What is the Inti Raymi Festival?

Inti Raymi, or the Festival of the Sun, is an ancient Inca celebration held each year in honor of Inti, the sun god. Taking place on June 24th, it coincides with the winter solstice in the Southern Hemisphere, marking the beginning of a new year in the Inca calendar. For the Incas, Inti Raymi was one of the most important ceremonies, as it honored the sun, which they believed sustained life and prosperity.

Today, Inti Raymi is the second-largest festival in South America, drawing thousands of visitors from around the world. The festival is an immersive cultural experience, with performers dressed in traditional Inca attire reenacting ancient rituals, music, and dances in three main locations across Cusco: Qorikancha (Temple of the Sun), the Main Plaza, and Sacsayhuaman Fortress. Each location represents a unique stage of the celebration, and together, they offer a powerful insight into Inca history and spirituality.

Why You Should Buy Inti Raymi 2025 Tickets Early

Due to the popularity of Inti Raymi, tickets often sell out well before the festival date. Purchasing your Inti Raymi 2025 tickets in advance guarantees access and allows you to choose from the best seating options, which can greatly enhance your experience.

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Inti Raymi 2025 Ticket Options: Seating Sections and Prices

To accommodate diverse audiences, Inti Raymi offers three seating sections with varying views and price points. Here’s a breakdown of each section:

Section	Description	Distance from Stage	Seats Available	Ideal For
Orange Section	The best view, facing the main stage, ideal for panoramic photos	10 meters / 32 feet	1,989 seats	Photography, close-up experience
Red Section	Second-best option, located on the right side of the stage	17 meters / 55 feet	1,188 seats	Clear view from the side, good value
Green Section	Economy option, located left of the stage	25 meters / 82 feet	810 seats	Budget-friendly, dancers frequently interact

Each section offers a unique perspective of the festival, with the Orange Section providing the most direct view of the main stage. Choosing the right section depends on your priorities—whether you want the best views for photography, an immersive side view, or a more budget-friendly option.

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How to Purchase Inti Raymi 2025 Tickets

Inti Raymi tickets can be purchased directly through our website.  It is recommended to book a package that includes transfers and hotel.

Ticket Purchase Tips:

1. 1. Book early: Tickets often sell out several months in advance, especially in the Orange and Red sections.

1. 1. Verify authenticity: Only buy from official sites or trusted agencies.

1. 1. Check seating maps: Use seating maps to visualize where each section is located and make an informed choice.

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When and Where to Experience Inti Raymi 2025

The festivities are divided across three major locations in Cusco, each representing a different phase of the celebration:

1. 1. Qorikancha (Temple of the Sun)
      
      • • Time: 9:00 a.m.
      • • Description: The festival begins at the historic Qorikancha, where the Inca King addresses the sun god with prayers and offerings. This initial ceremony offers a close-up view of the traditional opening rituals in an intimate setting.

1. 1. Main Plaza of Cusco
      
      • • Time: 11:00 a.m.
      • • Description: The procession continues to Cusco’s central plaza, where dancers and musicians bring the festival to life with performances honoring the Inca heritage. Crowds gather in the plaza to watch the lively procession and the Inca’s symbolic blessings.

1. 1. Sacsayhuaman Fortress
      
      • • Time: 1:00 p.m.
      • • Description: The main event unfolds at Sacsayhuaman, an ancient Inca fortress overlooking Cusco. This grand ceremony, open to ticket holders, includes dances, music, and the Inca King’s symbolic sacrifice to the sun. The Sacsayhuaman ceremony is the most visually stunning part of the festival, as it’s staged amidst the fortress ruins with a mountainous backdrop.

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Insider Tips for the Best Inti Raymi Experience

1. 1. Arrive Early: Crowds are large, and arriving early secures the best spot in your section.

1. 1. Dress for the Weather: June in Cusco can be chilly, so layers are recommended. Bring sun protection, as the day’s events take place outdoors.

1. 1. Bring Essentials: Snacks, water, and a portable cushion for seating can improve comfort.

1. 1. Photography Tips: The Orange section provides the best photo opportunities, but each location offers unique perspectives. Capture shots from the plaza for closer portraits, and from Sacsayhuaman for panoramic photos of the performances against the fortress.

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Exploring Cusco During the Inti Raymi Festival Week

The week leading up to Inti Raymi is filled with events celebrating Peruvian culture. Some highlights include:

• • Concerts and Dance Shows: Local and international artists perform live in the main plaza, offering a taste of Andean music and dance.

• • Street Fairs: Explore local crafts, textiles, and foods as Cusco’s streets come alive with market stalls and artisans.

• • Parades: Enjoy colorful parades featuring dancers and musicians in traditional Inca attire.

These events are free to the public, providing an excellent opportunity to experience the local culture beyond the main Inti Raymi ceremony.

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Where to Stay: Top Accommodation Options Near the Festival

To ensure a seamless experience, consider staying near Cusco’s historic center or Sacsayhuaman. Some popular options include:

1. 1. Luxury: Belmond Hotel Monasterio – A high-end option with Inca-inspired decor, located close to Qorikancha.

1. 1. Mid-Range: Hotel Rumi Punku – Offers comfort with an authentic Andean ambiance, walking distance to the main plaza.

1. 1. Budget: Kokopelli Hostel Cusco – An affordable choice with lively communal spaces and easy access to festival sites.

Booking accommodations early is recommended, as Cusco’s hotels fill up quickly around Inti Raymi.

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Inti Raymi Seating Map and Visual Guide

To help you choose the ideal seat, here’s a visual breakdown of each section’s proximity to the stage:

• • [Insert Seating Map Image Here] – Clearly labeled seating map with color-coded sections (Orange, Red, Green) indicating distance and direction relative to the main stage.

Don’t Miss Inti Raymi 2025

Inti Raymi is an extraordinary celebration of Inca heritage and one of the most spectacular cultural events in South America. Experiencing it live in Cusco is a journey back in time, offering an authentic taste of Inca traditions, music, and rituals. Secure your Inti Raymi 2025 tickets early, plan your stay, and get ready for an unforgettable festival honoring the sun god, Inti.

Ready to book your tickets? Check the options below to secure your place at the Festival of the Sun!