Rise above it all with our Peru family travel blog. From the wonders of Machu Picchu to the Amazon Rainforest, we have it all.
Home of Machu Picchu and So Much More. Discover It All In Our Peru Family Travel Guide
Peru is mind-blowing! Not only is this South American nation home to the world-famous ruins of Machu Picchu, but it is also home to 2 of the top 10 restaurants in the world!
Who knew that a country where Guinea Pig is a delicacy could be one of the hottest foodie nations on earth? Whether you are looking to spend your time exploring Incan ruins, sandboarding down sky-high dunes, or navigating one of the highest lakes in the world, Peru has everything you could ever ask for and more.
Tips For Family Travel in Peru
If you’re new to international family travel, I highly recommend checking out our well-researched trip planning resources. It’s full of proven family travel hacks.
- Currency
- The currency in Peru is called the Sol. The average value of the Peruvian Sol is approximately $0.34 USD. You can check out the current value here.
- Capital
- The capital of Peru is Lima. This vibrant, coastal city has some of the world’s best restaurants. It’s home to amazing museums and makes a great jumping-off point for exciting day trips.
- Electricity
- Peru electrical outlets are 220 Volts and 60 Hertz
- Cellular Phone Service
- Cellular phone service is readily available in most urban areas of Peru. Sim cards are available for unlocked phones. I have used the Airalo eSim app for all of my international travel.
- Roads, Driving, and Public Transit
- Most roads and highways in Peru are well-maintained
- Driving in Peru can be treacherous. Traffic laws are really just a suggestion, and lanes are an afterthought. Travel with care or consider taking the bus.
- Peru with Kids
- Family travel to Peru is very popular. Peru has excellent attractions for children. Some of our favorites include the ChocoMuseo and Pottery making in Urubamba. Quite a bit of Peru is at high elevations, so be aware of altitude sickness symptoms and be prepared to take it slow when in areas of high altitude. For example, Cusco and Puno are at very high altitudes, so spending some time acclimating in the lower Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu can help limit the chance of being affected.
Important Words And Phrases To Know When Traveling In Peru
Like most of Central and South America, the main language in Peru is Spanish. English is spoken in many of the larger cities and by most tour guides. However, in most neighborhoods and communities, it might be challenging to find locals who speak English.
It’s also worth noting that there are many regional language spoken by the many Indigenous Peoples found throughout the country. One of the most common language you’ll come across is Quechua. Quechua has been modified since it’s ancient days and is now uniquely intertwined with Spanish. But it is still a very unique language.
It’s always helpful to know a few words in the local language whenever you travel to a new destination. So here are a few important Spanish words to know before you visit.
Important Spanish Words To Know:
Yes: Si
No: No
Thank You: Gracias
Thank You Very Much: Muchas Gracias
You’re Welcome: De nada (It’s nothing)
Please: Por favor
Excuse Me: Perdóneme
Hello: Ola
Goodbye: Adiós
Bathroom: Baño
How To Stay Connected And Get Internet And Phone Service In Peru
Most major cities throughout South America have excellent cellular service. If you have an older phone, I highly recommend purchasing a sim either at the airport or as one of your first stops on your travels.
If you have a newer eSim capable phone, you can save yourself time by purchasing an eSim ahead of time and having it activated before you arrive.
There are many companies that offer this service. I have used Airalo for years. It has been seamless in over ten countries. They have World, Regional, and Country-Specific eSims available. The price goes down the more specific you get. The regional sims allow for easy country-hopping if you are visiting multiple destinations.