Santurantikuy Market

For centuries, the celebration of Christmas in Cusco has been defined by a single, spectacular event that occurs only once a year. On the morning of December 24th, the historic Plaza de Armas transforms into a massive, open-air gallery. This is Santurantikuy—a Quechua word that translates to "The Buying and Selling of Saints."

Hundreds of the finest master artisans from across the southern Andes descend upon the Imperial City to showcase their most intricate works. For the luxury traveler and the art connoisseur, Santurantikuy is the ultimate opportunity to acquire authentic, museum-quality Peruvian folk art directly from the hands that crafted it.

The Cult of the Niño Manuelito

While European Christmas markets center around towering pine trees and ornaments, Santurantikuy revolves around the nativity scene (the Pesebre or Nacimiento) and its undisputed star: the Niño Manuelito.

The Niño Manuelito is the uniquely Andean interpretation of the Baby Jesus. He is often depicted as an indigenous child with rosy cheeks, dark hair, and sometimes with a thorn in his foot (a symbol of his future suffering). The competition among master sculptors to create the most expressive, exquisitely detailed Niño Manuelito is fierce. Acquiring one of these figures is acquiring a centerpiece of Peruvian heritage.

Beyond the nativity figures, the market is a treasure trove of silver jewelry, intricate retablos (wooden dioramas), alpaca textiles, and hand-painted ceramics from the legendary San Blas neighborhood.

A Masterclass in Andean Craftsmanship

Santurantikuy is not a tourist souvenir market; it is a serious artistic exhibition. The artisans are often the descendants of families who have perfected their trades over generations. You will find works that blend colonial Spanish techniques with indigenous motifs.

Adding to the atmosphere are the rural farmers who travel from high-altitude villages to sell moss, ferns, and wild grass, used by Cusqueño families to decorate their elaborate nativity scenes. The juxtaposition of sophisticated master sculptors and humble farmers is the very essence of the Andean Christmas.

Curating the Holiday Experience

Navigating Santurantikuy can be daunting, as the square becomes densely packed with thousands of locals finalizing their Christmas preparations. At Luxury Machu Picchu, we ensure your holiday is magical, comfortable, and deeply rewarding.

• Private Art Concierge: We provide you with a specialized guide—an expert in Andean folk art. They will navigate you through the labyrinth of stalls, introduce you directly to the recognized "Grand Masters" of Cusco, and assist in purchasing and securely shipping high-value pieces.
• Balcony Retreats & Traditional Ponche: When you wish to escape the crowds, retreat to an exclusive, reserved balcony overlooking the glowing Plaza de Armas. Here, you will be served Ponche (a hot, sweet, frothy drink made from milk, spices, and sometimes a dash of pisco), the traditional beverage of Santurantikuy.
• Holiday Luxury Lodging: Spend your Christmas Eve in the opulent comfort of a converted colonial palace. We secure reservations at elite properties like the Belmond Hotel Monasterio or Palacio del Inka, where you can conclude the night with a spectacular Christmas Eve gala dinner.