Peru & Inca Trail Family Adventure
Trip Details
The fantastic contrasts of Peru make for a great family holiday destination. From snowy Andean peaks to the wonders of Machu Picchu and the colourful present-day inhabitants, Peru offers activities that constantly change pace. Walk through buzzing city streets, see ancient ice mummies, trek the ancient Inca Trail, uncover stone fortresses and archaeological wonders and mingle with locals in vibrant markets. Peru provides a potent mix of colourful culture, fascinating history, delicious cuisine and stunning landscapes - the perfect adventure for adults and children!
Is it right for your family?
This trip is suitable for kids of 12 years and upwards. Long journeys are by plane, so travelling is easy – although the effect of the altitude can make people feel unwell for a while. Most children know a little about ancient Peru from school and this will really bring it to life. They´ll learn about Inca civilisation, the Conquistadores and modern Peru; anyone taking the Amazon extension will also discover the rainforest. Camping while on the Inca trail is quite basic due to the weight limits imposed for the porter´s welfare, toliet facilities exist at the campsites but are again very basic. The trek would be best described as strenuous, walking on average about 6-7 hours per day at altitude with several demanding climbs.
Itinerary
Day 1 Lima
Arrive in the capital of Peru and use free time to admire the beautiful architecture of this stunning city steeped in history. Walk the cobbled streets and soak up the ambience of the colonial buildings and ornate churches and palaces.
Days 2-3 Arequipa
Fly south to Arequipa and spend the afternoon exploring the city with a local guide. Stop off at the Museum of Andean Sanctuaries to see the remains of a mummified ice maiden. The next day, visit the Convent of Santa Catalina to gain insight into the lives of the nuns who once lived here.
Days 4-5 Cuzco
See herds of llamas and alpacas while travelling across the altiplano to Cuzco. Walk around the city centre and marvel at imposing colonial cathedrals, palaces and buzzing city squares. In the afternoon, visit an ancient stone fortress for impressive views over Cuzco.
Day 6 Sacred Valley/Yucay
Journey into the countryside to the small town of Pisac, located in the Sacred Valley. Hone bargaining skills at a colourful market and perhaps pick up a hand-crafted souvenir. In the evening, stay in the small village of Yucay.
Days 7-11 Inca Trail/Machu Picchu/Cuzco
Embark on an memorable trek along the iconic Inca Trail. Climb high mountain passes, through green valleys and cloud forests to reach the majestic ancient wonder of Machu Picchu. With a guide, spend time exploring this fascinating archaeological site and imagining what life was like for the people who lived here centuries ago. Afterwards, rest tired legs and reflect on the adventure on the train journey back to Cuzco.
Day 12 Lima
Take a panoramic flight over the Andes Mountains back to Lima, where this adventure ends.