Holy Week 2026 in Peru: Dates and Where to Travel During the Long Holiday
The Easter holidays in Peru in 2026 will be on Thursday, April 2, which is Holy Thursday. Friday, April 3, which is Good Friday, will also be a holiday. This creates a long weekend with Saturday, April 4, and Sunday, April 5. Thus, many people will be able to rest for several days in a row.
These dates are fixed. In addition, the holiday is mandatory throughout the country. This applies to both public and private sector workers. Therefore, many people are expected to take advantage of this opportunity to travel or visit their families.
Easter 2026 details:
- Holy Thursday: April 2.
- Good Friday: April 3.
Context: These dates are in addition to the 16 official holidays that Peru will have in 2026.
- Friday, May 1: Labor Day
- Sunday, June 7: Battle of Arica and Flag Day
- Monday, June 29: Saint Peter and Saint Paul’s Day
- Thursday, July 23: Peruvian Air Force Day
- Tuesday, July 28: National Holidays
- Wednesday, July 29: National Holidays
- Thursday, August 6: Battle of Junín
- Sunday, August 30: Saint Rose of Lima
- Thursday, October 8: Battle of Angamos
- Sunday, November 1: All Saints’ Day
- Tuesday, December 8: Immaculate Conception
- Wednesday, December 9: Battle of Ayacucho
- Friday, December 25: Christmas
Long weekend: Since Thursday and Friday are holidays, there will be four consecutive days off, including Saturday and Sunday.
After New Year’s Day, this is the first major long holiday of the year. Therefore, it is a good time for domestic tourism. It is also a good opportunity to rest and recharge your batteries.
Where to Travel During Holy Week 2026 in Peru
Ayacucho: Peru’s Most Exciting Night
Ayacucho celebrates Holy Week in a big way. That’s why many call it the most important in the country. On Friday, the Holy Sepulcher procession moves forward in the dark and the people remain silent. You can also visit seven temples in a single tour. Then, craft fairs fill the streets with color and music. As many people visit, book your hotel and tickets well in advance.
Cusco: Faith, History, and Inca Adventures
Cusco combines tradition and sightseeing. First, there are the solemn processions, such as that of the Lord of the Earthquakes on Holy Monday. Then, you can go to the Sacred Valley and visit villages with markets and ruins. Many people also travel to Machu Picchu and return the same day or the next day. In addition, the weather begins to improve because the heavy rains are over. This makes walking easier and photos come out better.
Arequipa: Processions and Delicious Food
Arequipa celebrates with great tradition. That’s why the Holy Sepulcher procession brings entire families together. They also stage the Way of the Cross in Paucarpata, which can be seen from afar. Then comes the best part. During the vigil, special dishes such as Easter broth are eaten. The Arequipa adobo is also enjoyed early in the morning. Thus, faith and gastronomy go hand in hand.
Tarma and Santa Rosa de Ocopa: Flowers that Paint the Ground
In Tarma, the streets look like a garden. First, the neighbors make flower carpets with huge designs. Then, the Stations of the Cross pass by and everyone watches with respect. Plus, the air smells like fresh plants and incense. In Santa Rosa de Ocopa, the convent attracts many visitors. You can also visit its museum and peaceful courtyards. This makes it a beautiful and very special trip for the whole family.
Huaraz and Chavín: Giant Mountains and Andean Mystery
Áncash offers a different kind of Holy Week. First, Huaraz is filled with an Andean atmosphere with processions that feel very mystical. In addition, the Cordillera Blanca appears in the background like a great wall of snow. Then, in Chavín, history takes center stage. There is also “Chavín de Noche” (Chavín by Night) inside the ceremonial temple. Lights and shadows reveal ancient figures, making the tour feel like an adventure.
Northern Beaches: Sun and Relaxation by the Sea
If you want to relax, the north awaits you. For example, Zorritos in Tumbes has quiet beaches and warm water. You can also try ceviche and fresh seafood near the sand. In Piura, Máncora offers sunshine almost all day long. There are also waves and walks along the coast. That’s why many people combine their vacation with relaxation. Thus, Holy Week is experienced with calm and sea breezes.
