Kuoda’s Guide To Travel to Peru With Toddlers

November 03, 2023 | by: Kuoda Authors

Embarking on a family adventure to Peru with toddlers is an experience like no other, promising a blend of culture, history, and natural wonders that will captivate both young and old. From the mystical ruins of Machu Picchu to the vibrant markets of Cusco, travel to Peru with toddlers offers a wealth of opportunities for exploration and discovery. However, a successful trip with little ones in tow requires careful planning and consideration of unique challenges.

Let us guide you through the essential tips and “must-do” places and activities to ensure a memorable and enjoyable journey for your entire family, while nurturing a sense of wonder and curiosity in your toddlers. Reach out to Kuoda today to start planning and read on to learn more about toddler-friendly travel to Peru: 

1. Choose Family-Friendly Destinations:

Lima offers a mix of history and fun, Cusco engages young minds, and the Sacred Valley provides serene family adventures.

Selecting the right destinations for your family vacation to Peru is crucial when traveling with toddlers. Lima, the capital city, offers a balance of historical and modern attractions suitable for all ages. You can explore the beautiful Miraflores district with its parks and ocean views or visit interactive museums like the Museum of Natural History. Cusco, a gateway to Machu Picchu, provides a rich cultural experience. Take your toddlers to the Cusco Planetarium or the Cusco Children’s Museum, both designed to engage young minds. The Sacred Valley, with its serene landscapes and gentle adventures, offers opportunities for family bonding. Here, you can visit the Pisac Market, explore the ancient salt pans of Maras, or enjoy a leisurely train ride to Machu Picchu.

2. Include Toddler Friendly Activities:

Peru offers a plethora of toddler-friendly activities that make it an ideal destination for families with young children. One of the most iconic experiences is visiting the llamas and alpacas that roam freely at places like Machu Picchu, providing a unique opportunity for kids to connect with these gentle animals amidst breathtaking ancient ruins. Exploring the colorful and bustling markets in cities like Cusco can be an engaging cultural experience, where children can interact with local artisans, sample delicious Peruvian snacks, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.

Peru’s lush rainforests also provide an opportunity for family-friendly jungle walks and boat rides in the Amazon, where toddlers can marvel at the exotic wildlife and lush greenery. And let’s not forget the thrill of trying traditional Peruvian dishes, like empanadas or ceviche, at family-friendly restaurants, ensuring that even the youngest travelers get a taste of Peru’s rich culinary heritage.

Seek out places that cater to their interests and needs, providing enjoyable breaks that allow them to expend energy and have fun. Look for playgrounds, zoos, parks, and interactive museums designed with toddlers in mind. In Lima, for example, consider a visit to Parque de las Leyendas, a sprawling zoo and botanical garden where toddlers can marvel at diverse wildlife. Cusco boasts the Cusco Children’s Museum, offering hands-on exhibits that engage young minds.

Exploring the ancient salt pans of Maras in the Sacred Valley can be an adventure for toddlers, as they can observe the intriguing terraced pools. Incorporating these child-friendly activities into your itinerary ensures that your little ones remain entertained, engaged, and excited throughout the trip, allowing parents to explore Peru’s cultural and natural wonders with peace of mind.

3. Embrace Slow Travel:

Embrace ‘slow travel’ in Peru for a relaxed journey. Explore at a comfortable pace, create lasting memories, and savor the local experience.

When traveling with toddlers, adopting a philosophy of “slow travel” can transform your journey into a more relaxed and enjoyable experience for both parents and little ones. Instead of rushing from one attraction to another, plan for ample breaks and moments of exploration. This approach allows toddlers to absorb their surroundings at a comfortable pace, reducing the likelihood of meltdowns and fatigue. Peru’s diverse landscapes offer many opportunities for leisurely exploration, whether it’s strolling through bustling markets, leisurely hikes in the Sacred Valley, or taking in the serene beauty of Lake Titicaca. Slow travel also encourages quality family time, enabling you to savor each moment, create lasting memories, and engage in meaningful interactions with local communities. By immersing yourselves in the culture and surroundings, your family can truly appreciate the richness of the Peruvian experience, all while ensuring your toddlers remain content and relaxed throughout the journey. 

4. Check Health and Vaccination Requirements:

Before your family embarks on the adventure to Peru, consult a healthcare professional and the state department of your country to discuss necessary vaccinations and health precautions for your toddlers. Ensure your toddlers are up to date on routine vaccinations, and consider additional vaccines recommended for international travel. Common vaccines for travelers to Peru include hepatitis A and typhoid. It’s essential to carry a basic first aid kit, which should include items like band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and any prescription medications your toddlers may need. While Peru has well-established medical facilities in major cities, it’s advisable to bring any essential medications with you, as specific brands or formulations may not be readily available.

Adjust to Altitude:

Peru’s diverse geography includes high-altitude destinations like Cusco and Machu Picchu, which can pose challenges for toddlers. To help your family adjust to the altitude, take things slow during the first few days of your trip. Allow time for acclimatization, particularly in Cusco, where the elevation can be a factor. Stay hydrated and offer your toddlers frequent sips of water to combat dehydration, which is common at high altitudes. Opt for lighter meals as heavy foods can exacerbate altitude-related discomfort. It’s essential to monitor your toddlers for signs of altitude sickness, such as lethargy, loss of appetite, or vomiting, and seek medical attention if necessary. To make the journey easier for your little ones, consider spending the initial days of your trip at a lower altitude, such as in Lima, before ascending to higher elevations. 

5. Pack Essential Items:

Pack diapers, wipes, extra clothing, snacks, a stroller, baby carriers, and clothing for different weather.

Packing essential items is a priority when traveling with toddlers to Peru. Diapers, wipes, and extra clothing should top your list, as well as any special comfort items your toddlers rely on. While major cities like Lima and Cusco may have stores carrying baby supplies, it’s advisable to bring a sufficient stock of diapers and wipes, especially if you plan to explore more remote areas. Pack a variety of snacks, formula, and baby food to accommodate your toddlers’ dietary preferences. A stroller is handy for city exploration, but consider a lightweight and collapsible model for convenience. Baby carriers or slings are excellent for hikes and visits to places with uneven terrain. Peru’s diverse climate means that you should pack clothing for varying weather conditions, including lightweight layers for warmer regions and warmer clothing for cooler high-altitude destinations. Lastly, don’t forget essential medications, sunscreen, and insect repellent suitable for your toddlers. Be prepared, and your family will have a more comfortable and enjoyable trip.

6. Maintain Routine:

While travel often involves a degree of flexibility, preserving your toddlers’ routines for naps, meals, and bedtime as much as possible can contribute to their comfort and overall well-being during the trip. Familiar routines can provide a sense of stability in a new and occasionally overwhelming environment. Plan your day’s activities around your toddlers’ schedules to ensure they receive adequate rest and nutrition. For instance, if your toddlers have a regular naptime, plan for a midday break at your accommodation to allow them to recharge.

Bring along familiar comfort items, such as favorite toys or blankets, to create a sense of security in unfamiliar surroundings. This consistency can help reduce stress and ensure your toddlers feel relaxed and at ease during your family vacation in Peru. While some degree of adaptation is necessary, maintaining familiar routines whenever possible contributes to a smoother and more enjoyable travel experience for both toddlers and parents, fostering a positive and memorable journey for your entire family.

7. Travel with a trusted tour operator:

When traveling with toddlers, control and a family-friendly itinerary are essential.

The last thing you want when traveling with toddlers is not having control of your family’s schedule, or having a not-so-toddler-friendly itinerary. Kuoda’s expert travel curators and family-friendly guides possess an intimate knowledge of the country’s diverse regions and cultural nuances, ensuring that your itinerary is perfectly tailored to your family’s unique needs, including the ages and habits of your toddlers.

Your travel designer will take the time to understand your family’s preferences and requirements, allowing them to craft a personalized itinerary that strikes a harmonious balance between adult interests and toddler-friendly experiences. They can recommend family-friendly accommodations with amenities like cribs, high chairs, and safe play areas.

With Kuoda, you’ll also benefit from family-friendly guides who are not only well-versed in Peru’s history and culture but also attuned to the dynamics of traveling with young children. These guides can adapt tours and activities to accommodate your toddlers’ schedules, making sure you have ample opportunities to explore while also considering your little ones’ needs, whether it’s a break for a snack, a chance for playtime, or a flexible approach to timing.

Providing toddlers with enriching travel experiences from their childhood forms the starting point for them to become the global citizens of the future, without impeding your travel goals, too – and Peru is the perfect country to get started on your world-tour with toddlers. Your family will undoubtedly carry with you the cherished memories of llama encounters, market treasures, rainforest wonders, and culinary delights. Peru’s toddler-friendly activities will allow your little ones to explore, learn, and grow in a vibrant and diverse setting, creating bonds and sparking curiosity that will last a lifetime.

So, whether it’s the echo of their laughter amidst ancient ruins or the gleam in their eyes as they taste a new flavor, your travel to Peru with toddlers will leave an indelible mark on your family’s journey. Come and enrich your family’s tapestry of adventures with Kuoda! Get started planning your Peru family tour with us – we’re ready to welcome you with open arms.