An 8-Day Family Vacation to Machu Picchu and Cusco

Day 1: Lima

Lima is also known as the city of king’s and is a cultural hub of Peru. After you arrive here, head straight to your hotel preferably at Miraflores, Casa Andina. You will be intrigued by the mysteries of Peruvian culture, nature, and geography. You can also enjoy the unique art collection at Lucia de la Puente gallery. Enjoy the dinner at Pacific at La Rosa Nautica which located at Lima Beach Circuit. Take proper rest at night to enjoy the next day activities.

Day 2: Lima 

Start your day with a morning tour of the historic center of Lima which is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Some of the unique places that you must visit are San Martín Square, Paseo de la República, Government Palace, the Main Square, the Archbishop's Palace, Basilica Cathedral, and the City Hall Palace. You can enjoy the lunch at Mangos de Larcomar and can explore the Columbian artifacts during the visit to the Larco Herrera Museum. 

Day 3: Cusco

Cusco is the Inca Empire's capital and is one of the oldest inhabited city in the entire Western Hemisphere. You can visit the Awanacancha (llama project) during which you will notice the different South American camelids. Your family will enjoy the mysterious mountainside ruins at Pisac and an impressive display of handmade crafts and textiles at the local market. 

Day 4: Chinchero and Maras

Start the day with a visit to Chinchero Indian market where you can learn a lot about textiles. You can enjoy biking up to the Inca site of Moray and can have a lunch there. You can also visit Salinas de Maras which are the ancient salt pools. 

Day 5: Urubamba River and Ollantaytambo 

If you are interested in river rafting, it’s now time to hit the whitewater rapids of the river Urubamba. Take proper safety instructions before you start the rafting. You can enjoy a traditional pachamanca lunch before you explore the ruins of Ollantaytambo. You can also enjoy the Peruvian Paso Fino horse ride if you are interested in horse riding. 

Day 6: Inca trail and Machu Picchu

The cloud forest at Inca Trail and hike to the subtropical jungle of Machu Picchu will be the most adventurous events that you will enjoy with your family. You can visit the Wiñay Wayna & Chachabamba and can enjoy lunch at the waterfall before Intipunku. Head to your hotel at Machu Picchu before its dark.

Day 7: Machu Picchu and Cusco

You can enjoy exploring the mountaintop ruins of Machu Picchu with your family and a private guide. Hiking at Huayna Picchu mountain is also possible if you are interested and the weather permits. Enjoy the local cuisine at Machu Picchu before you ride back to Ollantaytambo and a car transfer back to Cusco. 

Day 8: Cusco

It's now time to explore the archeological ruins of Qenqo, Puca Pucara, Sacsayhuaman, and Tambomachay. Take a guided tour of the square of the Cathedral, Cusco, and the Korikancha temple followed by a farewell dinner at Map Café. It's will be the last day of your trip and you will be transferred back to Lima from where you can take the international flight to home. 

This 8-day trip to Machu Picchu and Cusco will be exciting and adventurous for you and your family. You will be amazed and spellbound with the rich architecture and cultural heritage that these cities have to offer.