Peru might not spring to mind as a top family travel destination but many are now heading there for family vacations. I thought it might be beneficial for those travel inspired moms to hear from Marisol Mosquera, the founder of Lima-based travel agency Aracari Travel, who has been visiting Peru with her son for years. Marisol, a Condé Nast travel specialist, answered a few questions for me to help explain her and her son’s fascination with the country, and how their travel experiences have enriched both their lives. Take a look below at some of the questions she answered for me!How long have you been traveling to Peru with your son? From what age?
I’ve been traveling in Peru with my son for 7 years, since he was 3 years old.
How has traveling in Peru been rewarding for your son/family?
Exposing my son to a diverse region from a young age has been very rewarding as it has helped him to grow up with an understanding of different cultures while allowing him to experience contrasting landscapes and environments. Our journeys have helped broaden his horizons and his understanding of the world around him.
Peru isn’t the most common family-travel destination – what do you think makes it stand out?
Peru is an ideal destination for families because it has such a diverse range of exciting landscapes, colourful culture and a limitless number of adventures.
As the country’s infrastructure continues to develop, there has never been a better time to travel with family friendly hotels offering comfort and safety. Many hotels are now very well tuned to the needs of families and offer services and facilities specially tailored to families.
What are your recommended family-friendly destinations and activities?
Peru offers a feast of options for those planning a trip as a family. As well as the obvious trip to Machu Picchu with a guide who can help children to explore the site, I would recommend pottery or textile workshops in the Sacred Valley, trips to jungle lodges with activities oriented towards children, an interactive treasure hunt in Cusco… or even a visit to a chocolate factory in Cusco with a live demonstration of Peruvian chocolate production!
There are also adventure activities such as short treks, horseback riding, quad biking, kayaking and Sand buggying while a flight over the Nazca lines also can be intriguing for teenagers.
Are there any things in particular that parents should bear in mind before travelling?
Be sure choose a provider who understands the nature and nuances of travelling with children and who can best serve the requirements of a family.
The pace of an itinerary, the hotels chosen and the careful selection of activities suitable for the age of the child – whether they be younger kids or teenagers – are all key to executing a successful family trip.
For more information, check out Aracari Travel’s family travel itineraries: http://www.aracari.com/travelling/family-trips.html
