INTI RAYMI TOUR 2 DAYS

Tour Details:

• DURATION: 2 days – 1 night
• STARTING POINT: Cusco Airport
• ENDING POINT: Cusco Hotel
• DEPARTURE DATE: 23rd of June 2025
• TOUR TYPE: Cultural and Historic

Highlights:

• Sacsayhuaman Esplanade: Experience the most significant stage of the Inti Raymi festival here, set against the striking backdrop of ancient Inca architecture and vibrant festival displays.
• Authentic Cultural Experience: Observe traditional Inca rituals and performances, delving deeply into the historical practices and beliefs of the Inca civilization.
• Colorful Processions: Delight in the vivid display of traditional costumes and the majestic procession of the Inca and his court, fully immersing attendees in the grandeur of the celebration.
• Seasonal Significance: Witness the festival aligned with the winter solstice, offering enlightening insights into the rhythm of agricultural cycles and their vital importance to Andean communities.
• Stunning Scenery: Admire the breathtaking landscapes surrounding Cusco, where natural beauty and historical significance perfectly blend to enhance the entire festival experience.

Essential Tips

• Dress Comfortably: Be prepared for varying temperatures by dressing in layers, as Cusco’s weather can be unpredictable. A hat and sunscreen are crucial due to the high altitude and intense sun exposure.
• Stay Hydrated: Given the elevation, it’s vital to drink ample water to stay hydrated and help acclimate to the altitude. Carry a reusable water bottle during your activities.
• Arrive Early: To secure the best viewing spots for the Inti Raymi festival events, arrive early, especially at the Sacsayhuaman Esplanade, where crowds gather quickly.
• Respect Local Customs: Engage with the festival respectfully, recognizing it as a sacred and cultural event. Be mindful of personal space and refrain from disruptive behavior.
• Capture Moments Respectfully: While photography is encouraged, always seek permission before photographing people, particularly locals in traditional attire.
• Learn a Few Phrases in Quechua: Enhance your experience by learning basic greetings and phrases in Quechua, which locals will appreciate and will help you feel more integrated into the festivities.

Short Itinerary

1st Day – Arrive in Cusco:

Settle into Cusco and take the day to acclimate to the altitude. Explore the city at a leisurely pace, visit local markets, and try some traditional Peruvian cuisine. Rest well as you prepare for the festivities ahead.

2nd Day – Inti Raymi Tour:

Start your day early to fully immerse yourself in the Inti Raymi festival. Begin with the opening ceremonies at Koricancha, then proceed to the Plaza de Armas for the historical reenactments. In the afternoon, head to the Sacsayhuaman Esplanade to experience the main event, where the vibrant displays of culture and history will captivate your senses.

FULL ITINERARY FOR INTI RAYMI.

Day 1.- Arrival in Cusco:

Arrive in Cusco at your convenience. Please provide your flight details so we can arrange your transfer to the designated hotel in Cusco. Today, you have no scheduled activities, allowing you to explore and enjoy the city at your leisure. If you arrive before noon, you have the option to participate in our guided city tour and experience the captivating sites of this colonial town.

During the city tour, you’ll have the chance to visit six renowned locations around Cusco: The Cathedral, the Qorikancha or Temple of the Sun of the Incas, Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, and Pucapucara.

Our Recommendations:

• Take a leisurely stroll through the Plaza de Armas and surrounding areas, where you can admire the craftsmanship of Cusqueñian artisan stores.
• Sample the famous Peruvian cuisine at nearby restaurants or unwind on the park benches at Plaza de Armas, capturing memorable photos in the afternoon’s warm weather, even though the nights in Cusco can be quite chilly.
• If you enjoy the nightlife, explore the numerous nightclubs and bars around the square, bustling with tourists and locals eager for an evening of music and entertainment.

Day 2.- Inti Raymi Tour:

The Inti Raymi Tour begins at 8:00 a.m. when we pick you up from the hotel in Cusco. We’ll take a short 10-minute walk to Qorikancha, the Temple of the Sun of the Incas, where the ceremony commences and lasts for one hour. Please note that seats are not reserved in this section, so it’s essential to arrive early to secure a good spot.

Following this, we’ll walk for another 10 minutes to the main square for the second part of the Inti Raymi, which also lasts for an hour (from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m.). We then board a tourist bus to Sacsayhuaman, located 3 km from Cusco, where the most significant part of the Inti Raymi festival takes place. At Sacsayhuaman, all seats are reserved, and we provide you with the best section (Orange zone) for optimal viewing.

In Sacsayhuaman, the festival continues for 1 hour and 45 minutes. During the ceremony, you’ll witness the ritual of fire, the ritual of “Chicha,” and the special black llama sacrifice for the god Inti, or sun. Afterward, we’ll board the bus and return to Cusco. You’ll be transferred back to your hotel at approximately 4:00 p.m.

INCLUDES:

• Transportation: All transfers are covered.
• Entrance fee with a reserved seat in the Orange zone of Saqsaywaman.
• English-speaking experienced tour guide.
• Accommodation: Double occupancy for 1 night in Cusco ***
• Additional Services: Continuous assistance from a local guide.
• Participation in ceremonies at Qoricancha and Hauqaypata (Cusco’s Main Square).
• Private round-trip transportation.
• Packed lunch provided (vegetarian options available upon request).

EXCLUDED

• Meals: Lunch and dinner are not included; please budget between US$15 to US$25 per meal.
• Airport taxes and tips.