When most travelers think of Peru, Machu Picchu is often at the top of their list. But beyond this iconic Incan citadel, Peru offers an incredible variety of landscapes, cultures, and experiences that make it an ideal destination for travelers of all ages. Whether you’re a young adventurer eager to explore the Amazon, a parent looking for enriching cultural experiences, or a grandparent marveling at the stunning Andean scenery, Peru has something for everyone. We recently reimagined our Peru itinerary to ensure an unforgettable journey for all travelers, and to get an insider’s perspective, we spoke with Madeline, one of our Trip Managers, who had the chance to experience it firsthand.
An Unforgettable First Impression
Madeline has been a Trip Manager at Thomson for three years and was thrilled to experience the revamped itinerary firsthand. “This was my first time experiencing these hidden gems within Peru, and I couldn’t have asked for a more incredible trip,” she shared. “From the moment I landed, I was greeted with the warmest welcome, and by the time I left, all I could think about was coming back.”
Beyond Machu Picchu: Breathtaking and Underrated Destinations
While Machu Picchu is a must-see, Peru is home to many other stunning locations. For Madeline, simply entering the Sacred Valley was an awe-inspiring moment. “Just heading into the Sacred Valley for the first time and seeing the views of the mountains and towns was incredible,” she recalled.
One of Maddie’s favorite stops was the town and ruins of Pisaq. “The town itself was so charming and calm. It’s a great place to do some shopping, grab some delicious food, and explore.”
Another hidden gem she discovered was Ensifera, a hummingbird garden tucked away in the Sacred Valley. “I had no idea before this trip that there were so many different types of hummingbirds endemic to Peru. It’s a beautiful and relaxing place to spend an hour or so, and they even provide binoculars to give you the best possible views.”
A Hidden Gem in Ollantaytambo
While exploring the Ollantaytambo district, Madeline discovered a small village called Pachar, where the walls of many buildings are adorned with colorful murals. “It was nice to just take some time to walk around and admire the art and all the vibrant colors.” For families who love discovering local culture in unexpected places, Pachar offers a wonderful opportunity to slow down and appreciate Peru’s artistic side.
Family-Friendly Experiences to Remember
Peru is a fantastic destination for families, and Madeline highly recommends a visit to the Cusco Planetarium. “The family that runs it is so welcoming and passionate about what they do. The presentation they created is really fun and easy to follow,” she explained. Even though the night she visited was a bit cloudy, she still had the chance to see Jupiter and Saturn when the clouds cleared.
A Culinary Adventure
One of the best ways to experience a new destination is through its food, and Peru did not disappoint. Although Madeline is vegetarian, she decided to try some local non-vegetarian meals and was pleasantly surprised. “Two of my favorite dishes were ceviche, which is made from fish and shellfish, and lomo saltado, stir fried beef.” She also raved about a refreshing drink made from purple corn called chicha morada. “I would recommend it to anyone visiting Peru.”
A Must-Visit Museum for History Buffs
For those looking to deepen their understanding of Peru’s rich history, Madeline insists that the Inkariy Museum in Urubamba is a can’t-miss experience. “It focuses on the early civilizations of Peru leading up to the Incan Empire, and it gave me a lot of background information that made my later visits to archaeological sites like Machu Picchu and Ollantaytambo much more impactful.” The museum’s full-scale dioramas bring history to life in a way that’s engaging for both kids and adults.
Why Peru Should Be on Your Family’s Travel List
After experiencing Peru firsthand, Madeline is eager for families to embark on this adventure for themselves. “I’m so excited for our guests to experience this trip. It truly is a destination I would recommend to everyone.”
With its breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and incredible cultural experiences, Peru is more than just Machu Picchu—it’s a place where adventure and discovery await around every corner. Thomson Family Adventures’ new itinerary ensures that families can experience the very best of Peru, from hidden gems to world-famous wonders.
