Looking for a perfect family adventure in Cusco with kids? This lively city in the Peruvian Andes has many fun activities for kids. You might ask, what are the best 11 things in Cusco for your children?
Cusco is more than just a stop before Machu Picchu. With the right preparation, you can enjoy its culture, architecture, and food. And, keep your kids happy and involved!
Looking for hands-on museums, exciting trips, or unique cultural events? This guide will show you the top options in Cusco for your family. Find the hidden gems and surprises in this stunning place!
Top 11 Best Things to Do in Cusco With Kids
Chocolate Museum
Looking for a fun family activity in Cusco? The Cusco Chocolate Museum, known as Coco Museo, is your spot.
This museum hosts a chocolate making class in Cusco that your kids will adore. In just 45 minutes, you’ll dive into cocoa making. Plus, you get to craft your own tasty chocolate.
First, kids will crush cocoa beans to get their sweet smell. Next, they’ll shape chocolate into fun molds. They can mix in toppings to make their treats special.
But it’s more than just fun. The Cusco Chocolate Museum teaches about making chocolate. Kids will get how chocolate goes from a bean to a bar. They get to eat their creations and explore chocolate’s flavors.
Going to the Chocolate Museum in Cusco is an awesome inside plan for the family. You get to make chocolates and learn. It mixes fun and learning just right!
Tour Sacred Valley
The Sacred Valley is close to Cusco and a key stop for people interested in Incan history. A Sacred Valley tour from Cusco lets you see the countryside, with its colorful flowers and ancient Incan ruins.
Pisac ruins are a top spot in the valley. They sit high up on a mountain and have stunning views down below. You can check out the well-crafted terraces, old temples, and places where the rulers lived. It’s a cool way to get a sense of Incan life and their amazing buildings.
Ollantaytambo ruins are also not to miss. This place has huge stone works and steep terraces. You’ll see a large temple fortress. The Incas made everything with great skill. And the views from here are amazing, especially after the climb up.
As you travel through the valley, you’ll see many pretty sights. There are villages, green fields, and the sacred Urubamba River. The trip is a treat for the eyes, showing off the Andes’ natural wonders.
A trip to the Sacred Valley is not just fun, it’s also educational. Kids can see what’s left from the Incan times and learn about their ways. With its beautiful sceneries and historical spots, a Sacred Valley tour from Cusco is a perfect choice for families.
Explore the City
Exploring Cusco with kids is a great adventure. Take a slow walk through the city to see its lively culture. Walk the hilly streets, filled with both old and new shops. Make sure to visit Plaza del Armas, the city’s main square, for its busy atmosphere and great people watching.
Plaza del Armas
Plaza del Armas is Cusco’s central spot and perfect for families. Sit on the benches and enjoy the upbeat vibe. Admire the beautiful buildings and look at the Cusco Cathedral.
This plaza is also a shopping paradise. Local artisans sell colorful textiles and unique jewelry. It’s an excellent place to find special souvenirs and support local talent.
Cusco Cathedral
The Cusco Cathedral at Plaza del Armas is truly impressive. Inside, you’ll see beautiful art and decorations. It’s home to precious religious items and has stunning stained glass windows.
Don’t miss the cathedral’s courtyard, where llamas roam. Kids will enjoy seeing and petting these friendly llamas.
Cusco’s streets are alive with music and fun. You often hear local musicians playing. This adds to the town’s vibrant energy.
Visiting Cusco with your family means seeing so much. From the markets to the Plaza del Armas and the Cathedral, there’s plenty to love. Pack your bags and head out to enjoy the city’s rich culture!
Stay in Cusco
When visiting Cusco with kids, it’s important to find the right place to stay. Thankfully, Cusco has many family-friendly hotels. These places make sure families are happy and comfortable. Two great options are:
El Mercado Hotel
El Mercado is perfect if you want a luxury stay in central Cusco. It has warm, inviting rooms for families. The hotel’s courtyard is loved by families. It’s a great spot to relax after a busy day.
Palacio Manco Capac
For amazing views and a unique experience, choose Palacio Manco Capac. It sits above the town, so the views are stunning. This hotel is known for its special atmosphere and charm. Plus, children will love meeting the llamas there.
El Mercado Hotel and Palacio Manco Capac offer different but wonderful experiences for families. Whether you prefer being in the city or seeing vast views, these hotels in Cusco are perfect. They make your family’s stay in the historic city enjoyable and memorable.
Limo Restaurant
Limo Restaurante in Cusco is great for families. It’s on the first floor in Plaza del Armas. You’ll love the views of the square and Cusco Cathedral while you dine. This makes your meal special for everyone.
It’s famous for Japanese food. You can choose from teriyaki to sushi. Every dish is made by skilled chefs with the best ingredients. So, there’s something tasty for each family member.
Food here is really good. But it can be a bit pricey. Yet, the amazing views and dining experience are totally worth it.
Looking for a special place in Cusco? Where you get Japanese food and see beautiful sights? Head to Limo Restaurante. Have a great meal and make unforgettable memories with the family there.
Weather and Transportation Tips
When you visit Cusco, be ready for all kinds of weather changes. The city can show all four seasons in just a few hours. It’s smart to wear clothes in layers. This way, you can add or remove items as the temperature changes.
It’s also important to use sunscreen in Cusco. The sun is strong, especially at its high altitude. Protecting your skin is a must.
Getting around Cusco is easy with Uber if you don’t have a car. Using the app on your phone, you can quickly get a ride. This is a great choice for families traveling with kids. It makes moving around the city simple and stress-free.
Museo de Inka
Exploring Cusco with your kids? Check out Museo de Inka. It’s a top museum. Here, you’ll see lots of Inca artifacts. These give you a cool peek into the Inca’s world.
The museum is filled with Inca treasures. From beautiful jewelry to colorful textiles. You’ll also see mummies and metalwork. It all shows the Inca’s amazing skills and culture.
As you walk around, you’ll learn a lot. You’ll learn about the Inca’s big achievements. The museum is fun and educational for everyone. That makes it a great stop for families.
Outside, Andean weavers put on live shows. Here, you can watch them make textiles. It’s a fun, interactive way for your kids to learn about the culture.
Museo de Inka is a key place in Cusco for families. It’s perfect if you want to dive into Inca history. With cool artifacts and shows, it sparks interest in ancient cultures.
Natural Slides of Sacsayhuamán
Exploring the Inca ruins of Sacsayhuamán, you’ll be awed by the amazing architecture and huge boulders. This ancient citadel shows off the Inca people’s amazing skills. It has perfect stonework and stunning views. Kids love it here, especially the natural rock slides.
You’ll find smooth rock faces across the site that make perfect slides. It’s a rare and fun experience for young explorers. They’ll love sliding down the rocks at Sacsayhuamán, making your visit more enjoyable.
Ask your tour guide to show you where the slides are. They can lead you to this thrilling spot. Make sure you wear good shoes and watch over the kids for safety.
Don’t miss the chance to see both incredible Inca buildings and have an adventure at the slides. It’s a perfect way for families to make special memories and discover Inca history together.
Plaza de Armas
Step into the Inca capital’s heart at Plaza de Armas in Cusco. It’s a lively square known for its stunning architecture. This area gives a special look at Cusco’s deep cultural history.
Walking through Plaza de Armas, you might see local shows. These often include traditional dances and music. It’s a great way to experience the city’s vibrant culture.
Don’t forget to check out the nearby streets full of shops. They sell all sorts of local crafts and souvenirs. You can buy colorful textiles, pottery, and jewelry made by talented locals.
And food lovers, you’re in for a treat. There are many restaurants with delicious Peruvian dishes. Don’t miss trying ceviche or lomo saltado. You’ll taste the flavors of the Andes.
Visiting Plaza de Armas is a dive into Cusco’s life. Take in the sights, the food, and the craft. It’s a great way to remember your visit to this amazing Inca capital.
Attend Inti Raymi Festival
If you’re in Cusco in June, make sure to see the Inti Raymi Festival. Also called the Festival of the Sun, it’s a top event in the Inca tradition. This gathering shows the key Inca Empire ceremony. It’s a great family activity where you can see traditional dances and hear speeches. Everyone comes together to honor Inti, the sun god. This unique event will really stick with your kids.
FAQ
What are the best things to do in Cusco with kids?
Top things to do with kids in Cusco are the Chocolate Museum and the Sacred Valley. Kids can explore the city and stay in welcoming hotels. They will love the food at Limo Restaurante.
They can also learn about weather and understand transportation. Visiting Museo de Inka is a must. Don’t miss the natural slides at Sacsayhuamán. Plaza de Armas and the Inti Raymi Festival are highlights, too.
What can I do at the Chocolate Museum in Cusco?
The Chocolate Museum offers a 45-minute class. In this class, you’ll discover cocoa production and make chocolates. It’s perfect for family fun.
What can I see on a tour of the Sacred Valley near Cusco?
A tour of the Sacred Valley takes you through pretty countryside. You’ll visit Incan ruins like Pisac and Ollantaytambo. Plus, the valley’s views are stunning. It’s great for learning and culture.
What attractions can I explore in Cusco?
In Cusco, walk around the city and see Plaza del Armas and Cusco Cathedral. Visit traditional markets and listen to local musicians. It’s a rich cultural experience for kids.
Are there family-friendly hotels in Cusco?
Indeed, Cusco has many family-friendly hotels. El Mercado is centrally located with a cozy courtyard. Moreover, Palacio Manco Capac offers great views and llamas to interact with.
Where can I find family-friendly dining options in Cusco?
Limo Restaurante in Plaza del Armas is ideal for families. It overlooks the square and serves Japanese dishes. While a bit pricier, it’s perfect for family dining.
What should I know about the weather and transportation in Cusco?
Cusco’s weather changes quickly. You’ll need to dress in layers. Also, remember to wear sunscreen due to the high altitude.
If you’re not driving, Uber is a good choice. It’s easy to get around with Uber’s help in Cusco.
Are there any museums in Cusco that are suitable for kids?
The Museo de Inka is great for kids. It has a large Inca artifact collection. Your kids can learn about Inca history and culture here.
What can I do at Sacsayhuamán?
At Sacsayhuamán, explore the Inca site. You’ll be impressed by the huge stones and expert stonework. Plus, there are natural slides for kids to enjoy.
What can I do at Plaza de Armas in Cusco?
Plaza de Armas is perfect for seeing local life. Watch events and enjoy the area’s crafts and souvenirs. It’s a nice spot to experience Cusco’s culture.
What is the Inti Raymi Festival in Cusco?
The Inti Raymi Festival is a big deal in Cusco. It celebrates the sun with dances and speeches. Locals honor the Inca sun god, Inti. It’s a cultural event the whole family will love.
