Travelling to Peru as a Family 6 Days | 5 Nights

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Culture

Adventure

Immersion

Peru family trip: experience a holiday with your family visiting the colonial city of Cusco, the Sacred Valley of the Incas and the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu.

Traveling together as a family is one of life’s greatest experiences. It provides much-needed time together away from the daily routine, allows parents to share their knowledge of travel, contributes to education and respect for the local culture with the youngest members of the household and creates memories that last for a lifetime. Family holidays are specifically designed to offer a combination of educational activities as well as exploration of Peruvian culture.

Especially designed for children
Each trip has been designed according to the needs and interests of a family with children (6-12 years). The age range may vary. We can adapt our itinerary to each family’s needs, with parent’s consent. Each trip has a different challenging difficulty level, depending on the tourist activities of one of our trips.

Treating carefully
We are committed to ensuring that new generations continue to explore Peruvian history and culture, having as little impact on the surroundings as possible when we travel. Together with the families, we promote social tourism in the local communities that openly share their homes with us through projects for the development of economic reactivation in the local community. Learn more about responsible tourism management.

Tour highlights!

Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Sacred Valley of the Incas, where picturesque mountains await.
Immerse yourself in the rich culture and traditions of the Misminay community, engaging in daily life activities like weaving, agriculture, and cooking alongside your hosts for unforgettable moments of connection.
Encounter the curious and playful alpacas and llamas, bringing joy to your journey.
Delve into the rich history and culture of the Incas, exploring ancestral villages and the mysterious sanctuary of Machu Picchu.
With diverse interests catered to all visitors, Cusco is the perfect destination for a family adventure!

Itinerary

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Day 1: Cusco - Pisac - Sacred Valley (Hotel Royal Inka, Inka Terra, Sol y Luna or Belmond Rio Sagrado)

We welcome you upon your arrival at the Cusco airport. Our private transport and guide will be waiting for you there to take you to your selected hotel in the Sacred Valley of the Incas (1 hour trip). On the way, while enjoying the splendid views of the Sacred Valley, we stop in Pisac (2,972 m), a small and charming village located at the base of the archaeological complex of Pisac. The town is famous for its colourful handicraft market and for its ruins at the top of the mountain (impressive terraces that form part of a historical site) If time permits we also visit Awanacancha, a South American farm, where you and your family can meet some of Peru’s famous local furry animals: Llamas, Alpacas and Vicuñas.

You have the rest of the afternoon free to rest and acclimatize to altitude. You could also spend a relaxing afternoon exploring your hotel. You spend the first night at the selected hotel.

Transportation time: 1h 30.
Walking time: 1h 30 approx.
Meals: on your own
Overnight: Hotel
Climate:warm and cold at night.
Elevation: Cusco (3,400m) – Pisac (2,972m) – Pisac archeological site (3,272m)

Day 2: Sacred Valley - Misminay community - Maras Moray - Sacred Valley hotel (Casa Andina Yanahuara, Sol y Luna or Belmond Rio Sagrado)

After breakfast at the hotel, our private transport takes you to the Misminay community (3,700 m), which opens its doors to us with a beautiful welcome ceremony, demonstration of its textile handicrafts, and splendid views of the snow-capped Veronica and the Urubamba mountain range. You will experience unforgettable moments as you discover the local culture, customs and traditions, agricultural and culinary techniques and their philosophy and daily activities. Lunch is included. You will try the typical Peruvian cuisine made with organic ingredients grown by the community.

Ready to explore further, we drive along the Sacred Valley while observing the great views and the daily life in the farms. We also visit two of the most important tourist centers: Moray, which is characterized by its various circular terraces; and Maras, the salt mines (3,380 m). Then we drive you to the selected hotel in the Sacred Valley.

Walking time: 3h 30.
Visiting time: 4h approx.
Difficulty level: Easy
Meals:: B = breakfast, L = lunch.
Overnight: hotel.
Climate: Warm and moderate cold at night.
Elevation: Pisac (2,972m) – Urubamba (2,871m) – Misminay (3,700m) – Ollantaytambo (2,800m).

Day 3: Sacred Valley - Ollantaytambo - Aguas Calientes town (Hotel Terraza de Luna, Jaya Suite Machupicchu, El Mapi by Inka Terra)

After breakfast at the hotel, our driver takes you to Ollantaytambo (2,800 m). This town is considered the last Inca village because of its houses and narrow streets, remains of Inca constructions, as well as its archaeological centre. You have lunch in Ollantaytambo. Then, we take the train to go to Aguas Calientes, Machu Picchu town (2,050 m).
Overnight and dinner in Aguas Calientes town.

Transportation time: 2h 30.
Visiting time: 2h-3h approx.
Difficulty level: easy
Meals: B = breakfast, L = lunch, D = dinner
Overnight: hotel
Climate: warm with mosquitoes and moderate cold at night.
Elevation: Ollantaytambo (2,800m) – Aguas Calientes (2,050m).

Day 4: Aguas Calientes town - Machu Picchu - Cusco

We leave our hotel after breakfast and take the bus up to Machu Picchu (30 min.). The sunrise and the company of a professional guide allows you to discover the history and culture of the Incas, as well as the cults and ceremonies they performed in the numerous temples and sacred places around on the site. After 2-3 hours of guided tour, you will have time to enjoy the magic of the historic sanctuary of Machu Picchu and to take some pictures.
Afterwards, you go back to Aguas Calientes. You have enough time to have lunch in an exclusive restaurant before boarding the train to Ollantaytambo/Poroy. Our driver awaits you at any of the stations to take you to your hotel in Cusco (3,400 m).

Transportation time: 3h 30.
Visiting time: 2h -3h. approx.
Difficulty level: Easy.
Meals: : B = breakfast, L = lunch, D = on your own.
Overnight: Hotel
Climate: warm during the day with mosquitoes.
Elevation: Aguas Calientes (2,050m) – Machu Picchu (2,400m) – Cusco (3,400m).

Day 5: Cusco - City tour

After breakfast, at about 8:30 a.m., our drive picks you up to take you to discover the archaeological monuments of Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo and Tambomachay (3,700 m), located on the outskirts of the city of Cusco. After this visit, you take part in a walking tour exploring the Cultural Heritage of the Nation: Cusco’s historical centre. The main square (since the Inca times), the Monastery of Santo Domingo Church, built on the foundations of the Koricancha Temple (Temple of the Sun) and inside, the most representative jewel of the Inca architecture, its alleys and authentic constructions dating from Inca and Colonial times.

After these tours, you have the choice of two culinary experiences: a cooking class with an expert chef or a hands-on chocolate-making workshop. The cooking class features an introduction to Peruvian gastronomy and a demonstration of the natural ingredients that can be found in an Andean market such as potatoes, tomatoes, quinoa beans, rocoto, cocoa or chocolate and a variety of tropical fruits. You will learn how to make ceviche, a popular Peruvian appetizer as well as how to make a typical main course: lomo saltado, made with alpaca meat (ingredients can be adapted to suit dietary restrictions: vegetarian, vegan or any allergies). Alternatively, at the Chocolate Museum, you can learn about the chocolate-making process with a bean-to-bar workshop. From roasting cocoa beans to moulding chocolates, for your own sweets.
In the afternoon, you enjoy some time off. You spend the night at the selected hotel.

Transportation time: 1h 30.
Visiting time: 4h. approx.
Distance: 4km
Difficulty level: easy
Meals: : B = breakfast, L = lunch, D = on your own
Overnight: Hotel
Climate: warm with mosquitoes.
Elevation: Cusco (3,400m) – Tambomachay (3,700m).

Day 6: Cuzco – Aeropuerto

After breakfast at your hotel, our private driver takes you from the hotel to the airport.

Personal assistance by a local representative of our organization.
Transportation: Private transport from Cusco airport to your selected hotel. Private transport during the City Tour in Cusco. Private transportation from your hotel to the Sacred Valley of the Incas: Pisac, Misminay, Maras Moray and Ollantaytambo.
Round trip bus ticket Aguas Calientes-Machu Picchu-Aguas Calientes.
Expedition Train Tickets*, from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes town.
Expedition Train Tickets*, from Aguas Calientes to the train station in Ollantaytambo/Poroy and transportation back to your hotel.
Professional bilingual (Spanish-English) speaking tour guide (for a French speaking guide or other languages, please contact us in advance. Bare in mind, this may have additional costs).
Entrance fees to the sites, also called Boleto Turistico. This ticket allows you to go to the different sites along the City Tour and Sacred Valley of the Incas. It’s valid for 10 days. It also includes the entrance to the Coricancha temple or Temple of the Sun.
Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu.
Private room at the hotel of your choice, including breakfast. (check list of options).
Meals: as mentioned in the itinerary (vegetarian, vegan or special options are available).
First aid kit including biosafety equipment (Oximeter and temperature metre) and oxygen bottle.

Train services included

If you are looking for an adventure on your way to Machu Picchu at an unbeatable price, the Peru Rail Expedition train has just what you need, with all the on-board services you could wish for.
(*) The carriages of the Peru Rail Expedition train are infused with the designs of the Inca culture, making them the perfect way to begin your journey to the citadel of Machu Picchu. Peru Rail Expedition gives you the opportunity to enjoy the incredible scenery and take amazing panoramic photographs of a journey like no other.

Recommendations

The trip previously described may vary due to weather conditions, landslides, participants walking pace or other factors. Our professional guide will make the right and best decisions along the way for the benefit and safety of the group.

The trip previously described may vary due to weather conditions, landslides, participants walking pace or other factors. Our professional guide will make the right and best decisions along the way for the benefit and safety of the group.

Optional services to be hired

To make the most of Machu Picchu, we suggest having the buffet lunch at the Tinkuy Sanctuary Lodge restaurant, located right next to the archaeological site. We also recommend the buffet lunch option at El Mapi hotel Machu Picchu by Inkaterra in Aguas Calientes.
Optional train services: It is possible to travel in a superior luxury category on the Vistadome or Hiram Bingham trains; contact us for more information.
On Demand – Vistadome Train: The «Vistadome» train offers you breathtaking views during your journey to Cusco, offers fashion shows, dinners, a refined service and premium travel conditions. In addition, the carriage is built with large windows that offer unparalleled panoramic views and the possibility to take beautiful photographs. The Vistadome also has air-conditioning and heating, and ergonomic leather seats that are very comfortable after so many hours of walking. The Vistadome offers you a first class service, which will allow you to immerse yourself in the Andean culture, through the landscapes, the music, the dance and even the food carefully prepared with local ingredients.
On Demand – Hiram Bingham Train: The Hiram Bingham Train category is optional and it is a luxury service of the Orient Express, operated by the company «Peru Rail». You will experience an exceptional journey. The Hiram Bingham carriages are distinguished by their blue and gold colour, their warm and cosy interior and their elegant upholstery. The service includes 4 carriages, 2 restaurant carriages, as well as a panoramic view carriage with bar. Brunch and dinner on board are also included.

For the optional services, contact our staff to check availability.

What we recommend that you bring

An ergonomic day backpack for hiking with waterproof cover (30 or 40 liters).
Running shoes.
Comfortable pants.
T-shirts with short or long sleeves.
Rain poncho.
Hat, sunscreen and gel disinfectant alcohol.
Anti-mosquito spray – minimum recommended 20% DEET (non-toxic – we suggest nature-friendly repellents). No malaria risk has been reported.
Anti-itch cream.
Camera (wrapped in a plastic bag).
Snack (cereal bars, chocolate and dried fruits).
Original passport.
Original ISIC Student Card (in case you have applied for a student discount).
Extra money in soles.

During high season (May to September), it is difficult to ensure the exact date of entry, due to the restrictions set by the Ministry of Culture to limit the number of entries to the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu; therefore, the date of entry to the Inca Trail could vary for one or two days; then we will adapt the program so you can make the most of it.

Entrance tickets to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu mountain: To hike up Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu mountain, it is required to book well in advance, because the entrance tickets are limited to a certain number of people daily. Therefore, we’ll take care of the reservation and confirm your entrance with an additional charge of $30 USD per person.

Note: If you wish to visit any of the extra mountains, please inform us in due time before purchasing the entrance tickets to the Machu Picchu citadel.

Student card: To qualify for the 20 USD student discount, you must have a valid ISIC student card when you book, not just when you arrive in Cusco! It must be valid for the current year. When booking, we need a picture of the card sent to the contact email. The Ministry of Culture is strict when verifying student cards. If you do not have a valid ISIC student card, you will be charged the regular price.

Trips : For porters, cooks and guides, tips are always welcome. Porters are also very grateful for a small donation, such as school clothes or supplies for their children.

Cancellation policy: For any cancellation; the costs already incurred by the travel agency will be at your expense. For more details on the cost of cancellations by certain participants, please refer to articles 6, 6.4 and our cancellation policies in the.

For more information, you may wish to check or consult our FAQ, Safe and Healthy Travel, and Flexible Booking with Explorandino.

In December 2021, Explorandino obtained the TourCert certification for its “Sustainable Management System for Tour Operators” guided by the criteria and guidelines of the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC).

Our approach highlights the richness of culture and natural beauty. Each tourist experience is a chance to preserve and showcase cultural heritage while promoting practices that regenerate the natural environment

We collaborate closely with diverse stakeholders to develop a model that benefits all. From respecting local communities to conserving biodiversity, each action represents a stride toward more responsible tourism.

Why Book Early?

Spots for the best Inca Trail & Machu Picchu experiences fill up fast! Secure your visit to the essential Inca Trail campsites perfect for better enjoying nature, visiting less crowded historical monuments, and capturing stunning photos and videos.
To protect the Inca Trail, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since June 21, 2014, the Peruvian government has set strict visitor limits. These restrictions ensure the preservation of this iconic destination for future generations, making early booking essential to secure your spot. Don’t miss out—book now to guarantee your adventure.

Updated Machu Picchu Circuits for Better Visitor Management

The Ministry of Culture of Peru has revised the circuits in the Inca city of Machu Picchu to enhance visitor capacity management. Effective from June 1st to October 15th, and on December 30th and 31st, 2024, three new circuits comprising 10 different routes will be in place to explore Machu Picchu. These new routes aim to streamline visits and offer a better experience while preserving the integrity of this ancient site.

Visitor Capacity and Booking Details

Machu Picchu Citadel:

Daily Capacity: Ministerial Resolution N° 000528-2023-MC allows up to 4,500 visitors per day, with a potential increase to 5,600 during high season(May to September). To secure your spot, especially during peak season, book at least 3 months in advance.
Low Season (October to April): Although there may be more availability, it’s always wise to book ahead to ensure your preferred date and time.

Tourist Circuits:

Machu Picchu offers several circuits to manage the visitor flow and enhance your experience:

Circuit 1 (Panoramic)
This circuit offers the iconic postcard photo from the Guardian’s House viewpoint, with panoramic views of the main Inca structures. It is divided into 4 optional routes:
- Route 1-A: Machu Picchu Mountain – Visit the Lower and Upper Platforms for views of the Vilcanota River, Waynapicchu Mountain, and the urban zone, then continue towards Machu Picchu Mountain.
- Route 1-B: Upper Terrace – Explore the Lower and Upper Platforms with views of the Vilcanota River, Waynapicchu Mountain, and the urban area.
- Route 1-C: Intipunku Gate (available only in high season) – Start at the Lower and Upper Platforms for scenic views, then proceed to the Intipunku Gate.
- Route 1-D: Inca Bridge (available only in high season) – Begin with the Lower and Upper Platforms, followed by a path to the Inca Bridge, offering picturesque views of the Cusco rainforest.
Circuit 2 (Classic Machu Picchu)
Explore the classic route through the entire Machu Picchu citadel, perfect for capturing the iconic photo of the city. This circuit is divided into 2 sub-routes:
- Route 2-A: Designed Route – Includes the Temple of the Sun viewpoint, Plaza of the Temples, Sacred Rock, and the water mirrors complex.
- Route 2-B: Lower Terrace Route – Covers the Lower Platform, Granite Chaos, Plaza of the Temples, Sacred Rock, and the water mirrors complex.

Circuit 3 (Royal Machu Picchu)
Discover the lower sections of the archaeological site with this circuit, offering four optional routes to explore prominent features like the summit of Huayna Picchu, the Great Cavern, or Huchuy Picchu:

- Route 3-A: Huayna Picchu Route – Begin with the Agricultural Sector, Temple of the Sun, Inca’s House, ceremonial fountains, and the Three Doorways sector. Continue to Huayna Picchu Mountain (2.4 km round trip). On the return, visit the Temple of the Condor and the water mirrors complex.
- Route 3-B: Designed Royalty Route – Explore the Agricultural Sector, Temple of the Sun, Inca’s House, ceremonial fountains, Three Doorways sector, the water mirrors complex, and the Temple of the Condor.
- Route 3-C: Great Cavern Route (High Season Only) – Visit the Agricultural Sector, Temple of the Sun, Inca’s House, ceremonial fountains, and the Three Doorways sector. Proceed to the Great Cavern (3 km round trip). On the return, explore the Temple of the Condor and the water mirrors complex.
- Route 3-D: Huchuy Picchu Route (High Season Only) – Start with the Agricultural Sector, Temple of the Sun, Inca’s House, ceremonial fountains, and the Three Doorways sector. Continue to Huchuy Picchu Mountain (2.4 km round trip), and on the way back, visit the water mirrors complex and the Temple of the Condor.

For Better Orientation, Explore Our Circuit Maps: To enhance your visit, we provide detailed maps of the various circuits at Machu Picchu. These maps will help you navigate the site and make the most of your experience. Discover the various Machu Picchu circuits and pick the adventure that suits you best. Explore your options here.

Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain

Additional Hiking Options: For those seeking an extra adventure, climbing Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain offers stunning panoramic views.
Limited Tickets: To preserve these trails, daily entrance is limited. Advance booking is essential.
- Huayna Picchu Mountain: Limited to 200 people per day.
- Machu Picchu Mountain: Limited to 400 people per day.

Cost: We can handle your reservation with an additional charge of $75 USD for adults and $55 USD for students.

Booking Tips:

Machu Picchu Entrance: The most sought-after entry options for Machu Picchu (Circuits 2 & 3) are in high demand and tend to sell out quickly. To secure your visit, especially during peak season (May to September), we recommend booking at least 3 months in advance.
Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain entrance: Admission options to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain are in high demand and tend to sell out quickly. To ensure your visit, especially during the high season (May to September), we recommend booking at least 3 months in advance.

Why Choose Explorandino?

At Explorandino, we simplify your booking process, providing a seamless experience from start to finish. Whether it’s securing your entry to Machu Picchu, arranging the best circuit routes, or booking additional hikes to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, we take care of everything.

Ready to Explore? Click here to book your adventure.

Act Now! Don’t miss out on experiencing the magic of Machu Picchu. Book early to ensure a memorable and hassle-free journey with Explorandino!

Restauran Majestic Inca

Indulge in our curated restaurant picks

Explore diverse, handpicked restaurants for unforgettable dining experiences.

Tinkuy

$ 60

Indio Feliz

$ 40

Mapachos

$ 20

Hotel Majestic Inca

Enjoy our carefully selected top hotels

Discover diverse, handpicked hotels for unforgettable stays.

El Mapi

$ 80

Waman Hotel

$ 40

Terraza de Luna

$ 40

Tripadvisor

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Nothing better than our customers' opinions to help you choose... Help us improve our travels!

Excelente tour - El guiado y la información brindada por exploraandina fue muy oportuna y completa. Un trekking que volvería a realizar con la agencia

Carmen Y
04/16/2024

Una experiencia inolvidable - Ante todo agradecer a nuestro guía UBER quien tuvo la gentileza de pasar los 10 días con la familia.

iJonathan
08/30/2022

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1 valoración en Travelling to Peru as a Family 6 Days | 5 Nights

Valorado con 5 de 5

Arturo S. Gross – 12/18/2024

What I liked most was the attention to detail: from the schedules to the local recommendations. Everything was perfect.

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