Huánuco’s Fiesta del Sol (Inti Raymi)

The Inti Raymi, or Festival of the Sun, is a centuries-old Andean celebration that honors the sun god Inti—recreated every July 27 in the impressive setting of Huánuco Pampa, bringing Inca traditions back to life with color, devotion, and grandeur.

• Location & significance: This grand event takes place at the archaeological site of Huánuco Pampa, located 146 km west of the city of Huánuco. Once a vital administrative center of the Inca Empire, it now serves as the ceremonial stage for rituals that pay homage to Pachamama (Mother Earth) and Inti (the Sun God). The ceremonies include offerings, thanksgiving rituals, and spiritual petitions for agricultural abundance and harmony with nature, reflecting a deeply rooted Andean worldview.
• Date: Inti Raymi in Huánuco is celebrated on July 27, just three days after the famous version held in Cusco. It coincides with Peru’s national Day of the Sun and acts as an important regional expression of heritage. This timing allows visitors to attend both festivities and gain a broader understanding of Inca celebrations across different regions.
• Participants: Between 200 and 500 local actors, dancers, and musicians participate in the reenactment. A chosen performer represents the Inca emperor—typically Huayna Cápac or Illathupaq—accompanied by the Coya (queen), priests, warriors, and nobles. Through choreographed ancestral dances and spoken Quechua, they narrate the grandeur of the empire’s spiritual life, evoking reverence, drama, and unity.
• Regional representation: Inti Raymi in Huánuco Pampa also brings together delegations from various parts of the Andes, including Puno, Moquegua, and Tingo María. These delegations symbolize the four suyus or quarters of the Inca Empire—Antisuyo (jungle), Chinchaysuyo (north), Collasuyo (south), and Contisuyo (west)—turning the festival into a living tribute to Tawantinsuyo’s political and cultural organization.
• Government support: The event is organized by the Municipality of Dos de Mayo, in coordination with regional tourism and cultural authorities. It reflects a strong commitment to preserving intangible heritage and promoting local identity. Beyond a tourist attraction, Inti Raymi is a community-driven event that reinforces pride and intercultural dialogue among Peruvians.