Thanks to the beautiful Andes, beaches, Amazon rainforests, and the ancient Incan city of Machu Picchu, Peru is a great destination to welcome the New Year. You can spend the last night of the year at a noisy street party in Cusco or Lima or enjoy Peru’s beautiful nature. In December, it's summer in Peru, so the weather is warm and sunny, perfect for enjoying a day on the beaches of Mancora and Punta Hermosa, which boast some of the best surf breaks in Peru.
New Year traditions in Peru focus on attracting good luck for the upcoming 12 months. Locals decorate their houses with everything yellow. Yellow underwear is a popular accessory for New Year's Eve too. At midnight, Peruvians go out to watch fireworks and, like many Spanish-speaking nations, have a custom of eating 12 grapes and making their New Year wishes.
Cusco
The city in the Peruvian Andes that was once the capital of the Inca Empire, Cusco boasts vibrant New Year celebration. The mixture of Spanish and Incan traditions can be noticed within the street parties and festivities. The epicenter of fun is Plaza de Armas, the central square of Cusco. The area boasts several fireworks displays during the big night. Bars, night clubs and restaurants in the area offer their own parties and countdowns.
Lima
Peru's capital and largest city is famous for its big NYE parties. Simply head to the Ovalo Gutierrez area in Miraflores or the Barranco area, where people hang out outside bars and clubs welcoming the New Year. Lima is also famous for its restaurants and vibrant food scene.
Mancora
A resort town in the Piura Region, on the northwest coast of Peru, attracts many visitors during the holidays for a reason. Mancora is famous for its beautiful surf beaches, such as Las Pocitas and Vichayito, as well as its lively night scene and excellent food. Mancora hosts many New Year's Eve beach parties, however, make sure to book your accommodation well in advance.
