Traveling to Peru

Hello A.,
My husband is Peruvian and I have travelled there many times, with and without kids. I took my eldest son when he was 12 months and most recently with the second baby at 3 months. Lima is a WONDERFUL city with with all of the modern amenities and conveniences of the states. Depending on how long you are there, it is also possible to hire help for very little money. Both times we have had a full-time nanny, not a luxury we can afford here in the states! As far as going to Cusco, I have never been with kids. The flight is short, just 2 1/2 hours, but the altitude is high, however, you might find that the babies can adjust easier than you and I! Cusco also has many modern amenities and is a very touristy city, the baby would be fine there. As for Machu Picchu, unless you or your husband are able to carry the baby for a days worth of walking, then I would recommend finding a sitter or leaving the baby with a friend or family, if this is possible. The ruins are about a 3 hour train ride from Cusco to Aguas Calientes and when you get there you must then take a bus up to the ruins (or walk, which is long and challenging, but fun, if you have time and are without baby). To really see MP you need at least a full days worth to walk around. It is truly a sight to be seen!
Let me know if you have any further questions. When is the wedding? The weather in Lima can vary greatly depending on what time of year you are there. Hope this helps!
S.

Hi - my husband and I went to all those places during our honeymoon. Lima is a very congested city (way worse than Manhattan!), so if you take your son there, be warned that the traffic is very bad, and more dangerous than here (I would DEFINITELY bring a car seat! There is one made just for taxis, but I don't know if it would work in Lima's taxis. Also, there is a lot of pollution.
I'd be worried about the altitude in Cuzco - I'd ask your pediatrian about whether his lungs are ready for that. Also, know that even if he is, it will be that much harder for you to walk around if you have to carry him or push his stroller. I am a pretty fit person (at least I was when I went!), and it was hard for me to walk even a block sometimes without losing my breath.
Macchu Picchu is fabulous, just be prepared to carry your child on some steep steps.

If I were you, I'd spend as much time as possible in the Sacred Valley, which is BEAUTIFUL, and has none of the pollution or altitude problems you'll encounter in the Cuzco and Lima. I heard the Lake Titicaca area is beautiful too, and would probably be better suited for your son.

HI A.,
A friend of mine just got back from Peru with her 1 and 4 year old children and husband. They went for vacation to the same places and really enjoyed with no issues. I've been to Peru myself before I had children and can tell you it's a very child-centric country. You'll also be very pleased at seeing how the children are carried by their mothers/fathers until they're over 2 years old. Children are everywhere there. very beautiful. just buy bottled water. the place accommodates tourists so water is always available.
PS - the coffee is fabulous.
Have a great time. Your baby will miss you and you him if you go without him. Understandable if you decide to not bring him though, but don't let fear of the unknown be the deciding factor. Get Eye Witness travel book for Peru, very helpful. Have fun.
-S.

As long as your son is healthy and doesn't show any signs of serious allergies, then take him! Ask your pediatrician if you can take a filled prescription for an antibiotic for ear infections, just in case he gets one. And also ask him/her what you should do if he gets a stomach bug, or something else like that. That way, you'll feel confident that all your bases are covered.

It'll probably be harder for you to enjoy the trip, with a little one along. But if you don't mind helping him nap and eat along the way (and lugging all that baby stuff!), then definitely take him! He may not appreciate Macchu Picchu yet, but he'll enjoy the time with you. :)