Things to Do for New Year’s in Peru

As the December holidays are almost knocking at the door, you surely would like to know what to do on New Year’s eve, especially if you’re traveling to Peru. Our country offers a lively atmosphere, where parties, fine dining experiences and much more will let you give closure to the year in such a special way.

Unlike the family-oriented Christmas holiday in Peru, New Year’s eve is certainly the most exciting and awaited time of the year. Either you’re into parties, enjoy a delicious dinner or just relax and welcome the new year from a tranquil place, here you’ll find the best option for you.

Peru is a culturally diverse country and as you already know, there are different traditions that are still carried out by many Peruvian families. Like in any other part of the world, there are some customs that are practiced specifically as soon as the clock strikes 12 a.m. and here we’ll tell you all about them.

Likewise, depending on the experience that you’d like to have, there are different things that you can do before the year ends. Keep reading and add a special touch to your trip!

How to Celebrate New Year’s in Peru?

As some may prefer spending some family time during New Year’s eve, others might prefer to go out for dinner, have some drinks, party or even visit some unique places like Machu Picchu. Therefore, here we have gathered some tips that will help you decide what you should do to receive the upcoming year in Peru.

  1. New Year’s in Lima
    If you want to go fancy in NYE then you should definitely consider staying in Lima. As you already know, the capital of Peru grants the best gastronomic experience of the country, and here you can have the opportunity to dine at one of the world’s best restaurants.

    Likewise, locals and tourists take the party on to the streets, especially in the Miraflores and Barranco districts. Besides, Lima’s nightlife will leave you breathless, with parties that last until dawn.

    However, there are experiences for all tastes since some renowned hotels like the Hilton have hosted up to 3 New Year’s parties in just one night. So, if you’re looking for alternatives, Lima is the best place to start the year partying along with friends and family.

    For those spending New Year’s in Lima and wanting to join a dinner, party or both, make sure to book your spaces in advance since the capital of Peru tends to be overbooked during these dates.

  2. Celebrating in Cusco
    The Imperial City of the Incas is another of the most exciting places to spend new year’s eve in Peru. This famous travel destination has the best parties in the region, and some renowned hoteles even offer dinner and party packages in their establishments.

    Besides, NYE in Cusco is as special as you can imagine! Here you’ll get to see people gathering with family and friends in Plaza de Armas, lighting fireworks and going to the different nightclubs and bars around it. 

    Likewise, as soon as the clock strikes midnight, everyone is already gathered around the main square, running or walking around it as they do traditionally every year. And as the celebration continues, fireworks adorned the night sky from all over the city, a show that you surely won’t like to miss!

    Nonetheless, don’t forget that this is the go-to destination for travelers looking to experience the best of Cusco’s nightlife during New Year’s eve. Therefore, we recommend planning everything ahead since every establishment gets fully packed.

  3. Visit the Machu Picchu Citadel
    As this wonder of the world is open every day of the year, including holidays, then you could also visit it in NYE or the day after. If you’re not into partying that much, then close or welcome the year by exploring this authentic archaeological site.

    Keep in mind that December is generally rainy and though the ancient citadel of the Incas is always busy, you might get a chance to see it with less crowds and a beautiful green landscape. 

    However, as we’ve said many times in this blog, it is wise to book everything in advance since tickets and accommodation options get sold out quickly.

  4. Stay in the Sacred Valley of the Incas
    In case you’re looking for a more tranquil NYE experience, then you should definitely head to the Sacred Valley of the Incas. This is surely the most peaceful region of Cusco since its exuberant nature will leave you totally spellbound to its beauty.

    Either you’re staying in Urubamba, Ollantaytambo, or Pisac, there are different hotels that offer a unique immersion in nature and the cultural expression of the place. So, if you’re looking to do something entirely different to welcome the new year, this should be your Nº 1 option.

No matter where you are in Peru during New Year’s, you’ll have an unforgettable experience since it is one of the most exciting and important dates of the year. Visiting our country during the December holidays is definitely a must if you have the opportunity!

Learn about the Peruvian New Year’s Eve Traditions

As we mentioned above, there are different traditions for welcoming the new year. And though not all of them are practiced at once, you should definitely know the most popular:

  • Days before New Year’s eve, you’ll notice that a lot of street vendors now sell yellow accessories, confetti and even underwear. The reason behind this is because it is believed that wearing this color during New Year’s will give you good luck and happiness throughout the upcoming year.
  • Some Peruvian families put three potatoes under a chair – one completely peeled, one half-peeled and another one unpeeled. According to tradition, people have to pick one of them without looking and that will determine their financial state for the next year.
  • There’s another custom that requires eating 12 grapes and making a wish for each of them as soon as the clock marks 12:00 a.m. Although some families in Peru do this differently by eating them under a table by naming each month of the year while eating each grape.
  • If you’re looking to travel next year, this tradition is for you. According to locals, walking around the block with an empty suitcase will give you good luck while traveling or can attract more traveling opportunities for you.
  • Some people also tend to make a doll that represents the past year and burn it at midnight. That way they’ll be ditching away the old, while also making space for the new.

Like that, there are many other traditions that look to manifest good luck and prosperity for the year to come. These superstitions are carried out through generations and you should definitely practice one of them if staying in Peru for the holidays.

Planning the Perfect Holiday Trip?

If you’re planning a trip to Peru during the December holidays, we highly recommend planning everything in advance since it is peak summertime in the Peruvian coast and the rainy season is just starting in the Andes.

There is so much to know about Peru that you would like to know everything about them to plan your trip accordingly. For that reason, we have prepared the best travel guides about the different destinations to visit in our country.

Likewise, we want you to travel in comfort and have professional guidance as you put together your travel itinerary. Here at Viagens Machu Picchu, we have a local expert team that can help you with that and many other details regarding your stay in Peru. Make sure to check our travel packages while you’re here and start planning the trip of your dreams with us!

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