Taking your kids to see Machu Picchu is a dream, but the logistics in Cusco call for extra care, mainly because of the altitude.
This Tari Tours guide helps you keep the trip safe, fun and suited to the little ones.
1. Priority number one: the altitude
Acclimatization matters even more for children than for adults.
- Arrival and rest. The rule is absolute: complete rest on the first day. Avoid any physical effort.
- Water all the time. Make sure they drink water (not just juice or soda). Water helps the body cope with the change in pressure.
- Coca tea. It isn’t recommended for very young children. Ask your pediatrician or a professional guide about coca candies or mild herbal infusions.
- Recommended age. In general, children are advised to be over 3 to travel to Cusco, and over 8 for easy hikes.
2. Tours designed for families
Skip the long hikes and choose the comfort of getting around by vehicle.
- First day of touring: Cusco City Tour (half day). Great for acclimatization. The ride up to Sacsayhuamán and the main ruins is by vehicle, and the walks are short and easy.
- Second day: Sacred Valley. Choose the bus or van route. The stops at Pisac and Ollantaytambo delight kids and give them room to run around and burn off energy in safe places.
- Machu Picchu. Take the train, the most comfortable option. In Aguas Calientes, use the bus to go up to and down from the citadel. Don’t try to climb Huayna Picchu with children.
Children’s documents: each child travels with their own passport.
3. Family lodging and logistics
- Hotel with heating. Cusco is cold at night. Check that your hotel has heating or enough blankets.
- Medicine. Always keep basic medicine on hand for headaches (because of the altitude) and upset stomachs, along with your emergency contacts.
- Safe food. Choose restaurants with a good reputation and avoid street food.
A family trip without surprises
With good planning, you can focus on enjoying the history with your kids.
Traveling to Cusco with kids?
We’re a local agency in Cusco, registered with MINCETUR since 2003, with English-speaking guides. We put together family itineraries that put your children’s health and fun first.