The Inti Raymi is one of the most significant festivals in Cusco, Peru, celebrated annually on June 24th. This ancient Inca tradition, meaning ‘Festival of the Sun,’ pays tribute to Inti, the Sun God, a primary deity revered by the Incas. It marks the winter solstice in the Southern Hemisphere, symbolizing the start of a new solar cycle. Historically established by Inca Pachacutec to assert dominance over conquered lands, the festival once united the entire empire, including the Sapa Inca, priests, nobles, and peasants, featuring elaborate mummy parades and llama sacrifices. Although prohibited after the Spanish Conquest, the Inti Raymi was revived in 1944 and has since become a major cultural and tourist attraction, recognized as the second most important celebration in South America after the Rio de Janeiro Carnival.
Experience the grandeur of Inti Raymi at Sacsayhuaman
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Your full-day Inti Raymi experience begins at 8:00 AM with a convenient pickup from your hotel in Cusco via private vehicle. The first stop is the sacred Qoricancha, also known as the Temple of the Sun. Here, the festival commences in the gardens outside the temple, a section open to the public where many locals gather early for the best vantage points. Next, the ceremony moves to the historic Plaza de Armas in Cusco. The streets surrounding the main square are closed off for visitors and locals to witness a reenactment featuring the Inca emperor, carried on litters by eight servants, performing the traditional Coca Ceremony. The final and most spectacular act of the Inti Raymi takes place at the magnificent Sacsayhuaman Fortress, approximately 3 kilometers from Cusco. You will be transported by bus to Sacsayhuaman and guided to your reserved seat within the stands, which accommodate around 3,906 spectators. From this prime location, you will be immersed in the highlight of the festival, witnessing representatives of the four Suyos (Collasuyo, Contisuyo, Antisuyo, Chinchaisuyo) offering praise to Inti (the Sun God), alongside vibrant local dances and historical reenactments. The festival is a powerful display of Andean culture and history.
Due to the fixed date and immense popularity, tickets for the Inti Raymi festival sell out quickly. Early booking is highly recommended.
The Inti Raymi festival involves long periods of sitting and watching reenactments, which might be challenging for very young children. However, older children who can appreciate cultural events and history will likely enjoy the spectacle. There are large crowds, so parental supervision is essential.
We recommend wearing layers of comfortable clothing that can be easily added or removed, as temperatures in Cusco can change throughout the day. Include a warm jacket, a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Comfortable walking shoes are also a must, as there will be some walking involved.
Since this is a full-day tour returning to your hotel, it is recommended to travel light. You will not need to bring any significant luggage with you, only a small daypack for personal essentials like water, snacks, camera, and extra layers.
While a box lunch is provided as part of the tour, specific rules regarding outside food and drink within the official viewing stands at Sacsayhuaman may vary. It’s generally advisable to consume food and larger beverages before entering the stands or to bring only small, sealed water bottles.
Cusco and Sacsayhuaman are at high altitudes. We strongly recommend consulting your doctor before traveling about preventative measures for altitude sickness. Staying hydrated, avoiding alcohol, and taking it easy on the first day can help. Your guide will be prepared to assist with minor issues, but severe cases may require medical attention.
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Recent comments
A very enriching experience, full of history and good coordination even with changing weather during the route.
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