Inspiration
Latin Americans love children and they will be welcome everywhere! Peru has its best weather during the summer holidays and is a fantastic country for families, with plenty of fun and educational activities (from mountain biking to rafting) and just the right amount of relaxation. A cruise to the Galapagos is a special experience for all ages with incredible wildlife, snorkelling and swimming and several boats offer child specific activities and guides. Costa Rica has wonderful beaches, good wildlife, and plenty of adventurous activities (rafting, zip lining, surfing). Brazil offers something for everyone, whether canoeing along the Amazon river looking for monkeys, surfing down sand dunes, or watching a sunset in the northeast, and will satisfy even the trickiest teenagers! Of course, family groups don't have to consist of children, so the options are endless for older families.
Best time
All year round, depending on the country. Suggestions for Christmas holidays include Costa Rica, Brazil, Argentina or Antarctica. In summer visit Peru, Ecuador or Mexico. Easter is best for Guatemala and Venezuela.
Itinerary Ideas
Here are some sample itineraries that feature families
Classic Galapagos
Breathtaking wildlife, untouched nature and stunning beaches; sailing the enchanted islands
Classic Mexico
Colourful colonial cities, ancient Maya ruins and beautiful, white-sand beaches on the Caribbean coast
Family Peru
An action-packed, culturally rich, multi-activity adventure for all ages through Peru's heartland
Walking in Peru
From the classic Inca trail to less-trodden paths through the Sacred Valley, culminating at Machu Picchu
It really was the holiday we dreamed of. I can't begin to tell you how much pleasure the Galapagos gave us. The boys adored snorkelling with sea lions and sharks (I could have done without the sharks!) and they had endless attention from the crew and the other passengers. I had to keep pinching myself - I just couldn't believe I was that close to turtles and sea lions who just wanted to play. - CS