Trekking the Inca Trail with kids

Parents need to really do their research before doing the Inca Trail with kids. Fit, active teenagers can undertake the hike - it's a fantastic chance to spend time together as a family, give an unbeatable, real-life education into both the history and indigenous cultures of South America, and provide them with memories that will last a lifetime, as it provides a sense of achievement that few other attractions can match. Younger or less outdoorsy kids are better off taking the train though - while those below seven or eight are unlikely to appreciate what they are seeing, and are better off waiting a few more years until their curiosity is piqued and they are ready to understand the incredible story of the Incas.

Peruvian Paso horses are an Andean breed, well equipped for the steep terrain and thin air. Riding expeditions are offered through the Sacred Valley, reaching ruins and view points which would be too far to access on foot. Although horses are not permitted on the classic Trail, you can ride parts of the other routes: an unusual way to travel the Inca Trail with kids. The less brave can enjoy one of the many local horse shows.

Tim Winkworth is adfamily travel specialist with our supplier Intrepid. He travels regularly with his three young sons. Here are his thoughts on trekking the Inca Trail with teenagers:
"There's something special about doing a trek with your parents. It's normally the sort of thing you'd go off and do with your mates. It's not just about climbing a mountain; it's probably one of the most mystical places on the planet, so you're trekking up and passing Inca ruins every step of the way. You're staying in some incredible campsites, there's one small campsite that's actually above the clouds and you're there with your mum and dad!

Younger ones still have the excitement of traveling by train to the mystical city of Machu Picchu. Seven and eight year olds start to study things like Egypt at school - so they're primed, they're ready and interested. And if you want them to see some of the indigenous culture, you can always do that in the Amazon, rather than the mountains."