How to plan a family trip in the footsteps of Paddington Bear, from London to Peru

This article was produced by National Geographic Traveler (UK).

With Paddington in Peru in cinemas from November 8, Latin American tourism experts predict an increase in interest in family holidays in the country in 2025. The third film in the franchise sees an emigre bear and his adoptive family, the Browns, leave London to visit Great Aunt Lucy. – a trip that takes them to the Amazon rainforest and the peaks of Peru.

Although partially shot in Colombia, Studio Canal has confirmed several filming locations in Peru. These include its capital Lima; the Incan fortress of Machu Picchu and the nearby mountain Huayna Picchu; and parts of the Sacred Valley including the town of Maras, known for its massive salt mines. Plan your adventure with this Paddington-inspired tour – marmalade sandwiches optional.

Where to find Paddington in Peru

1. Amazon
Divided by its river, this vast and biodiverse rainforest spans nine South American countries. One of its worst corners is Peru’s Manú National Park, which can be explored by boat and on land with a guide. Home to the country’s bird, the Andean cockatoo, it also shelters jaguars, giant armadillos and the spectacled bear that Paddington is based on.

2. The Andes
The rich ruin city of Cusco serves as the gateway to Peruvian travel landmarks. The Sacred Valley, 35 kilometers to the north, has hiking, local markets and archaeological sites. It’s a three-hour train ride from Cusco to Aguas Calientes, at the foot of Machu Picchu. The walk to the top is steep, but there is a bus that can leave the little legs.

3. The coast
Peru has more than 1,850 kilometers of coastline, including the Costa Verde, near the capital Lima – a place where older children flock to try surfing lessons. Further south, there are boat trips to Islas Ballestas to see sea lions and penguins.

4. The land of bears
In northern Peru, about 40 kilometers from Chiclayo, the Chaparrí Reserve is one of the best places to see Andean bears in their natural habitat. This community-run sanctuary rehabilitates animals rescued from illegal captivity and relies on tourism to fund its work, offering guided tours and overnight stays at its eco-lodge. This 84,000-hectare park is also rich in birds, from tiny hummingbirds to mighty vultures. chaparrilodge.com

Where to find Paddington in London

1. Paddington Walking Tour
The two-and-a-half-hour stroll passes photo galleries in Little Venice and Maida Vale before ending at Alice’s Antiques on Portobello Road, the site of Mr Gruber’s shop. Fans of the original book series will especially enjoy the details of the locations associated with the author, long-time Londoner Michael Bond.

2. The Paddington Bear Experience
Storytellers guide families through a series of fun activities in this multi-room immersive exhibit. Highlights include art puzzles in 32 Windsor Gardens and marmalade making in the ‘forest’. Although it’s best suited for under-eights, accompanying adults will appreciate the attention to detail in the costumes and set design.

3. Paddington Afternoon Tea Bus Tour
This ultimate transport adventure takes passengers through central London on a red double-decker bus, serving finger sandwiches, scones and cakes with side views of the city, as well as music and pop quizzes to add to the atmosphere. Book in advance for a table upstairs, or a trip around Christmas time when Regent Street’s festive lights are lit.

4. Paddington Station
A bronze statue of the bear, located on the first platform of Paddington’s namesake train station, shows him with his signature accessories: a small suitcase and a label around its neck. Michael Bond was inspired to write the character after seeing news footage of children released during the Second World War, many of whom left London by train from this station.

London locations from Paddington’s first two films include Chalcot Crescent in Primrose Hill, an arc of ice cream-colored houses that served outside Windsor Gardens. The Natural History Museum and St Paul’s church are both also used in important scenes.

5. Marmalade route
For an exclusive experience, book the Marmalade Trail, which whisks guests through Paddington’s London in a chauffeur-driven Mini Cooper. The three-hour tour offers a comprehensive overview of filming locations – including the film’s ‘National League’, Mayfair’s Reform Club – and an outstanding souvenir bag including a red scout hat.

6. Paddington the Musical
Keep your eyes peeled for this new musical, which will open in the UK in 2025. He is being developed by the same production company that made Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, and Tom Fletcher – a member of the band McFly from the early 2000s and it was a success. children’s writer – will write both music and lyrics.

Published in the November 2024 issue of National Geographic Traveler (UK).

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