It’s relatively easy to get to (through Baltra Airport in the north and the Port Ayora in the south) and with plenty of accommodation options and a multitude of wildlife-viewing opportunities, Santa Cruz makes an excellent land base for families prone to seasickness and looking to avoid a cruise.

The island emerged from the sea millions of years ago as a jet of hot molten rock. Today its cactus-studded coastline and densely vegetated interior showcase all the forces that transformed a pile of barren rocks into a biological wonderland, changing our understanding of life altogether.

But the island’s oddly assorted cast of characters makes a trip to this remote Pacific island so memorable for kids. From salt-spitting iguanas and wide-eyed sea lions to lumbering giant tortoises and dancing boobies, aspiring Attenboroughs find Santa Cruz a paradise.

To get the most out of your visit to Santa Cruz Island with kids, here are four fun activities, one family-friendly place to stay and one great place to eat.

Activity 1: Bask Alongside Marine Iguanas

Strolling the beach with a marine iguana. Does it get more Galapagos than that?

On the southern coast of Santa Cruz you’ll find Tortuga Bay, easily one of the most spectacular beaches in the Galapagos. Not to mention, it recently claimed fame as TripAdvisor’s 10th Top Beach in the World. This remote strip of coastline can only be accessed by boat or on foot (a 50-minute walk on a paved trail from Puerto Ayora). Its powdery, pale white sands stretch for over a kilometer. But best of all, they and are flecked with dozens of dark grey marine iguanas performing sun salutations–a magical experience for anyone visiting the Galapagos with kids.

Endemic to the Galapagos, the marine iguana is the only lizard in the world to have adapted to sea life and is an excellent example of how animals modified themselves to survive in these volcanic, infertile lands. Although it’s tempting to follow the iguanas into the translucent waves, the strong currents make Tortuga Bay a dangerous spot for swimming.

If you continue on foot past the rocky outcrop at the far end of the beach, however, you reach Playa Mansa, a hidden bay protected by dense mangroves. The sheltered, clear waters are a perfect snorkeling site and are home to sea turtles, rays and marine iguanas. You can rent a kayak at the far end of the beach. Find out more: See TripAdvisor reviews of this beach.

Tip: Bring plenty of water and snacks as there are no shops or restaurants here.

Activity 2: Discover the Land of the Giants

The highlands of Santa Cruz in the center of the island have become a sanctuary for one of the Galapagos’s most iconic inhabitants, the giant tortoise. These prehistoric-looking creatures not only gave their name to the islands (Galapago means tortoise in Spanish). They are the species that first alerted Darwin to differences between animals on different islands. (The British vice-governor of the islands told Darwin he could tell which island a tortoise came from just from the shape of its shell).

Some of the best giant tortoise watching in the wild can be found in El Chato Tortoise Reserve. Near the village of Santa Rosa, you can find dozens of them slowly navigating their way around mounds of tall grass or wallowing in muddy lagoons. In contrast to the arid lowlands, the vegetation here is thick, green and often shrouded in mist. All of which provides an ideal habitat for these elephantine reptiles whose ancestors were carried to the Galapagos on rafts of vegetation from the rainforests of South America.

The tortoise reserve also has a number of underground lava tunnels that are fun to explore and at the end of the tour, kids can crawl inside an empty shell of a giant tortoise – cameras at the ready! Find out more: El Chato Tortoise Reserve

Click the upper right corner to open this map in a new window. This feature continues below…

Activity 3: Pay Homage to Lonesome George

Besides Darwin’s groundbreaking revelations, one of the most remarkable wildlife discoveries ever made took place in 1972 on Isla Pinta, the northernmost island in the archipelago. The discovery of a male Pinta tortoise, a species presumed extinct in 1906, rocked the scientific community. (Hunting and human introduction of invasive species such as goats, rats and pigs had destroyed the tortoises’ natural habitat).

Park rangers transported the surviving tortoise to a protected reserve in Santa Cruz where they named him Lonesome George. When he died in 2012 he had become a global conservation icon. His body, preserved by taxonomists in New York, can now be seen on display at the Charles Darwin Research Station in Puerto Ayora. He remains a symbol of hope for endangered species around the world.

That idea perplexed my daughter – how is being the last of one’s kind hopeful? – and she asked the guide about it. That prompted an interesting discussion about how the Galapagos Islands are a marvel of biodiversity and what happens when humans upset the delicate balance of our planet. Find out more: Official site of The Charles Darwin Research Station

Activity 4: Hang Out with the Local Hustlers at the Fish Market

The Galapagos Islands are one of the few places in the world where wild animals show no fear of humans and there can be no better demonstration of this than at the fish market in Puerto Ayora. Sitting at the water’s edge, this tiny, unassuming market is little more than a long concrete slab. Yet that slap is laden with hefty tuna, shiny snapper, and crates of scrambling lobsters.

What makes it special is the crowd it attracts. Locals from all over Santa Cruz Island gather here daily to pick up their dinner. That includes, much to the delight of tourists, locals of the non-human kind. Sea lions sidle up to the counter and, watch closely. When backs are turned, will snatch whatever they can reach before hot-flippering it down the street.

Beady-eyed pelicans swoop in from the skies, scooping up whatever they can get away with before being swatted away by irate fishmongers. Children find all of this hilarious, and you don’t need to make any purchases to get immense entertainment here.

Find out more: Read visitor reviews at TripAdvisor

1 Great Place to Stay: Galapagos Safari Camp

Tucked away in the central highlands, between Santa Cruz’s two main ports, the secluded Galapagos Safari Camp makes an ideal base for families looking to the escape the crowds and fully immerse themselves in the wilds of the Galapagos. The eco-luxe camp sits high on a ridge overlooking dense canopy of the National Park and the Pacific.

Families can opt to stay in the spacious three-bedroom family suite that sits above the kids’ club. Or if they prefer, in one of the nine teak-floored safari tents. Raised high above the ground on wooden platforms, the tents are light and airy. There’s ample room for a family of four (age limits apply). And for for birdwatching-in-bed, simply roll up the large flaps in the canvas walls (highly recommended!). Plus, sliding glass doors open on to private balconies where you can soak up a misty sunrise, coffee in hand.

In the highlands, temperatures are cooler at night, making it ideal for visitors to Santa Cruz Island with kids–or without. That means mosquitoes are seldom a concern and air conditioning is, thankfully, not required. During the cooler season, staff light fires in the main lodge. And don’t be surprised to find hot water bottles under bed sheets once you return from dinner.

It’s notable enough to be the only hotel in the archipelago with a kids’ club. But what makes Galapagos Safari Camp especially family-friendly? The founders raised their two children here. Stephanie Bonham-Carter and Michael Mesdag know first-hand what it takes to create engaging, educational experiences. They created a special six-night ‘Family Safari’, designed to meet the needs and interests of every member of the family.

Foodies will also enjoy the meals here. Like every service the hotel offers, the menus can adapt to meet specific needs. Find out more: http://www.galapagossafaricamp.com/

1 Great Place to Eat: La Garrapata

Looking for a great place to eat while visiting Santa Cruz Island with kids? Just a five-minute walk from Puerto Ayora’s main jetty is La Garrapata; it’s one of the oldest restaurants in the Galapagos and one of the most popular on Santa Cruz Island.

Located on the water’s front, this rustic, open-aired restaurant ticks all the boxes bar one: it faces the street. But don’t let its view put you off! (Or its name, for that matter: garrapata is Spanish for ‘tick’, as in the blood-sucking parasite).

Seafood is the star attraction here. Try it grilled, steamed, fried or bathed in coconut or pepper sauces. What’s more, you’ll find pasta and meat options as well, ensuring there’s something to please everyone. Find out more: La Garrapata

You might also like:

The 411 on Quito with Kids

Ten Deet-Free Ways to Help Prevent Mosquito Bites

The 411 on Peru’s Sacred Valley with Kids

Anatomy of a Great Travel Hat for Kids

The 411 on Panama City, Panama, with Kids

Ten Ways to Live Like a Local Family During Travel

The 411 on Oaxaca with Kids

Nine Amazing Family Vacation Destinations Abroad

The post Santa Cruz Island with Kids – Galapagos Family Vacation Guide appeared first on Family Travel 411.

Positioned on the rugged Pacific coastline, the city spreads out along the shore with much of the capital perched high up on imposing cliff tops overlooking the ocean. Its seaside location means that the city can be grey and drizzly at times but fortunately there are lots of indoor events to enjoy. Peru’s capital is home to excellent pre-Columbian museums, contemporary art and photography galleries, and some fun, hands-on activities for families.

If you’ll be visiting Lima with kids, here are my 4 top-recommended activities, along with suggestions for 1 great place to stay and 1 great place to eat while you are there.  

The 411 on Lima with Kids

Activity 1: Learn and Create at the ChocoMuseo

Hands-on learning for mini chefs make the Choco Museo a favorite stop for families visiting Lima with kids.

Lima might be most famous for its ceviche and cuy (yep, that’s guinea pig!), but kids are more likely to enjoy its chocolate. And what better place to learn about this food of the Mayan gods than at the ChocoMuseo?

Lima is home to two branches of this popular Latin American chocolate museum and workshop chain, one in the neighborhood of Miraflores and the other in Barranco. Both museums offer the same menu of activities allowing kids, and adults, the chance to get their hands dirty. Particular favorites for younger children are the ‘Bean to Bar’ and the Mini Chef classes.

Both workshops give a brief history of chocolate before children are let loose to create their own chocolate bars topped with all manner of brightly coloured sprinkles. Both branches also have a café where you can enjoy a hot chocolate or just a very good coffee. Find out more: https://www.chocomuseo.com/english/our-locations/miraflores-per/  

Activity 2: Get Snap Happy at MATE

Photography on a grand scale at this fun Lima gallery.

Peru’s most famous photographer is also the founder of the popular MATE – Museo Mario Testino. Established in 2012 by the fashion photographer himself, the space showcases Testino’s work alongside that of Peruvian artists and a handful of international talents. The ground floor houses Mario Testino’s permanent collection and includes shots of celebrities including Kate Moss and Madonna (who my nine-year-old daughter did not recognize in the slightest!).

Upstairs is the excellent Alta Moda series, a series of portraits of Peruvian locals from the Andean region of Cusco, taken by Testino. There is also a separate room dedicated to the photographer’s portraits of Princess Diana. The prints are enormous, with many covering entire walls, and the museum was one of our trip highlights. Find out more: http://www.mate.pe/en/

Activity 3: Stroll (or Bike!) El Malecón

Enjoy the views from Lima’s six-mile Malecon.

Often referred to as the Garden City, leafy Lima has some wonderful parks, especially in the upmarket neighborhood of Miraflores. Here, the government has poured money into renovating El Malecón, a six-mile stretch of green space that runs along the cliff tops with views over the Pacific Ocean. This long, paved pathway is ideal for walking, running, paragliding or cycling.

Along the way you’ll pass statues created by famed Peruvian artists including the Intihuatana (sun anchor) and El Beso (the kiss) that sit either side of the Villena Bridge. Bike Tours of Lima rents bikes for kids aged 10+.  Baby bike seats (for kids aged 1-5 years) are also available. Find out more: www.biketoursoflima.com 

Activity 4: Dance in the Fountains

Magic, color, and fantasy mix in this family-friendly fountain complex.

Guaranteed to please the kids is Lima’s fantastical Circuito Magico del Agua (The Magic Water Circuit). This complex of 13 illuminated fountains in the Parque de la Reserva was inaugurated in 2007. It fast became one of the capital’s main attractions.

The star of the show is the Fuente de la Fantasia (Fantasia fountain): a 120-metre-long fountain that bursts into life every evening. It’s a spectacular choreographed show of lights, lasers, water and music. What the kids will really love, however, are the interactive fountains including the Laberinto del Ensueño (Maze of Dreams). Good luck trying to reach the center of the maze without getting wet.

Tip: Bring a change of clothes!  Find out more: http://www.circuitomagicodelagua.com.pe/   

1 Great Place to Stay: Tierra Viva

Take advantage of this Tierra Viva hotel’s great location in Miraflores.

Tierra Viva is a small chain of cozy hotels located in Peru’s main destinations. The hotels are comfortable, personal and very good value for money and the Lima branch is no exception. Located in the upmarket Miraflores neighbourhood, not far from the Malecon, this is a great option for families looking to explore Lima’s main sites. Rooms are simple and welcoming but not built for spending much time in – you’ll be too busy sightseeing instead!

The hotel operates on a B&B basis only meaning you’ll have to go elsewhere for lunch and dinner. Fortunately, you can simply stroll to some of Lima’s best restaurants. Also nearby is Kennedy Park, once famous for being home to dozens of stray cats. The feline residents are being moved on but you might see one or two still lying out in the sunshine. Find out more: http://tierravivahoteles.com/

1 Great Place to Eat: La Barra Moreya in Astrid y Gaston

Dinner at the more wallet-friendly La Barra.

You will eat well almost everywhere in Lima. However, if you’re looking for a top-notch Peruvian dining experience treat yourself to a meal at Astrid y Gaston. This chichi restaurant is located in a beautifully renovated 17th century plantation house, Casa Moreyra, and is frequently ranked as one of the best in in Latin America (if not the world).

Not surprisingly, such accolades come at a price. So if you’re looking for something a little more wallet-friendly, try their casual dining option, La Barra Moreya. Located in the same building, adjacent to Astrid y Gaston, the food here is excellent. We ordered a few dishes from the various menus – del mar (from the sea), del campo (from the countryside), and de la ciudad (from the city) – and everything was absolutely delicious. As were the pisco sours!  Find out more: http://www.astridygaston.com/  

For more help planning your Peru family vacation, check out the Peru with Kids guide and don’t miss The 411 on Peru’s Sacred Valley with Kids

You might also like:

The 411 on Peru’s Sacred Valley with Kids

Nine Amazing Family Vacations Abroad + Tips for When You Get There

The Galapagos with Kids: The 411 on Santa Cruz Island

Ten Things You Should Always Pack for Travel

Six Great Mexico Family Vacation Destinations

How to Pack 1 Checked Bag for 3 Kids (Without Losing Your Mind)

Laundry Travel Hacks for Families

Six Amazing Ireland Family Vacation Destinations

How to Build a Budget-Friendly Maui Family Vacation

The post Lima with Kids – Peru Family Vacation Guide appeared first on Family Travel 411.

The Chilean capital is filled with excellent museums and art galleries, a mixture of stately and contemporary architecture, leafy parks and grand plazas, and a buzzing food and drink scene. It’s a safe city and easy to get around (the metro is efficient and Uber works well here, too). What’s more, there is lots to do with children. If you’ll be visiting Santiago with kids, here are 4 great things to do along with 1 great place to stay and 1 great place to eat while you are there.

Activity 1: Reach for the stars at Sky Costanera

Admiring the view from Gran Torre Santiago on a visit to Santiago with kids.

Get the lay of the land with a trip to the top of the Gran Torre Santiago. At 300 meters high (984 feet), it’s almost the same height as the Eiffel Tower and holds the record for being the tallest tower in Latin America. The ultra modern steel and glass structure dwarfs its neighbors and super-speed elevators transport you up the 64 floors to the top.

From the double-height observation deck the city spreads out below you and the Andes mountains stand guard in the distance. For something a little different, visit at night and see the city lights illuminate the streets. You’ll find ticket office on the basement floor of the tower in the Costanera shopping mall. Find out more:  http://www.skycostanera.cl

Activity 2: Step into The Future

Color, light, culture! Kids explore the Santiago Cultural Center.

The futuristic Centro Cultural La Moneda (CCPLM) is one of the capital’s newest art and cultural spaces and is a must-visit in Santiago. Located beneath the Plaza de la Ciudadania, the capacious modern space houses regularly changing exhibitions of Latin American art and photography. A permanent exhibition showcases some of the best arts and crafts from around Chile, including delicate textiles and beautiful jewellery.

A selection of this artesania is also for sale in the center shop. The temporary exhibitions when we visited were fun and hands-on, in particular the Pinta Con Luz (Painting with Light) exhibit. Here, we created our own self-portraits using a camera set to a long exposure and a hula hoop ringed with little lights – cue some very crazy photos! Find out more: http://www.ccplm.cl/sitio/

Activity 3: Get Arty

Kids love the hands-on art exhibits at Santiago’s Artequin.

Families will love Artequin, a fantastic hands-on museum where kids can get up close and personal with dozens of replicas of famous paintings. The idea is to educate and inspire kids about art through interactive displays; children can replicate Munch’s Scream, get creative with giant building blocks or dress up as their favourite artist. When we visited my children were transformed into Andy Warhol and Frida Kahlo!

The building itself is just as impressive and it is worth visiting for the architecture alone. The museum is housed within Paris Pavilion, which was built in France in 1889 to represent Chile in the Universal Exposition of Paris (the same expo that the Eiffel Tower was built for). Once the expo was over, the Pavilion was dismantled, shipped to Chile and reassembled. The museum is located in front of the Quinta Normal Park. Find out more: http://www.artequin.cl/

Activity 4: Get Outside

One of many playgrounds found in Santiago’s Bicentario Park.

Santiago is home to a number of excellent parks and green spaces and one of our favorites was Park Bicentenario. Located in the northeast of the city, the park is very popular and if you visit on the weekends or on National Holidays, you may feel like the entire population of Santiago has joined you!

In spite of (or perhaps, because of) the crowds, the atmosphere is jolly and welcoming, and there’s lots to keep kids busy in addition to just running around outside. A number of playgrounds are scattered throughout the park with climbing nets, slides, swings and more, and there’s a small pellet dispenser near the pond where kids can feed the ducks and fish.

1 Great Place to Stay in Santiago with Kids: Meridiano Sur Petit Hotel

A family-friendly room at Meridiano Sur, Santiago.

Family-run Meridiano Sur Petit Hotel is utterly charming and a wonderful place to stay. Located in the neighborhood of Providencia, this once weary old townhouse is now a bright eight-bedroom bolthole. Each room boasts the name of a region in Chile. Among them, a generous family room that can sleep up to four people. In addition, enjoy two cozy living rooms, a library and a terrace.

What I really love about this place, however, is the décor. Woven textiles add a splash of color to otherwise simple white rooms and Chilean poetry decorates the walls. The hotel serves a very good breakfast but you’ll have to eat out for lunch and dinner. Fortunately you are well placed to enjoy many of Santiago’s best restaurants. Find out more: http://www.meridianosur.cl/

1 Great Place to Eat in Santiago with Kids: Peluqueria Francesa

The quirky Peluqueria restaurant is a hit with grownups and kids alike.

Located in El Barrio Yungay, in the old town, is this “French Barber Shop.” But don’t let the name deceive you. This is a fabulously quirky restaurant that sits alongside and above a traditional barber’s salon. Tables are spread throughout a handful of bright rooms and cozy nooks and the walls are covered in framed posters, gilt-edged mirrors and an eclectic selection of memorabilia, including wooden bird cages and old crockery. Vintage lamps stand in corners and old chandeliers hang from above.

The extensive menu includes a small section for kids (mine had hamburgers when we visited) and the food is good. Service, however, is not snappy so arrive early to grab a table. Find out more:  https://www.boulevardlavaud.cl/ 

You might also like:

Peru’s Sacred Valley with Kids – Peru Family Vacation Guide

Ten ways to live like a local family during travel

Lima with Kids – Peru Family Vacation Guide

Ten things you should always pack for travel

Nine Amazing Family Vacations Abroad + Tips

Six Amazing Ireland Family Vacations

The post Santiago with Kids – Chile Family Vacation Guide appeared first on Family Travel 411.

Many traditional Peruvian itineraries start in Cusco. But at 3,400 m (11,150 ft) it is very high and altitude sickness is a real possibility. Instead, it’s worth spending a few days acclimatizing in the lower plains of the Sacred Valley.

The area is incredibly fertile and was a major source of agriculture for the Incas. It is also extremely beautiful and has, in recent years, become a tourist destination in its own right. Home to colonial towns, weaving villages, Incan archaeological sites, and lots of adventure activities, it’s a wonderful place for families explore. To get started, take a look at these four family-friendly activities for visiting The Sacred Valley with kids, plus one great place to stay and one great place to eat (map included below).

Activity 1: Be Amazed by Machu Picchu

Visiting Machu Picchu with kids.

Positioned at the far eastern end of El Valle Sagrado is Peru’s most iconic landmark, Machu Picchu. This ancient citadel was built at the height of the Incan Empire in 1452, but abandoned just over a century later. It was discovered quite by chance by the American explorer Hiram Bingham in 1911. But still this mountain landmark remains shrouded in mystery. No one knows quite why it was built or how. Similarly, there is no evidence to show why it was abandoned.

But all these question marks only add to Machu Picchu’s appeal. This cloud-capped ‘Lost City’ is quite simply amazing. And it’s something that should be on every family’s bucket list. Even better, if your kids are too young to walk the four-day Inca trail (or if this just sounds like too much hard work!), you can get transportation right up to the entrance gate!

For more information on Visiting Machu Picchu with kids, read my full review here and watch the video:

Activity 2: Travel Back in Time at the Museo Inkariy

The most family-friendly museum in Peru? Museo Inkariy gets our vote.

We happened upon the Museo Inkariy by luck. And we’re so pleased that we found it as it turned out to be the most family-friendly museum we visited in Peru. Located between the Incan sites of Urubamba and Pisac, this museum offers a thrill-filled journey through the pre-Columbian cultures of Peru.

The museum is spread out over eight little houses, each house representing one of the major civilizations of the pre-Columbian past. In each house, scenes from the past are reconstructed using life-size statues that are so realistic they had the children howling in delight – and terror! It’s a fun and interactive way for kids to learn some of the country’s history.

For more information on visiting the Museo Inkariy with kids, click here to read my full review.

Activity 3: Learn to Weave on Your Visit to The Sacred Valley with Kids

Learn to weave while visiting Centro Texil Urpi with kids.

Or rather, learn about the traditional techniques involved in creating the colorful, intricate Peruvian textiles. Admittedly, this might not sound like something that kids will love. Nevertheless, our visit to the Centro Texil Urpi in the high Andean village of Chinchero, was a highlight of our trip. There are a number of these centers in the Sacred Valley, established to help preserve and celebrate the ancient techniques. At the same time, they provide local communities with a secure and sustainable source of income.

Our informative and entertaining tour around the center taught us the various stages involved in traditional textile production, from washing and dyeing alpaca wool to spinning and weaving the colorful yarn into exquisite table runners, cushions, wall hangings and more. And when my children had had their fill of textiles, there was a friendly llama at the center to hug!

You can read more about visiting Centro Texil Urpi and Chinchero with kids in my overview here, and watch the video:

Activity 4: Discover More Incan Archaeological Wonders

Don’t overlook the less-touristed Incan sites throughout Peru’s Sacred Valley.

Many visitors come to Peru to see Machu Picchu, unaware of the dozens of other Inca sites awaiting exploration. The Sacred Valley is full of mind-boggling sites that are fascinating to discover. Some of our favourites included Pisac in the west, considered by many to be one of the finest Inca sites in the region, and Ollantaytambo in the far east, home to a spectacular Inca fortress that once served as the royal estate for Emperor Pachacuti. In the middle we also visited Moray and Maras, that the children loved. Moray is home to three enormous pits, each with huge terraced circular depressions. And Maras is home to Las Salineras de Maras (the white salt flats of Maras), which have been in use since Incan times.

Each site is very different from the next.  But the one thing they all share are spectacular views and a lot of stone steps!

For more information on visiting these Inca sites with kids, read my feature here, and watch the video:

1 Great Place to Stay: Sol y Luna Lodge & Spa

Sol y Luna Lodge & Spa, a great place to stay in Peru with kids.

If I could create the perfect hotel it would look something like Sol y Luna Lodge & Spa. This bougainvillea-filled finca sits against a backdrop of Andean peaks and big blue skies and offers real luxury in an absolutely stunning setting. The location also makes for a brilliant base for exploring the many Incan wonders of the Sacred Valley. As for the kids, they fell in love with the resident horses and the horse show that marked the beginning and end of every lunch.

Follow this link for my full review of Sol y Luna. Hotel Website: www.hotelsolyluna.com.

1 Great Place to Eat in the Sacred Valley with Kids: Wayra Restaurant

Wayra Restaurant with daily horse shows.

We loved the Wayra Restaurant in the Sol y Luna hotel and highly recommend it to anyone visiting the Sacred Valley, even if staying elsewhere.

Wayra, meaning ‘ranch’, is located near the stables at the far end of the hotel property. It serves tasty local dishes such as trout carpaccio cooked with airampo (a local cactus seed) and served with cushuro (lake seaweed), avocado cream and tumbo gravy. We ate extremely well!

The highlight for our children, however, was not so much the food. Rather, they delighted in the daily horse show performed before and after lunch. Four elegant horsemen in white ponchos and wide-brimmed sombreros enter the arena on their light-footed steeds to the beat of one of Peru’s best-known dances: the Marinera. At the end of lunch, guests have the chance to try a lap themselves. My kids were quick to jump on board!

For more ideas for your vacation to Peru with kids, take a look at our Family Guide to Peru, and don’t miss our Peru with Kids video playlist.

You might also like:

Lima with Kids Peru Family Vacation Guide

Quito with Kids Ecuador Family Vacation Guide

Santa Cruz Island with Kids Galapagos Family Vacation Guide

Santiago with Kids Chile Family Vacation Guide

Nine Amazing Family Vacations Abroad + Tips for When You Get There

Ten Things You Should Always Pack for Travel

Review of Merrell Siren Sport 2 Women’s Hiking Shoes

Travel with Teens: Tips for Getting and Renewing U.S. Passports

Six Great Travel Toys & Games for Tots to Teens

The post Sacred Valley with Kids | Peru Family Vacation Guide appeared first on Family Travel 411.

Ecuador’s capital city has the second highest altitude in South America (the highest is La Paz, Bolivia), so it will take you a couple of days to get acclimated. The first time I visited Quito, I passed out as I stepped off the plane and took my first shallow breath of Andean air. The second time, I drank gallons of water on the plane in preparation and my only concern when I stepped off the plane was finding a restroom.

Pin The 411 on Quito with Kids to your travel planning board on Pinterest!

So take your time, acclimate, and enjoy these 4 activities guaranteed to make your trip to Quito one you and the kids won’t soon forget. I’ve also included recommendations of 1 great place to eat and 1 great place to stay while visiting Quito with kids. And don’t forget to bookmark the handy map at the end to help plan your travels.

Activity 1: People- and Pigeon-Watch at Plaza de San Francisco

People- and pigeon-watch from Quito’s Plaza de San Francisco.

The massive cobbled-stoned Plaza de San Francisco is a great place to people-watch, check out some vendors, and—because is it really a plaza without them?—commune with pigeons. It’s located smack in the middle of the colonial old town and a central place for people to meet and for municipal and cultural events large and small.

The Church of St. Francis, the oldest church in Quito, dominates the square. If you like old churches, feel free to take a free and quiet peek inside. There is a nice high-end souvenir shop right underneath the church that sells everything from artisan crafts to jewelry and fine Ecuadorean chocolate. –> Get directions or see on map.

Activity 2: Straddle the Equator at Mitad del Mundo

Don’t miss your chance to straddle the equator when visiting Quito with kids.

You don’t have to be a geographer or a sleuth to figure out that the name “Ecuador” has something to do with the fact that the country lies on the Equator. In fact, the Equator was discovered and mapped out here by a team of French explorers in 1736. Unfortunately, they were slightly off-mark and the monument was built a couple of hundred meters from the actual line. Details…

Mitad del Mundo is just outside of the city and makes a great day-trip for those visiting Quito with kids. Particularly those who get a real kick of standing with one foot in the northern hemisphere and the other in the southern. Talk about a photo op! The site also has a reconstructed Equatorial village, a playground, souvenir shops, and rather limited refreshments. http://www.mitaddelmundo.com/en/ –> Get directions or see on map.

Activity 3: Get Some Old-School Culture at Casa de la Cultura

Casa de Cultura in Quito–free!

These days, visiting a museum can seem like entering a virtual world. While multi-media exhibits can be stimulating for children, it’s sometimes a little too close to playing a video game for my taste. Give me a good diorama over a computer display anytime. The Casa de la Cultura has fabulous ones, depicting different scenes from everyday life over time in various parts of Ecuador. They also have a great display of Inca gold objects, pre-Columbian art and pottery, and Spanish-era religious art. And it’s all free! www.casadelacultura.gob.ec –> Get directions or see on map.

Once you’re done communing with the artifacts, head across the street to Parque El Ejido for some playground fun.

Activity 4: Partake of Paddle Boats and Orchid Gardens at Parque La Carolina

Visit Parque Carolina for paddle boats and flower fun.

When you’re traveling to a big city with kids, nothing beats an afternoon at the park. Located at the northern end of Quito, the huge leafy Parque La Carolina has something for everyone. We enjoyed the outdoor gym equipment (for both adults and kids), watching the cool kids ride their BMX bikes on the massive ramps, and the paddle boats. You’ll find plenty of street vendors selling snacks, drinks, and of course, ice cream.

The park also boasts two museums. The Botanical Garden features plants from the different regions of Ecuador. The orchid rooms are particularly gorgeous. There is also a small reptile zoo that might not thrill older kids but was fascinating to my four-year-old. –> Get directions or see on map.

1 Great Place to eat in Quito with Kids: Café Tianguez

Café Tianguez serves up traditional Ecuadorian food–ah, ceviche!

Situated just below the looming cathedral in the Plaza de San Francisco (see above), Café Tianguez serves up traditional Ecuadorian food. The outdoor terrace is a great place to pigeon- and people-watch. Be sure to try the delicious hearts of palm ceviche, traditional fish ceviche, and the Ecuadorian specialty, locro de papa, a potato and cheese soup topped with avocado and aji (hot sauce). Finish your meal with a cup of strong Ecuadorian coffee. www.tianguez.org/english/ –> Get directions or see on map.

1 Great Place to Stay in Quito with Kids: Lugano Suites

Lugano Suites in Quito offers ample space and conveniences even for a family of five.

When traveling with kids in a big city, we find it helpful to stay near a nice park where we can escape the exhaust and exhaustion of the city streets. Lugano Suites fits the bill nicely for most visiting Quito with kids. Located in the modern, upscale part of the city, it’s just blocks away from the wonderful Parque La Carolina (see above). As the name suggest, it is an all-suites property. Each suite has two bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms and a living room with sofa bed—plenty of room for our family of five. The décor is clean and modern. Although the rooms have equipped kitchens, we didn’t do any cooking. We did buy drink and snacks and had ample room to stock them in the refrigerator. Breakfast is included in the rate, which was an added bonus. http://luganohotel.com.ec/ –> Get directions or see on map.

Tip: It’s almost too perfect that Quito’s best brick-oven pizza place, Cosa Nostra, just happens to be a couple of blocks from Lugano Suites. Let’s just say we had it more than once during the four nights we spent there.

You might also like:

Santa Cruz Island with Kids – Galapagos Family Vacation Guide

Nine Amazing Family Vacations Abroad + Tips for When You Get There

Lima with Kids – Peru Family Vacation Guide

Travel with Teens – Tips for Getting and Renewing U.S. Passports at 15, 16, 17 Years

Six Great Mexico Family Vacation Destinations

The post Quito with Kids | Ecuador Family Vacation Guide appeared first on Family Travel 411.