Our insider tips will guide you through planning the perfect Inti Raymi adventure. Thanks to our dedicated team based in Cusco and our experience hosting international travelers, we can offer you the latest updates on this extraordinary event.
As the grandest celebration of the Incan Empire, Inti Raymi was originally held during the winter solstice, marking the Incan New Year and honoring the Sun God, Inti. This pivotal event was tragically suppressed by Spanish colonial rule but later triumphantly revived. Today, Inti Raymi is a vibrant tapestry woven from ancient customs, serving as a cornerstone of local identity that attracts at the same time a global audience.
It is estimated that approximately 45,000 visitors traveled to Cusco to experience the 2024 edition of Inti Raymi.
To ensure a seamless experience, plan your Inti Raymi adventure well in advance. Due to overwhelming demand, many Cusco hotels require a minimum two-night stay. Secure your spot by purchasing tickets as soon as they go on sale, usually two months before the festival.
Check out our Instagram reel with highlights from our Inti Raymi visit with our groups this year.
On June 24th, the Inca and their entourage perform at 3 key locations in Cusco:
| Location | Ticket required | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Koricancha Cusco (Sun Temple) | Yes, since 2024 | ~ 45 min - 1 hour |
| 2. Cusco's main square | No | ~ 1 - 1,5 hours |
| 3. Sacsayhuaman Fortress (10-drive from Cusco) | Yes | ~ 4 hrs * |
* Despite the authorities announcing a shorter duration for the Inti Raymi 2024 performance at Sacsayhuaman Fortress, the event still ended up lasting 4 hours.
There is only one type of ticket available for this area at Korikancha (~ USD 45 as of 2024)
Sacsayhuaman, on the other hand, offers three ticket categories:
| Ticket Category | Price 2024 | Location | Tickets Available |
|---|---|---|---|
| Green | USD 120 | On the sides of the ceremony | ~ 750 |
| Orange | USD 180 | Directly in front of the ceremony & Sacsayhuaman Fortress (best views) | ~ 1875 |
| Red | USD 170 | On the sides of the ceremony | ~ 1125 |
As a result, the orange category is the most popular and tends to sell out first. The photos below show the positioning of the categories.
It is also possible to buy combined tickets with access to Korikancha as well as one of the categories of Sacsayhuaman. Pricing starts at around 160 USD with the green category.
| Time | Activities |
|---|---|
| 08:30 | Walk to Korikancha from your hotel in Cusco |
| 09:30 | Watch the ceremony at Korikancha |
| 10:00 | The above option works well if you decide to buy tickets in advance at Korikanca. If not, consider leaving your hotel earlier to secure a good spot among the crowds. |
| Time | Activities |
|---|---|
| 09:45 | Meet your guide at your hotel in Cusco, then stroll to the main square and head to one of the restaurants in the main square featuring a privileged view from their balconies (must book in advance) |
| 10:30 | After a delicious brunch, enjoy the ceremony from the restaurant’s balcony (note that the brunch is served indoors, the balcony has standing space only) |
| 11:30 | Begin making your way to Sacsayhuaman. While walking is an option (approximately 45 minutes), taking a transfer is recommended due to the crowded streets on this day |
| 13:00 | Enjoy the show from the orange section at Sacsayhuaman and enjoy a prearranged boxed lunch when you get hungry |
| 17:00 | Return to Cusco by vehicle |
Cusco, the ancient Incan capital of Peru, is full of exciting things to do and an ideal base for exploring the breathtaking Sacred Valley and the world wonder Machu Picchu. Check out our article on the Top 10 things to do in Cusco and reach out if you need any help planning your next trip to Peru!
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