Train to Machu Picchu – Ollantaytambo – Cusco | Peru Rail | Deals | Perurail

Scheduled site maintenance from 22:30 to 23:30pm UTC -5
Perurail 25 años

Everything you need to know about Inti Raymi

The Inti Raymi festival, whose name means “Festival of the Sun” in Quechua, is one of Cusco‘s most important events. It is celebrated every June 24th, during the winter solstice, and in 2001 it was declared Cultural Patrimony of the Nation.
Danzas Inti Raymi Cusco

What is Inti Raymi?

The Inca Pachacutec, who is credited with the construction of the citadel of Machu Picchu, established this celebration during his reign around the year 1430. Despite having been later unprohibited by Viceroy Francisco de Toledo considering it a pagan festival, the Festival of the Sun was restored and revalued in 1944 thanks to the work of the Peruvian writer Francisco Espinoza Navarro, who was in charge of writing, directing and representing the reconstruction of this Inca celebration.

 

Nowadays, to commemorate this festivity, every year, big groups of people dress in Inca garments to recreate this majestic Tahuantinsuyo celebration to honor the Sun God.

How is it celebrated?

In Inti Raymi consists of three stages, having in each one of them songs in Quechua, typical dances and colorful characters with clothing from the Inca era such as the ñusta, the coyas, the pallas, the delegates of the four suyos, among others.

 

Finally, the Inca makes his appearance and is carried on the shoulders on a gold-plated anda, accompanied by the orejones (people in charge of carrying the Inca). During the show, women called “acllas” are chosen to sing sweetly to the Sun god and the Inca, who finally makes a speech to thank this ancient deity.

Inti Raymi

Where is it held?

Coricancha Cusco
Stage 1

Now called the Santo Domingo Conventis the beginning of the pilgrimage where the Inca makes his appearance to greet the sun.

 

Address: El Sol Avenue, 526

Start Time: 09:00 hrs.

Admission: Buy here

Main Square Cusco
Stage 2

At the Main Square, the Inca and the Cusco Mayor meet each other to discuss the future of the province in front of thousands of citizens.

 

Address: Portal de Carnes Street, 214

Start Time: 11:00 hrs.

Admission: Free

Sacsayhuaman Cusco
Stage 3

The central ceremony takes place at Sacsayhuaman’s esplanade, located at the north of the city at 3671 meters above sea level.

 

Location: Chukipampa Esplanade

Start Time: 13:30 hrs.

Admission: Buy here

Inti Raymi route Cusco

Visit Machu Picchu

If you are in the city of Cusco to live the experience of the Inti Raymi, we guarantee you are in the best season to find an excellent weather in the citadel of Machu Picchu, which will let you be able to appreciate all the landscape and majesty of this Modern World Wonder.

Bring what you need

FAQ

When is Inti Raymi celebrated?
Inti Raymi is celebrated on June 24th in the city of Cusco.
How long does Inti Raymi last?
The festival is a one-day event held in three different scenarios, each with a different duration. Stage 1: Qorikancha lasts approximately 45 minutes. Stage 2: Cusco Main Square lasts an average of 1 hour. Stage 3: Sacsayhuaman lasts about 2 hours.
How much does it cost to enter the Inti Raymi?

The event is a grand spectacle and free to attend at Stage 2 (Cusco Main square), while Stage 1 (Qorikancha) and Stage 3 (Sacsayhuaman) require a ticket with an associated cost. You can find out more about ticket prices by clicking here.

How many people go to Inti Raymi?
Over 3,500 people, including both foreign and national tourists, participate in this celebration. It’s worth mentioning that June 24 is a public holiday in the city of Cusco.
What should I wear for Inti Raymi?

As it is a hot season, we recommend the following:

  • Apply sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun’s rays.
  • Wear comfortable clothing for ease of movement.
  • Bring drinks and fruits to stay hydrated and energized.
  • Use mosquito repellent.
Is Inti Raymi celebrated in Machu Picchu?
No, Inti Raymi is celebrated in the city of Cusco at three different scenarios: Qorikancha, Cusco Main Square, and Sacsayhuaman. However, it is an excellent opportunity to visit Machu Picchu, as the weather during this time is favorable, allowing you to witness its splendor.
Scroll to Top