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Everything you need to know about Inti Raymi: the majestic Inca Festival of the Sun held every 24 June in Cusco, an ancestral ceremony honouring the sun god with dance, music and ritual.
Inti Raymi, also known as the Festival of the Sun, is one of the most impressive and emblematic celebrations in Peru. This Inca festival, full of history, colour and music, draws thousands of Peruvian and international visitors to Cusco every year — the ancient capital of the Inca Empire.
In this article we tell you everything you need to know about Inti Raymi: its history, its route, how it is celebrated today, and tips for enjoying it without a hitch.
1. What is Inti Raymi?
Inti Raymi is an ancient Inca religious ceremony held every 24 June, during the winter solstice in the southern hemisphere. Its name in Quechua means Festival of the Sun, and its purpose was to honour the sun god (Inti) and give thanks for the harvest. It was declared Cultural Heritage of the Nation in 2001. More than 800 performers take part in a staging that revives the essence of this ancestral ceremony, combining music, dance, traditional dress and rituals.
2. Origin and history of Inti Raymi
Inti Raymi was established in the 15th century by the Inca Pachacútec as the most important celebration in the Andean calendar. In the time of the Inca Empire, the ceremony paid tribute to the Sun during the winter solstice, considered a crucial moment for agriculture.
The celebration could last up to 15 days and brought together more than 50,000 people from across Tahuantinsuyo in the city of Cusco. After the arrival of the Spanish, however, Inti Raymi was banned as a pagan ritual. Even so, the tradition stayed alive in the memory and the heart of the Andean people.
It was only in 1994 that, thanks to the efforts of the historian Humberto Vidal Unda and the American Institute of Art, Inti Raymi returned as the public cultural performance we know today.
3. When is Inti Raymi celebrated?
Inti Raymi is held every 24 June in Cusco, coinciding with the Day of the Peasant and the Andean solstice. The date marks the start of a new solar and agricultural cycle, and carries deep spiritual meaning for the peoples of the Andes.
4. What is Inti Raymi like today?
Today Inti Raymi is one of the main tourist attractions in Cusco. More than 800 performers recreate the ancient rituals in a spectacle full of colour, music and dance that combines tradition and modernity.
The event draws thousands of visitors who come to witness a ceremony symbolising the connection between people, nature and the cosmos.
5. What is the route of Inti Raymi?
Inti Raymi takes place at three main locations:
Qorikancha (Temple of the Sun): the ceremony begins here with a salute to the Sun and opening rituals.
Plaza de Armas of Cusco: the Inca and his retinue greet the people and the authorities, reviving the solemnity of Tahuantinsuyo.
Sacsayhuamán: this majestic archaeological complex is the main stage of Inti Raymi. Here the ritual dances, offerings and sacred chants take place, ending with a message of spiritual renewal.
6. Tips for enjoying Inti Raymi
Arrive early — the crowds are large.
Buy your tickets in advance to get the best seats.
Wear comfortable clothing and bring sunscreen, a hat, water and a camera.
Respect the setting and take part with an open mind — this is a living cultural experience.
Bring cash, preferably in soles.
Look after your personal belongings.
7. Experience Inti Raymi with Sakura Expedition
At Sakura Expedition we offer exclusive tour packages for Inti Raymi. You will enjoy:
Preferential access to the best viewing areas
Comfortable, safe tourist transport
A professional guide
Personalised service so your experience is unforgettable
Book your place today and experience Inti Raymi authentically and without worries.
