When most people picture Cusco, they imagine backpackers and trekkers heading to Machu Picchu. But this ancient Inca capital has quietly become one of South America's most rewarding family destinations. From hands-on chocolate workshops in the historic center to llama encounters in the Sacred Valley and stargazing at a high-altitude planetarium, Cusco offers experiences that light up the eyes of travelers aged two to eighty-two.

Traveling to Cusco with children does require some extra planning, especially when it comes to altitude acclimatization and choosing age-appropriate activities. This guide brings together everything you need to know so your family can enjoy Cusco safely and make memories that will last a lifetime.

At Cusco Tours, we specialize in crafting personalized family itineraries that balance adventure, culture, and comfort — because every family deserves a trip designed around their own pace and interests.

Is Cusco Safe for Kids?

Cusco is widely regarded as one of the safest cities in Peru for tourists, and this extends to families with children. The historic center is compact and walkable, locals are welcoming toward young visitors, and the tourism infrastructure is well established.

The most common concern parents have is altitude — Cusco sits at 3,400 meters (11,150 feet) above sea level. While this deserves attention and preparation, it is entirely manageable with the right approach. Food safety is another consideration, but sticking to reputable restaurants and avoiding uncooked street food keeps families healthy throughout their stay.

Public transportation is limited, but private transfers and guided tours (which we recommend for families) eliminate any transport worries. Overall, thousands of families visit Cusco each year and have wonderful, safe experiences.

Best Age to Visit Cusco with Children

While families with children of any age can visit Cusco, the experience varies depending on your kids' ages. Here is what to expect at each stage.

Toddlers (2–4 years old): Traveling to Cusco with very young children is possible, but it requires more flexibility. Toddlers may be more sensitive to altitude changes, and their nap schedules can clash with tour timings. The Sacred Valley (at a lower elevation of about 2,800 meters) is a more comfortable base for families with very small children.

School-age children (5–12 years old): This is often considered the sweet spot for a Cusco family trip. Kids in this age range are curious, adaptable, and old enough to enjoy ruins, markets, and hands-on activities like chocolate workshops and weaving demonstrations. They can handle moderate walking and will remember the experience vividly.

Teenagers (13+ years old): Teens get the most out of Cusco's adventure offerings — zip-lining, rafting, mountain biking, and even trekking options. They also appreciate the historical and cultural depth of Inca sites and can engage with local communities on a deeper level.

Altitude Acclimatization Tips for Kids

Altitude is the single biggest factor to plan for when visiting Cusco with children. At 3,400 meters, the reduced oxygen levels can cause headaches, fatigue, nausea, and shortness of breath — symptoms that may be harder for children to articulate.

Allow at least two full days for acclimatization before any strenuous activities or excursions. On arrival day, keep activities light: a gentle walk around the Plaza de Armas, an early dinner, and plenty of rest.

Hydration is essential. Children often forget to drink water, so make it a family routine to carry water bottles everywhere and take frequent hydration breaks. Coca tea is a traditional remedy that many adults find helpful, though for younger children, simply staying hydrated and resting is the best approach.

Watch for warning signs: persistent headache, loss of appetite, unusual irritability, vomiting, or difficulty sleeping. If symptoms are mild, rest and fluids usually help within 24 hours. If symptoms worsen or a child seems confused or extremely lethargic, seek medical attention immediately — Cusco has good medical facilities accustomed to treating altitude-related issues.

Consider starting in the Sacred Valley. At roughly 600 meters lower than Cusco city, the Sacred Valley offers a gentler introduction to elevation. Spending your first night or two there gives little bodies extra time to adjust before heading up to Cusco.

For a deeper dive into altitude preparation, read our comprehensive Cusco Altitude Sickness Guide.

Top Family-Friendly Activities in Cusco City

Cusco offers far more than ruins and museums — though those are fantastic too. Here are the best activities for families right in the city.

Cusco Planetarium — Stargazing at 3,400 Meters

The Cusco Planetarium offers evening stargazing sessions that fascinate children and adults alike. Located just outside the city, it combines telescope observation with stories about Inca astronomy. At this altitude, with minimal light pollution, the night sky is breathtaking. Sessions are available in English and are suitable for children ages five and up.

Chocolate Museum and Workshop

The ChocoMuseo in central Cusco runs interactive workshops where families learn about the cacao-to-chocolate process and make their own chocolate bars. Sessions last about two hours and are one of the most popular family activities in the city — kids love the hands-on aspect and the tastings.

Interactive Museums

The Museo Inka (Inca Museum) houses an impressive collection of Inca artifacts, textiles, and mummies that captivate school-age children. The Museo de Arte Precolombino offers beautifully curated galleries in a colonial mansion. Both are compact enough to hold younger visitors' attention without causing museum fatigue.

San Pedro Market Food Tour

San Pedro Market is a feast for the senses. Families can wander the colorful aisles, try fresh fruit juices (jugo de frutas), sample empanadas, and watch local vendors at work. Stick to cooked foods and freshly prepared juices for little stomachs. It is a wonderful way to introduce children to Peruvian food culture in a lively, authentic setting.

Family Cooking Class

Several cooking schools in Cusco offer family-friendly classes where you visit a local market to buy ingredients and then prepare classic Peruvian dishes together. Children enjoy the market visit and getting their hands into the cooking — and everyone enjoys eating the results.

Plaza de Armas and Historic Walking Tour

The main square is the heart of Cusco and a great starting point for families. The impressive cathedral, the fountain, and the surrounding colonial architecture provide plenty to see, and the open space gives kids room to stretch their legs between activities. A guided walking tour helps bring the history to life in a way that engages children.

Sacred Valley Day Trips with Kids

The Sacred Valley is arguably the highlight of a family trip to Cusco. Spread along the Urubamba River at a lower elevation, it combines stunning scenery, fascinating Inca ruins, and cultural experiences that appeal to all ages.

Ollantaytambo — Ruins Kids Can Explore

Ollantaytambo is one of the most impressive Inca sites in the valley, with terraces, temples, and storehouses that children can walk through and explore. The town itself is a living Inca settlement with water channels still running through its streets. Kids enjoy climbing the terraces (with supervision) and imagining life in an Inca fortress.

Pisac Market — Colors and Crafts

The Pisac Market runs daily but is most vibrant on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays. Children are drawn to the colorful textiles, handmade toys, and musical instruments. It is a great place to pick up souvenirs and practice basic Spanish phrases with friendly vendors.

Potato Park — Hands-On Cultural Experience

The Potato Park (Parque de la Papa) near Pisac is a community-run conservation area where families can learn about Peru's incredible potato diversity — over 1,300 native varieties grow here. Children participate in planting activities, meet local families, and enjoy a traditional Pachamanca (earth oven) lunch. It is an unforgettable cultural immersion. Learn more about our Potato Park Full Day Tour.

Llama and Alpaca Farms

Several farms in the Sacred Valley offer family visits where children can feed and interact with llamas and alpacas. These gentle animals are a highlight for younger children, and the visits often include demonstrations of traditional wool dyeing and weaving techniques.

Maras Salt Mines

The Maras Salt Mines (Salineras de Maras) are visually spectacular — thousands of white salt pools cascade down a hillside. The geometric patterns and the contrast against the valley make it a jaw-dropping sight for visitors of all ages. Children are fascinated by the evaporation process and the fact that these mines have been in use since Inca times.

Can Kids Visit Machu Picchu?

Absolutely — and it is an experience most children never forget. However, a family visit to Machu Picchu requires some practical planning.

Age considerations: Children under 3 enter free, and kids aged 3–17 receive discounted tickets. There is no minimum age to visit, but the site involves significant walking on uneven terrain with steep steps, so strollers are not practical. Children should be comfortable walking for two to three hours.

Choosing your route: The most comfortable option for families is taking the train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes (about 1.5 hours), spending the night there, and visiting Machu Picchu early the next morning when it is less crowded. This avoids the exhausting one-day rush and gives kids time to rest.

What to pack: Sunscreen, rain jacket (weather changes quickly), snacks, water, comfortable walking shoes with grip, and layers for temperature changes. There are no food vendors inside the ruins.

Family tour packages: Our Cusco & Machu Picchu 4-Day Tour and 5-Day Tour are popular with families because they include acclimatization time, comfortable transport, and guides experienced with children.

Adventure Activities for Older Kids and Teens

For families with older children and teenagers, Cusco and the Sacred Valley offer thrilling adventure activities that make the trip unforgettable.

Zip-lining in the Sacred Valley: Several operators run zip-line circuits over the valley with stunning mountain views. Most require a minimum age of 8–10 years and include safety briefings and full equipment.

Horseback riding: Gentle rides through Inca trails and countryside are available for beginners, while longer rides suit experienced riders. It is a peaceful way to experience the landscape, and horses are typically calm and well-trained.

Easy rafting on the Urubamba River: Family-friendly rafting trips on Class II–III rapids are suitable for children ages 10 and up (depending on the operator and water levels). The scenery along the river is magnificent, and guides keep the experience safe and fun.

Mountain biking: Downhill rides from Chinchero to the Sacred Valley floor follow scenic routes and are suitable for teens with some biking experience. Most operators provide full-suspension bikes and protective gear.

Practical Tips for Families Traveling to Cusco

Where to Stay

San Blas and the area around Plaza de Armas are the best neighborhoods for families — central, walkable, and close to restaurants and attractions. Many hotels offer family rooms or connecting rooms. If you want to start at a lower altitude, consider staying in Urubamba or Ollantaytambo in the Sacred Valley for your first nights.

Getting Around

Cusco's historic center is compact and walkable, but cobblestone streets can be tricky with strollers. For day trips and transfers, private vehicles are the most comfortable and flexible option — and what we include in all our family tours. Taxis are inexpensive but negotiate the price beforehand.

Food — What Kids Will Eat

Peruvian cuisine is diverse and delicious, and most children find plenty to enjoy. Reliable kid-friendly options include: lomo saltado (stir-fried beef with fries), arroz chaufa (Peruvian fried rice), pollo a la brasa (rotisserie chicken), fresh fruit juices, and pan con queso (bread with cheese). Many restaurants are accustomed to serving families and can adjust spice levels.

Packing Checklist for a Family Trip

Essential items to bring: layered clothing (mornings and evenings are cold, midday can be warm), comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen and hats (UV is intense at altitude), rain jacket or poncho, reusable water bottles, basic first-aid kit including children's pain reliever, hand sanitizer, and snacks for transit and excursions.

Health and Travel Insurance

Travel insurance that covers altitude-related medical care is strongly recommended for families visiting Cusco. Confirm that your policy covers children and includes emergency evacuation if needed. Cusco has private clinics with English-speaking staff experienced in treating altitude sickness.

Sample Family Itineraries

3-Day Cusco City and Sacred Valley

Day 1 — Arrival and Acclimatization: Arrive in Cusco, transfer to hotel. Light walk around Plaza de Armas, coca tea, early dinner. Rest.

Day 2 — Cusco City Exploration: Morning chocolate workshop, visit Inca Museum, lunch at a family-friendly restaurant. Afternoon at San Pedro Market. Evening planetarium session.

Day 3 — Sacred Valley Day Trip: Full-day Sacred Valley tour: Pisac Market, Ollantaytambo ruins, llama farm visit. Return to Cusco in the evening.

5-Day Cusco, Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu Family Adventure

Day 1 — Arrival: Fly into Cusco, transfer to Sacred Valley hotel (lower altitude). Light afternoon exploration of Urubamba town.

Day 2 — Sacred Valley: Full-day tour: Pisac Market, Potato Park cultural experience, Ollantaytambo ruins. Overnight in Sacred Valley.

Day 3 — Transfer to Cusco: Morning transfer to Cusco. Afternoon city exploration: Plaza de Armas, chocolate workshop, San Pedro Market.

Day 4 — Machu Picchu: Early train to Aguas Calientes, guided tour of Machu Picchu. Return by train to Cusco in the evening (or overnight in Aguas Calientes for a more relaxed pace).

Day 5 — Cusco and Departure: Free morning for last-minute shopping or a cooking class. Transfer to airport.

For a customized family itinerary, tell us about your trip and we will design the perfect adventure for your family.

Why Book Your Family Trip with Cusco Tours

Planning a family trip to Cusco is exciting but involves many moving parts — altitude management, kid-friendly pacing, reliable transport, and finding the right balance of adventure and rest. That is exactly what we do.

Our family tours include experienced local guides who know how to engage children, private transportation for comfort and flexibility, carefully selected accommodations, and itineraries built around your family's interests and your children's ages. We handle the logistics so you can focus on making memories together.

Plan your custom family trip to Cusco →

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best age for kids to visit Cusco?
Children aged 5 to 12 typically have the best experience — they are old enough to enjoy the activities and remember the trip, but adaptable enough to handle the altitude and travel demands. Teens also love it thanks to the adventure options available.

Is altitude sickness dangerous for children?
Mild altitude sickness is common and usually resolves within 24–48 hours with rest and hydration. Serious cases are rare but can occur. Allow at least two acclimatization days and watch for warning signs. Read our full altitude sickness guide for detailed preparation advice.

Can toddlers visit Machu Picchu?
Yes, there is no minimum age for Machu Picchu. However, be prepared to carry smaller children for portions of the visit, as the terrain is uneven and there are many stairs. Baby carriers work much better than strollers here.

How many days do you need in Cusco with kids?
We recommend a minimum of 4–5 days to allow proper acclimatization and enjoy both the city and Sacred Valley without rushing. Adding Machu Picchu ideally requires 5–7 days total.

What should kids eat in Cusco?
Peruvian cuisine has plenty of kid-friendly options: lomo saltado, arroz chaufa, pollo a la brasa, fresh juices, and bread with cheese are all popular with young visitors. Most restaurants can accommodate children's preferences.