Partying the Cusqueñan Way

From sunset to sunrise, Cusco’s confines are transformed into a lively playground for party-goers on the lookout. Its diverse hangouts: an eclectic mix of bars, trendy cafes, and discotecas, all within close proximity (walking distance) to each other, culminate along the parameters of the Plaza de Armas to create an un-daunting, laid-back platform for bar-hopping the right way; the Cusqueñan way. Ironically enough, cover charges for tourists more than often do not exist; and when they do they are no more than 15 soles (about ); dress codes are unheard of, and club promoters hanging around the Plaza are always eagerly distributing passes for free drinks.

Quick Tips:

While certain spots attract a more “gringo” (as tourists are often referred) clientele, popular hangouts for the most part are a perfect blend of tourist and local Peruvian. And even if your Spanish speaking isn't your strongest asset, one thing universally understood is the typical Peruvian way: where sharing is as free flowing as the beers themselves.

Groups hanging out together often buy large, liter size beers, rather than individual 12-ouncers. All you need are a couple glasses and your beer--or should I say “chela” (slang for beer). It is even common for locals to approach you with a toast. A toast to what? Specifics are not needed. The fact that you are hanging out in a Cusqueñan spot is reason enough to celebrate!

Local Brews: Cusqueña, Cusqueña Negra, Cristal, Barena, Brahma, Pilsen.

For serious beer advocates, who love a bit of the dark side of brews, Cusqueña Negra is a must. It was by far my favorite.

Best Way To Get Around:

Walking is your best way to move around Cusco, and all the bars (for the most part) are in walking distance. If you want to take cabs, cost is only 2 soles (3 soles after 10pm).

Caos’ size allows for a calendar of parties and events-- although mostly Peruvian. But where there are exotic cocktails and good music, there shall be fun. Even if you’re not planning on hanging out here, a peak inside is well worth the aesthetics. Descend the dark stairs and you find yourself standing directly on top of a platform fish tank.

www.caosdiversion.com

Fallen Angel is a popular posh hangout among the gay community. Glass tabletops encase porcelain bathtubs filled with live fish. Couches in vibrant shades of red and black are available to lounge on, and the open-air dance floor retains its heat by a burning bonfire.

Instead of labeling the restrooms as Male/Female or some other such gender appellation, the bathrooms are labeled "Angel" and "Devil." Which one will you choose?

Garabatos, a bit more upscale than most, has a stage and large screen where videos harmonize in tune with the music, which is predominately salsa. Packed dance floors are a regular occurrence, and salsa lessons are frequently given.

www.salsaperu.com

Km 0 (Kilometro Zero) is an intimate, two-story bar, located a steep walk away from the Plaza, in San Blas. A small stage hosts bands every night; and cozy, candle-lit tables, a super nice staff, good music and great food add the perfect touch.

For the ultimate in dance celebrations, the ever-popular Mama Afrika is my top pick. Boasting the best crowds and lasting until the latest hours, you can sit on comfy, candle-lit couches or hit the jam-packed dance floor, backed by Latin, reggae, rock, techno, electronic, even '80s beats.

www.mamaafricaclub.com

Mama Amerika, not to be fooled with Mama Afrika (although the two once shared owners), has long out lived its days as a party hot spot. The crowd is not nearly as stellar as its competitors’ and is locally known for Bricheros (Peruvians specifically on the lookout for Gringos).

The food is supposed to be really good though, although I cannot attest from first-hand experience.

Muki--Cusco's cave-like cosmopolitan wonder, ablaze in crimson red lights--is pretty fancy, similar to Garabatos. As story has it, a gnome protects the cave; hence the midget dressed in costume who sits at the bar all night long.

www.cuscoperu.com/elmuki

This is the only place in Cusco where you will be able to smoke flavored tobacco from a hookah. Totally unassuming, it's a quaint cafe, with a nice menu and beer/wine selection. The decor is simple and comfy, with some nice artwork for decoration; and board games are availably to play.

Ukukus, best noted for its one-of-a-kind, three-dimensional artwork (where human-like figures and masks literally pop out of the ceilings and walls), has a pretty fair mix of locals and tourists. Live Peruvian music regularly caps off the night starting at 10:30, followed by DJ selections and lots of dancing, usually going strong until around 2am.

It is here where most people order the larger liter-sized beers. You have to order and pay at the register, and then bring your receipt to the bartender. If you're into funky drinks, try the colorful Machu Picchu cocktail: pisco brandy, mint liqueur, grenadine, and orange juice.