Cusco is the most visited city in Peru due to its incredible richness and heritage of Andean culture. A place where you can contemplate the beauty of ancient ruins, high mountains, and wildlife attracts many visitors every year. An incredible experience, no doubt!
But you might be asking yourself: other than that, why visit Cusco? Join the Machu Travel Peru team for some great alternatives for when the sun goes down. If you like the bohemian lifestyle, enjoying a good drink or dancing the night away, Cusco’s nightlife is for you. It is the best option for your vacations in Peru.
- Nightlife in Cusco
- Popular nightlife zones
- Featured Bars
- Discoteques and Clubs
- Local culture and norms
- Alternative experiences
- Options for evening activities
- Practical Tips
- Frequently questions
Nightlife in Cusco
The days in this magical city are busy with activities. However, Cusco truly comes alive at night with energy. Cusco has a lively nightlife, it doesn’t matter what day it is. You can enjoy and celebrate every night. You’re living your best life.
From Monday to Sunday, the city’s vibe attracts fun and exciting people from around the world. It offers many things to do in Cusco, even in the low season. June is extremely popular among tourists because of the Inti Raymi, also known as the Festival of the Sun. During this time, you will see a parade every day. It is a great reason to join the locals and enjoy the atmosphere.
No matter if you just got back from Cusco, the Sacred Valley, or Machu Picchu, there is always time to dance and also enjoy a beer. The Plaza de Armas serves as the center of Cusco’s nightlife scene, surrounded by numerous bars, clubs, and live music venues. You can get a cold beer to start your night. No matter if you are just back from Cusco, the Sacred Valley, or Machu Picchu, there is always time to dance.
Popular nightlife zones
There are many attractions in Cusco, but the Nightlife is a unique and unparalleled experience. Many people call this city the city of the Incas. It is a cosmopolitan city and a meeting place for many cultures. That’s why locals and visitors alike choose to explore the streets of Cusco, enjoying bars and immersive experiences.
In Cusco, the Plaza de Armas area is generally considered the most popular nightlife zone, with a mix of bars, clubs, and restaurants catering to various tastes. Other well-liked spots for nightlife are the streets around Plaza de Armas, especially for live music and smaller bars, and San Blas, which has a more bohemian vibe.
Providing Further Details on Cusco’s Nightlife:
- Plaza de Armas: This main square is a nightlife hotspot with a range of venues providing distinct atmospheres.
- San Blas: This neighborhood is known for its artistic and bohemian atmosphere, with a selection of bars and clubs that cater to a more alternative crowd.
- Streets in the neighborhood: For those seeking a livelier atmosphere, there are plenty of bars and clubs along the streets that branch off from the Plaza de Armas.
Features Bars
Fuego
If you are a craft beer and hamburger lover, Fuego will be a dream. Cusco nightlife is a beer paradise, it offers a wide menu of tasty, high-quality craft beverages. You will also find delicious food here.
It is located in front of the Cusco Main Square and it is open from Sunday to Thursday from 5 p.m. to 1 a.m. and from Saturday to Sunday from 5 p.m. to 2 a.m.
Republica del Pisco
Don’t skip our flag drink! The Republica del Pisco offers you an infinity of special and peculiar drinks based on Pisco. They mix it with several ingredients from Cusco to gift you a unique experience during your holidays in Peru. You can find it at Calle Plateros 354, and it opens daily from 5 p.m. to 2 a.m.
Paddy’s
There is an Irish pub in Cusco, which is very popular for its great view of the Plaza de Armas. According to the owner, Paddy’s is the highest Irish pub in Cusco and even in the world. Amazing!
Its walls are full of random art, and the bar is full of good cider and local brew. Located at the corner of the Plaza de Armas, in Calle Triunfo 124. It is open daily from 11 a.m.
Indigo
Indigo is at the top of “Gringo Alley”, it is one of the warmest bars in the city. This makes it a great place to enjoy a fancy cocktail or a tasty meal, whether alone or with friends. They offer table games and happy hours all the time, so just ask! It is open daily from 4 p.m. to 4 am.
Fallen Angel
Unusual and eccentric pieces of art abound all over this place. It’s fun and fancy decor makes it a special place, where you can enjoy a drink or a tasty meal. It’s also a great spot to relax in a nice atmosphere, you can find this unique place at Plazoleta Nazarenas 221. It is open daily from 7 p.m to midnight.
La Chupiteria
This small but hilarious bar of Cusco nightlife is a paradise for those who love to enjoy the night with shots, shots, and shots! Small but strong. A great addition is the music they play, it is very varied and makes you excited to enjoy each day of your vacation in Peru.
It is located at the top of the “Gringo Alley” as well, and it is open daily from 6 p.m. to 3 a.m.
Discoteques and Clubs
There are many clubs where you can party and dance all night, you can enjoy salsa, reggaeton, or bachata. Some clubs even offer dance classes as part of the fun. Also listen to live music, including rock, indie, funk, and more.
Cusco’s nightlife has some of the best and coolest places to party, drink, and dance. Most of them remain open until the first hours of the morning, although you can find some tours in Cusco that provide entertaining activities such as dancing and drinking in a club at least one night.
Wild Rover
At night, the Plaza de Armas is magical, the beautiful Cathedral and the Jesúsuit Church stand out. The energy around them adds to the charm. Street musicians play with different accents. The smell of fresh coffee comes from terraces above the square, and locals walk in the calm of the night. It is a perfect time to decide what to do in Cusco, Peru, at night.
- Your options fan out like a deck of cards
- A lantern-lit walk up to Bohemian San Blas
- Dinner on a colonial balcony with plaza view
Despite being a backpacker hostel, Wild Rover is the best of Cusco nightlife. You will find a friendly atmosphere and a fun vibe, like great Irish parties, which will make your holidays in Peru unforgettable.
They offer cool-themed parties, good drinks, special live shows, and cool DJs playing all the time. The best part is that you do not need to be a client. It is open to everyone. Even better, there is no admission fee. Lucky you!
Mushrooms
Don’t skip this cool one! You can party in the underground scene of Cusco nightlife; you can find it in the same building where Mama Africa is. Every single day, electronic, funk, house, or techno music surrounds this surrealistic environment. DJs make sure the crowds enjoy the flow of freedom, typical of this kind of rhythm.
Ukukus
Close to the Plaza de Armas, in Av. El Sol 819, there is one of the busiest nightclubs of Cusco, called Ukukus. From the moment you enter, you will feel like you are in a dream. This place is full of art. Artists decorate the walls with colorful masks and surreal art. You will also see eccentric and mystical murals inspired by Andean culture.
Going to Ukukus is a must, it is a club with free admission where you can enjoy live music sessions. Every Tuesday, there is a live concert, and a band plays a mix of traditional Andean music and modern styles.
Ukukus is open Monday to Friday from 6 pm to 2 am. On Saturdays, it is open from 6 pm to 4 am. On Sundays, it is open from 6 pm to midnight. Enjoy the pub crawl!
Changos
The intense energy in Changos is indisputably the perfect one. Its lively atmosphere makes this place one of the best spots for nightlife in Cusco. You can enjoy live concerts with different music styles like rock, reggae, or salsa. There are also fun beer games in the middle of the dance floor, Changos surprises you all the time, so don’t skip it and go!
Changos is a club with free admission during weekdays, but you have to pay a fee on weekends. It is open daily from 9 p.m. to 7 a.m.
Rock House Cafe
This place is for people who love a good coffee in the morning. It also has live rock music and a fun vibe from tribute bands at night. Most of them play 80s rock n’ roll, but there is always space for modern performances. Open all weekends, but also during the weekdays for those who want to break the routine.
Limbus Resto Bar
Walking up the artistic San Blas, you will find a place with a privileged and spectacular view of the city. People call this magical place Limbus Resto Bar. From the balcony, you can be delighted with the sunset or the blanket of bright stars that only Cusco can offer you.
Local culture and norms
You can enjoy many Cusco cultural traditions that are mixed with Inca culture and Spanish civilization. However, these same differences greatly separate their way of life and customs. Therefore, we must understand that visiting Cusco means preserving and respecting the cultural heritage.
This focuses on the historic center and nearby areas. Here, you can see Inca and colonial buildings like temples, museums, and traditional neighborhoods. It is important to note that the rules are in Law No. 28296. This law covers cultural heritage guidelines, we must respect and care for each place while touring Cusco at night.
It is worth clarifying that this area hosts a large percentage of restaurants, bars, and pubs. So you must be a responsible person. Remember that the Municipality of Cusco is responsible for keeping order and peace in the city. This means that businesses in Cusco have operating licenses, they also have the necessary permits to serve alcohol, and these places are safe for travelers.
Alternative experiences
You can enjoy Cusco in many ways, you can take part in cultural activities at night. You can also party and have fun at a local bar. However, we can say that Cusco has everything you and your friends are looking for.
We suggest some unique activities, you can visit places to enjoy the stars and the sky through telescopes and open-mic nights at local bars. Join us to learn a little more about these ideas, which I’m sure you’ll love.
- Taking a tour package of Planetarium tours is important to understand
- Take a night tour of Cusco
- Visit at night tour at the Pre-Columbian Art Museum
- Walk through the neighborhood of San Blas
- Visit the viewpoints of Cusco
- Watch the night sky at the Planetarium Cusco
- Enjoy a wine tasting experience
- Participate in trivia or board games in a pub-bar
- Visit and enjoy a comedy night in a cultural center
- Have an open mic night in a pub-bar
Options for evening activities
Qosqo Center of Native Art
This is the perfect place to start your nighttime adventure. Every night, local artists present traditional dances and live music, showcasing Cusco’s rich cultural heritage. The colorful attire and passion of the performers will transport you to different eras of Peruvian history.
Guided Night Tours
For those interested in Cusco’s history and mysteries, guided night tours are an excellent option. Walk along cobbles.
Stroll through the San Blas Neighborhood
This picture’s neighborhood, known for its steep streets and art workshops, comes to life in a unique way after dark. Night tours here mix art, culture, and amazing views of the lit-up city. They offer a calm and personal experience.
Astronomical Tours
For astronomy enthusiasts, some tours offer star observation sessions, taking advantage of Cusco’s clear skies. These activities not only allow you to admire the beauty of the Andean night sky.
Practical Tips
- Explore the city, taking a walking tour in Cusco or a city tour in Cusco, which may only take one day to see the most important places around this magical and ancient city.
- Cusco is a safe place to stay, but if you plan to go out dancing or partying all night, do not go back home walking or drunk. Sometimes, pickpockets take advantage of foreign targets.
- Take an official taxi, the one that has a hexagonal badge in the windscreen. It costs approximately 2 USD, depending on the distance to your destination.
- Do not carry a lot of cash, just bring the necessary according to your needs.
- Do not carry your passport. It is better if you leave it in a safe place, like your hotel, and just make a copy to carry with you.
- Bring a jacket with you, nights in Cusco are usually really cold.
Frequently questions
What precautions should I take in Cusco?
When you are in Cusco, take some precautions. Walk slowly and calmly. Avoid drinking too much alcohol. Also, don’t eat too much during your trip.
Keep in mind that the Andes Mountains surround Cusco, so you should be careful with the altitude. So you should keep hydrated and take proper care of your safety.
What are the best places to go out at night?
The best places to go out at night in Cusco are the Plaza de Armas and San Blas. In addition, any part of the historic center in this place will leave you amazed and wanting more.
You should check the schedules of the places mentioned earlier. This will help you plan your activities better. You can enjoy trivia nights, salsa, dances, and other options.
At what age is it legal to drink alcohol in Cusco?
In Peruvian territory, the legal drinking age is 18 years old. The rules also apply in Cusco, this city is a popular tourist spot and attracts many young people from around the world.
Is there any dress code for entering a nightclub in Cusco?
No, since it will necessarily depend on you. However, there are some events or parties during the year when clubs may ask for formal or semi-formal attire.
Is it safe to go out at night in Cusco?
Yes, Cusco is one of the safest cities in Peru. Because many people come from all over the world, the local government works to keep travelers safe.
However, we recommend being more careful after 10:00 pm. This is when businesses in the city close. And you will only find open nightclubs, pubs, and discotheques.
“TRAVEL IS THE ONLY THING YOU BUY THAT MAKES YOU RICHER”
Nightlife in Cusco offers a varied and lively experience, with options ranging from bars and nightclubs to varied shows. However, it is also an option to immerse yourself in the local culture and learn about the lifestyle of the locals. In this sense, immerse yourself in the adventure and mysticism of the city of the Incas on your next trip.
Peru has so much to offer, it can be hard to know where to start. With many years of experience in tourism in Peru. Machu Travel Peru is happy to help with anything regarding your trip to Machu Picchu and any tours around it. Make your Machu Picchu experience an unforgettable one! Contact Us today to plan your dream adventure!
