Your trip to the Andes isn't complete without immersing yourself in the rich cultural life of Cusco. The ancient Inca capital is a setting for vibrant traditions, where ancestral ceremonies merge with colonial faith. If you're planning your Cusco trip to coincide with a holiday, prepare to witness something magical. At Machu Picchu Exploration, we guide you through the biggest events.
Inti Raymi: The Festival of the Sun (June 24) Inti Raymi, or “Festival of the Sun,” is Cusco’s most iconic and spectacular celebration. Originating in the Inca era to honor the sun god (Inti), today it is recreated as an impressive performance that attracts thousands of visitors from around the world.
What is it? It is a theatrical reenactment of the Inca ceremony, with hundreds of actors and musicians representing the Sapa Inca and the nobility. It is an event of great pomp and color.
Where does it take place? The celebration takes place in three main venues in Cusco:
Qorikancha (Temple of the Sun): The beginning of the ceremony.
Plaza de Armas: The central gathering and meeting of the Inca.
Sacsayhuamán: The climax of the festival, where the central ritual is performed.
Travel Tip: If you plan to visit during June, you should book your Machu Picchu tours and accommodations at least six months in advance, as demand is extremely high. Consider a private Machu Picchu guide to handle logistics amidst the crowds.
Qoyllur Rit’i: The Pilgrimage to the Snow (May/June) Qoyllur Rit’i, which translates as “Snow Star,” is one of the most important religious pilgrimages in the Andes. It is a cultural syncretism that combines Andean and Catholic beliefs.
What is it? Thousands of pilgrims (the naciones) climb to the foothills of the Sinakara Glacier to honor the Lord of Qoyllur Rit’i, the image of Christ. Inca tradition honored the Apus (mountain spirits) on these same peaks.
The Experience: It is a test of faith and endurance. The pilgrimage takes place in sub-zero temperatures, with traditional dances that last all night. It is an authentic and deeply spiritual event.
Travel Tip: While less touristy than Inti Raymi, it requires physical preparation for the extreme altitude. If you’re interested in cultural immersion, this is a unique experience you can combine with a Sacred Valley tour in your itinerary.
Other Highlighted Festivals
Holy Week (March/April): The processions are spectacular, especially that of the Lord of the Earthquakes.
Corpus Christi (June): Images of Cusco’s patron saints gather in a grand procession to the Cathedral.
Plan Your Cultural Trip with Machu Picchu Exploration
Experiencing a festival in Cusco is a powerful way to connect with living Inca history. Our team can help you plan your Cusco travel itinerary to coincide with these dates, and even manage transportation and ticket logistics.
