Machu Picchu
Inca wonders, family bonds, luxury escapes in the Andes
Highlights
Wander the iconic 15th-century Inca citadel perched high in the cloud forest, a UNESCO World Heritage marvel.
Discover Pisac, Ollantaytambo, and Moray, showcasing Inca agricultural terraces and fortresses.
Interact with Andean alpacas at a traditional farm, offering photo ops and cultural insights for kids.
Hike to vibrant mineral-striped peaks for stunning panoramic views and a sense of adventure.
Ride the scenic Expedition train through lush valleys to Aguas Calientes in comfort.
Where to Stay
2 picks
Sanctuary Lodge, A Belmond Hotel, Machu Picchu
Premier hotel at Machu Picchu entrance with stunning views, spa, and family suites featuring gardens and gourmet dining.
SUMAQ Machu Picchu Hotel
Boutique riverside property in Aguas Calientes with Andean spa rituals, family rooms, and organic cuisine.
Where to Eat
6 picks
Pachapapa
Rustic fine dining with roasted cuy (guinea pig), alpaca steaks, and Andean stews in a candlelit hacienda.
Moray Restaurant at Moray Terraces
Organic farm-to-table lunch amid Inca agricultural labs with quinoa soups and lake trout.
Indio Feliz Restaurant
Warm family spot in Aguas Calientes serving wood-fired pizzas, pastas, and Peruvian fusion.
Belmond Sanctuary Lodge Tampu Restaurant
Gourmet Peruvian tasting menu with ceviche, lomo saltado, and pisco sours overlooking the ruins.
Chicha por Gastón Acurio
Celebrity chef's modern Peruvian with anticuchos skewers, tiraditos, and family sharing plates.
Cicciolina
Intimate spot with Mediterranean-Peruvian fusion like octopus carpaccio and duck confit.
What to Do
6 picks
Cusco City Tour
Explore Sacsayhuamán fortress, Qorikancha temple, and Plaza de Armas with a private family guide.
Sacred Valley Tour: Pisac & Ollantaytambo
Visit Pisac market and ruins, then Ollantaytambo fortress via private transport with alpaca farm stop.
Expedition Train to Aguas Calientes
Scenic 3.5-hour rail ride through Urubamba River canyon to Machu Picchu village.
Machu Picchu Guided Tour
Private 3-hour family tour of the citadel, Sun Temple, Intihuatana, and terraces with shuttle bus.
Huayna Picchu Hike (Family Option)
Moderate 1.5-hour climb for panoramic Machu Picchu views; book early for slots.
Return Train & Cusco Evening
Vistadome train back followed by free time shopping in Cusco's artisan markets.
Good to Know
5 picks
Book a Private Family Tour
Opt for small-group or private operators like Exploor Peru for personalized pacing, oxygen kits, and kid-focused guides.
Altitude Acclimatization
Spend Day 1 in Cusco with light walks, coca tea, and hydration; avoid heavy exertion initially.
Pack Smart for All Ages
Layers, rain ponchos, sunblock, snacks for kids, reusable water bottles, and motion sickness meds for trains.
Train Tickets Essential
Reserve PeruRail or IncaRail 60+ days ahead; choose upper decks for views.
Early Machu Picchu Entry
Aim for 6-7 AM slots via hotel perks or Huayna Picchu ticket for fewer crowds.
Map
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