How to Celebrate Peru Inti Raymi (Sun Festival) 2026

Don't think that Peru has only wonderful natural views like Machu Picchu, the Inca Trail, the Sacred Valley, and Rainbow Mountain. Now let's get ready to experience its grandest festival! On June 24th every year, Cusco welcomes Peru's Inti Raymi (the Sun Festival). Traditional celebrations, passionate activities, sacred rituals, and rich cuisine will make your trip to Peru unforgettable. Follow this article and step into a colorful world.

What & When Is Peru Inti Raymi

Date: Every June 24

Location: Cusco

"Inti Raymi", means the Sun Festival, is the language of the Incas called Quechua, used by many Cusco people today. It is aimed at celebrating the winter solstice in the Southern Hemisphere (the shortest day of the year), and marks the beginning of the Inca's New Year.

Founded by the Inca Emperor Pachacutec in 1430, it was originally created to worship the sun god Inti, to express gratitude for the bountiful harvest and to pray for blessings in the coming year.

Modern celebrations of the festival recreate ancient Inca rituals through grand parades, traditional ceremonies, lively dances and music, showcasing Andean culture.

How Do People Celebrate Inti Raymi in Peru

On every June 24, people usually hold a grand parade in Cusco to celebrate Peru's Inti Raymi, which is an activity you must participate in. It covers the 3 main events: morning ceremonies at Qorikancha (the Temple of the Sun), Coca Leaf Ceremony at Plaza de Armas, and the most anticipated Central Ceremony at Sacsayhuaman.

• Morning Ceremonies at 9:00 am: The celebration begins at Qorikancha, where actors praise the sun with the ritual of coca leaves and pray for its smooth progress.
• Coca Leaf Ceremony at 10:00 am: At the Plaza de Armas, actors perform the ritual of paying tribute to the sun, and the Incas present the sacred Qhipu (a knotted string for recording) to the mayor of Cusco, symbolizing governance and authority.
• Central Ceremony at 1:00 pm: Finally, you'll arrive at Sacsayhuaman, witnessing the climax of the entire parade: the priests pray and offer sacrifices to the Sun God with ancient rituals (don't worry, this is just a performance and no animals are harmed), and experience the solemnity and mystery of the Inca civilization.

While following the parade, you'll hear two kinds of Andean music: one is the fast-paced and passionate "San Juan", and the other is the slow-paced "San Juanito" accompanied by classical guitar playing. The colorful parade, colonial sites, and unique style of music create a lively atmosphere for you to feel the enthusiasm of Peruvians and the joy of the festival.

Sacsayhuaman, Cusco

Key Locations & Schedule of Peru Inti Raymi

Preparations of the Peru's Inti Raymi usually begin several days ago, and the full ceremonies will only take place on June 24. We list some important information in the table below for your reference.

Note:

• The starting time of the ceremonies and the price of tickets are not determined. It is best to check the specific time updated on the official website in advance.
• The space at Plaza de Armas is limited. You can reserve a balcony seat at the cafe in advance and enjoy the cuisine while watching the celebrations.
• Located directly in front of the ceremony site and Sacsayhuaman Fortress, the seats in orange zone are most popular with the best view. So I recommend booking your tickets as early as possible.

  Peru Inti Raymi Map for Locations & Seats

Transportation & Accomodation in Cusco

During Peru's Inti Raymi, traffic at the main locations of celebrations (Qorikancha, Plaza de Armas, and Sacsayhuaman) may be under control. It is recommended to check the official website for the latest information, and plan your itinerary. Note that hotels are often in short supply, so remember to book your accommodation several months in advance.

Qorikancha (Temple of the Sun), Cusco

How Can You Celebrate Peru's Inti Raymi

Participate in Traditional Dance

During Peru's Inti Raymi, the squares and streets of Cusco are filled with cheerful traditional dance performances. The locals as well as actors in bright costumes dance passionately, and often invite onlookers to join them. I believe this joyful atmosphere will touch you! Don't worry, simple dance moves are enough to be involved in the celebration, which often imitate agricultural activities such as farming and harvesting, or show the worship of natural elements.

Buy Souvenirs in Local Markets

In addition to the main celebrations of Peru's Inti Raymi, there are various markets selling various traditional handicrafts. Here you can find exquisite Andean textiles, with natural dyed fabrics and ancient Inca patterns, such as scarves and hats. Moreover, handcrafted pottery and silver jewelry are not only convenient to carry, but also suitable as gifts for your family members or friends. If you are interested in these traditional skills and patterns, chat with the stall owners. They are willing to tell you cultural stories about these handicrafts.

Taste Peruvian Dishes

I believe anyone can be awed by Peruvian dishes! There are many kinds of stalls selling specialities in Peru's Inti Raymi. You can taste the special dishes made with corn, potatoes, and beans. If you're willing to try, choose the roast guinea pig (cuy). It is the representative meat dish in the Andean region, usually roasted whole with a crispy crust. In addition, chicha de jora (a traditional drink made from fermented corn) is highly recommended, which is offered to the sun god Inti, symbolizing gratitude for the harvest.

Additional Activities Around Cusco You May Like

Visit Machu Picchu & Hike the Inca Trail

No traveler who explores Peru can miss visiting Machu Picchu. If you are adventure lovers, I suggest hiking from Cusco to Machu Picchu, or hiking the Inca Trail. You'll pass through misty mountains, primeval forests, and Inca ruins along the way, and finally overlook the panoramic view of Machu Picchu through Inti Punku (the Sun Gate). If your time is limited, taking the sightseeing train directly to Aguas Calientes in Machu Picchu is a good choice.

Explore the Sacred Valley

Sacred Valley is a must-visit attraction around Cusco, featuring numerous charming towns and spectacular Inca sites, such as Pisac, Ollantaytambo, and Urubamba. You can cycle through the countryside, hike to explore the Salineras de Maras (salt evaporation ponds), or try the thrilling white water rafting on the Urubamba River. For tourists who enjoy experiencing local life, you can admire the traditional villages and pristine natural landscapes along the way.

Encounter Colors and Wildlife in Rainbow Mountain

People believe that dreams will come true if wishing for beautiful things, like a rainbow. Peru's Rainbow Mountain offers you the opportunity for this experience.

This colorful mountain is known as the "Mountain of Seven Colors". You will reach the viewpoint after a 3-hour drive and a 2 - 3 hour hike, then admire its bright colors, immersing yourself in the magnificent view. Apart from these, you may encounter wildlife that eat grass leisurely, such as alpacas, llamas, and horses.

Chocolate Cooking in ChocoMuseo (Chocolate Museum)

The ChocoMuseo (Chocolate Museum) is located near Cusco's Plaza de Armas, meaning you can easily reach it and add fun to your trip of Peru's Inti Raymi. Not only can you visit the interesting chocolate-making workshops, but also make chocolate by yourself, trying to combine Andean specialty ingredients such as quinoa and Peruvian chili peppers. In addition to the experience of cooking lessons, you can buy various organic chocolate products as souvenirs or keep energy during the journey.

Helpful Tips for Enjoying Inti Raymi in Peru

Dress in Layers to Stay Comfortable

It is recommended to dress in layers to cope with the large temperature difference between day and night in Cusco. To enhance your experience, you can choose bright colors or Andean costumes (such as traditional shawls with woven patterns), which can blend into the festive atmosphere and show respect for the local culture.

Packing List for Your Trip of Inti Raymi

As Peru's Inti Raymi is mainly held outdoors at a high altitude in Cusco, it is best to bring sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, and other sun protection products, as well as comfortable hiking shoes. The weather in mountainous areas is changeable, so a light raincoat or a folding umbrella is essential. Moreover, prepare sufficient bottled water and snacks to ensure that you can keep energy in time.

Respect Peru's Local Customs

Peru's Inti Raymi is a grand religious festival, so it is important to respect local customs:

• Avoid overly casual outfits to show the importance attached to the festival.
• Keep an appropriate distance and avoid interfering with the process of rituals.
• Keep quiet during the sacrificial ceremony and do not touch sacred objects.

Prevent Altitude Sickness in Cusco

Cusco and the surrounding sites are above 3,400 meters (11154 feet) in altitude. I suggest arriving early and having sufficient rest to prevent altitude sickness in Peru. It's better to avoid strenuous exercise and note that the slope of Sacsayhuaman is quite steep. You can also prepare anti-altitude sickness medication advised by your doctor.

Enjoy Peru's Inti Raymi With Odynovo

If you still have doubts or want to enjoy a hassle-free trip, contact Odynovo or send an email to [email protected]. We are willing to provide you with more information about Peru's Inti Raymi and professional services.