What Families Should Know About Cusco Tours
What Families Should Know About Cusco Tours
What families should know about Cusco tours is that this vibrant city is not only the former capital of the Inca Empire but also an incredibly family-friendly hub for exploring Peru’s fascinating culture, history, and natural beauty. Many travelers dream of wandering the ancient streets of Cusco or venturing to Machu Picchu, but if you’re traveling with children or as a multigenerational group, there are a few essential tips and insights to ensure everyone enjoys the journey. From acclimatizing to the altitude and choosing the right tours, to discovering fun activities and the best times to visit, here’s everything you need to know about planning a family tour to Cusco.
Preparing Your Family for Cusco’s Altitude
One of the first things families should know about Cusco tours is the city’s high elevation—sitting at about 11,150 feet (3,400 meters) above sea level. Children and adults alike can feel the effects of altitude, such as headaches, fatigue, and mild nausea, typically called “soroche.” Plan on spending at least two days adjusting slowly before tackling more strenuous excursions. Drink plenty of water, avoid heavy meals on arrival day, and take it easy with gentle walks around your hotel or the city center while your bodies adjust.
Some parents opt for a night or two in the Sacred Valley first, which is lower in altitude and only about an hour and a half from Cusco, giving everyone time to acclimatize in comfort before heading back up to explore.
Choosing Family-Friendly Cusco Tours
Traveling with children means thinking differently about tours and activities. Fortunately, Cusco has plenty of options:
Half-Day City Tours
Perfect for younger kids or jet-lagged families, these tours visit key historic sites like Qoricancha (the Temple of the Sun), Sacsayhuamán fortress, and the bustling San Pedro Market. Most are relaxed, feature easy walking, and end before little ones tire out.
Sacred Valley Excursions
Take a day to visit Pisac’s lively market and ancient ruins or the agricultural terraces of Moray and the salt mines of Maras. These stops are outdoors and interactive, with plenty to see and do that keeps both kids and adults engaged. Sacred Valley tours often include hands-on experiences, like chocolate-making or weaving workshops, ideal for curious young travelers.
Machu Picchu: Planning a Kid-Friendly Visit
A highlight of any Cusco adventure is visiting Machu Picchu. While the train ride and ruins appeal to all ages, it’s important to pick guided tours that allow a flexible pace and offer family-focused insights. Hiking the full Inca Trail can be too demanding for young kids, but the train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, followed by a bus up to the citadel, makes the experience accessible. Many local operators tailor their tours toward families, emphasizing storytelling and interactive exploration.
What Families Should Know About Cusco Tours: Activities Beyond Ruins
Cusco is more than stone temples and ancient stairs! Families can explore chocolate museums, participate in pottery classes, or learn about Andean llamas and alpacas at local farms. Parks like the Zoo de Ccochahuasi or animal sanctuaries introduce children to Andean wildlife. For older kids, biking and horseback riding are popular, as are scenic hikes to Rainbow Mountain or Humantay Lake (best for teens who are physically active and well-adjusted to the altitude).
Finding the Right Accommodation
Family-friendly lodging is plentiful in Cusco. Before booking, look for hotels that provide larger rooms or suites, breakfast service, and perhaps a garden or patio for decompressing after a day’s adventures. Many higher-end and boutique hotels offer babysitting, in-room cribs, or amenities like board games and hot chocolate afternoons, which help keep kids comfortable and entertained.
Eating Out in Cusco with Kids
Peruvian cuisine is flavorful and varied, but there are plenty of familiar staples, too. Most restaurants in Cusco are welcoming to families and offer kid-sized portions or simple dishes like grilled chicken, pasta, or rice with vegetables. Don’t miss the chance to sample local specialties together—Cusqueña pizza with alpaca salami, fresh fruit juices, or handmade tamales. The city’s markets and bakeries also make good quick stops for a snack or light meal between tours.
Essential Tips for a Smooth Family Experience
– Advance bookings: Popular tours and train tickets (especially to Machu Picchu) often sell out during peak season (May to September), so reserve early.
– Flexible schedules: Allow for plenty of downtime and don’t try to cram in too many sights in one day.
– Pack for all seasons: Even in summer, Cusco’s nights can be chilly, and rain showers can surprise you any time of year.
– Healthcare: Bring a basic first-aid kit, and research nearby clinics or pharmacies in case of minor emergencies.
– Cultural respect: Teach kids about local customs, such as asking before taking photos of residents in traditional dress.
FAQ: Cusco Tours for Families
1. What is the best age for children to visit Cusco and Machu Picchu?
Children as young as six can enjoy Cusco and Machu Picchu, but families should anticipate walking and uneven terrain. Young children need supervision, especially on steps and near cliffs.
2. Are guided tours necessary for families in Cusco?
Guided tours enrich the experience with historical context and can help manage logistics, which is especially valuable for families navigating a new city.
3. How safe is Cusco for families?
Cusco is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions apply. Watch for pickpockets in crowded areas and ensure children stay close in busy markets or archaeological sites.
4. Should families be worried about altitude sickness?
Altitude can affect anyone, including children. Symptoms are usually mild and resolve with rest, hydration, and easy activity the first few days. Consult a doctor before traveling if you have concerns.
5. Are strollers practical in Cusco?
In the historic center and many archaeological sites, cobblestone streets and steep stairs make strollers impractical. Carriers or backpacks are better for toddlers and young children.
6. What should families pack for Cusco?
Bring layered clothing, sun hats, sturdy shoes, reusable water bottles, sunscreen, and rain jackets. Don’t forget any necessary medications or comfort items for younger kids.
7. Can picky eaters find food in Cusco?
Most restaurants offer basic Western dishes alongside Peruvian specialties. Markets are great for fresh fruit and simple snacks for children.
8. What cultural experiences can families enjoy together in Cusco?
Attend a traditional dance show, participate in artisan workshops, or visit animal sanctuaries to learn about local fauna and customs.
Cusco can be an unforgettable destination for families, blending adventure with meaningful cultural discovery. With a bit of planning and the right mindset, every family member can find something to fall in love with in this magical Andean city.
