Peru

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Peruvian Adventure: Navigating Peru with Two Little Explorers

WHY WE WENT

Dave had to go to Lima for work, and I was still on maternity leave with our youngest, Avery, so why not turn it into a family adventure? 

HOW LONG WE STAYED

For two weeks, from August 25 to September 7, 2019.

WHO WENT

Our little family, complete with a toddler and a baby, took on the challenge of discovering Peru - Dave, Ana, Owen (4.5 years old) and Avery (11 months old).

WHERE WE WENT

Our trip was in two parts: a week in the Sacred Valley, and another week in Lima, where Dave had work commitments. Truth be told, if it weren't for his job, I would have skipped Lima and happily stayed in the Valley forever. 

Note: We skipped Cuzco at 3,399m because Avery was too little to be able to tell us if she was feeling ill (from altitude).

HOW WE DID PERU

Despite the raised eyebrows from those who thought we were “brave” (probably code word for silly!) to undertake this adventure with two little ones, Peru made it easy for us. The country is remarkably family-friendly, and the experience was nothing short of amazing. 

TIME CHANGE

With only an hour's time difference, adjusting to Peru's local time was a breeze. We did overnight flights both ways and the kids slept pretty much the entire way there and back. 

TRANSPORTATION

Our modes of transportation varied: 

  • A chauffeured car picked us up from airports (provided by Dave’s work because otherwise we would never)

  • We walked a lot in Lima and in the towns we visited in the Sacred Valley 

  • Ubers took us around Lima if needed, instead of cabs 

  • We flew from Lima to Cuzco 

  • We took a tuk tuk and then a train from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu 

accommodations

We stayed in a mix of cozy Airbnbs and small hotels – nothing extravagant but each had a unique charm. 

Our days

In Lima, while Dave was at work, the kids and I roamed the streets aimlessly, stumbling upon great spots to eat at and parks to play in. 

In the Sacred Valley, we wandered around with more of a purpose: find ancient ruins, find a spot to eat with a view of those ruins, spot the train, and greet llamas. Of course, the visit to Machu Picchu was THE highlight, it’s one of the most beautiful places I have ever seen! 

Peru, with its rich culture, breathtaking landscapes, and welcoming atmosphere, not only made our trip effortless but also turned a work trip into a family adventure that we will never forget! 

Ana Laing