and visit the Puente de los Suspiros (Bridge of Sighs), the source of inspiration for one of Peru's greatest composers, Chabuca Granda.

Day 3: Transfer Lima - Paracas

Today you will travel from the capital of Lima to Paracas, a small coastal town which, in addition to the Islas Ballestas, is also home to many different species of birds, sea lions and Humboldt penguins.

After arriving in Paracas in the afternoon, you will have time to stroll along the beach and enjoy the evening in one of the coastal restaurants. 

Day 4: Tour Islas Ballestas; Transfer Paracas - Ica

Today we will have an early rise and board the fully equipped speedboat departing from the Libertador Pier towards the Ballestas Islands, also known as the little Galapagos because of the great variety of marine wildlife that inhabit them. En route, our boat stops to observe the “The Chandelier”, an enigmatic figure that can only be seen from the sea. You will explore caves and rock formations that have been carved by the sea and wind over time and will be able to observe sea lions, penguins, seagulls and a wide variety of marine fauna. 
After the tour, you will be taken to Ica, where you can relax in your hotel or take a walk through the dunes of the Huacachina oasis. 

Day 5: Free Day Huacachina

Today you have a free day in the Huacachina oasis and can relax there. 
Ica is known for its warm and dry climate, which is also perfect for growing grapes.
Note: You can also book a tour through the wine-growing region of Ica to learn about the history of wine in Ica and also taste it. 

Day 6: Transfer Ica - Lima

The morning in Ica is at your leisure. At the appropriate time, you will then be taken back to Lima to continue your journey to Arequipa the next day.

Day 7: Flight Lima – Arequipa; Free Day

In the morning you will be picked up from your hotel and taken to the airport, from where you will fly to Arequipa. Once there, you will be taken to your hotel.
The rest of the day is free to explore the white city of Arequipa on your own. Stroll around the Plaza de Armas and visit the monastery of Santa Catalina, the saint who inspired this monastery, where silence found its voice in the vivid colors of its walls and in the cobblestone passages that converge in the beautiful main square.
You can also enjoy a wonderful view of the white city from the viewpoint of Yanahuara.

Day 8: Tour Ruta del Sillar

Today we visit the quarries of AĂąashuayco.
We walk through the quarry area where we can admire handmade works such as huge rock walls up to 30 meters high, facades and carvings from the colonial era and modern works of art. You will also learn about the use of sillar stone.
Continue to the Culebrillas quarry, a natural ravine created by the erosion of water and wind.  We will walk through it and admire the gorges and see petroglyphs in various forms. 

Day 9: Tour Colca Canyon

Early in the morning, you will embark on an amazing journey to one of the deepest Canyons in the world! We will travel across snow-covered volcanoes, quaint Andean villages, finally arriving in the Colca Valley.
One of our stops will be the Aguada Blanca National Reserve, whose rugged terrain is home to vast herds of VicuĂąas, Alpacas and Llamas. Next we will visit the Mirador de los Andes (Lookout Point of the Andes) in Patapampa. This lookout point, at 16,100 ft / 1408 m above sea level, offers spectacular views of the snow-capped peaks of the various volcanoes surrounding Arequipa, including the Hualca Calca, the Sabancaya and the Ampato. After, you will head to the town of Chivay (close to where the Colca Valley begins) for a closer inspection of the impressive system of platforms and terraces built by the ancient Collagua and Cabana inhabitants.
After lunch, you will make your way to the hotel. The rest of the afternoon will be free to take advantage of the hotel’s amenities, enjoy the tranquility of your surroundings, and simply rest and rejuvenate for the next day.
Optional: After reaching Chivay Village, we will encounter La Calera Hot Springs, which boasts a wonderful array of hot spring pools, fed by the bubbling brooks that emerge from the mountain sides all around – they average a natural temperature of 85°C. Said to be wondrous for curing arthritis and rheumatism. These clean and well-kept thermal baths are not to be missed.

Day 10: Free Day Colca

Today is at your leisure and you can enjoy the idyllic Colca Valley. Relax in the thermal springs of La Calera in Chivay or go on short hikes through the beautiful landscape of the canyon.

Day 11: Tour Colca Canyon

Early in the morning, we will head off to the Condor Cross Lookout Point. Which is an incredible vantage point where you will be able to look out across one of the world’s deepest canyons and if we get lucky, see the majestic Andean Condor in flight! After lunch, you will experience an awe-inspiring trip of about four hours through the unique landscapes of the high mountain plain back to Arequipa.

Day 12: Flight Arequipa – Cusco; Free Day

In the morning you will be picked up from your hotel and taken to Arequipa airport to fly to Cusco, where we will take you to your hotel.
Today you have a free day in Cusco. Visit the Inca ruins or stroll through the Plaza de Armas. You can also stroll through the artists' quarter of San Blas or enjoy a beautiful view from the Mirador San Cristobal. 

Day 13: City Tour Cusco

Today we will explore the amazing city of Cusco, which was the Capital of the Inca empire and one of the most historical cities in the Americas.
In the morning, you will begin your tour visiting the Fortress of Sacsayhuamán, one the most important military and ceremonial centers in Incan times. We will continue our tour strolling through the main square, where you will be able to explore the Cathedral and admire its exquisite vestibules and priceless paintings from the Cusco School of the 17th and 18th centuries. Just a few blocks away, you will explore one of Cusco’s most impressive buildings, Qoricancha or Temple of the Sun, whose interior walls were said to have been covered in gold. As you return to the lower part of the city, you will stop off at the San Pedro Market, where you will be mesmerized by the variety of unique and traditional produce and discover new aromas and tastes of the region.

Day 14: Tour Sacred Valley (Urpis, Maras & Moray)

Today you will experience a full-day private guided excursion through the Sacred Valley on our way back to Cusco.

First, you will visit the Andean village of Chinchero. You will find yourself surrounded by gorgeous views overlooking the Sacred Valley and the snow-capped peak of Salkantay dominating the western horizon. This excursion combines Incan ruins with a typical Andean village, a colonial church, some wonderful mountain landscapes, and a colorful traditional market. 

We will visit the Andean community of Cuper Bajo, who will welcome us with a traditional ceremony. We will also be able to see the community's weaving techniques and go on a short hike to the Piuray lagoon with llamas.

We continue on to visit the sites of Maras and Moray. En route, you will have one of the best panoramic views of the valley. First, we will stop at the ancient salt mines, near the town of Maras, then, the huge circular agricultural terraces at Moray built by the Incas in natural sinkholes on a limestone plateau overlooking the Urubamba Valley. Afterward we will head to your hotel in the Sacred Valley.

Day 15: Machu Picchu & Hot Springs

After a very early rise, you will board the train from the Ollantaytambo Station heading to Machu Picchu Pueblo (Aguas Calientes). This train journey is a spectacle in itself! You will be able to appreciate the Peru’s immense biodiversity, as you witness the landscape transition from Andean green fields to lush rainforest, descending alongside the Urubamba River.
Upon arrival to the Aguas Calientes train station, you will take a 20 minute bus ride up to the spectacular site of Machu Picchu. You will explore this enigmatic sanctuary where your expert guide will lead you through the ruins, providing archaeological and historical information on key areas of interest, including The Temple of the Sun, the Intihuatana (the Sun Dial) and the Sacred Plaza. You will appreciate the most amazing views from the top of this citadel! This is an opportunity to revel in the energy and atmosphere of one of the most significant and spectacular archaeological sites of the world, set high in the cloud forest.
You will also have the opportunity to see Llamas meandering around in their natural environment.
After the descent to Pueblo Machu Picchu, you will have some free time to have lunch and you can also relax in the hot springs of Aguas Calientes. Marked trails, information boards & talks await you in a forest nature park that is home to thousands of butterfly species. In the afternoon, you will board the return train to the Ollantaytambo Station, where one of our representatives will be waiting for you to take you back to your hotel in the Sacred Valley.

Day 16: Free Day Sacred Valley; Transfer Sacred Valley - Cusco

Today is at your leisure and you can enjoy the idyll of the Sacred Valley on a walk or relax in your hotel.
You will be picked up in the afternoon and taken back to your hotel in Cusco. Stroll through the streets of Cusco in the evening.

Day 17: Flight Cusco – Puerto Maldonado; Jungle Excursion

Early in the morning, you will be met by our representative at your hotel in Cusco and escorted to the airport. You will fly to Puerto Maldonado, where you will be welcomed by our representative.
You will be taken by boat to your lodge, where the jungle adventure begins. The jungle offers several excursions where you can not only discover the breathtaking biodiversity of the jungle, but also learn a lot about life there.
Depending on the lodge, different excursions are offered, such as a visit to a monkey island, a night boat trip and hikes through the jungle.
Note: The tours vary depending on the lodge and will be sent in detail on request. 

Day 18: Jungle Excursion

Today you get ready for a real Amazon experience! 
In addition to hikes through the jungle, the lodges also offer excursions to Lake Sandoval, a visit to a lagoon with caimans and a canopy walk. 
During these incredible excursions, you can see different species of birds, caimans, capibaras, anacondas and various species of monkeys.
Note: The tours vary depending on the lodge and will be sent in detail on request. 

Day 19: Jungle Excursion; Flight Puerto Maldonado - Lima

After breakfast, you will embark on a boat ride back to Puerto Maldonado, where you will be transferred to the airport to catch your flight to Lima. Upon arriving in the City of Lima, you will be welcomed by a Peruvian Sunrise representative, who will drive you to your hotel.
Today you will have the afternoon free to relax or to explore Lima on your own.

Day 20: Adios!

At a set time our representative will accompany you to the airport to take your international flight back home.

INCLUSIONS AND NO INCLUSIONS


Included

•    Hotel accommodations for 19 nights with breakfast, as described in the itinerary.
•    Private transportations hotel / airport in every destination.
•    Private guided excursions as described in the itinerary.
•    Private Transfer: Lima – Paracas – Ica – Lima; Arequipa – Colca – Arequipa; Ollantaytambo - Cusco
•    All admission fees.
•    4 Lunch included; 2 Dinner included
•    Train tickets to & from Machu Picchu.
•    Bus tickets to & from Machu Picchu.

Not Included

•    International & domestic airfares, unless specifically mentioned.
•    Travel insurance.
•    Items of personal nature such as gratuities, internet charges, excess baggage charges, laundry, beverages and meals not described in the itinerary.
 

PRICE PER PERSON

  • Standard:  
    • Adult: US$ 2445 
    • Child:  US$ 2170 
  • Comfort: 
    • Adult: US$ 3240
    • Child:  US$ 1995
  • Premium: 
    • Adult: US$ 4600
    • Child:  US$ 2250

CANCELLATION POLICY

Before booking your Peru family vacation with Peruvian Sunrise, we recommend that you read through our detailed cancellation policy to ensure that you understand everything. Familiarizing yourself with our terms will help you manage your expectations and prepare for your exciting journey.

Changes: Please read our terms & conditions

WHAT TO PACK?

  • Travel Documents: Passport, travel insurance, flight tickets, and any necessary visas.
  • Tickets: Ensure you have your train and entrance tickets printed or downloaded to your mobile device.
  • Daypack: Bring a lightweight and comfortable daypack to carry all your essentials.
  • Clothing:
    • For Warm Coastal Regions (Lima, Paracas, Ica): Lightweight, breathable clothing, shorts, t-shirts, tank tops, light dresses, sandals, wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses,
    • For Cooler Andean Areas (Cusco, Arequipa, Colca Canyon): Layered clothing, long-sleeve shirts, fleece jacket, warm hat, gloves, scarf,
    • For Rainy Areas (Machu Picchu, Amazon Jungle): Waterproof rain jacket, umbrella, quick-dry clothing, waterproof hiking shoes,
      General: Comfortable walking shoes, swimwear, flip flops, pajamas, socks, underwear.
  • Comfortable Walking Shoes: Comfortable walking shoes or sneakers for city exploration and walking tours.
  • Sun protection: Pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun’s rays at high altitudes.
  • Water bottle: It’s essential to stay hydrated at high altitudes. Bring a refillable water bottle.
  • Snacks and Entertainment: Keep a selection of snacks handy that can help tide over hunger pangs, especially with kids. Also, pack a variety of entertainment options like books, travel games, or tablets loaded with movies and apps to keep children engaged during long drives or flights.
  • Camera: If you enjoy photography, bring a camera to capture the beautiful landscapes.
  • Cash: Bring cash in local currency in case you need to buy anything or tip your guides.
  • Rain Gear: Lightweight rain jacket or poncho, especially for the rainforest in Puerto Maldonado.
  • Personal Items: Toiletries, including sunscreen, insect repellent, and any personal medications.

 

Tip

When packing for a family trip to Peru, consider versatility and comfort. Choose clothing that can be layered to accommodate varying climates, from the coastal breeze of Lima to the humidity of the Amazon. Ensure that each family member has sturdy walking shoes and a lighter pair of sandals. Include necessary items such as a first aid kit, snacks for quick energy boosts, and entertainment to keep the kids entertained while traveling. 

Also, keep copies of important documents readily available to help streamline any travel processes. This preparation will ensure that your family can experience all of Peru's wonders in comfort and safety.

Welcome to the FAQ section of our exciting family trip to Peru! Here, you'll find answers to common questions about your upcoming trip, ranging from travel logistics and safety advice to packing suggestions. If you have any specific questions that are not answered here, please contact us directly. Happy planning! 

Is it safe to travel to Peru with children?

Traveling to Peru with children can be safe and enjoyable if properly planned and executed. While Peru has incredible cultural and natural attractions for families, it is critical to research your destination, ensure access to medical care, follow basic safety precautions, and stay informed about any travel advisories or local conditions. Choosing reputable accommodations, transportation, and tour operators can also help families have a more enjoyable and safe travel experience.

Are there any kid-friendly attractions during this Tour?

During this tour, families can enjoy the following kid-friendly attractions and activities:

  • Lima City Tour: Visit family-friendly attractions in Lima, such as Parque de las Leyendas (a zoo and archaeological site), Parque Kennedy (known for its cat population and street performances), or take a leisurely stroll down the Malecon.
  • Tour Islas Ballestas: Children will enjoy a boat tour to the Islas Ballestas where they can see wildlife up close, including sea lions, penguins, and various seabirds.
  • Sandboarding in Huacachina: Children can enjoy the thrill of sandboarding on the towering sand dunes of Huacachina, making for an exciting family adventure.
  • Cusco City Tour: Kid-friendly attractions such as the Qorikancha (Temple of the Sun), San Pedro Market (with its colorful stalls and local snacks), and Plaza de Armas to take selfies with llamas and alpacas.
What are the risks and precautions associated with altitude sickness in children during travel?

When children travel to high-altitude destinations, they are at risk of altitude sickness, also known as acute mountain sickness (AMS). Symptoms may include a headache, nausea, fatigue, and difficulty breathing. It is critical for parents to be aware of the symptoms and take preventive measures, such as gradual acclimatization, staying hydrated, and avoiding strenuous activities upon arrival at high elevations. Consultation with a healthcare provider prior to the trip can also provide useful information on how to manage altitude sickness in children.

Are there any age restrictions for children entering Machu Picchu?

No, but there are age restrictions and discounts for children visiting Machu Picchu. Children under the age of three can enter for free, while those aged three to seventeen can receive a discount on their tickets. It is important to note that all children and teenagers must be accompanied by a parent or guardian and present a passport or identity document to prove their age at the entrance. Only children over the age of 12 are permitted at certain attractions, such as Huayna Picchu, and they are also eligible for a discount on their tickets. Although strollers are not permitted, baby carriers are recommended for younger visitors, such as infants, to facilitate movement around the site.

More information here

What are some key factors to consider when planning a kid-friendly vacation?

When planning a kid-friendly vacation, particularly a comprehensive tour such as your family trip to Peru, several key factors must be considered to ensure that the trip is enjoyable, comfortable, and appropriate for children of all ages. 

  • Age-Appropriate Activities
  • Meal Options
  • Educational Content