Holy Week in Cusco 2025: Semana Santa (Holy Week) in Cusco is a vibrant and deeply religious experience, blending Inca traditions with Catholic observances. It’s one of the most important and colorful times to visit the city.
Cusco Holy Week
Domingo de Ramos (Palm Sunday): Celebrations begin with a procession featuring locals carrying intricately woven palm fronds and flowers, often shaped into crosses. This procession starts at the Church of Belén and ends at the Cusco Cathedral.
Lunes Santo (Holy Monday): A day of solemn reflection and prayer.
Martes Santo (Holy Tuesday): Masses and processions continue.
Miércoles Santo (Holy Wednesday): Confessions are common, and preparations for the main events intensify.
Jueves Santo (Holy Thursday): One of the most important days. The Archbishop of Cusco washes the feet of twelve people, representing the apostles. Later, the “Monumento” is unveiled in churches—a symbolic representation of the Last Supper. People visit seven churches throughout the evening, a tradition known as the “Seven Churches Visitation”.
Viernes Santo (Good Friday): The most solemn day. A large procession takes place carrying the image of El Señor de los Temblores (Lord of the Earthquakes), a dark wooden crucifix believed to have protected Cusco during a major earthquake in 1650. This is a powerful and moving event.
Sábado Santo (Holy Saturday): A day of quiet reflection and anticipation.
Domingo de Resurrección (Easter Sunday): Church bells ring out, announcing the resurrection of Christ. Masses are held, and celebrations continue throughout the day.
What to Expect:
Crowds: Cusco is very crowded during Holy Week, so it is best to book accommodation and tours well in advance. Remember if you visit Machu Picchu you should book several months in advance, and tours such as Vinicunca Mountain, Palcoyo Mountain, Humantay Lake, Sacred Valley of the Incas, Cusco City Tour or other attractions can be booked 1 day before your visit.
Religious atmosphere: The city is immersed in religious fervor. Be respectful of the traditions and customs.
Special food: During Holy Week, certain traditional dishes are prepared, including 12-dish dinners on Holy Thursday (representing the Last Supper) and chiriuchu (a cold dish with guinea pig, chicken, fish, and other ingredients) on Easter Sunday.
Colorful processions: The processions are a highlight of Semana Santa, with participants wearing traditional clothing and carrying religious icons.
Unique blend of cultures: Witness the unique syncretism of Inca and Catholic traditions.
Tips for Visiting During Semana Santa:
• Book flights and accommodation well in advance: Prices tend to rise and availability decreases closer to the date.
• Pack for all types of weather: Cusco’s weather can be unpredictable. Layers are recommended.
• Be prepared for crowds: Patience is essential, especially during processions.
• Learn some basic Spanish phrases: While many people in the tourism industry speak English, knowing some basic Spanish will enhance your experience.
• Respect local customs: Dress modestly when visiting churches.
• Be mindful of altitude sickness: Cusco is at a high altitude. Take it easy on your first day and drink plenty of water.
Semana Santa in Cusco is a truly unforgettable experience. The vibrant traditions, deep religious devotion, and unique cultural blend make it a special time to visit this historic city.
