Cusco Carnival

About

Cusco Carnival is a vibrant, multi-day celebration where families can experience authentic Peruvian culture through colorful parades, traditional dances, and joyful water fights that take over the historic city center. Kids will be enchanted by the elaborate costumes, lively music, and the playful tradition of locals spraying water and throwing talcum powder at passersby. This is a rare opportunity for children to participate in indigenous Andean traditions while exploring one of South America's most spectacular historic cities.

What to Expect

Expect streets filled with parade groups wearing traditional costumes, brass bands playing Andean music, and energetic folk dancing competitions throughout the day. The atmosphere is festive and chaotic, with locals and visitors engaging in friendly water balloon fights and foam spray battles—everyone is fair game! Families will encounter food vendors selling traditional carnival treats, beautifully decorated floats, and spontaneous street performances. Be prepared for crowds, especially around Plaza de Armas, and note that the celebration can get quite wet and messy, which most kids absolutely love.

Highlights for Kids

• Participating in the playful water balloon fights and foam spray battles that consume the entire city
• Watching elaborately costumed dancers perform traditional Andean folk dances with incredible energy and precision
• Tasting carnival-specific treats like chicharrón (fried pork), empanadas, and sweet api morado (purple corn drink)
• Seeing the stunning baroque churches and Incan stonework of Plaza de Armas as the backdrop to colorful festivities
• Joining local families in the yunsa tree tradition, where a decorated tree is danced around and cut down

Pro Tips for Families

1. Arrive in Cusco at least 2-3 days before Carnival to acclimatize to the altitude—altitude sickness can seriously affect children and ruin your experience
2. Dress kids in clothes you don't mind getting wet, stained, or ruined, and bring waterproof bags for phones and cameras—the water fights are relentless and everyone participates
3. Purchase spray foam cans and water balloons from street vendors early in the day so kids can join the fun, but teach them to avoid spraying elderly locals or those clearly not participating
4. Book accommodations near Plaza de Armas to minimize walking with tired children and allow easy retreat for rest breaks, snacks, or bathroom needs

Best Time to Visit

The main parade typically occurs on Sunday and Monday before Ash Wednesday, with Sunday being the most spectacular day for families. Arrive at Plaza de Armas by late morning (10-11 AM) to secure a good viewing spot before the main processions begin around noon. Mornings tend to be slightly calmer with fewer water fights, making them better for younger children, while afternoons bring peak energy and participation. Consider attending multiple days to experience both the organized parades and the spontaneous street celebrations.

Food & Drinks

Street vendors throughout the historic center sell carnival favorites including chicharrón con mote (fried pork with hominy), anticuchos (grilled beef heart skewers), and empanadas filled with cheese or meat. For kids, sweet options include picarones (Peruvian donuts), churros, and api morado, a warm sweet purple corn drink perfect for the cool mountain weather. Many family-friendly restaurants around Plaza de Armas offer indoor seating and bathrooms—consider Restaurant Inka Grill or Pachapapa for kid-friendly menus with familiar options alongside traditional dishes. Always choose freshly cooked street food and stick to bottled water to avoid stomach issues.

Parking & Access

The historic center around Plaza de Armas becomes largely pedestrian-only during Carnival, so plan to walk from your hotel or take a taxi to the periphery. Strollers are not recommended due to massive crowds, cobblestone streets, and inevitable water fights—baby carriers work much better. Taxis and ride-shares (like InDriver, popular in Peru) are readily available but expect higher prices and difficulty getting close to the action. Many families stay within walking distance of Plaza de Armas to avoid transportation challenges. If you're arriving from abroad, fly into Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport (CUZ), just 15 minutes from the city center.