This content is updated every year with new events and changes.
Spending New Year’s in Cusco means connecting with a city that has something for everyone—from massive parties in the Plaza de Armas to sacred Andean rituals atop mountain peaks. The navel of the world also offers starlit camping, cultural tours, special dinners, and unique experiences to begin the new cycle with joy and purpose.
If you're looking for a destination full of history, flavor, energy, and adventure, Cusco is the perfect place to start the year. Whether you're traveling with family, friends, or solo, you’ll find exciting, spiritual, festive, and nature-filled alternatives to close out the old year and welcome the new one with good vibes.
On the night of December 31st, Cusco pulses with a unique energy. In the heart of the Historic Center, the Plaza de Armas fills with music, lights, and thousands of people ready to celebrate. At the stroke of midnight, it’s tradition to walk around the plaza clockwise at least once while fireworks burst across the sky from multiple corners of the city. It's one of the most unforgettable images for anyone spending the last night of the year here.
It’s worth noting that over time, the use of fireworks in the city has become more regulated, out of respect for individuals with autism, sensory sensitivity, or mental health conditions, as well as for pets and domestic animals who can be severely affected by loud noises. This growing awareness promotes more inclusive and harmonious celebrations for all.
For those who prefer a more exclusive celebration, there are private parties at rooftops, hotels, and clubs. Places like Rooftop View on Suecia Street, the lounges at Palacio del Inka or Casa Andina Premium, and clubs like Chango Club, Mama Africa, or Inkateam offer themed parties with DJs, live shows, open bars, gourmet dinners, and stunning views of the city lights.
If you're more into alternative vibes, you'll also find spiritual or underground celebrations in creative spaces in the Sacred Valley or even in Cusco itself. There are retreats with temazcales, sound circles, despacho rituals, and more intimate gatherings that reconnect you with the earth and silence. Some events are announced on social media, while others spread by word of mouth within the local and traveling community.
Camping under the Andean sky is a magical way to bid farewell to the year. Near Cusco, there are several ideal spots for those seeking a peaceful night, a stunning sunrise, or a nature-connected celebration.
One of the most popular is Sacsayhuamán, which offers privileged views of the entire city. Just 15 minutes by car or a light walk from the center, its altitude of 3,700 m.a.s.l. makes it a perfect natural lookout. Dress warmly, as nighttime temperatures can drop to 3 °C.
Other nearby spots include Tambomachay, Qenqo, and Puca Pucara—perfect for short hikes and tranquility. Adventurers often head to the Sacred Valley to camp in places like Pisac, Lamay, Urubamba, or Kinsa Cocha, where nature completely surrounds you. For a more challenging experience, Huchuy Qosqo is a top choice that requires good physical condition.
Welcoming the New Year surrounded by living beings with soul and sacred energy—like the Apus (spirit guardians of the mountains)—is an immersive and soul-deep experience. It's like saying, “Here I am, Pachamama, I’ve returned to be reborn.” The choice is yours—what kind of energy do you want to surrender to as the new cycle begins?
For all camping options, bring: a cold-weather tent, thermal sleeping bag, flashlight, water, snacks, warm layers, and always respect the environment (no littering, avoid unauthorized fires, and preserve the peace of sacred sites). Bon chance, adventurers!
Taking a tour during the first days of the year is a great way to start 2026 with excitement. If you’re already in the mood for an unforgettable experience, remember that at CuscoPeru.com we’ve lovingly crafted the New Year’s Tour 2026, packed with everything you need to recharge and embrace the year ahead.
Among the most popular tours:
Prefer to explore solo? You can visit spots like the Miradores in Cusco (San Cristóbal, Cristo Blanco, Mirador de San Blas), walk through traditional neighborhoods, or take a colectivo to the South Valley (Tipón, Pikillaqta, Andahuaylillas) for under 10 soles.
Whatever you dream of, CuscoPeru.com is your go-to ally. We’re happy to build the perfect custom trip with you. Our motto is Happy Travelers, because when you start the year with good vibes, we do too.
In Cusco, the spirit of New Year’s begins long before the 31st. One of the most iconic events is the Santurantikuy, a traditional fair held on December 24th in the Plaza de Armas. Artisans from across the region showcase nativity scenes, saints, wood carvings, ceramics, candles, incense, and typical Andean items often used in New Year’s rituals.
In many churches—especially the Cusco Cathedral and San Blas—special year-end and thanksgiving Masses are held. There are also blended celebrations of religion and Andean tradition, such as florecimiento baths led by native healers, energy cleansings with herbs like rue, muña, or eucalyptus, and communal incense rituals on hills and plazas.
At home, people usually follow these customs:
New Year’s in Cusco is also a great excuse to indulge in delicious local cuisine. On special dinners or January 1st lunches, dishes like oven-roasted pork with Cusqueñan tamales and hen or lamb soup are usually served—the latter especially popular in the early morning hours to cure hangovers or kickstart the day feeling nourished.
Pair these hearty meals with hot herbal teas like muña, anise, or coca leaf—or go bold with a pisco sour, sparkling wine, or a traditional herbal cocktail.
As of now, official parties and events for New Year’s 2026 in Cusco have not yet been confirmed. However, starting in October or November, we’ll be sharing the latest on concerts, special dinners, and themed celebrations so you can plan ahead and make the most of your trip. Get ready—an exciting range of possibilities awaits for a great time in Cusco, Peru’s historical capital!
Ready to start your year on a high note? Cusco is waiting. Curious to know more? We’re here to help you plan:
• Happy Travelers – CuscoPeru.com, your professional local travel operator.
• Bikes for All – Explorinka.com, your gateway to biking adventures.
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