Witness one of South America’s most spectacular cultural events on this 6-day journey combining the ancient Inca Sun Festival with an unforgettable visit to Machu Picchu. Timed around the June celebration, this tour blends historic exploration of Cusco and the Sacred Valley with a front-row experience of Inti Raymi, the vibrant reenactment of Inca rituals honoring the sun god Inti at Sacsayhuamán.
Designed for travelers who want to combine Peru’s most iconic archaeological wonder with its most colorful cultural celebration, this itinerary offers a rare opportunity to see traditional dance, music, and ceremony performed against a backdrop of monumental Inca architecture, all within a compact and well-paced week.
Overview
The 6-Day Inti Raymi Sun Festival Tour combines two of Peru's greatest attractions: the archaeological wonder of Machu Picchu and the living cultural spectacle of the Inti Raymi ceremony. Timed to coincide with the June celebration, this itinerary takes travelers through Cusco's historic center, the Sacred Valley's Inca sites, and the citadel of Machu Picchu before culminating in a vivid reenactment of ancient sun-worship rituals at Sacsayhuamán.
Tour Itinerary Summary
Day 1 — Cusco and Sacred Valley
- Arrival in Cusco and airport transfer
- Guided visit to Cusco Cathedral and Koricancha
- Tour of the Sacsayhuamán fortress
- Stop at Pisac archaeological site and handicraft market
- Lunch and transfer to Sacred Valley hotel
Day 2 — Ollantaytambo and Train to Aguas Calientes
- Morning tour of the Ollantaytambo fortress
- Free time to explore the historic town
- Afternoon train journey to Aguas Calientes
- Evening free for hot springs, museums, or the Butterfly Station
Day 3 — Machu Picchu Sunrise Tour
- Early bus transfer to Machu Picchu
- Sunrise viewing over the citadel
- Guided tour of temples, plazas, and terraces
- Free time to explore independently
- Optional Huayna Picchu Mountain ascent
- Train and road transfer to Ollantaytambo
Day 4 — Sacred Valley Return to Cusco
- Visit to the circular terraces of Moray
- Tour of the Salineras de Maras salt mines
- Stop in Chinchero for ruins and artisan textile demonstration
- Visit to a local llama farm
- Free evening in Cusco
Day 5 — Inti Raymi Sun Festival
- Morning ceremony at Koricancha, Temple of the Sun
- Transfer to Sacsayhuamán for the main festival reenactment
- Traditional dance, music, and ceremonial offerings
- Afternoon return to hotel and free evening
Day 6 — Departure
- Hotel check-out and airport transfer
- Assistance with flight check-in
- End of tour services
Why Choose This Tour
This tour is ideal for travelers who want to experience Peru's most significant cultural festival alongside its most famous archaeological site within a single trip. Rather than choosing between a Machu Picchu visit or witnessing Inti Raymi, this itinerary combines both, offering a richer and more complete picture of Inca history, spirituality, and heritage as it is celebrated today.
Tour Highlights
- Guided tour of Cusco's Cathedral, Koricancha, and Sacsayhuamán
- Exploration of Pisac's archaeological site and handicraft market
- Visit to the Ollantaytambo fortress and living Inca town
- Train journey through the Sacred Valley to Aguas Calientes
- Sunrise visit and guided tour of Machu Picchu
- Optional ascent of Huayna Picchu Mountain
- Sacred Valley tour featuring Moray, Maras, and Chinchero
- Front-row experience of the Inti Raymi Sun Festival at Koricancha and Sacsayhuamán
Main Attractions
Cusco: The former Inca capital, home to the Cathedral, Koricancha, and Sacsayhuamán.
Pisac: An archaeological complex of terraces and temples, alongside a renowned artisan market.
Ollantaytambo: A living Inca town with a striking fortress and original urban layout.
Machu Picchu: The iconic citadel, explored with a guided tour and optional Huayna Picchu climb.
Sacred Valley (Moray, Maras, Chinchero): A region showcasing Inca agricultural innovation and traditional Andean crafts.
Sacsayhuamán during Inti Raymi: The dramatic setting for the festival's central ceremonial reenactment.
Experience
Travelers on this tour move through centuries of Inca history, from monumental stone fortresses to the terraced fields of the Sacred Valley, before witnessing history come alive through the Inti Raymi festival. The experience combines quiet moments, such as watching sunrise break over Machu Picchu, with the vibrant energy of costumed dancers, musicians, and ceremonial reenactments performed on the massive terraces of Sacsayhuamán, creating a journey that is equal parts contemplative and celebratory.
What Makes This Tour Special
Few itineraries allow travelers to experience both Machu Picchu and Inti Raymi in a single compact trip. The inclusion of the Sun Festival, one of the most significant surviving Inca ceremonies, adds a layer of living culture and spectacle rarely found in standard sightseeing tours, making this itinerary particularly appealing to travelers interested in cultural immersion rather than ruins alone.
Recommended For
- Culturally Curious Travelers
- Photographers
- Couples
- Families
- First-time Visitors to Peru
- History Enthusiasts
- Festival and Event Travelers
- Solo Travelers
Useful Information
Altitude: Cusco sits at approximately 3,400 m, with Machu Picchu at around 2,430 m.
Climate: Cool, dry conditions typical of the Andean winter season in June.
Recommended Season: Late June, timed specifically around the Inti Raymi celebration on June 24th.
Travel Time: Approximately 6 days from arrival in Cusco to departure.
Physical Level: Easy to moderate, with mostly guided walking and minimal strenuous activity.
Recommendations: Book well in advance, as Inti Raymi draws large crowds; dress warmly for cool mornings and evenings.
Itinerary
Day 1: June 20 – Arrival in Cusco – Exploring the City & Sacred Valley
Upon arrival at Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport (Cusco), we will greet you and begin your journey with a transfer to the Sacred Valley. Before heading to the valley, we will explore some of the most important sites in Cusco, the heart of the Inca Empire.
Our first stop is the Cusco Cathedral, an architectural masterpiece located in the Plaza de Armas. Inside, you’ll admire colonial art from the Cusco School and historical artifacts. Next, we visit Koricancha, the legendary Temple of the Sun, once covered in gold and dedicated to Inti, the Sun God.
From there, we continue to Sacsayhuamán, a remarkable Incan fortress with massive stone walls and stunning views over Cusco. After taking in the grandeur of this site, we leave the city and head toward the Sacred Valley, stopping first at Pisac to visit its archaeological site—a stunning complex of agricultural terraces, temples, and observatories.
Before continuing, we explore the famous Pisac Handicraft Market, where you can admire and purchase traditional Andean textiles, silver jewelry, and handicrafts.
By midday, we head deeper into the Sacred Valley for a delicious lunch at a local restaurant. Afterward, we proceed to our hotel in the Sacred Valley, where you can relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings before the adventures ahead.
Overnight in the Sacred Valley.
Meals: Not Included.
Day 2: June 21 – Ollantaytambo Archaeological Site & Train to Aguas Calientes
Early in the morning, we visit the impressive Ollantaytambo Archaeological Site, an ancient Incan fortress that served as a strategic military, religious, and agricultural center. This site is also known for its sophisticated terracing system and remarkable stonework.
After exploring Ollantaytambo, we have some free time to walk through the charming streets of this living Inca town before heading to the train station.
In the afternoon, we board the train to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu. The train ride lasts approximately 90 minutes, offering breathtaking views of the Urubamba River and lush Andean landscapes.
Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, we check in at our hotel and have the rest of the day free to relax. We recommend:
– Soaking in the **hot springs** of Aguas Calientes.
– Visiting the **local museums**, which take about 45 minutes to 1 hour to explore.
– Exploring the **Butterfly Station**, a great place to see Andean butterflies, with a visit duration of approximately 30–40 minutes.
Overnight in Aguas Calientes.
Meals: B (Breakfast).
Day 3: 22 June – Machu Picchu – The Lost City of the Incas
Early in the morning, we take the CONSETTUR bus for a 30-minute journey up to Machu Picchu, one of the most iconic archaeological sites in the world. Upon arrival, we will have the chance to witness the breathtaking sunrise over Machu Picchu, a magical moment that enhances the beauty and mystery of this sacred place.
We then begin our guided tour of Machu Picchu, which lasts approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes. As we walk through this ancient Inca citadel, our guide will explain the significance of its most remarkable structures, including temples, plazas, and agricultural terraces. You will discover the impressive architectural precision of the Incas and learn about the historical and spiritual importance of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
After the tour, you will have free time to explore Machu Picchu at your own pace, take iconic photos, or simply immerse yourself in the energy of this mystical city. If your reservation includes Huayna Picchu Mountain, we will begin the ascent, which takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. The climb is steep and requires effort, but reaching the summit offers spectacular panoramic views of Machu Picchu and the surrounding cloud forest. We will have about 40 minutes to enjoy the scenery before starting the 1-hour descent back to the main site.
Once our visit is complete, we return to Aguas Calientes for lunch and some time to relax. In the afternoon, we take the train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo, where our private transport will take us to our hotel in **Ollantaytambo**, where we will spend the night and rest for the next day’s adventure.
Meals: B (Breakfast).
Day 4: 23 June – Exploring the Sacred Valley on the Return to Cusco
After breakfast, we will begin our journey back to Cusco with a tour through the Sacred Valley. The route will take us to some of the most iconic sites, starting with **Moray**, an ancient Incan agricultural site known for its circular terraces that are believed to have been used for experimental farming. We will then visit the **Salineras de Maras**, the impressive salt mines that have been in operation since pre-Inca times, where you will have the opportunity to learn about the traditional salt production process.
Next, we head to **Chinchero**, a town famous for its Inca ruins and colonial church. Here, we will also visit a local **artisan workshop** where you will see the traditional techniques used to create textiles and crafts. We will also stop at a **llama farm**, where you will have the chance to interact with these iconic animals of the Andes.
Once we arrive in Cusco, you will have the rest of the day to relax and enjoy the city. Our private transport will be available throughout the day for your convenience, allowing you to visit a recommended restaurant for lunch or dinner. Our guide will be happy to provide suggestions for local dining options to make the most of your free time.
Meals: B (Breakfast).
Day 5: 24 June – Sun Festival Experience – Celebrating the Inti Raymi
Early in the morning, we will head to Koricancha, the Temple of the Sun, where the Sun Festival, or Inti Raymi, begins. Koricancha was one of the most important Incan temples, dedicated to Inti, the Sun God. This is the perfect location to start the celebration of the Sun Festival, a traditional ceremony that honors the sun and the Inca heritage.
From Koricancha, we will continue our journey to Sacsayhuaman, where we will experience the central part of the Inti Raymi festival. Here, you will witness a live reenactment of the ancient Incan rituals and ceremonies, including vibrant dances, music, and the iconic symbolic offerings to the sun. Sacsayhuaman’s massive terraces provide a stunning backdrop for the festival, making it a truly unforgettable experience.
In the afternoon, we will return to the hotel, allowing you to relax and reflect on the rich cultural heritage you’ve just experienced. The evening will be free for you to enjoy at your leisure.
Meals: B (Breakfast).
Note: PAD includes the entrance fees, though it is always recommended to make reservations in advance to secure a good spot and avoid missing out on the best viewing areas.
Day 6: 25 June – Transfer Out – End of the services
After breakfast, we will check out of the hotel and our private transport will take us to the airport in Cusco. This is the final leg of our journey, so it’s time to relax and reflect on the incredible experiences of the past few days.
Upon arrival at the Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport in Cusco, we’ll assist you with the check-in process for your flight to Lima, finalizing our services.
Meals: B (Breakfast).
Includes
- Accommodation: 5 nights of accommodation in 3-star or 4-star hotels, including one night in Ollantaytambo and one night in Aguas Calientes.
- Transportation: Private transport from Cusco to Sacred Valley, train tickets to Aguas Calientes, and private transport back to Cusco.
- Guided Tours: Professional English-speaking guides for all archaeological sites and Machu Picchu.
- Meals: as mentioned in the itinerary.
- Entrance Fees: Entrance fees to all archaeological sites, including Machu Picchu, Sacred Valley, and other Inca sites.
- Festival Tickets: Tickets to the Inti Raymi Festival and all related activities.
What’s Not included
- International Flights: Flights to and from Peru are not included.
- Meals Not Specified: Some meals, particularly during travel days, are not included (e.g., lunch and dinner on Day 6).
- Personal Expenses: Personal items like souvenirs, laundry, tips, or any optional activities.
- Travel Insurance: Travel insurance is not included, and we recommend purchasing it separately.
- Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain Entrance: Additional entrance fees for Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain are not included unless specifically mentioned in your booking.
Packing List
- Comfortable Walking Shoes: For walking on uneven terrain and exploring Inca ruins.
- Lightweight Clothing: Layers for varying temperatures during the day (warm and cool).
- Warm Jacket: Evenings and early mornings can be chilly in the high-altitude areas.
- Rain Gear: A light rain jacket or poncho is recommended as rain showers are possible.
- Hat and Sunglasses: For sun protection during outdoor activities.
- Sunscreen: High-altitude sun can be intense, so bring a high-SPF sunscreen.
- Water Bottle: Stay hydrated during the hike and tours.
- Camera: To capture the stunning scenery and memorable moments.
- Personal Medications: If you have any medications or special requirements, please bring them with you.
- Small Backpack: For carrying your essentials during day trips and hikes.
- Insect Repellent: Useful, especially during your time in the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu.
- Travel Adapter: Peru uses types A and C power plugs, so bring an adapter if necessary.
- Cash: It is advisable to carry small amounts of cash for tips and souvenirs. ATMs are available in Cusco and Aguas Calientes.
Location for: 6 Days Sun Festival “Inti Raymi”
Travel Information
- Arrival in Cusco: Please plan to arrive in Cusco at least one day before the tour starts to acclimate to the high altitude (3,400 meters / 11,155 feet).
- Altitude: Cusco is located at an altitude of 3,400 meters (11,155 feet), which can cause altitude sickness for some travelers. It is recommended to take it easy during the first day and drink plenty of water.
- Travel Insurance: We recommend all travelers to have comprehensive travel insurance, covering medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost luggage.
- Transportation: All transfers and transportation during the tour, including trains and private transport, are provided. Be sure to bring your passport for entry to Machu Picchu.
- Meals: Meals are included as per the itinerary. Dietary preferences and restrictions should be communicated in advance.
- Pack Light: We recommend bringing light, comfortable clothing and sturdy shoes for the trek, as well as a daypack for essentials like water, snacks, and sunscreen.
- Train Schedule: The train journey from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo is approximately 90 minutes. Please be aware of the train schedules for smooth transfers.
What to Bring
Pack layered clothing suitable for cool Andean mornings and evenings, comfortable walking shoes for archaeological site visits, sun protection, and a light rain jacket. A camera is essential for capturing both Machu Picchu and the vivid costumes of the Inti Raymi festival. A small daypack for water and personal items is recommended for the festival day, as crowds and standing periods are common during the ceremony.
Included
Most packages include professional guiding, private transportation, entrance fees to archaeological sites, Machu Picchu entrance tickets, train tickets between the Sacred Valley and Aguas Calientes, Inti Raymi festival access, and accommodation throughout the itinerary. Daily breakfast is typically included, with additional meals as specified in the itinerary.
Not Included
Typically excluded are international flights, travel insurance, most lunches and dinners, tips for guides and drivers, the Huayna Picchu entrance ticket (reserved separately and in advance), premium seating for Inti Raymi if desired, and personal expenses such as souvenirs.
Physical Difficulty
This tour is rated easy to moderate, involving mostly guided walking at archaeological sites with some uneven terrain. The optional Huayna Picchu climb is more demanding and involves a steep ascent. The Inti Raymi festival day involves extended periods of standing or walking between viewing areas, so comfortable footwear is recommended.
Altitude Information
Cusco sits at approximately 3,400 meters, which can cause mild altitude discomfort for some travelers upon arrival. Machu Picchu, at around 2,430 meters, offers some relief from the higher elevations of Cusco. Taking it easy on the first day, staying hydrated, and avoiding alcohol initially can help with acclimatization.
Weather
June falls within the dry season in the Cusco region, characterized by sunny days, cold nights, and generally stable weather. Mornings and evenings can be quite chilly, particularly at higher elevations, so layered clothing is essential. Rain is uncommon during this period, making it one of the most favorable times to visit.
Transportation
Private transportation is used for transfers between Cusco, the Sacred Valley, and archaeological sites. A scenic train connects Ollantaytambo with Aguas Calientes for the Machu Picchu portion of the tour, while a shuttle bus provides access up to the citadel itself.
Best Time to Visit
This itinerary is specifically timed around the Inti Raymi festival, celebrated annually on June 24th, making late June the definitive time to experience this tour. Since the festival draws large crowds from around the world, early booking is strongly recommended to secure accommodations, festival access, and Machu Picchu entrance tickets.
Travel Tips
Book this tour well in advance, as Inti Raymi is one of Peru's most popular annual events and availability fills quickly. Arrive in Cusco at least a day before the festival to acclimatize to the altitude. Bring cash for local markets and dress in warm layers, as temperatures can drop significantly after sunset during the festival period.
Important Notes
Inti Raymi festival access and viewing areas can become crowded, so arriving early to secure a good vantage point is recommended. Machu Picchu entrance tickets and Huayna Picchu permits are subject to daily limits and should be reserved as early as possible, particularly given the high demand during the festival season.
Frecuendly asked questions
Inti Raymi, meaning “Festival of the Sun” in Quechua, is one of the most significant surviving Inca ceremonies, historically held to honor Inti, the Sun God, and to mark the winter solstice in the Southern Hemisphere. Today, it is reenacted annually in Cusco with elaborate costumes, traditional music, and ceremonial dances performed at key sites including Koricancha and Sacsayhuamán. The modern celebration draws thousands of visitors and locals, making it one of Peru’s most important cultural events and a major draw for travelers interested in Inca heritage.
The Inti Raymi festival is celebrated annually on June 24th in Cusco, Peru, coinciding with the winter solstice in the Southern Hemisphere. Festivities typically begin in the morning at Koricancha and culminate with the main ceremonial reenactment at the Sacsayhuamán fortress in the afternoon. Because the festival date is fixed, tours built around this event are scheduled specifically in late June, with many travelers booking accommodations and tours months in advance to secure availability.
Yes, many tour operators offer combined itineraries that include both a Machu Picchu visit and Inti Raymi festival attendance within a single trip, typically spanning around six days. These itineraries are structured to visit Machu Picchu first, followed by Sacred Valley exploration and the festival celebration in Cusco toward the end of the trip, allowing travelers to experience both of Peru’s premier attractions without needing to plan separate visits.
While some areas of the Inti Raymi festival, particularly around Koricancha and the streets of Cusco, are free and open to the public, the main ceremonial reenactment at Sacsayhuamán often requires tickets for designated seating areas, especially for the best views. Given the festival’s popularity, reserving tickets and accommodations well in advance is strongly recommended, as demand is extremely high during this period.
Cusco becomes significantly more crowded during the week of Inti Raymi, as the festival attracts large numbers of both international tourists and Peruvian visitors. Hotels, restaurants, and transportation can fill up quickly, and popular sites like Machu Picchu also see increased demand for entrance tickets during this period. Travelers planning to visit during Inti Raymi should book well in advance to avoid availability issues.
Inti Raymi is considered the most historically significant and elaborate of Cusco’s annual festivals, directly referencing the ancient Inca solar calendar and religious practices. Unlike smaller local celebrations, Inti Raymi involves a large-scale, choreographed reenactment with hundreds of performers in traditional dress, staged across multiple historic sites in Cusco. Its scale, historical significance, and connection to Inca heritage set it apart as Peru’s premier cultural festival.
Yes, this itinerary is well-suited for first-time visitors, as it combines the essential highlights of a Peru trip, Cusco, the Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu, with the added cultural depth of the Inti Raymi festival. The pacing is easy to moderate, with mostly guided activities and minimal strenuous physical demands, making it accessible to travelers of varying fitness levels and ages.
Layered clothing is essential, as June mornings and evenings in Cusco can be quite cold, while midday sun can be strong at high altitude. Comfortable, closed-toe walking shoes are recommended, as festival viewing areas often involve standing or walking for extended periods. A hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are advisable for daytime sun exposure, along with a warm jacket for cooler parts of the day.
Cusco sits at approximately 3,400 meters above sea level, which can cause mild altitude symptoms such as fatigue or headaches for some travelers, particularly in the first day or two after arrival. Since the Inti Raymi festival involves standing and walking for extended periods, arriving a day or two early to acclimatize is recommended. Staying hydrated and avoiding alcohol in the initial days can help minimize discomfort.
For travelers interested in cultural immersion beyond archaeological sightseeing, Inti Raymi offers a rare opportunity to witness a living tradition rooted in Inca religious practice, performed with elaborate costumes, music, and choreography at iconic historic sites. Rather than viewing ruins as static remnants of the past, festival attendees experience these locations as active cultural spaces, offering a deeper and more memorable connection to Peru’s Inca heritage than a standard sightseeing visit alone.
