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A ten day tour of Peru for all the family, filled with fun, adventure and history amidst a stunning backdrop

from US $ 5990 pp

Peru Map

Tour Highlights

Swimming with Sea Lions

White Water Rafting

Traditional Weaving

Visiting Locals

Ice Cream Making

Chocolate Museum

Paint Ceramic Bulls

Salineras Salt Mines

about this tour

about this tour

This action-packed family tour of Peru begins in Lima, the country’s coastal capital. Start by exploring its historic center, home to grand colonial architecture, lively public squares, and local markets where you can try traditional treats and pick up a few souvenirs. From Lima, travel to the Sacred Valley, a scenic region surrounded by mountains and dotted with archaeological sites. Visit the ancient Pisac ruins, see the striking circular terraces of Moray, and learn how salt has been harvested for centuries at the Maras salt mines. In the village of Patacancha, take part in a hands-on weaving workshop with local artisans who demonstrate age-old techniques passed down through generations. The journey continues in Ollantaytambo, where adventure awaits on the Urubamba River with a thrilling white-water rafting experience suitable for older children. Afterward, tour the well-preserved Inca fortress and browse the town’s market. Then it’s time for the highlight of the trip—Machu Picchu. Set against a dramatic mountain backdrop, this ancient site offers plenty to discover and is sure to leave a lasting impression. The trip winds down in Cusco, where the pace slows and families can enjoy activities like crafting their own ice cream flavors and painting traditional ceramic bulls. This well-balanced itinerary offers memorable experiences at every turn, combining cultural learning with outdoor fun in a way that keeps everyone engaged.

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CERAMIC BULL PAINTING Try your hand at painting a Torito de Pucará, the iconic ceramic bull from the Andean highlands. With step-by-step guidance from a local artisan, you'll learn the decorative techniques passed down through generations. As you create your own design, the story behind each pattern and color begins to unfold. This hands-on experience is more than just artistic, it's a chance to connect with local traditions in a meaningful way. You’ll leave with a personalized keepsake that holds the memory of your time in the Andes.

  • 1

    Arrival in Lima

    Upon arrival at Lima Airport, your private transfer will take you to your hotel, where you can settle in and relax. Founded in 1535, Lima is Peru’s capital and largest city, known as the "City of Kings" due to its Spanish colonial heritage. Overlooking the Pacific Ocean, it serves as a hub for commerce, finance, and culture, blending grand colonial architecture in its historic center with a contemporary atmosphere along the coast.

    Upon arrival at Lima Airport, your private transfer will take you to your hotel, where you can settle in and relax. Founded in 1535, Lima is Peru’s capital and largest…
  • 2

    Lima as a Local

    Today’s walking tour begins at the Miraflores market, a lively hub of Peruvian produce. Learn about the country’s diverse crops, including potatoes, corn, and exotic fruits, and sample coca leaves, a cultural staple. Next, take the Metropolitano public bus to the historic center, a key area since the 16th century, first as an indigenous settlement and later as home to Lima’s elite. Stroll past evolving architectural styles, including intricate interior balconies, and visit Plaza San Martín, where you can try traditional Peruvian pastries. The tour continues to the main square, a focal point of Lima’s past, with a stop at the ChocoMuseum to learn about chocolate making and enjoy a tasting. Finish at Cordano Bar with a glass of Chicha Morada, a traditional purple corn drink. You can choose to return to Miraflores or continue exploring the historic center at your own pace.

    Today’s walking tour begins at the Miraflores market, a lively hub of Peruvian produce. Learn about the country’s diverse crops, including potatoes, corn, and exotic fruits, and sample coca leaves,…
  • 3

    Swimming with Sea Lions

    A boat trip to the Palomino Islands, a group of rocky islets off Callao, provides an opportunity to observe wildlife in its natural setting. Thousands of sea lions rest on the rocks, and visitors can swim alongside them in calm waters. The islands are also home to Humboldt penguins and various bird species, including pelicans, terns, and cormorants. The three-hour cruise includes a scenic tour of the surrounding coastline and nearby islands, such as San Lorenzo, known for its historical significance. Departing Callao at 10:30 am, the boat reaches the islands in about an hour, allowing time for swimming and snorkeling before returning by 1pm.

    A boat trip to the Palomino Islands, a group of rocky islets off Callao, provides an opportunity to observe wildlife in its natural setting. Thousands of sea lions rest on…
  • 4

    Transport to the Sacred Valley

    You’ll fly from Lima to Cusco. Upon arriving in Cusco, a private transfer will take you to the Sacred Valley, situated at a lower altitude to help you acclimate to the higher elevations. Your boutique hotel, nestled in this stunning valley, will provide a perfect base for your stay, enhancing your understanding of Inca history and culture. The evening is yours to relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings of the Sacred Valley. Since you're arriving from a lower altitude, it's recommended to spend your first day unwinding and adjusting to the altitude before engaging in any strenuous activities.

    You’ll fly from Lima to Cusco. Upon arriving in Cusco, a private transfer will take you to the Sacred Valley, situated at a lower altitude to help you acclimate to…
  • 5

    Rural Tourism & Weaving Workshop

    This full-day tour of the Patacancha Valley near Ollantaytambo offers a fun and educational experience for all ages. The day begins with a morning transfer to Plaza de Armas, followed by a scenic drive through the valley, where you’ll pass Inca terraces, waterfalls, traditional farms, and the alpine landscapes of the Andes. A key highlight is visiting the Patacancha and Huilloc communities, known for their weaving traditions. At the Awamaki Weaving Center, visitors can learn about the process from shearing wool to using natural dyes and traditional tools. Both kids and adults can try weaving a bracelet under the guidance of a local artisan. After enjoying a traditional lunch prepared by a local family, you’ll have the chance to purchase textiles directly from the artisans. The day ends with a visit to Ollantaytambo, where you can explore its ancient fortress, market, and cobblestone streets, gaining insight into the town’s culture and past.

    This full-day tour of the Patacancha Valley near Ollantaytambo offers a fun and educational experience for all ages. The day begins with a morning transfer to Plaza de Armas, followed…
  • 6

    Rafting the Vilcanota & Urubamba Rivers

    At 8:30 am your guide will pick you up from your hotel for a day of rafting, beginning in Pachar. After a safety briefing and receiving your rafting equipment, you start on easy calm waters. You will continue towards Ollantaytambo and its amazing Inca terraces, passing through class 2-3 rapids, and finishing at 'El Resbaladero' (The Slide), a strong class 3 rapid that includes waves and small whirlpools. Your safety is always paramount and local experts on hand to give help and advice at all times. Lunch is in a traditional restaurant located on the riverside owned by the local community. This is a great chance to enjoy the Andean cuisine while supporting community projects. Return to the hotel in the afternoon where the remainder of the day is at your leisure.

    At 8:30 am your guide will pick you up from your hotel for a day of rafting, beginning in Pachar. After a safety briefing and receiving your rafting equipment, you…
  • 7

    Sacred Valley to Machu Picchu

    You will be collected from the hotel for a romantic journey on the Hiram Bingham train from the Sacred Valley to Aguas Calientes. The train has a glass viewing dome, with large windows allowing you to see from the peaks of the Andes as they drop into flowing rivers on the valley floor, all from the 1st Class comfort of your seat. Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu town), we suggest having an early dinner tonight as tomorrow you'll have an early start heading out to Machu Picchu at sunrise.

    You will be collected from the hotel for a romantic journey on the Hiram Bingham train from the Sacred Valley to Aguas Calientes. The train has a glass viewing dome,…
  • 8

    Magical Machu Picchu

    Start your journey to Machu Picchu early to arrive as the National Park opens, offering a chance to see the morning clouds lift from the ruins—one of the most atmospheric times to visit. Your private guide will take you to the Guard Shack, the best vantage point to watch the sun rise over the surrounding mountains and illuminate this world-famous site. You'll then enjoy an in-depth guided tour covering the history, surrounding areas, and the sacred legends of Machu Picchu. For those looking for an additional challenge, a hike up Machu Picchu Mountain offers breathtaking views of the ancient citadel from above. The ascent takes about two hours, with the descent taking roughly one hour. After your visit, begin your journey to Cusco, traveling on the Hiram Bingham train from Aguas Calientes through the dramatic landscapes of the Sacred Valley. Having spent the last few days adjusting to higher elevations, Cusco’s altitude (11,150 ft. above sea level) should now feel comfortable, allowing you to explore the town in the evening or simply relax at your hotel.

    Start your journey to Machu Picchu early to arrive as the National Park opens, offering a chance to see the morning clouds lift from the ruins—one of the most atmospheric…
  • 9

    Cusco: Market & Ruins

    Begin your day in Cusco at the local market, where you can experience daily life and explore an array of fresh vegetables, breads, and fruits, including the traditional Oropeza bread. The market also offers herbs used for centuries in traditional medicine and cocoa beans, the foundation of chocolate production. Next, visit Cusco’s impressive Colonial Cathedral, home to over 400 paintings from the Cusqueña School and beautifully crafted altars. From there, head to Koricancha, the religious center of the Inca Empire, where the Temple of the Sun once stood in honor of Inti, the Sun god. The name Koricancha comes from the Quechua words "qori," meaning goldwork, and "kancha," meaning enclosed space. Continue to the artisan quarter of San Blas, known for its local workshops where artisans create religious paintings and intricate crafts. Then, explore Cusco’s nearby archaeological sites, starting with Sacsayhuaman, a remarkable stone fortress once known as the Royal House of the Sun. Visit Qenqo Amphitheater, an important Incan temple, and Tambomachay, an ancient sanctuary dedicated to water and reserved for Inca royalty. Its name comes from the Quechua words "tampu" (collective housing) and "machay" (resting place). Finally, pass by Puka Pukara, or "Reddish Fortress," named for the distinctive color of the soil in the area.

    Begin your day in Cusco at the local market, where you can experience daily life and explore an array of fresh vegetables, breads, and fruits, including the traditional Oropeza bread.…
  • 10

    Departure Day

    You will be collected from your hotel for your private transfer to Cusco airport for your onward flight. If you would like to add a few days onto your trip, simply advise us at the time of booking. Happy travels!

    You will be collected from your hotel for your private transfer to Cusco airport for your onward flight. If you would like to add a few days onto your trip,…

Why Book With Us?

Selected luxury hotels that deliver exceptional service in authentic local style.

Finest Hotels

Our in-country experts have in-depth knowledge of their city and culture for an exceptional travel experience.​

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Our experienced travel consultants are there to support you throughout your journey.​

Customer Support​

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Responsible Tourism​

FAQs

1. Can we swim with sea lions from Lima on this Peru family tour?

Yes. From Lima you take a boat to nearby islands where sea lions gather. Your family can watch them from the boat and, when conditions allow, join a supervised swim in the water close by, with guides on hand and life jackets provided.

2. What are the rafting activities on the Urubamba River for families?

You raft a section of the Urubamba near Ollantaytambo that is chosen for families. Everyone is given safety gear, clear instructions, and a seat in a guided raft. Older children can enjoy gentle rapids while adults share the same boat so the experience stays safe and fun.

3. What are the activities at the weaving visit in Patacancha?

In Patacancha, local weavers show how wool is washed, spun, dyed with natural colors, and woven into textiles. Children and adults can try simple steps on the loom and see how patterns link to local stories, the mountains, and daily community life.

4. What are the food activities like at the chocolate museum and ice cream making?

In Cusco, your family visits a chocolate museum to follow cacao from bean to bar, ending with a tasting of different chocolates. In a separate ice cream session, everyone chooses flavors and mixes in local ingredients, then makes a small batch of their own ice cream.

5. What do we do at the Maras salt mines and with the ceramic bulls?

At Maras, you walk along paths above hundreds of salt pools that have been used since Inca times and watch how salt is collected today. Later in Cusco, you paint your own ceramic bulls, the small figures often seen on Andean rooftops, creating a simple keepsake tied to local tradition.

Our in-country expert

Maria brings a wealth of experience and passion to her role as our Peruvian expert. Having traveled extensively throughout Latin America, her knowledge extends far beyond the borders of Peru, but it's this nation that has captured her heart. Maria's deep understanding of Peruvian culture and breathtaking landscapes stems not only from her expertise but...
Maria Vazquez
Maria Vazquez

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