New Year’s Eve in Peru

New Year’s Eve is one of the most popular times of the year for visitors to travel to Peru. In Lima, New Year’s is around the time that Summer arrives, while in the Andes – including Cusco and Lake Titicaca – rainy season has arrived (though this does not mean it rains all the time!). Peru is a year-round destination thanks to its varied climates. 

As one of the most beautiful cities in the country and home to a range of luxury hotels, Cusco is a popular base to ring in the New Year. As such, the best hotels in Cusco should be booked well in advance. Hotels often arrange dinners and special galas to mark the occassion, included in the New Year’s rates.

New Year’s Eve Traditions in Peru

Every culture celebrates the New Year different and Peru is no exception in its wildly varied celebrations! In all the major cities locals celebrate by letting of fireworks and gathering in the main squares.

No matter what traditions you take part in or where you’re celebrating it in Peru, New Year’s is a special time for everyone.  It’s a time to reflect and celebrate about the passing year with friends and family, and to turn the page and look ahead to what the following year will bring.

We asked members of the Aracari team how they will be ringing in the New Year…

«I always put a small bag of lentils in my pocket for good luck for the upcoming year.»
– Raul, Lima Client Relations

“We throw coins into the house from the entrance as a symbol that next year we won’t lose any money.”
– Lidia, Travel Planner

«We wait in the main square, and when it’s 12.00 we all start running around the square. There’s lots of people, Peruvians and travellers alike, and many toast with Champagne. It’s beautiful, even if its raining!
– Mary Carmen, Cusco Operations and Client Relations