Inti Raymi is one of Peru’s most impressive celebrations and one of the most important festivals of Inca culture. Every June 24th, the imperial city of Cusco relives this ancient ceremony in honor of the Sun God, paying homage to the millennia-old heritage of the Tahuantinsuyo (Inca Empire). If you plan to travel to Peru on this date, knowing its history, schedule, and the correct way to purchase your tickets will be essential to fully enjoy this Festival of the Sun in Cusco.
History of Inti Raymi
Inti Raymi, which in Quechua means “Festival of the Sun,” was established by the Inca Pachacuti in the 15th century. This ceremony symbolized the beginning of a new agricultural cycle and gave thanks to the Sun for the harvests. During the Inca period, thousands of people gathered on the esplanade of Qorikancha and the fortress of Sacsayhuaman, where priests, nobles, and the Inca himself participated in sacred rituals and traditional dances.
Although banned during the colonial era, Inti Raymi was revived in 1944 thanks to the historian Faustino Espinoza Navarro. Since then, it has been celebrated annually as a theatrical reenactment of the original ritual, preserving the Quechua songs, traditional costumes, and respect for ancestral traditions.
Inti Raymi Schedule
Inti Raymi in Cusco is celebrated every June 24th, coinciding with Cusco Day. The festivities take place in three main locations that symbolize different moments of the Inca ceremony:
Qorikancha (Temple of the Sun) – 9:00 a.m.
The event begins at the Temple of the Sun, where the Inca and his court perform a ceremonial greeting to the sun. It is a very symbolic and spiritual moment.
Plaza de Armas of Cusco – 10:30 a.m.
Here, a public performance takes place with music, dances, and speeches by the Inca. Thousands of spectators fill the plaza to witness the beginning of the Inti Raymi ceremony.
Sacsayhuaman Fortress – 1:30 p.m.
This is the main event. The symbolic sacrifice of a llama (without harming any animals) and the grand ceremony of sun worship are reenacted. This is the most anticipated moment for the attendees.
How to Buy Tickets for Inti Raymi
There are two ways to attend Inti Raymi:
You can watch the first events for free from the street, or you can buy tickets for Inti Raymi at the Sacsayhuamán esplanade, where the main event takes place.
- Options for purchasing your tickets: Through the Municipal Festival Company of Cusco (EMUFEC): This is the official entity in charge of organizing the event. Tickets are sold on their official website or at their offices located on Avenida El Sol, Cusco.
- Through authorized travel agencies: These agencies usually offer packages that include transportation, a guide, and priority access to the event. Ideal for foreign visitors or those who wish to avoid lines.
- Recommendations when buying tickets:
- Purchase your tickets in advance, especially if you are traveling in a group.
- Verify that the tickets are official to avoid scams.
- Bring a hat, sunscreen, and water, as the event takes place outdoors.
Tips for Enjoying Inti Raymi in Cusco
- Arrive early: The streets of the city center fill up from the early hours.
- Acclimate beforehand: Cusco is located at an altitude of over 3,300 meters (10,000 feet), so it is recommended to arrive at least a day early to avoid altitude sickness.
- Wear comfortable clothing: The event involves walking and standing for several hours.
- Respect the local culture: Remember that, although it is a reenactment, it holds a deep spiritual meaning for the people of Cusco.
Conclusion
Inti Raymi is not just a historical reenactment, but a cultural experience that connects the past and present of the Andean people. Attending this Festival of the Sun in Cusco is to witness the legacy of a civilization that venerated nature and its balance with the universe. Plan your visit in advance, make sure you get your Inti Raymi tickets, and prepare to experience one of the most breathtaking spectacles in Peru.