Inti Raymi Full Day

The Inti Raymi tour: Relive one of the principal sacred ceremonies of the Incas every 24th of June. The Inti Raymi festival or “sun festival”, attracts thousands of tourists each year, and is a celebration in honour of the Sun that was performed by the Incas every winter solstice. The event begins at The Qoricancha, continues in the main square and ends at the Sacsayhuaman fortress. In the midst of dances and offerings, the Incas asked the sun to continue to shine and to favour the crops for the upcoming year. By witnessing this event you will be transported back in time, and that you are a participant in this great ceremony. Without a doubt, this is an experience that you cannot miss out on!

Day 1: Inti Raymi: the Festival of the Sun - Qoricancha – Plaza de Armas – Sacsayhuaman (07 hr tour)

Experience the Inti Raymi Festival, also known as the Inti Raymi Festival of the Sun, and discover one of the most important celebrations of Inca culture in Cusco.

In the morning, at the agreed time, we will meet at Qoricancha, also known as the “Golden Enclosure.” During the Inca period, this was the main temple dedicated to the Sun. Here, we will observe the first rituals honoring Apu Inti, the Sun deity, and Pachamama, or Mother Earth.

Next, we will continue to the Plaza de Armas, formerly known as Waqaypata, or the “Warrior’s Square.” This historic square was one of the main ceremonial settings for the Inti Raymi Festival of the Sun, where the ceremony took place around a large ushnu, or ceremonial platform.

Finally, we will head to Sacsayhuamán for the most spectacular scene of the celebration and its grand finale. The name Sacsayhuamán is traditionally associated with the Quechua words saqsay and waman, commonly interpreted as “satiate falcon.”

After experiencing the Inti Raymi Festival, we will return to your hotel in Cusco.

Overnight: Hotel in Cusco (not included)

What is the Inti Raymi Festival?

The Inti Raymi Festival is a traditional celebration dedicated to the Sun deity, Inti, and rooted in Inca culture. Also known as the Inti Raymi Festival of the Sun, this important celebration takes place in Cusco and features ceremonial events at historic Inca sites.

How long is the Inti Raymi Festival tour?

The Inti Raymi Festival tour lasts approximately 7 hours. The itinerary includes visits to Qoricancha, Plaza de Armas and Sacsayhuamán, followed by a return transfer to your hotel in Cusco.

Why is Sacsayhuamán important during Inti Raymi?

Sacsayhuamán is the final stop on this Inti Raymi tour and the setting for the celebration's grand finale described in the itinerary. The archaeological site provides the backdrop for one of the most spectacular scenes of the festival.

What does Inti Raymi mean?

Inti Raymi is commonly translated as “Festival of the Sun.” The name reflects the celebration's connection to Inti, the Sun deity, and its roots in Inca religious traditions.

Where does the Inti Raymi tour begin?

The tour begins at Qoricancha in Cusco, at the agreed meeting time. From there, the itinerary continues to Plaza de Armas and Sacsayhuamán before returning to the hotel.