Captivating Cusco Family Adventure: Culture, History & Fun
Family-Friendly Adventures in !
Machu Picchu
Why Visit?
Day 1: Arrival in Cusco
Start your adventure in Cusco, the historic capital of the Inca Empire. Settle into your hotel and take it easy to acclimatize to the altitude. Explore the vibrant Plaza de Armas and visit the Chocolate Museum where kids can participate in a chocolate-making workshop.
Day 2: Sacred Valley Tour
Head to the Sacred Valley, a serene area with fascinating sites and a gentler altitude than Cusco. Visit the Pisac market where families can shop for colorful handicrafts. Next, explore the Ollantaytambo ruins with its giant terraces and stone fortresses, providing a fun and educational backdrop for learning about Inca engineering.
Day 3: Journey to Machu Picchu
Take an early train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, the gateway town to Machu Picchu. The train ride offers stunning views of the Andes and Urubamba River - keep an eye out for the changing landscapes. Upon arrival, take the bus up to Machu Equip. Hire a family-friendly guide to bring the history to life; children will be fascinated by stories of the Inca gods and the architectural genius of Machu Picchu.
Day 4: Machu Picchu Exploration
Return to Machu Picchu early in the morning to catch the sunrise, which is a magical experience for all ages. Explore lesser-known parts of the site like the Inca Bridge, and for those with older kids, hike up to the Sun Gate for breathtaking views.
Day 5: Return to Cusco
Head back to Cusco on the train. Spend your final evening enjoying a traditional Peruvian dinner – kids will love trying mild versions of local dishes like lomo saltado (stir-fried beef).
This itinerary blends adventure with education, making Machu Picchu a memorable family getaway that"s as engaging as it is educational!
Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.
Quechua Village
Why Visit?
Day 1: Arrival and Cultural Immersion in Quechua Village
Start your adventure by heading to Quechua Village, accessible via Cusco. Rent a car or take a local bus from Cusco to the village, a journey that offers scenic views of the Andes. Upon arrival, check into a local guesthouse, offering a warm welcome with traditional Quechua hospitality.
In the afternoon, immerse your family in the rich tapestry of Quechua culture by joining a local family for a traditional meal. Learn about their customs and way of life, and even try your hand at weaving or pottery, crafts that have been passed down for generations.
Day 2: Guided Nature Walk and Storytelling
After breakfast, meet your guide, a local villager, for a guided nature walk. As you explore the surrounding landscapes, you’ll learn about the native flora and fauna. Your guide will also share myths and legends integral to Quechua spirituality, captivating both children and adults alike.
Post-lunch, visit the village school where your children can interact with local students, exchanging stories and playing traditional games. This interaction is not only fun but also an enriching cultural exchange.
Day 3: Market Day and Departure
On your final day, visit the vibrant Quechua market. It’s a fantastic chance to pick up handmade souvenirs such as textiles or jewelry, directly supporting the local economy. Let the kids choose their favorite items, teaching them about the importance of sustainable and ethical shopping.
Conclude your visit with a final meal in the village, perhaps participating in a community cooking class, where you can learn to make a local dish as a family.
As you depart, reflect on the unique experiences and the beautiful connections made, carrying a piece of Quechua culture back home.
Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.
Aguas Calientes
Why Visit?
Welcome to Aguas Calientes, the charming gateway to the ancient Incan city of Machu Picchu! This quaint town, also known as Machupicchu Pueblo, offers a mix of natural beauty and cultural attractions perfect for a family adventure.
### Day 1: Arrival and Exploration
Begin your journey by taking a scenic train ride from either Cusco or Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, which provides stunning views of the Andes and the Urubamba River. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and spend the afternoon strolling through the vibrant town. Visit the local market to pick up handmade crafts and souvenirs. Don"t miss the opportunity to try some traditional Peruvian cuisine at one of the many family-friendly restaurants serving dishes like lomo saltado (stir-fried beef) and aji de gallina (creamy chicken).
### Day 2: Machu Picchu
Start early by catching one of the first buses up to Machu Picchu, departing regularly from Aguas Calientes. The bus ride takes about 25 minutes and winds up the mountain offering exciting views. Explore the iconic ruins with a guided tour to learn about the Incan history and the significance of various sites like the Temple of the Sun and the Intihuatana stone. After the tour, have a picnic lunch in the designated area while enjoying the breathtaking views.
### Day 3: Mandor Gardens and Departure
On your final day, take a leisurely walk to Mandor Gardens located about an hour’s walk from Aguas Calientes. The path offers a peaceful escape into nature, leading to a beautiful waterfall and botanical garden where you can spot various bird species and possibly some orchids. It’s a perfect spot for a family photo!
Conclude your trip with some relaxation at the local hot springs, just a ten-minute walk from the town center. The thermal waters are said to have medicinal properties and provide a soothing end to your adventure-packed visit.
This itinerary combines history, culture, and relaxation ensuring a memorable experience for the whole family in Aguas Calientes!
Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.
Choquequirao
Why Visit?
Embark on an unforgettable journey to Choquequirao, often referred to as the "sister city" to the famous Machu Picchu. This less-traveled Incan site offers a rich experience full of history and adventure, perfect for a family seeking an authentic exploration.
Day 1: Cusco to Capuliyoc to Chiquisca
Begin your adventure in Cusco, where you can rent a private car or join a guided tour to the trailhead at Capuliyoc. The drive itself is scenic and takes about 4-5 hours. From Capuliyoc, embark on a moderately challenging trek descending into the Apurimac Canyon, enjoying the breathtaking views. Overnight at a campsite in Chiquisca.
Day 2: Chiquisca to Choquequirao
Start early and trek to Maranpata where the path evens out, revealing views of the Apurimac River. As you ascend to Choquequirao, keep an eye out for the local wildlife, including Andean condors and spectacled bears. The journey from Chiquisca to the ruins takes about 5-7 hours. Set up camp and enjoy a peaceful night under the stars.
Day 3: Exploring Choquequirao
Spend the day exploring the sprawling ruins of Choquequirao. Highlights for families include the Main Plaza, the ceremonial water fountains, and the Llama Terraces, where the Incas built stone llamas into the terracing. Learn about the Inca’s advanced agricultural techniques and their spiritual connection to the land.
Day 4: Choquequirao to Cusco
After a morning of final exploration, trek back to Chiquisca, then to Capuliyoc, and drive to Cusco. This is a great time to reflect on the amazing adventures and the once-in-a-lifetime memories made.
Choquequirao is significantly less crowded than Machu Picchu, offering a more personal glimpse into the Inca civilization. This journey not only challenges the body but also enriches the mind, making it perfect for a family adventure.
Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.
Mt. Putucusi
Why Visit?
Embark on an unforgettable family adventure to Mt. Putucusi, a hidden gem near the renowned Machu Picchu in Peru. Ideal for families with older children who love a bit of thrill, this mountain offers breathtaking views and a less crowded alternative to its famous neighbor.
Day 1: Arrival and Preparation
Fly into Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport in Cusco. From there, take a scenic train ride to Aguas Calientes, the gateway town to Machu Picchu and Mt. Putucusi. Spend your first day exploring this quaint town, soaking in hot springs, and prepping for the next day’s hike.
Day 2: Climbing Mt. Putucusi
Start early to beat the heat and crowds. The trailhead begins a short walk from Aguas Calientes. This challenging hike is roughly a 2-3 hour ascent, covering about 1.5 km but involves a steep incline with wooden ladders and muddy paths, especially during the rainy season (Nov-Mar). Ensure everyone in the family wears appropriate hiking boots and carries water.
Reaching the summit at about 2,560 meters (8,400 feet), you"ll be rewarded with a spectacular, unique angle of Machu but from a distance. The top of Mt. Putucusi is the perfect spot for a family picnic with vistas of the iconic Machu Picchu and the surrounding lush mountains.
Interesting Facts
- "Putucusi" means "Happy Mountain" in the native Quechua language, which is quite fitting given the exhilarating climb and views.
- Unlike Machu Picchu, there are no entry fees to hike Mt. Putucusi, making it a fantastic budget-friendly option.
Day 3: Departure
After an adventurous exploration, take the train back to Cusco and then proceed to the airport, filled with unforgettable memories of the panoramic sights and ancient landscapes.
This itinerary offers a perfect blend of adventure, nature, and culture, tailored for families seeking an exhilarating experience beyond the usual tourist paths.
Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.