Imagine your kids exploring the wonder of the world, Machu Picchu with kids. It would be like living a magical adventure! Why not take them to discover one of the most important places in Peruvian culture? During their visit, they can discover the fascinating history of the Inca civilization while exploring terraces, temples and enigmatic passageways. An educational experience that feels like a historical theme park!
That said, it’s important to teach them to value and protect this cultural treasure. Remember, it’s forbidden to touch the monuments, climb on the terraces or leave the established paths. Machu Picchu is a historical site with rules that we must respect. But without a doubt, it will be an unforgettable trip full of the wonders of Peru.
Recommended Age to Visit Machu Picchu
Visiting Machu Picchu can be an unforgettable experience for people of all ages, including families with children and even babies. Although there is no minimum age to tour this impressive Inca citadel, we recommend that children be at least 6 or 7 years old, as the tour can be somewhat demanding and challenging in certain sections.
Additionally, it’s important to know that children under 3 years old do not pay for entrance to Machu Picchu and children under 12 are not allowed to climb Huayna Picchu mountain. Also, ensuring the safety of the little ones should be the priority, so always keep a close eye on the children and avoid letting them explore the archaeological remains unaccompanied.
Places to Visit with Children in Machu Picchu
The Inca City of Machu Picchu has fascinating structures that can capture children’s attention, such as the mysterious Temple of the Condor, one of the most intriguing buildings in the citadel. In addition, little ones can enjoy the adventure of climbing Machu Picchu Mountain; although reaching the summit is a challenge, the trails are safe and surrounded by spectacular scenery.
On the other hand, after your visit to the citadel, relax in Aguas Calientes (known as Machu Picchu Pueblo) and visit the Site Museum. This space, along with the nearby butterfly farm and botanical garden, are perfect for a family visit and to enjoy with the children.
Safety in the Citadel for the Little Ones
Most of the trails in Machu Picchu are made of stone and can become slippery, so it is recommended to wear non-slip shoes, especially if visiting the Inca City with children. Additionally, within the archaeological site, there are numerous guards, marked barriers and safety ropes that should not be crossed under any circumstances. Therefore, it is essential that parents or responsible adults constantly supervise children, as their safety depends primarily on them.
Discounts on Machu Picchu tickets for children
Children under 18 years old can enjoy a discount on the regular price of the Machu Picchu ticket, while children under 3 years old enter for free. To obtain this benefit, parents or guardians must purchase the tickets by presenting the child’s identity document or passport. It is important to note that children can only enter Machu Picchu accompanied by their parents or an authorized guardian.
How to buy Machu Picchu tickets for children?
To buy a Machu Picchu ticket for a child, follow these steps:
- Go to the website of the Peruvian Ministry of Culture (TuBoletoCultura) or an authorized travel agency.
- Check if there are any available Machu Picchu tickets.
- Complete your personal information and that of the child.
- If booking with an agency: Send a copy or digital photo of the passport (or ID) of the father, mother and child.
- Make the payment by credit card (usually Visa or MasterCard).
- Print the tickets that you will receive in your email and present them on the day of your visit to Machu Picchu.
- If you have booked with an agency: They will contact you and send your tickets to your email.
Documents needed to visit Machu Picchu with children
For minors to enter the Machu Picchu Historical Sanctuary, it is mandatory to present their Passport or National Identity Document (DNI) if they are Peruvian. Likewise, minors must always enter under the supervision of their parents or legal guardians.
Routes to go to Machu Picchu with kids
The trip to Machu Picchu consists of several short sections that lead to the iconic lost city of the Incas. However, there are different options to access the citadel, which vary according to the traveler’s budget, physical condition and willingness to walk. These alternatives include:
Classic route to the Citadel
The most popular option among travelers visiting Machu Picchu is to take the classic route that starts in the city of Cusco and has as its first stop, the town of Ollantaytambo. This land journey takes between one and a half to two hours. From Ollantaytambo, you board the train that, in approximately two hours, arrives at the town of Aguas Calientes.
Regarding train tickets for children, the two companies that operate this service are PeruRail and IncaRail, which offer significant discounts of 40% to 50%, as long as the children are under 11 years old.
Later, once in Machu Picchu Pueblo (Aguas Calientes), travelers have two options to climb to the Inca citadel, located at the top of a mountain:
- Take the bus: Tickets for children have an average discount of 50%.
- Climb on foot: This option is free but requires some physical effort.
Hydroelectric Route
If you choose this option, your journey will begin with a approximately 6-hour drive to the town of Santa Teresa. Once there, you’ll take another vehicle for a 30-minute ride to the ‘Hydroelectric Power Station’.
From this point, you can choose to take the tourist train to the town of Aguas Calientes or hike for 2 hours following the train tracks through the subtropical jungle. Upon arriving in Aguas Calientes, you will need to decide between taking the Consetur bus or hiking to the majestic Inca citadel.
Additional Option
Another very popular option is to do the famous Inca Trail trek. However, this alternative is not recommended for children due to the high physical demands of completing the route.
What to wear to Machu Picchu with children?
The weather in Machu Picchu can be very variable, so it is advisable to dress children in layers, allowing them to easily adapt to changes in the weather. Bring a poncho to protect against rain and, at the same time, light clothing for warm subtropical moments.
Recommendations before going to Machu Picchu with children
Keep in mind that inside the Inca City there are no places to buy food or drinks, so it is essential to bring snacks and plenty of water. Additionally, the only restrooms are located at the entrance to Machu Picchu, so it is advisable to make sure that children use the bathroom before entering. Finally, always follow the instructions of the tour guide and keep the little ones under supervision, especially if you plan to climb Machu Picchu mountain.