On Inti Raymi which is June 24th, Cusco transforms into a vibrant and spiritual setting to celebrate the Festival of the Sun, the ancient Inca ceremony honoring the Sun God.

It promises to be an unforgettable experience, uniting living history, cultural identity, and experiential tourism in the heart of the Peruvian Andes.

What is Inti Raymi?

It was one of the most important festivals of the Inca Empire. It was celebrated on the Winter Solstice to pay homage to the god Inti, considered the father of the Inca and the source of life. Although it was banned during the colonial period, the ceremony was revived in the 20th century and is now performed every year in a majestic setting in Cusco.

The Sapa Inca holding a golden cup during a traditional offering ritual to the Sun God.
Close-up of the actor representing the Sapa Inca with arms open, greeting the crowd during the Sun Festival.

History of Inti Raymi

Instituted by the Inca Pachacútec in the 15th century, it coincided with the winter solstice (June 21). For the Incas, this date marked the new Andean year, when the ties between humans, nature, and the gods were renewed.

The original ceremony lasted nine days and included dances, offerings, and sacred rituals. With the arrival of the Spanish, the Catholic Church banned it, although it survived clandestinely in indigenous communities.

Its first modern performance was held in 1944, promoted by Cusco intellectual Faustino Espinoza Navarro. Since then, it has been held annually and attracts thousands of national and international visitors.

Inca priests performing a traditional ritual sacrifice ceremony with a llama during Inti Raymi.

Inti Raymi : What to Expect?

For this ceremony of the sun god, there is massive participation by tourists and locals. The festival is divided into three main stages:

  • Qoricancha (Temple of the Sun): It begins with a sun salutation at dawn, accompanied by ancestral music.  
  • Plaza de Armas of Cusco: The Inca is received by the municipal authorities in a symbolic act.   
  • Sacsayhuaman: It is the central stage, where the main performance takes place with more than 600 actors.

This event is not only a spectacle, but a way to connect with the living legacy of the Incas. see traditional clothing, hear Quechua, and witness ancestral rituals.

Panoramic view of the Inti Raymi ceremony in Cusco's Plaza de Armas with colonial churches in the background.
Performers in traditional Inca costumes carrying the Inca emperor through the Plaza de Armas in Cusco.

Living Cultural Heritage

Considered an intangible cultural heritage of Peru. Its practice reaffirms Andean identity, strengthens sustainable tourism, and educates about the continent’s pre-Hispanic history.In addition, it is part of the rich cultural heritage of Cusco, a city declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

Why should you attend this event?

  • Unique experience :It is a journey back in time to the Andean worldview.  
  • Cultural tourism: Connect with the roots of Peru.   
  • Photography and art: The visual richness of the costumes, dances and landscapes is unmatched.

Holiday Calendar: It is celebrated near Farmers’ Day and the Feast of San Juan, expanding the region’s cultural offerings.

We recommend booking accommodation and tickets in advance, as Cusco will be at its maximum capacity.