Best Family-Friendly Summer Destinations in South America – An Ultimate Guide

South America

Discover unexplored treasures and create unforgettable memories with your loved ones this summer. This exclusive guide reveals South America’s most captivating destinations for families seeking adventure, culture, and relaxation.

Introduction: Why South America for Your Family Summer Vacation
Brazil: Beyond the Beaches
Argentina: From Urban Wonders to Natural Splendors
Peru: Ancient History Meets Modern Adventure
Colombia: Undiscovered Family Paradise
Ecuador & Galapagos: Wildlife Wonderland
Chile: From Desert to Glaciers
Uruguay: Peaceful Coastal Retreats
Transportation Tips: Getting Around with Family
Accommodation Comparison: Where to Stay
South American Cuisine for Families
Cultural Etiquette: Helping Your Family Blend In
Packing Essentials for South American Family Travel
Visa Information and Travel Planning
Final Thoughts & Planning Your Trip
Frequently Asked Questions

Introduction: Why South America for Your Family Summer Vacation

Have you ever dreamed of watching your children’s eyes widen in wonder as they encounter exotic wildlife, ancient civilizations, and breathtaking landscapes? South America holds these magical moments in abundance, waiting for families willing to step beyond conventional vacation destinations.

As I stood with my own family atop Machu Picchu, witnessing my daughter’s expression of pure amazement, I knew that South America offers something that typical family resorts simply cannot authentic experiences that transform and educate while creating bonds that last a lifetime.

Machu Picchu summit — Early morning in wonderful Machu Picchu

This vast continent is a tapestry of cultures, ecosystems, and adventures perfectly suited for families seeking both excitement and education during their summer travels. From the rhythmic beaches of Brazil to the mystical mountains of Peru, these destinations offer locally preferred havens where families can discover hidden gems away from overtouristed paths.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the most family-friendly destinations across South America, comparing accommodations for every budget, suggesting transportation solutions (including convenient airport transfers available through travelgoeasy.net’s “Book A Transfer” service), and providing insider tips for an unforgettable summer adventure.

Let’s begin our journey to uncover South America’s most enchanting family destinations.

Brazil: Beyond the Beaches

Rio de Janeiro: Family-Friendly Urban Adventures

The rhythm of samba drifts through the air as your family steps onto the iconic mosaic sidewalks of Copacabana. Rio isn’t just a city; it’s a sensory playground where families can experience the perfect blend of natural beauty and urban excitement.

Take the cable car to Sugarloaf Mountain at sunset, where the fading light bathes the city in golden hues. My son still talks about how the city seemed to transform before his eyes, the buildings illuminating one by one as darkness fell. This isn’t just sightseeing it’s a moment of wonder your children will treasure.

cable car to Sugarloaf Mountain at sunset

Family-Friendly Activities:

Tijuca National Park – The world’s largest urban forest offers gentle hiking trails suitable for children of all ages. Listen for the calls of toucans and watch for playful monkeys swinging through the trees.
Museum of Tomorrow – This interactive science museum engages children with exhibits on sustainability and our planet’s future. The hands-on displays make learning an adventure.
Botanical Gardens – A peaceful respite from the city’s energy, where children can spot giant water lilies and tremendous tropical plants unlike anything in North America or Europe.

Where to Stay: The family-friendly Windsor Barra Hotel offers spacious rooms and a children’s pool area at moderate prices (approximately $120-150 per night), while the budget-conscious can consider the Ibis Rio de Janeiro Santos Dumont at around $70-90 per night.

The Amazon: Jungle Adventures for Curious Kids

“Mom, I can hear the jungle breathing,” whispered my daughter on our first night in the Amazon. That’s the magic of introducing children to one of our planet’s most extraordinary ecosystems—witnessing their connection to something larger than themselves.

The Brazilian Amazon offers family-friendly eco-lodges that combine comfort with adventure. These accommodations organize age-appropriate excursions led by knowledgeable guides who can translate the jungle’s complexity into fascinating stories children can understand.

Amazon: Jungle Adventures for Curious

Unmissable Experiences:

Canopy walks where families can safely explore the treetops
Gentle boat rides to spot pink river dolphins and other aquatic creatures
Indigenous community visits to learn traditional crafts and ecological knowledge

Accommodation Tip: Anavilhanas Jungle Lodge offers family bungalows with all necessary amenities while maintaining an authentic jungle experience. While not cheap (approximately $250-300 per night), the all-inclusive nature of these lodges represents good value considering the experiences, meals, and guided activities included.

Argentina: From Urban Wonders to Natural Splendors

Buenos Aires: A Cultural Wonderland

The “Paris of South America” offers surprisingly rich experiences for families. In the colorful La Boca neighborhood, street performers captivate children with tango demonstrations while vibrant murals create perfect family photo opportunities.

The city’s parks deserve special mention particularly Parque Tres de Febrero with its rose garden, paddle boat lakes, and weekend puppet shows. My children were enchanted by the local families sharing mate tea and playing games, giving them a genuine glimpse into Argentine family life.

Parque Tres de Febrero – paddle boat lakes

Family Highlights:

Museo de los Niños – A child-centered creative space where youngsters can pretend to work in different professions
Temaikèn Biopark – Just outside the city, this conservation-focused zoo allows close encounters with native wildlife
Sunday Fair at San Telmo – Street performers, artisans, and food vendors create a carnival atmosphere children adore

Budget-Friendly Eats: Argentine parillas (steakhouses) typically welcome children and serve generous portions perfect for sharing. Grab empanadas for on-the-go snacking between sightseeing at around $1-2 each.

Iguazu Falls: Nature’s Spectacular Water Park

Standing before Iguazu Falls, your family will experience nature’s power in its most awe-inspiring form. The system of 275 waterfalls straddling the Argentina-Brazil border creates a natural spectacle that captivates children and adults alike.

The Argentine side offers intimate encounters via well-maintained walkways that sometimes bring you close enough to feel the refreshing mist a welcome relief during summer months. Listen for your children’s gasps when they first glimpse Devil’s Throat, the most dramatic section where water thunders down from three sides.

iguazu falls – iguazu national park -Argentina

Tips for Families:

Visit early morning to avoid crowds and midday heat
Pack waterproof cases for phones/cameras and quick-dry clothing
Consider the Gran Aventura boat tour that takes you thrillingly close to the falls (suitable for children over 12)

Stay Smart: The Melia Iguazu Resort offers the only accommodation within the national park with direct falls views but at premium prices ($250-350 per night). More budget-friendly options in nearby Puerto Iguazu town include La Cantera Jungle Lodge, offering family rooms around $120-150 per night with easy park access.

Peru: Ancient History Meets Modern Adventure

Cusco and the Sacred Valley: Living History Lessons

“It feels like we’re walking through our history books,” remarked my son as we explored the stone streets of Cusco. This ancient Incan capital serves as a perfect introduction to Peru’s fascinating past, with its blend of Spanish colonial architecture built atop Incan foundations.

Families should spend at least two days in Cusco before heading to Machu Picchu, not just for altitude acclimatization but to explore its wonders. The main plaza transforms into an impromptu playground in evenings, where local and visitor children chase pigeons while parents enjoy the cathedral views.

Stone streets of Cuzco – Peru

Family-Friendly Activities:

Chocolate Making Workshops at the ChocoMuseo, where children learn about chocolate’s ancient roots while creating their own treats
San Pedro Market exploration to discover exotic fruits and traditional textiles
Sacsayhuamán archaeological site just above the city, where massive stones form ancient walls perfect for historical imagination games

Sacred Valley Day Trips: Communities like Pisac and Ollantaytambo offer gentler introductions to Incan sites than Machu Picchu, with fewer crowds and more space for children to explore safely.

Machu Picchu: The Adventure of a Lifetime

No family trip to South America can compare to the moment you first glimpse Machu Picchu together. While reaching this iconic site requires some planning with children in tow, the reward is immeasurable.

I’ll never forget my daughter’s whispered “wow” as the morning mist parted to reveal the ancient stone city. Travel is about creating moments of wonder, and few destinations deliver this as powerfully as Machu Picchu.

Daily trips to the Sacred Valley to Incan sites

Family Travel Tips:

Take the Vista Dome train from Ollantaytambo for large windows showcasing dramatic scenery
Consider staying overnight in Aguas Calientes (now officially Machu Picchu Pueblo) to reach the site early before crowds and heat intensify
Hire a guide specifically experienced with children, who can bring the ancient city to life through storytelling rather than dry facts

Accommodation Strategy: In Cusco, the mid-range Tierra Viva Cusco Plaza offers family rooms from $120-150 per night in a renovated colonial house, while the budget-friendly Kokopelli Hostel has private family rooms from $60-80 with a fun atmosphere older children will appreciate.

Colombia: Undiscovered Family Paradise

Cartagena: Caribbean Magic with Colonial Charm

Cartagena’s walled city feels like stepping into a storybook, with its colorful colonial buildings, horse-drawn carriages, and street vendors selling tropical fruits I couldn’t name. Children are welcomed everywhere, from casual cafés to sophisticated restaurants, making this one of South America’s most family-friendly destinations.

The combination of Caribbean beaches and colonial exploration creates perfect rhythm for family travel—mornings exploring historical sites before afternoon beach relaxation.

Cartagena: Caribbean Magic – Colombia

Don’t Miss:

The walls of the Old City provide a natural playground where children can safely run while parents enjoy panoramic ocean views
Castillo San Felipe fortress with its mysterious tunnels and cannon emplacements
Isla Barú day trips for pristine beaches and clearer waters than the city beaches

Local Insight: Instead of expensive tourist restaurants, try the local family-friendly spots in Getsemaní neighborhood, where a plate of fresh fish, coconut rice, and patacones (fried plantains) costs around $8-10 per person.

Coffee Region: Rural Authenticity

Colombia’s Coffee Triangle (between the towns of Armenia, Pereira, and Manizales) offers families a different pace one of rural charm, lush landscapes, and authentic cultural immersion away from urban hustle.

Stay at a traditional coffee finca (farm) where children can learn about sustainable agriculture while parents sample some of the world’s finest coffee. Many farms have adapted to family tourism with swimming pools, horse riding, and guided nature walks.

traditional coffee finca Colombia

Family Activities:

Coffee cultivation tours adjusted for young attention spans
Cocora Valley hikes among the world’s tallest palm trees
Butterfly gardens showcasing Colombia’s extraordinary biodiversity

Accommodation Recommendation: Hacienda Venecia near Manizales offers varying accommodation levels from luxury main house rooms ($180-220) to more economical hostel options ($60-80) on the same beautiful functioning coffee farm.

Ecuador & Galapagos: Wildlife Wonderland

Quito and Surroundings: High-Altitude Adventures

Ecuador’s capital sits dramatically at 9,350 feet above sea level, surrounded by volcanic peaks. The well-preserved colonial center offers an open-air museum where children can connect with South America’s colonial past while enjoying the city’s many plazas and parks.

Just outside Quito, the Mitad del Mundo (Middle of the World) monument marks the equator line a perfect educational opportunity disguised as fun. Watch your children stand with one foot in each hemisphere while learning about the Coriolis effect through hands-on demonstrations.

the Mitad del Mundo (Middle of the World) – Ecuador

Family Favorites:

Teleferico cable car ascending Pichincha Volcano for spectacular city views
La Compañía Church, where even children are mesmerized by the interior covered in gold leaf
Otavalo Market day trip to experience vibrant indigenous culture and crafts

Budget Option: Hostería Papagayo offers family rooms near Quito’s historic center for approximately $80-100 per night, including breakfast and helpful family travel advice.

Galapagos Islands: Living Science Lessons

If your budget allows for one splurge on your South American family adventure, make it the Galapagos. These islands transformed how we understand our natural world, and they’ll transform how your children see it too.

“The animals aren’t afraid of us,” my daughter observed in amazement as sea lions lounged undisturbed nearby. That’s the magic of the Galapagos wildlife encounters unlike anywhere else on earth.

How to Visit with Children:

Island-hopping tours allow flexibility and cost control compared to cruise options
Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz Island makes an excellent base with family-friendly accommodations and restaurants
Tortuga Bay offers a safe beach experience with marine iguana sightings guaranteed

Realistic Budgeting: Galapagos is expensive but worth saving for. Family rooms in mid-range hotels like Hotel Solymar cost approximately $180-220 per night. Daily activities range from $30-100 per person depending on the excursion.

Chile: From Desert to Glaciers

Santiago and the Central Valley: Urban Sophistication and Natural Beauty

Chile’s capital combines sophisticated urban amenities with easy access to both mountains and coast an ideal combination for families seeking variety. Santiago’s extensive park system includes Parque Bicentenario, where flamingos wade in lagoons and children splash in fountains, and Parque Metropolitano, with its hilltop views and accessible funicular railway.

Just two hours from Santiago, the coastal city of Valparaíso enchants with its artistic spirit and funiculars climbing colorful hills. Children are delighted by the outdoor street art gallery of murals adorning buildings throughout the city.

parque metropolitano de santiago – Chile

Family Activities:

La Moneda Palace changing of the guard ceremony
Sky Costanera observation deck for panoramic city views
Buin Zoo for close encounters with native Chilean wildlife

Day Trips: The Maipo Valley wine region welcomes families at places like Viña Santa Rita, which combines wine tasting for adults with expansive gardens and a historical museum that interests children.

Atacama Desert: Otherworldly Landscapes

The Atacama Desert feels like visiting another planet a sentiment echoed by my son when he first saw the Valle de la Luna (Moon Valley). This high-altitude desert offers safe adventure opportunities for families in one of Earth’s most extreme environments.

Atacama Desert – (Moon Valley)

The small town of San Pedro de Atacama serves as a comfortable base for exploration, with accommodations ranging from backpacker hostels to luxury lodges.

Unforgettable Experiences:

El Tatio Geysers at dawn (bring warm clothes mornings are freezing despite being in a desert)
Floating in Laguna Cejar, where high salt content creates Dead Sea-like buoyancy
Stargazing tours utilizing the desert’s light-pollution-free skies and high-quality telescopes

Accommodation Strategy: Hotel Pascual Andino offers family apartments with kitchenettes at around $150-180 per night, allowing meal flexibility that’s especially valuable with picky eaters.

Uruguay: Peaceful Coastal Retreats

Montevideo: Family-Friendly Capital

Often overlooked in favor of its larger neighbors, Uruguay offers families a more relaxed South American experience. The capital, Montevideo, balances European elegance with South American warmth along its magnificent coastal rambla (promenade).

During summer months, urban beaches like Pocitos fill with local families enjoying the safe bathing and playground facilities. The genuine welcome extended to children here reflects Uruguay’s family-centered culture.

Uruguay – Montevideo

Family Highlights:

Plaza Independencia with its underground history museum
Mercado del Puerto for casual family dining amid historic architecture
Parque Rodó amusement park with its vintage rides and carnival atmosphere

Budget-Friendly Option: Don Boutique Hotel offers family rooms from $130-160 in the atmospheric Old City, walking distance to major attractions.

Punta del Este and José Ignacio: Upscale Beach Retreats

For families seeking more exclusive beach experiences, Uruguay’s Atlantic coast delivers world-class options without the crowds or costs of more famous South American resorts.

Punta del Este attracts celebrities and wealthy South Americans, but its extensive beaches and family infrastructure make it equally appealing for traveling families. Just up the coast, José Ignacio offers a more laid-back bohemian atmosphere while maintaining high standards of accommodation and dining.

Punta del Este and José Ignacio

Worth Experiencing:

La Mano beach sculpture, where giant stone fingers emerge from sand
Casapueblo whitewashed Mediterranean-style complex with art gallery and sunset views
Sea lion colony at Isla de Lobos, accessible via boat tours

Accommodation Note: High season (December-February) prices increase dramatically. Consider visiting in the shoulder season (November or March) for better rates and fewer crowds while still enjoying warm weather.

Transportation Tips: Getting Around with Family

Air Travel Within South America

South America’s vast distances often necessitate internal flights. LATAM, Avianca, and GOL are major carriers connecting primary destinations with generally good safety records and family-friendly policies.

Money-Saving Tip: Book international flights to South America through travelgoeasy.net’ “Flights” page to access special rates and promotions exclusive to our customers.

Family Air Travel Advice:

Book morning flights when possible to reduce delay risks
Consider direct routes even if slightly more expensive connections increase stress with children
Look for “family boarding” policies that let you board early to settle children

Airport Transfers Made Simple

Nothing compounds travel fatigue like negotiating transportation with tired children and multiple luggage pieces upon arrival. Eliminate this stress by pre-booking your airport transfers through travelgoeasy.net’ dedicated “Book A Transfer” service, ensuring a driver waiting with appropriate vehicles and child seats if required.

Getting Around Cities with Children

South American cities vary dramatically in public transportation quality and safety. While Santiago and Buenos Aires boast excellent metro systems suitable for families, other cities may require different approaches.

City Transportation Options:

Ride-sharing apps like Uber and Cabify operate in most major South American cities
Private guides with vehicles can be cost-effective when traveling as a family group
Hop-on-hop-off buses in tourist cities provide convenient orientation with flexibility

Long-Distance Overland Travel

Bus travel between destinations offers budget benefits and scenic advantages, particularly in countries with developed bus networks like Argentina, Chile, and Peru.

Bus Travel Tips:

Splurge for “cama” (bed) class on overnight journeys
Research bus companies thoroughly safety standards vary dramatically
Pack entertainment and snacks—even luxury buses rarely cater specifically to children

Accommodation Comparison: Where to Stay

Luxury Family Options

South America’s luxury family accommodations deliver exceptional experiences, often including specialized children’s programs, family suites, and thoughtful amenities like welcome gifts for young travelers.

Standouts Include:

Belmond Sanctuary Lodge (Machu Picchu, Peru) – The only hotel at the entrance to Machu Picchu, eliminating transportation stress. Family packages include dedicated guides specially trained for young explorers. Approximately $450-600 per night.
Awasi Atacama (Chile) – Private guides and vehicles assigned to each family allow completely customized exploration schedules aligned with children’s energy levels. From $700 per night all-inclusive.
Hotel das Cataratas (Iguazu Falls, Brazil) – Exclusive dawn and dusk falls access before/after day visitors. Extensive grounds provide space for children to decompress. From $350 per night.

Mid-Range Family-Friendly Properties

Most families find excellent value in South America’s mid-range properties, which often include breakfast, convenient locations, and swimming pools a crucial feature for afternoon downtime with children.

Recommended Options:

Casa Andina Private Collection (multiple locations, Peru) – Consistently reliable local chain with family rooms, excellent breakfast buffets, and bilingual staff. $120-180 per night.
Patio Andaluz (Quito, Ecuador) – Colonial courtyard hotel with spacious family suites and central Old Town location. Approximately $150-200 per night.
Costa Rica Marriott Hotel Hacienda Belen (San José, Costa Rica) – Resort amenities including multiple pools and tennis courts on beautiful coffee plantation grounds just 15 minutes from the airport. $180-240 per night.

Budget-Conscious Family Stays

Traveling families can stretch budgets further by considering these alternatives:

Apartment Rentals – Particularly valuable for families, providing kitchen facilities and separate sleeping areas. Platforms like Airbnb offer excellent options in most South American cities.

Hostels with Private Rooms – Many South American hostels offer private family rooms with ensuite bathrooms at budget prices while providing social common areas where children can meet other young travelers.

Family-Run Guesthouses – Often located in residential neighborhoods, providing authentic local experiences and personalized recommendations at moderate prices.

Book Smart: Reserve your accommodations through travelgoeasy.net’s “Hotels” page to access exclusive family-friendly properties with special amenities and rates not available elsewhere.

South American Cuisine for Families

Kid-Friendly Food Favorites

South American cuisine offers plenty of options for young palates, from simple grilled meats to familiar starches like rice and potatoes.

Reliable Child-Pleasers:

Empanadas – Savory pastries with various fillings found throughout the continent
Arroz con Pollo – Chicken and rice prepared with mild seasonings
Fresh Fruit Juices – Available everywhere and safer than tap water

Dining with Dietary Restrictions

Vegetarianism is increasingly understood in tourist areas, though traditional South American cuisine centers heavily on meat. Gluten-free diets can be accommodated in major cities but require more careful communication in rural areas.

Preparation Tips:

Learn food allergy terminology in Spanish or Portuguese
Carry translation cards describing dietary restrictions
Research restaurant options in advance using specialized apps and websites

Eating Safely with Children

While foodborne illness concerns shouldn’t deter family travel, some precautions are wise:

Stick to bottled water, including for teeth brushing
Be cautious with street food, particularly in early days while digestive systems adjust
Fresh fruits with peels you remove yourself are generally safe options

Cultural Etiquette: Helping Your Family Blend In

Family-Centric Society Benefits

South American cultures generally adore children, which creates a welcoming atmosphere for traveling families. Don’t be surprised when locals engage warmly with your children or offer them small treats this reflects cultural values rather than overstepping boundaries.

Respect and Customs

Teaching children these simple courtesies enhances your family’s travel experience:

Greet shop owners and staff when entering establishments
Accept small gifts or food offerings graciously
Dress modestly when visiting churches or religious sites
Ask permission before photographing local people, especially indigenous communities

Language Basics

Even minimal Spanish or Portuguese efforts are appreciated. Children often learn quickly and can serve as family “communication ambassadors” with these useful phrases:

“Por favor” (please)
“Gracias/Obrigado” (thank you in Spanish/Portuguese)
“Dónde está el baño?” (Where is the bathroom?)
“Me llamo…” (My name is…)

Packing Essentials for South American Family Travel

Climate Considerations

South America’s varied topography creates dramatic climate differences even within single countries. Pack for microclimates, particularly in Andean regions where temperature changes between day and night can exceed 20°C/36°F.

Layering Strategy:

Lightweight, quick-dry base layers
Mid-weight insulating layers (fleece or wool)
Waterproof/windproof outer layers
Sun protection (hats, sunglasses, reef-safe sunscreen)

Health and Safety Items

Prepare for common travel challenges with:

Basic first aid kit including rehydration salts
Prescription medications with original packaging and letter from physician
Hand sanitizer and wet wipes
Insect repellent (particularly for Amazon regions)

Technology and Documentation

Power adapters (South America uses primarily Type C plugs)
Downloaded entertainment for long transits
Copies of passports and travel insurance documents
Emergency contact information

Visa Information and Travel Planning

Entry Requirements

Visa requirements for South American countries vary based on your nationality. US, Canadian, UK, Australian, and most European passport holders can enter many South American countries without advance visas for tourist stays of 30-90 days.

Notable Exceptions:

Brazil requires advance visas for some nationalities
Venezuela requires tourist cards or visas from most visitors
Bolivia charges “visa on arrival” fees for certain nationalities

Health Preparations

Recommended vaccinations vary by destination. Consult your physician or travel health clinic 4-6 weeks before departure regarding:

Routine vaccinations currency
Yellow fever requirements (mandatory for certain regions and for entry to some countries if coming from affected areas)
Typhoid and Hepatitis A consideration
Malaria prophylaxis for Amazon regions

Travel Insurance Essentials

Comprehensive travel insurance is particularly important for family South American travel. Ensure your policy includes:

Medical evacuation coverage (crucial for remote destinations)
Trip cancellation/interruption protection
Coverage for adventure activities your family plans to undertake

Final Thoughts & Planning Your Trip

South America rewards families willing to venture beyond conventional destinations with extraordinary experiences that blend education, adventure, and cultural immersion. The continent’s diversity ensures suitable destinations for families with children of any age, from toddlers to teenagers.

Begin your planning by identifying which experiences most appeal to your family, then build an itinerary that balances adventure with adequate downtime. Remember that successful family travel often means seeing less but experiencing destinations more deeply.

When to Book:

International flights: 4-6 months in advance for best rates
Accommodations: 2-3 months ahead, especially for high season
Special experiences (Galapagos cruises, Machu Picchu tickets): As early as possible, as limited permits sell out

For the simplest possible planning experience, visit travelgoeasy.net to book your flights, hotel accommodations, and airport transfers in one convenient platform. Our specialized knowledge of family-friendly South American travel ensures your vacation will create memories to last a lifetime.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What’s the best time of year for families to visit South America?

A: December through February offers optimal weather in most regions, coinciding with Northern Hemisphere school winter breaks. However, this is high season with higher prices and more crowds. March-April and September-November shoulder seasons often provide excellent weather with fewer tourists and better rates.

Q: Is South America safe for family travel?

A: Most popular tourist destinations in South America maintain good safety standards for visitors. Take normal precautions like avoiding isolated areas after dark, using reputable transportation, and keeping valuables secure. Research specific current conditions for your chosen destinations.

Q: How much Spanish/Portuguese do we need to know?

A: In major tourist areas, English is widely spoken in hotels, restaurants, and attractions. However, learning basic phrases enhances your experience and proves helpful in unexpected situations. Children often enjoy learning and practicing new language skills during travel.

Q: What’s the best approach to South America with young children?

A: Focus on a single country or region rather than attempting to cover too much territory. Choose accommodations with pools or play areas for downtime. Establish a rhythm alternating active sightseeing days with relaxation days to prevent overtired children.

Q: How should we handle money during our trip?

A: Carry a combination of US dollars (widely accepted in emergencies), local currency, and credit cards. Inform your bank of travel plans to prevent card blocks. ATMs generally offer the best exchange rates, but check for international withdrawal fees with your bank.

Q: What about altitude sickness when visiting Andean destinations?

A: Children generally adapt to altitude similarly to adults. Plan acclimatization days when arriving in high-altitude cities like Cusco, La Paz, or Quito. Stay hydrated, limit physical activity initially, and consider child-appropriate doses of altitude medications after consulting your physician.

Q: Are there all-inclusive resorts for families who prefer that style of travel?

A: While not as common as in the Caribbean, South America offers all-inclusive options primarily in Brazil, Colombia, and Uruguay’s beach areas. All-inclusive jungle lodges in the Amazon region provide comprehensive packages including accommodation, meals, and guided activities.

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