Travel to Peru During Bullfighting Season

While you can find bullfighting in Peru throughout the year, Lima’s bullfighting season swings into action in November, when the world’s second-oldest bullring, at more than 200 years old, the Plaza de Acho, plays host to bullfighters from all over the world. Dedicated a national historic monument, the plaza was built in 1766. Generally, bullfights are held on Sundays throughout the season, with special events also held in October, during Lima’s Lord of Miracles Festival.

There has been some movement to ban bullfighting in Lima due to animal cruelty accusations, and protesters can sometimes be seen outside the Plaza de Acho before a fight. The bullfighting featured is generally traditional and to the death, with the bull typically getting the bad end of the deal. Nothing has been done to outlaw the festivities, though, which draw huge crowds from both Latin America and Europe.

If you’re headed to Lima during November and are interested in attending one of the events, you’ll be joining 17,000 other individuals in the packed stadium, where you can choose to pay for a seat in the sun, shade or mixed, with prices ranging from $20 to more than $120. Tickets are available for purchase at Teleticket kiosks or online. However, online tickets still require pick-up at a kiosk.

Many restaurants offer special experiences during fight days for tourists who want to enjoy a pre-event meal and then receive transportation to the plaza. Many choose this option as it guarantees you can find the plaza and safe transportation. However, if you find your way yourself, you can still enjoy lunch beforehand at one of the many street vendors who set up outside the arena, selling beer and anticuchos.