In June, the latent heart of the Inca Empire beats with greater intensity, especially during the Inti Raymi 2026. If you are planning your next trip to Cusco, combining the ancient festivity of Inti Raymi with hiking to Machu Picchu offers the ultimate adventure! Therefore, if you are already looking for flights to Peru and Cusco, this is also the ideal month to purchase a personalized package. It combines adventure, hiking, and deep cultural immersion in Cusco.
At Trails to Machu Picchu, we know that every detail of your trip matters. With hundreds of happy travelers, we know what works and what does not.
What is the Inti Raymi?
In the ancient Tahuantinsuyo, the Inti Raymi (Festival of the Sun) was one of the most important events for the Incas due to its sacred nature. According to chroniclers, people celebrated the Inti Raymi “after the solstice” between May and June. People from all social classes attended this festivity; however, the highest Inca authorities presided over it.
The Inca led the sacred ceremony of the Inti Raymi. The Inca headed the ceremony and sometimes acted as High Priest due to his high status as the “Firstborn Son of the Sun.” Thus, Inca society recognized the Inca’s high rank and sacred origin. A High Priest also participated in the ceremony; due to the sacred nature of the event, he had to have a close family and blood tie to the current Inca. Along these lines, the Coya, in addition to the Inca, also participated as a very important member in this ceremony.
Recognition of the sacred lineage in the Inti Raymi
Since the Inca and the Coya led the sacred ceremony, they also legitimized their origin and status. It recognized that the Sacred Sun God “was the natural father of the first Inca, Manco Cápac, and of the Coya, Mama Ocllo Huaco” (Limón, p. 9). Important figures such as political authorities, acllas, representatives, part of the imperial Inca army, and others participated in this ceremony. Before attending the event, attendees held previous ceremonies. In each ceremony, attendees presented themselves in their best clothing, much of which represented their places of origin and high status.
How to book tickets for the Inti Raymi?
During the Spanish colonization, authorities tried to erase important ceremonies like the Inti Raymi from history. Currently, the city celebrates this ceremony on June 24, a date that coincides with Cusco’s Central Day. To participate as part of the public attending this event, you can purchase your tickets on the official Teleticket website.
The system distributes tickets by zones:
- Sacsayhuaman: One of the largest and most important stages. It divides into several zones.
- Qorikancha: The first stage of the Inti Raymi, with a smaller space.
Additional information:
- Prices vary according to the zone and availability.
- In June, travelers sell out packages that include both zones, so we recommend booking several weeks in advance.
- The purchase limit per client is 12 tickets. Accredited tourist guides pay less.
- Prices vary from year to year.
- Children under 5 enter for free when accompanied by an adult and do not have access to seats.
- Entry is non-refundable.
Given that Inti Raymi tickets sell out easily, at Trails to Machu Picchu, we recommend making your reservation for Cusco and Machu Picchu in advance. Our team of travel advisors will take care of the logistics so that you can focus on enjoying your trip without the stress of buying your entry tickets or booking itineraries!
Combine culture with hiking and adventure
Can you imagine enjoying the Inti Raymi and then embarking on an unparalleled trek to Machu Picchu? With Trails to Machu Picchu, it is possible! Specifically, by combining the culture of the Inti Raymi with hiking toward Machu Picchu, you get the best of both worlds.
In Cusco, the month of June is known as the jubilee month. Acquire your travel package today, and we will take care of your itinerary. For example, you can acclimatize and choose one of our routes, such as:
- Inca Trail to Machu Picchu: One of the best trekking routes in all of the Americas. Book your tickets for the 2027 Inca Trail now.
- Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu: A route full of turquoise lakes, snowy peaks, and cloud forests. Acquiring tickets for this route offers more flexibility than the Inca Trail, and you can do it during most of the year.
- Inca Jungle to Machu Picchu: Combines mountain biking, white-water rafting, and the thrill of zip-lining in a single trip. Additionally, you will live an immersive experience with authentic cacao—a favorite for many.
Or try alternative trekking routes such as:
- Huchuy Qosqo to Machu Picchu: Culture awaits you along the way, where you will visit archaeological sites accessible only by walking.
- Lares Trek to Machu Picchu: On this trekking route, you will start your adventure relaxing in the thermal and medicinal waters of Lares. You will continue through impressive landscapes surrounded by llamas, alpacas, and vicuñas.
Each of these travel routes will allow you to see impressive places, push your limits, and delight in unique gastronomy, all as a prelude to the world wonder, Machu Picchu. Will you miss it?
Let the Andes conquer you today. Secure your spot at Machu Picchu today. Book your next tour with us.