Home

Best time to go to Peru

Cajamarca Carnival (Carnaval de Cajamarca) 2024 in Peru

One of the best carnival celebrations in South America

Dates: February 9-February 14, 2024

Cajamarca is called the capital of the Peruvian Carnival, hosting the biggest and most joyful celebration in the country. On Carnival Monday a huge parade and festivities attract thousands of spectators. The ceremony is filled with dancers, floats, music bands and performers dressed in costumes and masks. Plaza de Armas is used as a central gathering for those who want to witness Peru’s Carnival traditions, like the cutting down of a tree decorated with gifts.

Dancing around a tree ritual is called Unsha. It takes place from Tuesday through Sunday in many neighbourhoods of the city. Couples are dancing around a tree that has gifts in each branch. They try to cut the trunk with an ax until the tree falls down. Then everyone can get a present.

Carnival Saturday is a paint-day when everyone can have fun! People of all ages paint each other with a mixture of water, flour, and paint. Water guns with paint are popular too. Some enthusiasts spray anyone who comes near.

Find hotels and airbnbs near Cajamarca Carnival (Carnaval de Cajamarca) (Map)

Something wrong?
Last updated:

People interested

+ 10