Holy Week in Cusco 2025: Discover the religion in Cusco
The Holy week is celebrated differently all over the world. Many countries celebrate only on Easter Sunday, however in Peru, more specifically in Cusco, this celebration extends all week long. From masses to bless our famous crosses to processions of the representative saints of Cusco. This celebration is undoubtedly one of the most popular in our city.
Let us tell you about our traditions, surely knowing more about them, you will want to take a trip to live them yourself. Are you ready?
When is Holy Week celebrated in Cusco 2025?
Holy week in Cusco and in other countries of the world is celebrated in the week of April 13 to April 20. Generally from year to year it varies, depending on the liturgical calendar that is handled during the year. The dates range between the second week of March and the second week of April.
Holy Week in Cusco: Day by Day
Palm Sunday
The holy week in Cusco begins with the blessing of the crosses made of palms and olive branches. These, when blessed, are hung behind the doors of the houses as a symbol of protection.
With this Palm Sunday, we begin the Holy Week, undoubtedly, a show of devotion. This marks 7 days full of tradition and fervor of the Cusqueños.
Holy Monday
After a Sunday full of religiosity, Holy Monday is not far behind. During this day, the faithful Cusqueños congregate from before noon to begin with their chants to the Lord of the Tremors. This saint is a representation of a brown Christ. Is said to have had one of his first miracles when in 1650 he stopped a fierce earthquake in Cusco. Since then, he is venerated and respected and it is a tradition to take him out in procession every Holy Monday. Let’s know a little more of its history:
History of the “Señor de los Temblores”
Its history dates back to the 17th century, colonial times when King Charles V ordered to sculpt an image of a Christ in wood. The main characteristic of this Christ that you could denote Andean features that alluded to the evangelization in Peru.
During its transportation, legend has it that they faced a storm in the middle of the high seas. It was thanks to this image that the storm was calmed and so it was that its first denomination is the “Señor de los temblores”.
How did the “Señor de los Temblores” arrive in Cusco?
After its arrival in Peru through the port of Callao, it had to be transported to Cusco. Upon arriving at Mollepata in Anta, something unprecedented happened. Suddenly, it felt twice as heavy as it usually was, which was interpreted by those carrying it as meaning that it wanted to stay there.
After that, they decided to make it stay there and start paying devotion to it. They named it “Señor Manuel de la Exaltación de Mollepata” and its festivity is celebrated every September 14th.
When the original image could not be delivered, the muleteer in charge entrusted the artist Abraham Aller. In secret, he create a sculpture similar to that of the Original Christ.
Characteristics of the Señor de los Temblores
In its beginnings the image was designed with an ocher tone. However, with the passing of the years and the incense, candle smoke and soot, managed to darken it. The new look gives it the appearance of the Moreno Christ that we know today.
Thanks to this, many natives of Cusco saw themselves represented in this spiritual Apu and even associated him with Wiracocha.
Route of the Lord of the Tremors during the Holy Week in Cusco
The route begins around 2:00 pm the faithful devotees walk through the main streets of Cusco between songs of devotion and faith. The image is accompanied by the archbishop, the brotherhood, clergymen and main authorities of the city.
During the procession, it gives its blessing at strategic points such as San Francisco square, El Sol avenue, and the main square. While the procession takes place, thousands of Cusqueños and foreigners gather to witness the image that is covered with ñucchu (reddish Andean flower) and the smoke of incense.
Holy Thursday
After Holy Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday are calm days with no significant scheduled activities in Cusco. It is not until Holy Thursday that the celebrations resume in the city. Today, in general, the Cusco authorities, as part of the celebration of Holy Week in Cusco, start the procession of the Holy Sacrament. In addition to this, many of the churches of Cusco offer masses during this day known in the religious field as the day of the last supper of Jesus with his apostles.
It is precisely to commemorate this that the bishop of Cusco performs the washing of the feet of twelve elders. In addition to this, it is customary to visit seven churches during the night.
Good Friday
Within the traditions of the Cusco families, on Good Friday, 12 dishes are tasted. These symbolize the twelve apostles of Jesus. During this day, families are used to fast until noon because with this they “help” Jesus during his via crucis before being crucified.
These 12 dishes usually consist of 6 savory and 6 sweet dishes. Among them we have: apple, pear, peach stews, Easter empanadas, humitas, fish, and soups typical of the highlands.
Resurrection or Holy Sunday
This day remembers the resurrection of Jesus after his crucifixion. During this day of the holy week in Cusco, masses are offered in the churches of Cusco.
In addition, the image of the resurrected Christ travels through the main streets of the city.
On the other hand, there are festivals of traditional food at Easter. The central square is flooded with the joy and revelry of Holy Week.
What to do during Holy Week in Cusco?
During this week, many travelers decide to take their days off and visit places with tourist attractions such as Cusco. With a large influx of people, it is important to mention that many of the hotels, tourist attractions and restaurants are at maximum capacity.
Details in consideration, here we leave you a list of the best activities to do during the holy week:
Explore the 1 day tours in the city
This is a great opportunity to arrive to the city of Cusco because, besides knowing the main attractions of the city with the tours of: City tour , Sacred Valley or Machu Picchu, you can also enjoy the processions and celebrations of the city while resting for your next tour.
Among the best activities to do we suggest:
City tour
Half day tour that will take you through the nearby archaeological centers of Cusco, such as: Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, Puca Pucara and Tambomachay. Generally this tour includes the Coricancha but during the Holy Week it may be closed one or another day. Check with your travel agent.
Sacred Valley 1 day tour
The Sacred Valley is a treasure trove of timeless ancient Inca archeological sites and stunning natural landscapes that will simply take your break away. As you can imagine, agriculture presented a massive challenge for the Incas because of the craggy, mountainous terrain of the Andes. However, the Sacred Valley is a fertile and lush stretch of land with endless sources of fresh water. This was the heart of Inca land; the temperature is mild compared to the rest of Cusco and the views are incredible.
Humantay Lake
This full-day trek will take you and a small group to Humantay Lake, nestled below the famous Salkantay Mountain. Hike to one of Peru’s most magical lakes, whilst surrounded by the impressive Salkantay and Humantay peaks. Start with a hot breakfast on arrival, followed by snacks along the way, a gourmet lunch prepared by our chef, private transportation to and from your hotel in Cusco or the Sacred Valley and a fluent English-speaking guide. Humantay Lake Tour hikes to one of Peru’s most magical glacial lakes, with picturesque turquoise waters. The views are breathtaking!
Rainbow Mountain
Appreciate the newly discovered geological wonder the natural marvel that is Rainbow Mountain. Hike through isolated communities, passing herds of llamas and alpacas. Hike at high altitudes along side the great Ausengate snow-capped mountain peak.. stunning turquoise lakes, locals dressed in colorful traditional attire and a diverse range of fauna like the massive soaring Condor and Cara Cara falcons.
Machu Picchu full day tour
Pass through amazing and breathtaking panoramic views on your relaxing journey to the magnificent Machu Picchu, voyage through the Andean meadows lying amongst the various mountains with colorful peaks, the beautiful valleys. Visit the wonder of the world, Machu Picchu, with us.
Multi-day hikings in Cusco
Another option chosen by many travelers is to hike for several days in Cusco to get lost in the mountains. During the holy week in Cusco, you can bring out your adventurous instinct and visit the wonders of Cusco such as:
Classic Inca Trail 4 days
The 4 day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, an experience you don’t want to miss! It inspires excitement and stirs a sense of wonder in your soul. Rated in the top 5 most popular excursions in South America and one of the world’s most famous hikes. The hike brings you along ancient paths through Peruvian villages in the Andean highlands. It’s a 4 days 3 nights multi-day hike through the different microclimates of the Andes to the greatest endpoint, the iconic Machu Picchu.
Salkantay trek – 5 days!
Trek off the beaten track, following our unique route where you visit two incredible crystal clear glacial lakes, Humantay and Salkantay. Hike through the Andes Mountains and camp at our private sites which are more remote, less crowded and off the typical path. This is the best viewpoint to have a glimpse of the Majestic Machu Picchu. Following in the footsteps of the Incas, explore the crevices and and niches of the “Lost City of the Incas”, Machu Picchu, one of the 7 Wonders of the World, with our expert guide.
Do not hesitate to pack your things and come to Cusco for guaranteed fun and adventure during the Holy Week! We are waiting for you! Are you ready?
