Thinking about spending Christmas in Cusco, Peru? Here we’ll show you exactly what to expect: colorful Santurantikuy markets, giant Christmas trees, Nativity scenes with llamas and Andean art, fireworks at midnight and plenty of hot chocolate and panetón. You’ll also find practical tips on weather, safety, where to stay, what’s open on December 24 and 25, and how to combine Cusco with Machu Picchu or the Inca Trail.
Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, with friends, or with family, Christmas in Cusco can be both magical and very easy to plan when you know a few local secrets.
Why visit Cusco at Christmas?
Peru offers several destinations ideal for Christmas celebrations, and Cusco is one of the most special. You’re probably wondering: What is Christmas in Cusco, Peru, like for tourists? Yet, its appeal is not strictly religious; this time of the year has something prepared for believers and travelers from all over the world: from foodies and art enthusiasts to families and friends seeking a unique Christmas memory in Peru.
Cusco celebrates Christmas over several days rather than just December 24 and 25. The best time to visit Cusco for Christmas festivities is usually between December 19 and 26, so you can soak up the atmosphere before, during, and just after Christmas Eve.
Things to do days before Christmas in Cusco
Wondering: What it's like in Cusco before Christmas? Picture the city slowly transforming throughout the month: more lights each night, new decorations in every square, and music drifting from churches and plazas. Below you’ll find where to see impressive activities and decoration displays for Christmas, and how to fit them into your own Christmas walking route through Cusco.
Cusco Children’s Christmas Carol Contest
This is one of the sweetest traditions you can experience during the week before Christmas in Cusco. Every year, local schools and community groups prepare children’s choirs to take part in a friendly competition. Some children are dressed in traditional outfits, others in a mix of Western and Andean designs.
The kids sing villancicos (Christmas carols) in Spanish and sometimes Quechua, mixing classic Christmas melodies with local rhythms and instruments such as the quena (flute) and zampoña (panpipes).
Cusco Christmas Decorations
If you’re wondering where to find the best Christmas decorations and lights in Cusco, the historic center is undoubtedly the ideal place. The local squares transform into beautiful open-air galleries of faith and art, ready to welcome travelers and visitors with their festive displays
Christmas Tree and Lighted Streets in Cusco
As evening falls in Cusco, the surrounding streets of the historic center begin to glow. Colonial balconies and façades are outlined with warm lights, and filled with color. It’s the perfect time for a slow stroll.
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Most squares in Cusco's Historic Center feature Christmas trees over 3 meters tall, adorned with lights, festive figures, local animals, and in some cases, unique ornaments specific to the region, all available for the general public to enjoy for free.
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If you are in Cusco at the beginning of December, keep these dates in mind: this schedule lists the dates and times for the Christmas tree lightings in Cusco’s Historic Center.
| Date | Hours | Christmas Tree Name | Location |
| December 1st | Around 7:00 p.m. | Coricancha Christmas Tree | Coricancha |
| December 3st | Nazarenas Christmas Tree | Nazarenas Square | |
| December 6st | Santiago Christmas Tree | Santiago Square |
Nativity Scenes in Cusco
During Christmas in Cusco, nativity scenes fill not only churches, but also museums, homes, and squares, turning the entire city into a living celebration of the Nativity.
Massive Nativity Scenes in Squares of Cusco
Start at the Main Square of Cusco, where massive nativity scenes are built with Cusco-style touches: adobe houses, llamas instead of camels, and Nativity characters dressed in traditional textiles or dance costumes. Smaller squares like San Blas and Santiago district also display creative nativity scenes. Surrounded by Cusco Christmas decorations and twinkling lights.
Nativity Scenes in Cusco's Churches
Another cherished Cusquenian Christmas custom is visiting the nativity scenes displayed in its historic churches. It’s a great chance to appreciate the architectural marvels and the art masterpieces found within, often free of charge.
Start around the Plaza de Armas at La Compañía de Jesús, Santa Catalina and La Merced Church, then continue to Santo Domingo Church, built over the Inca site of Qorikancha. Each of these places presents its own version of the Holy Family.
If you have more time, include Santa Teresa, Santa Clara, San Pedro, Santa Ana, Belen Church, Santiago Church, and San Blas in your route.
Note: It is not always guaranteed that every church will display a Nativity Scene during the Christmas period.
Nativity Art in Cusco’s Museums
Cusco’s museums are one of the best places to see how Nativity art evolved in the Andes. Here you’ll find works from the famous Cusco School of painting, where artists blended colonial Catholic themes with local symbols, flora, fauna, and landscapes.
Works such as the Virgen Antigua in Cusco Cathedral and the paintings The Adoration of the Shepherds and The Flight into Egypt in the Archbishop’s Palace - Religious Art Museum are clear examples of this fusion.
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A particularly interesting relic is a 17th-century folding chest depicting the Nativity of Jesus, preserved in the Convent of Santa Catalina: a portable altar used for evangelization that carried the Christmas story into homes and remote communities.
Visiting these collections during Christmas adds depth to your trip, connecting each Nativity scene with the city’s history and living faith.
The Colorful Christmas Markets in Cusco
During Christmas in Cusco, the markets of Cusco become centers of celebration and tradition. These spaces show the incredible skill of locals, who create works of art such as sculptures, textiles, paintings, ceramics, clothing, souvenirs, and much more. A visit to traditional markets like San Pedro and San Blas is a must to experience the culture of Cusco.
At the San Pedro Market, you’ll not only find unique handcrafted items but also a variety of local food to try. During the Christmas season, favorites include meat empanadas, tamales, and desserts such as buñuelos (fried dough) with chancaca syrup.
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Cusco’s Family Nativity Traditions
Travelers visiting Cusco during the Christmas season often wonder: Why is Bethlehem a significant theme in Cusco's Christmas celebrations? Nativity scenes are deeply significant to people of Cusco and across Peru because they offer a perfect opportunity for families to gather, connect and celebrate together.
In many homes, Peru Christmas decorations don’t focus on the tree, but on recreating “Belén” (Bethlehem) with mountains, rivers, animals, and villages. This creation is a team effort, involving family members from the youngest to the oldest, and in some neighborhoods, it even turns into a friendly contest against neighboring families.
These elaborate scenes often mix the Holy Family with small figures of llamas, alpacas, and guinea pigs, as well as native Andean plants and figures wearing traditional attire; all of which are popular items sold throughout the season.
These detailed Nativity scenes in Peru represent a profound expression of devotion and cultural creativity, inviting you to experience Christmas at its very best.
Santurantikuy: A traditional fair
On December 22, 23, and 24, a highly anticipated event takes place in Cusco in the Plaza de Armas: the Santurantikuy Fair. The name Santurantikuy (or Santiranticuy) is derived from Quechua, the language of the Incas, meaning “Buy your Saint”..
It is a Christmas art market attended by artisans from across the Cusco region to exhibit and sell pieces of their handmade creations, such as decorations, ceramics, and textile products.
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Visitors are encouraged to purchase a souvenir at the fair, not only to support these dedicated artisans but also to take an authentic piece of the Cusco’s Christmas tradition back home.
Los Niños Manuelitos (Baby Jesus figurines)
In reality, they are traditional crafts that are sold during the Christmas season in Cusco and that are found in the Santurantikuy market, but the children of the community dress like them, bringing them to life during the Christmas season and thus becoming worthy representatives of the Christian birth.
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Christmas Day in Cusco and Christmas Day Eve
Misa de Gallo (Midnight Mass)
Peru Christmas traditions are beautifully exemplified in Cusco, where on the night of December 24, typically at 10:00 p.m., many people of Cusco gather at the Basilica Cathedral of Cusco to attend the Misa de Gallo, which lasts about an hour and a half. Once the mass is concluded, everyone returns home to share the Christmas Eve dinner and exchange gifts with friends and family.
Christmas dinners with an Andean flavor
Like all Peruvian cuisine, Christmas in Cusco is also lived through its flavor. You can indulge yourself with typical dishes such as roast suckling pig, tamales, guinea pig chactado, humitas, and stuffed rocoto, among other traditional Peruvian Christmas food.
In addition to the main meals, you can enjoy hot chocolate prepared in the best local style. This often features chocolate sourced from the Quillabamba region, served with a slice of Panetón, a sweet, dome-shaped bread originating from Italy, popular throughout the Christmas season.
Note: While classic versions contain dried fruit, you can also find particular flavors, such as coca and chocolate chip varieties.
Fireworks at the Plaza de Armas
On Christmas Eve, fireworks become one of the most awaited moments. The people of Cusco perform an exciting countdown to welcome Christmas Day (December 24 to 25): “5, 4, 3, 2, 1!” and, at that instant, the sky lights up with brilliant colors.
The main place of this celebration is the Plaza de Armas, where hundreds of people gather to share hugs, exchange good wishes and wish each other a "Merry Christmas". The moment is authentic and full of nostalgia, reflecting the warmth of a community that celebrates with joy and tradition.
General Safety Tips
Christmas in Cusco feels warm and welcoming, but it’s still a busy city, so a few common-sense tips will help you enjoy the celebrations fully.
- Keep your phone and wallet in zipped pockets, inside your bag or jacket.
- Avoid carrying a lot of money; keep only small amounts of cash in Peruvian soles (PEN) for purchases.
- Wear your daypack on the front in tight spaces and crowds.
- Do not leave belongings unattended while taking photos.
Many travelers ask, Is it safe to be in the Plaza at midnight on Christmas? In general, yes. On the night of the 24th, the Main Square will be very crowded, so you should take it easy due to the massive influx of people. Try to choose a vantage point where you can view the intense fireworks display.
Note: If you plan to dine at a nearby restaurant with a view of the Plaza, it is essential to book well in advance or arrive early to secure a seat.
Extra things to do for Christmas in Cusco: Cultural and tourist activities
Cusco offers an unparalleled experience to delve into Peruvian culture and welcome Christmas and New Year with a very varied and rich cultural offering.
The Takanakuy: a ritual of conflict and community
From the heart of Cusco, Chumbivilcas, it brings together people from the community who seek to resolve their conflicts with blows, but previously they must make a pact of mutual consent where it is agreed that the confrontation will be done with respect and honor, and at the end they must end with a hug. This peculiar tradition shows part of the idiosyncrasy of the Andean community of Peru.
Is Machu Picchu open on Christmas Day?
Yes, Machu Picchu is open every day of the year, including December 25, and even the Classic Inca Trail is open during this time. If you’re looking for a different way to celebrate Christmas, surrounded by mountains and fresh air, visiting Machu Picchu is an excellent idea.
The town of Aguas Calientes, located at the base of the Inca citadel, comes alive with Christmas decorations and festive lights that add a magical touch to its cozy streets. During this season, local markets offer a variety of handicrafts and typical products, perfect for gifts or souvenirs.
Keep in mind that December is part of the rainy season, so dressing in layers and carrying waterproof gear is a good idea. Make sure to book your tickets and accommodations well in advance and plan your visit to Machu Picchu early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds. So, is December a good time to visit Machu Picchu? The answer is clear: Absolutely yes!
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Cusco Weather in December
December is a good time to visit Peru, and especially Cusco. It is true that the rainy season has already begun, but the weather does not prevent you from enjoying the colorful and exciting festivities, much less its invaluable tourist sites.
In addition, that festive atmosphere that shines in Cusco is what gives this Christmas and New Year experience a tone and a feeling that you will find unforgettable.
Tips for your trip to Cusco at Christmas
To enjoy Christmas in Cusco to the fullest, keep these simple tips in mind:
- Bring appropriate layered clothing, including a waterproof jacket or raincoat, because the rainy season has already started.
- Appropriate footwear with good grip (non-slip) for wet cobblestones and uneven streets.
- Medications for immediate common issues such as headaches or stomach upsets.
- Show respect for local culture and traditions, as well as for the environment.
- Come with an open and genuine willingness to understand the cultural events.
For the rest, all that remains is your good attitude as a good citizen of the world.
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Where to stay in Cusco for Christmas to experience the Festivities?
Just because it is considered one of the main tourism capitals of Peru and even the entire American continent, Cusco has a wide variety of accommodation offers adjusted to all budgets for couples and families per night. Therefore, when planning to spend Christmas and New Year in Cusco, you should consult each one in detail and choose according to your criteria the one that is within your reach.
By tradition some hotels in Cusco offers a Christmas dinner or a New Year's toast for its guests.
Of course, you will choose what you consider best for you, according to the prices and references that you can consult on the websites of each one. Most likely, you will always be satisfied with the one that is your preference.
And when it comes to charm, each one has its own thing.
Luxury hotels
If you're looking for a comfortable and exclusive experience, Cusco offers luxury hotels that combine premium services with a special Christmas.
- JW Marriott Address
Calle Plazoleta Nazarenas 337, Cusco 08002. - Palacio del Inka
Santo Domingo 259, Cusco 08002. - Aranwa Cusco
San Juan de Dios 255, Cusco 08002.
Mid-range hotels
If you’re looking for something in between, Cusco offers boutique hotels and well-equipped accommodations that provide good locations and comfort.
- Monasterio San Pedro
Calle Cascaparo 116, Cusco 08002. - Ayni Cusco Hotel
Av. Andrés Avelino Cáceres A-6, Chanapata, Santa Ana, Cusco 08001. - Tierra viva
Calle Cruz Verde 390, Cusco 08002.
Budget-friendly
For travelers on a budget, Cusco has cozy and well-located accommodations, ideal for enjoying the city without overspending. These places often provide a family-friendly atmosphere and basic but comfortable services.
- Kokopelli Hostel
Calle San Andrés 260, Cusco 08002. - Pariwana Hostels
Calle Quera 270, Centro Histórico, Cusco 08002. - Backpacker La Bo’M
Calle Carmen Alto 283, Barrio de San Blas, Cusco 08003.
Spending Christmas in Cusco offers a magical blend of traditions, history, and experiences that make it a destination unlike any other. This year, don’t miss the chance to live this adventure. Book your experience with TreXperience and make this Christmas a warm and memorable celebration.
Christmas in Cusco, Peru FAQs
Why should I visit Cusco during Christmas instead of other times of the year?
At Christmas, Cusco feels different from any other time of year. Local authorities and neighborhoods decorate streets and squares with towering Christmas trees, colorful lights, ornaments of all sizes, and festive music. The designs change every year and become more elaborate, so each Christmas feels unique.
During this season, many of Cusco’s historic churches (priceless artistic and architectural landmarks) open more often, display their own Nativity scenes, and add extra Mass times. It’s a great chance to attend Mass, admire colonial art and sacred imagery up close, and experience living faith in Cusco, usually for free.
How can I participate in the Santurantikuy market as a visitor?
Santurantikuy is a free, open-air Christmas market that anyone can visit. Because it’s very popular, especially with locals, the Plaza de Armas gets crowded throughout the day. If you prefer quieter moments, go in the morning, before midday, when there is usually more room to walk and browse.
Follow common-sense tips, carry a small daypack, and bring enough cash, as artisans do not accept cards. This way, you can move comfortably, shop safely, and support local artists.
When does the Santurantikuy market usually start and end?
In recent years, the Santurantikuy fair has grown from a single day to three days. It usually runs from December 22 to December 24, with the 24th being the busiest and most traditional day, when large crowds fill the Plaza de Armas. The first two days tend to be calmer, giving you more time to look around.
What is open in Cusco on Christmas Day?
Around Christmas, many restaurants and convenience stores in central areas extend their hours, especially those near the historic center and Plaza de Armas. On Christmas Eve, several places stay open late, selling food, snacks, and last-minute gifts.
On Christmas Day, some restaurants and cafés open for special lunches or dinners, while others close so staff can be with their families. If you plan to eat out, it’s best to book in advance or arrive early, especially if you want a table in the Plaza or with a view.
What to do in Cusco for Christmas?
Christmas in Cusco is perfect for exploring the city at a relaxed pace. You can:
- Walk through streets, squares, and churches to see giant Nativity scenes, each with its own Andean details.
- Admire tall Christmas trees and decorations on balconies, in parks, and at viewpoints.
- Visit the Santurantikuy fair and other markets where local artists sell Christmas handicrafts, textiles, ceramics, and Nativity figures.
- Finish the day with a Christmas dinner with local flavors and, if you’re here on Christmas Eve, watch the fireworks and midnight celebrations in the Plaza de Armas.
When do Christmas decorations typically go up in Cusco?
Christmas decorations in Cusco start appearing in homes, streets, and neighborhoods throughout December, and increase as the days go by.
The city feels especially festive in the week leading up to Christmas, when most squares in the historic center already have their trees, lights, and Nativity scenes in place. If you love Christmas lights and night photography, this is one of the best moments to be here.
Can you visit Machu Picchu in December?
Yes, you can visit Machu Picchu on Christmas Day and throughout December. For many travelers, spending Christmas near one of the New Seven Wonders of the World is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Because December is a busy month, it’s important to book everything in advance: accommodation, entrance tickets to Machu Picchu, train and bus tickets, and a guided tour. Last-minute availability during the holidays is very limited, so planning ahead is key.
How many days in Cusco are enough?
To really enjoy Christmas in Cusco, plan at least one or two nights in the city around December 23 or 24. This gives you time to acclimatize to the altitude, enjoy the Christmas atmosphere, and fit in a short tour.
Ideally, stay around 4 days in Cusco, for example:
- Dec 24: Arrival in Cusco – half-day city tour, Santurantikuy fair, and Christmas Eve.
- Dec 25: Sacred Valley tour with Maras and Moray, then train to Aguas Calientes.
- Dec 26: Machu Picchu tour in the morning and return to Cusco.
- Dec 27: Transfer out (any time).
If you’d like more time, you can easily add extra nights for additional tours or free days.
Is the Inca Trail open on Christmas Day?
Yes, the Inca Trail is usually open on Christmas Day, and many hikers choose it as a special way to spend Christmas or even New Year, a personal challenge and a meaningful way to close the year. As always, permits are limited and must be reserved well in advance.
A 7-day itinerary that includes acclimatization time in Cusco and four days on the trail might look like this:
- Dec 20: Arrival in Cusco – half-day city tour and evening walk to see Christmas decorations in the historic center.
- Dec 21: Sacred Valley tour.
- Dec 22: Inca Trail Day 1 (Ollantaytambo – Ayapata).
- Dec 23: Inca Trail Day 2 (Ayapata – Chaquicocha).
- Dec 24: Inca Trail Day 3 (Chaquicocha – Wiñay Wayna) – Christmas Eve on the Inca Trail.
- Dec 25: Inca Trail Day 4 (Wiñay Wayna – Machu Picchu arrival).
- Dec 26: Return to Cusco and transfer out (any time).
This way, you enjoy both the Christmas spirit in Cusco and the experience of reaching Machu Picchu by the Inca Trail during the holidays.
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