Who says Peru, automatically says Macchu Picchu (one of the world wonders). And just visiting Macchu Picchu is worth visiting Peru with kids. But Peru has lots more to offer: piranha’s in the Amazon River, rafting between volcanos, ancient Indian villages and hospitable people. Okay, so it’s a pretty far distance to travel and the heights are pretty intense but once you arrive at the Sun Gate and you see the magical shapes of Macchu Picchu form through the patches of mist you know it’s worth it. The travel mothers of PeruKids have been there themselves and have made a top 5 of the best excursions – which they’ve tested themselves of course.
Top 5 Peru with kids
#1 Ziplining in the Colca Canyon
The Colca Canyon is one of the deepest gorges in the world with a truly spectacular view and it’s ‘the’ place to be to spot condors. With their wingspan of often more than three meters they’re hard to miss, gliding on the thermal. But gliding yourself is even cooler! Strapped with a helmet and in a safety harness you glide down a zip line to the other side at speeds of up to 70 kilometers an hour. The other side is 300 meters away so this is only suitable for kids (and parents) who are real dare devils. And don’t forget to look down!
#2 Adventures in the Amazone
You surely don’t want to miss this tropical treat for you and your kids. Explore the Amazon rain forest and play ‘Freek in the wild’ with your kids. What do you think of capuchin monkeys? Or brightly colored macaws flying through the rain forest? If you go exploring at night you’re likely to run into poisonous frogs or hairy tarantulas. To top this off you’ll go fishing for piranhas. Watch out for their razor sharp teeth when you take the piranhas from your hook!
#3 Hike to Machu Picchu
The Inca Trail is pretty awesome but a lot of travelers underestimate the walk up there. It’s a 4 day hike in which you deal with altitude differences, sleep in tents and where you climb and descend a lot. Doesn’t seem fun with kids? We had our doubts too but luckily there’s a good alternative. You can witness the world wonder Macchu Picchu a much easier way; by train. We arrange a hotel for you near the ruins so you’ll have your fair share of goose bump moments at the old Inca city.
#4 Rafting between the volcanos
Arequipa, in the south of Peru, is located at the foot of no less than three active volcanos and is on the World Heritage List. This is because of the well preserved colonial and colorful architecture. How’s that for some culture? And would you like some adventure? You’ll find just that at the foot of the Misti Volcano, in the gorge. Equipped with a helmet, wetsuit, life vest and water shoes you get into a raft together with your kids. You won’t come across level three or higher conditions but the current is wild enough to give you a good adrenaline rush.
#5 Go Dutch through the Holy Valley
Here you can rest a bit on your trip through Peru: The Holy Valley. Small villages, fields of flowers and lots of Inca ruins. Want to know the most fun way to explore this valley with your kids? By bicycle. Cycle along wild rivers, under waterfalls and just cruise easily through the valley. And if you get thirsty? Take a break at one of the little stands where locals sell drinks. Practice your Spanish because everyone will want a chat with you!
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This article “Peru with kids? 5 Highlights you don’t want to miss!” is written by the travel mothers of RiksjaKids
