Itinerary

Peru is a fantastic destination with a rich tapestry of culture, history, and stunning landscapes. Here’s a fun and adventurous 7-day itinerary that’s family-friendly and ensures comfort and safety. Let’s dive in!

## Day 1: Arrival in Lima

Morning:

• Arrive in Lima, the capital of Peru. Depending on your flight time, you might want to grab a quick breakfast at a local café. Try a traditional Peruvian dish like chicharrón (fried pork) with sweet potato.

Afternoon:

• Check into a family-friendly hotel in Miraflores, a safe and vibrant district. After settling in, take a stroll along the Malecón, a beautiful coastal promenade with stunning ocean views.

Evening:

• Enjoy dinner at a family-friendly restaurant. I recommend trying Panchita for some delicious Peruvian cuisine. Don’t forget to try a Pisco Sour, Peru’s national cocktail (or a non-alcoholic version for the kids!).

## Day 2: Explore Lima

Morning:

• Visit the historic center of Lima. Explore the Plaza Mayor, where you can see the Government Palace and the Cathedral of Lima. The architecture is stunning!

Afternoon:

• Head to the Larco Museum, which is very family-friendly and has fascinating exhibits on pre-Columbian art. The museum also has a lovely café for lunch.

Evening:

• Take a cooking class as a family! Learn how to make traditional dishes like ceviche or lomo saltado. It’s a fun way to bond and enjoy a delicious meal together.

## Day 3: Travel to Cusco

Morning:

• Fly from Lima to Cusco (about 1.5 hours). Upon arrival, take it easy to acclimatize to the altitude (Cusco is over 11,000 feet above sea level).

Afternoon:

• Explore the San Blas neighborhood, known for its artisan shops and charming streets. Visit the San Blas Church and enjoy lunch at a local café.

Evening:

• Have dinner at a family-friendly restaurant like Cicciolina, which offers a variety of dishes. Rest up for the adventures ahead!

## Day 4: Sacred Valley Adventure

Morning:

• Take a day trip to the Sacred Valley. Start with a visit to Pisac Market, where you can shop for local crafts and souvenirs. The market is vibrant and colorful!

Afternoon:

• Visit the archaeological site of Ollantaytambo. The ruins are impressive, and the views are breathtaking. Have lunch in Ollantaytambo before heading back to Cusco.

Evening:

• Return to Cusco and enjoy a relaxed dinner. Try Chicha for a casual dining experience with local flavors.

## Day 5: Machu Picchu

Early Morning:

• Take the train from Cusco to Aguas Calientes (the town at the base of Machu Picchu). The train ride is scenic and comfortable.

Morning/Afternoon:

• Explore Machu Picchu! Take a guided tour to learn about the history and significance of this incredible site. Make sure to take lots of family photos!

Evening:

• Return to Aguas Calientes for dinner. Enjoy a meal at a family-friendly restaurant before taking the train back to Cusco.

## Day 6: Cusco to Lake Titicaca

Morning:

• Depart Cusco early and travel to Puno, the gateway to Lake Titicaca (about 7-8 hours by bus). The journey offers beautiful views of the Andean landscape.

Afternoon:

• Arrive in Puno and check into your hotel. After a short rest, take a boat tour on Lake Titicaca to visit the Uros Floating Islands. The kids will love learning about how these islands are made of reeds!

Evening:

• Enjoy dinner in Puno. Try La Table del Inca for a cozy atmosphere and delicious food.

## Day 7: Explore Lake Titicaca and Return to Lima

Morning:

• Visit Taquile Island, known for its beautiful textiles and stunning views. You can hike a bit and enjoy the local culture.

Afternoon:

• Return to Puno and then take a bus back to Juliaca for your flight to Lima. Depending on your flight schedule, you might have time for a quick lunch in Puno.

Evening:

• Arrive in Lima and enjoy a farewell dinner at a nice restaurant. Celebrate your adventure with a delicious meal and reminisce about the amazing experiences you’ve had!

Tips for a Safe and Comfortable Trip:

• Always stay hydrated, especially in higher altitudes.
• Use reputable transportation services and guides.
• Keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas.
• Embrace the local culture and enjoy the delicious food!

I hope this itinerary helps you create unforgettable memories in Peru! If you have any questions or need adjustments, feel free to ask. Happy travels! 🌍✈️