Cusco is gearing up to welcome over 150,000 tourists in June, a month filled with cultural and traditional celebrations, with Inti Raymi as the highlight.
The Provincial Municipality of Cusco and the Municipal Company of Festivities and Tourist Promotion of Cusco (Emufec) have organized over 150 activities to commemorate the significant event of Inti Raymi.
The President of the Cusco Chamber of Commerce announced the arrival of 150,000 tourists, exceeding the initial projection of 120,000 visitors. This increase is partly due to the APEC event, which will be held around the same time, attracting an additional 30,000 visitors. Currently, Cusco's hotel capacity is between 60% and 80% occupancy, reflecting the growing interest in June's festivities.
Inti Raymi: A celebration of Inca culture
Inti Raymi, or the Festival of the Sun, is one of Cusco's most essential and traditional festivals, celebrated every June 24th. This Inca ceremony honors the sun god, Inti, and marks the winter solstice in the Southern Hemisphere.
The celebration includes a recreation of the ancestral ritual, with actors dressed in traditional costumes representing the Inca and his entourage, performed at iconic locations like the Temple of Qoricancha and the fortress of Sacsayhuaman.
Highlighted activities
In addition to Inti Raymi, June in Cusco will offer a wide range of cultural, artistic, and gastronomic activities. Highlighted events include:
- Parades and civic-military parades: Colorful parades showcasing the region's cultural richness and diversity.
- Art and craft exhibitions: Showcasing local talent and ancestral traditions.
- Gastronomic fairs: Events to taste Cusco's varied and delicious cuisine, from traditional dishes to innovative culinary proposals.
- Concerts and folk performances: Celebrating traditional Andean music and dance.
Preparations and expectations
Cusco is fully preparing for these festivities and Inti Raymi, so both locals and tourists can expect an enriching and unique experience. The coordination between local authorities and private sectors aims to ensure all activities are conducted in an organized and safe manner, guaranteeing a memorable stay for all visitors.