Discover one travel tale of history, tradition, and celebration—the magic of Inti Raymi in Cusco

One of the most colorful and culturally rich festivals in Peru takes place around this time of the year: Inti Raymi, or the Festival of the Sun. Celebrated every year on June 24th in the historic city of Cusco, this festival is held in honor of the Inca Sun God, Inti, on the day of the winter solstice. If you plan to visit, here's what you need to know about the great event.

A Glimpse into History

Inti Raymi initially took place during the 15th-century government of Inca Pachacutec in the Inca Empire. The festival was a grand celebration in honor of the sun, which is regarded as the most important deity according to the Inca religion.

The last Inti Raymi with the presence of the Inca Emperor took place in 1535, just before the Spanish conquest. Though forbidden by the Spanish, this festival has been revived since 1944 and now is a major cultural event.

Traditions and Rituals

Inti Raymi is the dramatized version of those ancient rituals of the Incas. The celebration begins at Qorikancha, the ancient Temple of the Sun, from where an actor playing the Sapa Inca, the Inca emperor, prays to the sun. It follows the Plaza de Armas, the main square of Cusco, where the Sapa Inca greets the crowd and asks for blessings. The peak of the festival is at the fortress of Sacsayhuamán, a site where ancient rituals are held, including the symbolic sacrifice of a llama.

What to Expect

The festival provides vibrant colored costumes, traditional Andean music, dances, and dramatic performances that are a feast for the senses. There are over 800 actors, dancers, and musicians participating in the presentation of these ancient traditions. The streets of Cusco are lined with vendors of all kinds, including those offering traditional foods, crafts, and souvenirs, adding to the lively festivity atmosphere.

Why You Should Visit

• Cultural Immersion: Be plunged into the most intensive Inca heritage; be allowed to see a living tradition alive and going for hundreds of years.
• Historical Significance: Learn the history of the Inca Empire and how vital the sun is with them.
• Great Performances: Watch in awe at the high-energy colored performances showing the best of Andean culture.
• Community Spirit: Join the celebration of thousands of locals and tourists all dancing to the beat of this important cultural event.

Tips for Visitors

• Come Early: It gets quite crowded around the main square and other important places, so it is best to arrive early to get the best spot.
• Dress Appropriately: Cusco's weather is quite unpredictable; wear layered clothing and bring hats and sunscreen with you.
• Respect Local Customs: Respect the local culture and traditions of the people, including the performers and the event itself.
• Book Ahead of Time: Accommodations and transportation bookings are necessary in advance, since Cusco enjoys a great deal of visitors during the festival.

Conclusion

Inti Raymi is more than a festival; it's the tides of life and culture, a vital spirit that has motivated the people of Inca through the times. Whether history, culture, or any other special travel experience, Inti Raymi in Cusco is surely an event not to be missed.

Then, gather your luggage together and get ready to be enchanted on this journey called the Festival of the Sun!