Inti Raymi is a Quechua word that means 'Sun Feast', the most important feast for the ancient Cusco, the capital of Tahuantinsuyo. In all the winter solstices (between June 20 and 23) the Inca performed a ritual in honor of the sun, the highest divinity in the Tahuantinsuyo. Formerly he was known as Wawa Inti Raymi. Pachacutec, who ordered the construction of Machu Picchu, began this religious-cultural tradition in the 15th century. According to the Andean cosmovision, at that time the sun was starting its cycle again. Since 1944, this tradition was reinstated in Cusco. Today, it is one of the most important celebrations in Peru. Its celebration includes dances, performances, typical costumes, and a series of ideal activities if you are visiting the city of Cusco.
Going back to the history of Peru, specifically of the Incas, the Inti Raymi or Sun Feast was a celebration to worship the maximum god in the Tahuantinsuyo. The Sun God, today this feast that revalues the Inca tradition in the regions of the Andes, especially in the city of Cusco Peru, is celebrated every 24th of June. This festival is based on the ancient Inca ceremony known as the Wawa Inti Raymi. This ancient ritual was established by Pachacutec as we said before. The objective was to reorganize the empire with the cultural subjugation of the conquered peoples. With the passage of time, this ceremony was banned by the Spanish conquerors. Since 1944, the city of Cusco celebrates this feast as a vindication of the Inca culture. Although this festival is also celebrated in Ecuador and other Andean regions; Today is one of the main festivities of Peru.
After 60 years, this unique festival became part of the tradition in the city of Cusco. Today, its main characteristic is the colorful representation and history of the ancient Wawa Inti Raymi ceremony. This staging is performed by hundreds of actors wearing typical Inca clothing. The main role is held by the high priest Willaq Umo, the Inca nobility, the Inca and his wife the coya. In addition there are personifications of the retinue of the Inca, their delegates of the four of theirs or corners of the Tahuantinsuyo. This staging lasts 1 day, in which the whole 'Imperial City' lives with joy the Sun Feast.
On June 24 of each year, Cusco celebrates the Inti Raymi. This date is due to the fact that it coincides with the Day of the Peasant. In Cusco, that date was declared a holiday. June is considered the jubilee month of Cusco, not only for the celebration of this festival but also for the famous Corpus Christi.
The Inti Raymi 2025 will be held on June 24 in the city of Cusco. As every year, the celebrations will begin in the Qoricancha or Temple of the Sun. Then it will continue in the Main Square, also known as the 'Warrior Square o Aucaypata'. Finally, the ceremony will conclude in Sacsayhuaman. The main character will be the Inca Pachacutec and will be in charge of a proffesional Cusco actor. The role of his wife or coya will be in charge of a cusquenian actress too. The objective is to revalue the culture of the Inca ancestors as well as motivate tourists to visit Peru. This year the participation of more than 700 artists on stage and more than 100 thousand spectators among tourists and locals is expected.
If you are planning your trip to Cusco on June, we have good notices!!!, there are many treks, tours or adventure experiences that you can take with us. To start we have to mention one of our best package, why? It only not includes Inti Raymi, also the most famous and incredible hike to Machu Picchu, the Inca Trail, the Salkantay Trek, so imagine this route that start celebrating Inti Raymi to experience Inca Trail!! But wait, we must said you that is highly recommended to make a booking 6 moths before your trip because Inca Trail permits are so limited. If you didn't book it on time, don't worry, here another option that includes a visit through the fantastic route : Sacred Valley, Inti Raymi and Machu Picchu
Not many time? Here the option: Inti Raymi Festival.
