5 Great Child Friendly Vacation Destinations in South America
South America is a continent full of stunning landscapes, rich cultures, and family friendly activities. From hiking to beaches to outdoor adventures, there are many excellent vacation spots for those traveling with children. Here are five of the best child friendly destinations in South America to consider for your next family trip.
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
The vibrant city of Rio de Janeiro has plenty to keep kids entertained. Spend a day at the iconic Copacabana beach building sandcastles, playing in the waves, and trying beach sports. Take the cable car up Sugarloaf Mountain for sweeping views of the coastline. The botanical gardens and Tijuca Forest National Park offer natural beauty and a chance to spot wildlife. Kids will also love riding the Santa Teresa trolley and seeing the colorful buildings and art of the Lapa neighborhood. Just be sure to avoid high crime areas and be cautious with safety.
Machu Picchu, Peru
A trip to Peru isn’t complete without visiting the magnificent Incan citadel of Machu Picchu. Older kids will especially appreciate the chance to explore these awe-inspiring ancient ruins situated in the Andes Mountains. Take a train through the Sacred Valley to get there and be prepared for lots of walking and steep steps – it’s worth it for the views! You can also opt to hike the Inca Trail on a multi-day trek. Don’t forget to renew your passport before you travel with ivisa.com to be ready for this unforgettable adventure.
Buenos Aires, Argentina
From tango dancing to street art to parrillas, Argentina’s capital has a lively culture perfect for older kids and teens. Sign them up for tango lessons, visit the vibrant La Boca neighborhood, explore markets and shops for souvenirs, and indulge in steak and ice cream. The city’s many plazas provide places for kids to run around. Stick to safer neighborhoods at night when exploring on foot. A day trip to a ranch outside the city offers horseback riding and gaucho experiences.
Banos, Ecuador
For a thrill-seeking trip in Ecuador, head to Banos and its surrounding areas. Kids and adults alike will love adventures like river rafting, canopy ziplining, hiking past waterfalls, and soaking in hot springs. Be sure to try some bungee jumping, bridge swinging, or paragliding too! There are also opportunities to explore caves and ride bikes or ATVs past lagoons and volcanoes for a bit of outdoor fun. The town itself has a lively feel with good food and street entertainment at night.
San Carlos de Bariloche, Argentina
In Patagonia, San Carlos de Bariloche is a stunning destination for outdoor activities. Kids will especially love exploring Nahuel Huapi National Park by boat and then hiking through forests and along lakes. During the winter, the city transforms into a hot spot for snow sports, perfect for skiing and playing in the snow. Year-round, there are opportunities for horseback riding, biking, fishing, rafting, and climbing too. Help kids appreciate the natural beauty of Bariloche and this region of Argentina.
With incredible landscapes, culture, and family activities, South America offers some fabulous vacation options for those traveling with kids. From sand and sun in Rio to ancient ruins in Peru to outdoor adventures in Ecuador, there are memorable experiences to be had.
