Cusco, the former capital of the Incan Empire, located in the Peruvian Andes, is not just a gateway to the world-renowned site of Machu Picchu. The city, with its enchanting mix of Inca and Spanish colonial history, also reveals a lively and colorful nightlife that captivates every traveler who steps into its mystical boundaries. As the sun descends behind the mountains, Cusco’s nightlife begins to flicker into life, offering a range of experiences from tranquil bars to vibrant clubs.
Embark on a nighttime journey through the narrow, cobblestone streets of Cusco, where behind every corner lies a potential new story. With an array of spots ranging from cozy, traditional Peruvian bars to lively, contemporary nightclubs, Cusco’s nightlife assures an unforgettable experience to both the locals and the wanderers alike.
Whether you’re in pursuit of a quiet evening sipping Pisco Sours, a traditional Peruvian cocktail, or dancing to the tunes of international and Peruvian beats, Cusco has a spot that will perfectly match your mood. This guide will navigate you through the pulsating heart of Cusco nightlife, highlighting some key venues and providing tips to ensure your nights are just as spectacular as your days.
Where to Party in Cusco’s Nightlife
Cusco’s nocturnal scene is primarily centered in a few vibrant areas, ensuring that you can effortlessly move from one enthralling venue to another:
Plaza de Armas: As Cusco’s main square, it hosts numerous bars and clubs, offering a lively atmosphere with beautiful views of the illuminated Spanish colonial architecture.
San Blas: Known for its bohemian vibe, here you can find various cozy bars and pubs, offering live music and a relaxed environment.
Calle Plateros: A street known for its bustling atmosphere, hosting a range of pubs and clubs that stay vibrant until the early morning hours.
Cusco Nightlife Tips and Advice
Keep your belongings secure and always be mindful of your surroundings, as crowded areas can be a hotspot for pickpockets.
The legal drinking age in Peru is 18; ensure you have ID for entrance to certain bars and clubs.
While tipping is not obligatory in Peru, it is a kind gesture to leave a small amount (around 10%) for good service.
Cusco is situated at a high altitude. Remember that alcohol can affect you more rapidly and severely in such conditions, so drink responsibly.
Cost of Partying in Cusco
Drinks: Expect to pay around S/10-20 (Peruvian Soles) for a beer and S/20-40 for a cocktail in most of the bars and clubs in Cusco.
Entry Fees: While some clubs and bars have no entrance fee, others, especially those hosting special events or international DJs, may charge an entry fee ranging from S/20-50.
Best Bars in Cusco
El Duende Resto Lounge
El Duende Resto Lounge is a popular bar located in Cusco, Peru, known for its excellent cocktails and vibrant atmosphere. This establishment offers a unique and enjoyable experience for both locals and tourists alike. The bar is renowned for its skilled mixologists who craft a wide variety of creative and delicious cocktails, making it a go-to destination for those looking to enjoy quality drinks in a relaxed setting.
With its welcoming ambiance, “El Duende Resto Lounge” is a must-visit for anyone seeking a memorable night out in Cusco, where great cocktails and a fun atmosphere come together to create a memorable evening.
La chupiteria the shot bar
Tucked away in the spirited streets of Cusco, La Chupiteria is a haven for those who seek a lively yet intimate night out. Famous for its robust selection of inventive and classic shots, this quaint shot bar has become a staple in the local and tourist nightlife circuit alike.
With its warm, rustic interiors and a vibrant atmosphere that spills into the early morning, La Chupiteria not only offers a shot for every palate but also serves as a melting pot where stories and smiles are shared under the soft, ambient lights. The walls, adorned with memories of evenings past, invite you to create your own unforgettable moments in the heart of ancient Inca lands.
Republica del Pisco
Amidst the cobblestone streets of enchanting Cusco, Republica del Pisco stands as a vibrant ode to Peru’s beloved spirit, Pisco. This elegant bar not only showcases a diverse and sophisticated menu of Pisco-based cocktails but also becomes a lively hub as the night unfolds.
With the harmonious beats of salsa and Latin music enticing patrons onto the dance floor and an atmosphere imbued with genuine Peruvian flair, Republica del Pisco offers both a cultural and spirited nightlife experience, ensuring every visitor leaves with a story to tell of their Cusco nights.
The Paddy’s
The Paddy’s Irish Pub, often touted as the highest Irish-owned pub in the world, resides in the heart of Cusco, Peru, offering a welcoming respite to travelers and locals alike. Nestled amidst the ancient Incan capital, The Paddy’s provides a paradoxical yet delightful fusion of Irish charm amidst Peruvian highlands. Visitors often find solace in its familiarly cozy ambiance, sipping on a rich blend of local and imported beers, or enjoying a hearty meal, all while possibly acclimatizing to Cusco’s lofty altitude. It’s not just a pub; it’s a little piece of Ireland serving as a warm, friendly haven in the midst of the Andean peaks.
Limbus Restobar
This is widely renowned for its breathtaking panoramic views of the city below. Perched high above the ancient, cobblestone streets, this popular spot is not only about the visuals; it’s a symphony of vibrant nightlife, delicious cocktails, and gastronomic delights.
Visitors often find themselves enchanted by the innovative pisco sours, the warm, ambient lighting, and the gentle hum of eclectic music blending seamlessly with the distant city sounds below. It’s a place where the historical essence of Cusco collides with contemporary flare, offering an unforgettable, elevated (quite literally) experience to all who ascend to this charming restobar.
Los Perros
Los Perros is a well-known and cherished spot situated in the vibrant heart of Cusco, Peru. This establishment is famed not only for its inviting ambiance but also for its eclectic mix of delicious cuisines, marrying local Peruvian flavors with international dishes.
Visitors and locals alike flock to Los Perros for its appetizing meals, innovative cocktails, and notably, its rooftop lounge, which provides a breathtaking view of the historic city. The laid-back atmosphere coupled with friendly service makes it a must-visit locale for anyone exploring the culinary and social scene of Cusco.
Best Clubs in Cusco
Ukukus Music Club – Bar
Ukukus Bar, a revered establishment in Cusco’s nightlife, intricately weaves traditional Peruvian culture with contemporary party vibes. Known for hosting live music, ranging from indigenous folk to pulsating rock, it provides a unique blend of audio and visual experiences amid walls adorned with vibrant local art.
Nestled in the heart of the city, it invites both locals and travelers to bask in a distinctive atmosphere where Peruvian tradition gracefully mingles with the dynamic energy of the night, offering an unforgettable evening under the Andean skies.
ZAFIRO VIP ZEUS DISCO
Elevate your Cusco nights at ZAFIRO VIP ZEUS DISCO, a prominent nightlife venue where modernity and vibrant Peruvian culture blend seamlessly. Located in the heart of the city, it invites you to dance beneath the mesmerizing Andean skies, with its breathtaking rooftop views and an electrifying atmosphere.
With its diverse musical beats, from electrifying electronic tunes to sultry salsa rhythms, and a luxurious VIP experience, it crafts nights that resonate with both the lively locals and spirited travelers. Whether you’re toasting with a classic Pisco Sour or moving to the pulsating beats, ZEUS Disco immerses you in an unforgettable, rhythmic Peruvian night.
Chango Club
Nua Disco in Cusco elevates the city’s nightlife with its electrifying ambiance and compelling beats that ensure the dance floor is perpetually alight with energy. Nestled in the heart of the city, this club is renowned for hosting an eclectic array of musical events, spanning from pulsating electronic nights to vibrant live performances.
Revelers, both locals and travelers alike, are drawn to its enthralling light shows and world-class DJs, creating a melting pot of cultures unified under the spell of music and dance. Nua Disco, with its modern aesthetic blended with traditional Andean elements, guarantees an enchanting and unforgettable night of rhythm, movement, and connection amidst the ethereal backdrop of Cusco.
Discoteca Extasis club
Discoteca Extasis, nestled in the vibrant heart of Cusco, stands as a beacon of lively nightlife and entrancing beats that lure both locals and travelers alike. With an atmosphere that pulses with energy, it presents a perfect escape into a night of rhythmic dance and spirited drinks.
The DJ spins a hypnotic mix of popular international and Latin hits, ensuring the dance floor remains an irresistible hub of movement and joy. With its welcoming aura and potent cocktails, Discoteca Extasis promises a night where memories are crafted amidst the effervescence of Cusco’s night scene.
Cusco Nightlife Conclusion
The nightlife in Cusco is as mystical and vibrant as the city itself, offering experiences that seamlessly blend the traditional with the contemporary. From sipping cocktails amidst historic settings to dancing beneath the Andean stars, the city ensures your Peruvian nights are unforgettable.
As you step into the enchanting world of Cusco’s nightlife, ensure to immerse yourself in its rich cultural tapestry, savoring every moment in this ancient Incan capital.
