Photo: Luis Carlos Aliaga Núñez del Prado
Photo: Luxury Machupicchu Peru
Photo: Luis Carlos Aliaga Núñez del Prado
Zoologico UNSAAC
★3.6(551 reviews)$$Zoo
🕑 1.5-2 hours👶 Best for ages 3-12. Younger children delight in seeing llamas and alpacas they can observe safely, while older kids appreciate learning about conservation efforts for rare Andean species like the spectacled bear and condor.🧡 Saved by 14 families
About
Zoologico UNSAAC offers a compact, family-friendly introduction to Andean wildlife, perfect for kids eager to see condors, pumas, llamas, and other native Peruvian species up close. The well-maintained naturalistic habitats provide an educational experience that helps children understand the unique animals of the Andes before exploring the surrounding region.
Highlights
- ✓Andean condors, one of the world's largest flying birds, with impressive wingspans
- ✓Pumas and spectacled bears native to Peru's cloud forests
- ✓Llamas, alpacas, and vicuñas that kids can observe and learn about
- ✓Educational displays about Andean ecosystems and conservation
- ✓Compact size makes it manageable for young children without overwhelming walks
Pro Tips
- 1.Visit in the morning (10:00-11:30 AM) when animals are most active and before afternoon crowds arrive, especially on weekends.
- 2.Bring layers and sun protection. Cusco's high altitude (11,150 feet) means intense sun and unpredictable weather, even during short zoo visits.
- 3.Allow time for altitude adjustment before visiting. If you've just arrived in Cusco, consider visiting on day 2 or 3 when kids have acclimated.
- 4.Download photos or guidebook info about Andean animals beforehand, as signage may be primarily in Spanish.
- 5.Combine your visit with nearby attractions like Sacsayhuaman ruins, just a short taxi ride away, to make a full morning outing.
Best Time to Visit
Weekday mornings between 10:00-11:30 AM are ideal for fewer crowds and more active animals. The dry season (May-September) offers the most reliable weather, though the zoo is enjoyable year-round.
What to Know
Entry is moderately priced (typically 10-15 soles per person, roughly $3-4 USD). Limited food options onsite, so bring snacks and water. Paths are mostly paved but some areas may be challenging for strollers due to Cusco's hilly terrain.
Seasonal Notes
Open year-round, seven days a week. Dry season (May-September) offers clearest skies and warmest days, while rainy season (November-March) brings afternoon showers. Arrive early during Peruvian school holidays (January, July-August) when local crowds increase.
Nearby Eats
Head to Plaza de Armas (Cusco's main square, 10 minutes by taxi) for family-friendly options like Jack's Cafe, known for generous portions and kid-pleasing international food, or Qorichaska for Peruvian dishes including milder options suitable for children.
More Activities Near Cusco
Museum
Retablo Museum
$
The Retablo Museum offers a colorful, culturally immersive experience perfect for introducing children to Peruvian folk art. The three-dimensional retablo boxes depict vibrant stories from Andean life, featuring tiny handcrafted figures, animals, and scenes that captivate young imaginations. This small, manageable museum provides an educational yet entertaining way to explore local traditions without overwhelming little ones.
Restaurant
Picantería Cusco
$$❤️17
Picantería Cusco offers families a welcoming introduction to authentic Peruvian cuisine in a traditional setting that embraces children. The restaurant features a dedicated kid-friendly menu alongside classic local dishes, making it easy for parents to share Peru's culinary culture with adventurous young eaters while having familiar options for pickier palates.
Museum
Andean Cosmovision Museum
$
The Andean Cosmovision Museum offers families a fascinating journey into the spiritual beliefs and worldview of Andean cultures through interactive exhibits and ancient artifacts. This intimate museum provides an excellent educational opportunity for children to learn about Peruvian indigenous traditions, astronomy, and the connection between nature and spirituality in a way that goes beyond the typical Machu Picchu tour.
Nature
Parque Arví
Free
Parque Arví offers families an unforgettable cloud forest adventure just outside Cusco, featuring a thrilling cable car journey over stunning Andean landscapes. Kids will be mesmerized by the aerial ride and excited to explore gentle hiking trails through misty forests where they can spot hummingbirds, butterflies, and other Andean wildlife. The combination of exciting transportation and nature exploration makes this a highlight for families visiting Peru.