In a world of screens and schedules, it can feel nearly impossible to carve out real quality time as a family. The Upper Sacred Valley and Lares Adventure offers a family-friendly journey like no other—inviting travelers of all ages to step off the beaten path and into the heart of traditional Andean life.
Whether you’re traveling with young children, teens, or grandparents, this route offers flexible options and memorable moments designed with families in mind.
Lares and the Upper Sacred Valley
For families looking to go deeper, the Lares region offers spectacular moments of connection. With guided hikes and cultural immersion experiences tailored to varying fitness levels and interests, all ages can enjoy meaningful experiences at their own pace.
For families looking to go deeper, the Lares region offers spectacular moments of connection. With guided hikes and cultural immersion experiences tailored to varying fitness levels and interests, all ages can enjoy meaningful experiences at their own pace.
Activity Highlights:
- Visit the vibrant Pisac ruins and local market—a feast for the senses with colorful textiles and local produce.
- Explore remote villages like Viacha or Patacancha, where children can meet local families and get a sense of daily life in the high Andes.
- Cross thrilling mountain passes like Ipsaycocha, offering panoramic views that adventurous kids and teens will love.
- Discover Inca ruins en route to Machu Picchu, including the living archaeological site of Ollantaytambo.
- Horseback riding near Huacahuasi or Yanahuara.
- Optional biking routes in the Sacred Valley.
- Trout fishing or light kayaking (seasonally available).
- Optional llama trekking, ideal for younger children who want a unique walking companion.
Lamay Lodge: Home Away from Home
After a day of exploration, there’s no better place to recharge than Lamay Lodge. Nestled in a peaceful valley in the Sacred Valley, this tranquil retreat is ideal for families looking to discover a slower rhythm.
Here, guests can enjoy nature walks, visit nearby farms, or take part in hands-on cultural activities designed to engage both kids and adults. Evenings at Lamay are equally magical. Gather around the fire or soak in the hot tub under the stars and share stories from the day.
Whether as a standalone escape, like the Lamay Lodge Getaway, or as part of the 5 or 7-day Upper Sacred Valley and Lares Adventure, Lamay Lodge is a perfect home base for families who want a more grounded kind of travel experience.
Huacahuasi Lodge: A Gateway to Living Culture
At the heart of this authentic Andean journey is Huacahuasi Lodge. Located amid breathtaking mountain landscapes, there’s no better backdrop for immersive cultural connection and meaningful family bonding.
Cultural immersion is more than just a buzzword on this journey—it’s something families can see, touch, and experience firsthand. Visit the village of Huacahuasi, where families can meet local artisans who specialize in traditional Andean crafts passed down through the generations. Learn to spin alpaca wool using centuries-old techniques or try natural dyeing with local plants like cochineal and ch’illca. After exploring the village, return to the lodge for a hands-on cooking class. Under the guidance of local chefs, learn to prepare traditional Peruvian dishes using locally sourced ingredients and spark the joy of cooking together as a family. It’s experiential learning at its best, and a chance for children to gain a deep appreciation for life beyond their own borders.
These activities provide rich, sensory experiences that kids will remember long after the trip ends.
Ending on a High Note: Machu Picchu
The Lares Route culminates with a magical visit to Machu Picchu, where expert guides bring the ancient citadel to life in a way that captivates every generation. Morning visits help to avoid peak crowds, while optional shorter hikes to sites like the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) are perfect for active families seeking a manageable but rewarding trail. Kids especially love seeing llamas roaming freely among the ruins and hearing stories about Inca legends.
Whether it’s your third visit or a dream finally realized, visiting the ancient citadel is a powerful, unforgettable experience.
Why This Journey Works for Families
Whether you’re traveling with little ones, teens, or grandparents, this journey has something for everyone.
- Flexible activity levels: Choose between easy walks, multisport options, or more challenging hikes.
- Small group sizes and expert guides who know how to captivate kids and adults.
- Family-friendly lodges with cozy spaces, hot tubs, and evening games to unwind together.
- Cultural and hands-on experiences that balance physical activity with creativity and downtime.
The Upper Sacred Valley and Lares Adventure is not just a trip—it’s a chance for shared discoveries and a way to unplug and rediscover what it means to connect as a family, and with the world around you. Contact Us if you would like more information about our Family Adventure to Lares and The Sacred Valley.
