You want so intensely to visit our wonderful country at the soonest… but there are also worries about your little kids’ safety and related… don’t be preoccupied anymore, on this article we’ll share all insider tips for taking toddlers to Peru and have a top time!
1.- To begin with, it will depend on the places in Peru you’re going to visit and the season (in relation to clothing, planning itineraries, preparing the kids, etc).
- Peruvian coast:it is a desert all the way. Hot season goes from mid-September to mid-April, cold season from mid-April to mid-September. It gets really hot and really cold, respectively. No rain whatsoever. Main destinations are Lima, Nazca and Arequipa.
- Andean chain: rain season goes from November to March, brief pourings, cold-warm in Cusco City, it gets warmer as you approach the Sacred Valley and the jungle border. Dry season spans from April to October, cold in Cusco City, warmer towards the Sacred Valley and beyond, no rain at all. Main destinations: Cusco City, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu.
- Amazonian jungle: temperatures are very high, tropical (average 39 to 40 °C). Fortunately, there are refreshing rains throughout the year. Main destinations are Iquitos, the National Parks of Manu and Tambopata.
2.- About altitude sickness: it may happen because at high elevations like those of the Andes, oxygen presence in the air diminishes and since our body needs plenty of it to stay ok, some symptoms may appear like nausea, headache, fatigue and indigestion. Here are the steps to successfully deal with it if you’re taking toddlers:
- Acclimatization: the best thing to do is arriving at the elevated town, for example, Cusco City, 2 or 3 days before start touring. The idea is allowing the body to automatically adjust to the lack of oxygen. Avoid much physical effort and get enough rest.
- Drink plenty, really plenty of bottled, no gas water, because it is the best source of oxygen. The millenary healing secret, coca leaves infusion, is also quite effective. It is not toxic, it’s just a natural beverage everybody drinks in the Andes. Deals with all symptoms.
- Finally, if still needed, there are altitude sickness pills which are real troubleshooters. But keep in mind they are made of natural herbs that fight fatigue, headache, bad digestion, etc so it’s better to try the two previous ways before and you can save some money.
3.- Protection from the Sun: it is mandatory, wherever you go to in Peru, to bring a wide, sun hat, a strong sunblock and dark glasses. It’s the best you bring them anytime, because it wouldn’t be practical trying to find out when it’s going to be intense sunlight or not. Also, if you’re taking toddlers to Peru, anywhere, pack an insect repellent. Finally, don’t forget the antibacterial hand gel, especially before eating and for all related situations and follow correct hygiene habits.
4.- Vaccinations/Medicines: the following three are required for the entire country: yellow fever, typhoid and hepatitis A. If you’re going to the jungle, ask your doctor to explain preventive measures regarding malaria. Drink only bottled water if you are not at the hotel or it is not given by our travel agency. Be careful with meals, ask our guides or office staff to recommend safe restaurants. Just in case, have some money aside for the drugstore, minor inconveniences may occur, especially if you’re taking toddlers to Peru; or ask your physician back home to prescribe some pills like antibiotics, digestion enhancers and analgesics for children.
5.- Don’t forget to include on your itinerary planning some breaks for your toddlers to get good rest and recover from all the activity. Remember they are less resistant to altitude, fatigue and occasional stress than older kids. Another very good measure is bringing a versatile baby-carrier, it will be so helpful while walking on tours, etc.
6.- In Peruvian major cities there are supermarkets and drugstores where you can find toddler’s nutrition products and also hygiene items like diapers, baby soap and shampoo, creams, perfumes, talcum powder and so on.
Here at TOUR IN PERU, it is part of our top-quality service to always provide information and support to all our dear travelers. Please feel free to ask for guidance and help from our professional guides and staff, we are ready to give all needed assistance. This way, your traveling experience with toddlers will be just awesome.
So, these are our insider tips for people taking toddlers to Peru! Get your preparation and schedule ready then contact us for booking a great, playful vacation!
