Hello, dear traveller! Did you know that June is the most significant month in Cusco? Not only is it the dry season with pleasant weather (ideal for travel), but it also hosts the renowned Inti Raymi celebration, which features a variety of dances, processions, and ceremonies that attract locals and visitors from all over the world!
Why is June considered Jubilee Month in Cusco, Peru?
June is known as the jubilee month because of its many activities based on Andean cosmology and Inca heritage. These celebrations provide a one-of-a-kind visual spectacle as well as profound insights into the Andean worldview, emphasizing the role of Pachamama and celestial bodies in solemn ceremonies.
It is also a month when the entire region expresses its cultural identity through color, music, and devotion, with more than 300 artistic, spiritual, and civic events scheduled across Cusco.
Experience the June festivities in Cusco.
Sanctuary of the Lord of Qoyllur Riti
Date: June 1 - Pachamama Offering
The pilgrimage to the Sanctuary of the Lord of Qoyllur Riti (Lord of the Shining Snow) begins and ends in Ocongate, Quispicanchi. Thousands of faithful from Cusco and beyond have gathered here. This event is now classified as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
This event takes place at the base of the snowy Colquepunku, more than 5,000 meters above sea level in Sinakara, and features an image of Christ etched into the rock of a grotto. The pilgrimage is divided into eight "nations," named after their respective towns: Paucartambo, Quispicanchi, Canchis, Acomayo, Paruro, Tawantinsuyo, Anta, and Urubamba. These groups salute the image of the Lord of Qoyllur Riti in a formal manner.
Q’eswachaka Bridge Renewal
Date: June 6 - Start of the Annual Ritual
The Q'eswachaka bridge renewal festival takes place in Quehue, Canas, Cusco, during the second week of June. This suspension bridge, made entirely of vegetable fibers and stretching 28 meters, is part of the ancient Inca Trail and was designated an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO in 2013.
Around 1,000 villagers gather, with women braiding the ichu and men replacing broken ropes. They also take part in ceremonies to the Pachamama (Earth goddess) and Apus (mountain gods) led by an Andean priest.
This bridge is a living legacy of Inca engineering and community values, built anew every year using ancient techniques passed down through generations.
Inti Raymi: The Festival of the Sun
Date: June 24 - Inti Raymi Ceremony
Inti Raymi, dedicated to the Sun God, is the Inca Empire's most important celebration and the focal point of Cusco's jubilee month. This grand occasion occurs between the end of the harvest and the start of the Andean winter solstice.
The Coricancha temple, Plaza de Armas, and Sacsayhuamán fortress host over 700 performers reenacting ancient rituals. Since 2001, it has been recognized as the nation's cultural heritage and the main ritual ceremony of national identity.
This ceremonial reenactment is conducted entirely in Quechua and includes traditional offerings, the Inca's proclamation, and dramatizations of Inca court life making it one of Latin America's most stunning cultural performances.
Corpus Christi
Date: June 6 - Octave of the Corpus Christi Cusqueño Festivity
Corpus Christi is one of Cusco and Peru's most iconic celebrations, having been designated as a National Cultural Heritage in 2004. It has been celebrated for over 400 years and incorporates both Andean and Catholic traditions. When the Spanish conquerors arrived in Cusco, they replaced the sovereigns' mummies in solemn processions with religious images of Christ, saints, and prayers to the Virgin Mary.
Fifteen saints and virgins from different parishes are carried to the Cusco Cathedral, where they remain for eight days before returning with another parade and mass. The event also features traditional dishes like “chiri uchu,” a cold dish of Andean origins.
Image by: Luna Joie
Additional Festivities
- June 2: Great Race "Qosqo 10K Hatun Phaway 2024"
- June 8: Light Salute Parade to Cusco
- June 10-13: Parades of typical Cusco dances by educational institutions
- June 14: Gala concert by the Cusco Symphony Orchestra
- June 15: Canine Parade
- June 16: Allegory Parade 2024 - Diego Quispe Tito National Art University
- June 17-18: Parades of Andean University and the National University of San Antonio Abad of Cusco
- June 20: Mega light and sound event, Gala concert by the 5th Mountain Brigade Band
- June 21: Gala concert by the National Police of Peru Band
- June 22: Parade of the 13 provinces - Salute to Cusco
- June 23: Start of the grand civic parade
- June 30: Launch of the festivities of the Virgin of Carmen of Huarocondo
Curious Facts & FAQs
Why is Inti Raymi held on June 24?
Because it marks the winter solstice in the southern hemisphere and honors Inti, the Sun God, as the source of life and abundance in the Inca worldview.
What is chiri uchu and why is it important in June?
Chiri uchu is a traditional cold dish served during Corpus Christi, featuring ingredients like roasted guinea pig, chicken, corn, seaweed, and Andean cheese. It's a fusion of Andean and colonial culinary heritage.
Is it safe to visit Cusco in June?
Yes! June is dry season and one of the safest and most active months to visit Cusco. The streets are full of events, and there’s a heightened sense of community celebration.
Did you know?
The Ukukus (mythical bear men) who participate in Qoyllur Riti must climb to the glacier at night as part of their initiation, believed to connect the human realm with that of the gods.
Fun Fact:
During Inti Raymi, the Inca is chosen months in advance through a casting process that requires him to be fluent in Quechua and trained in Inca etiquette and ceremonial movement.
June in Cusco is an unparalleled blend of tradition, spirituality, and festivity. As the city comes alive with parades, concerts, and cultural displays, visitors are invited to witness and partake in celebrations that have captivated the hearts of many for centuries. Don’t miss the chance to experience the magic of Cusco during its most festive month book your adventure with Andean Travel Experience today and create lifelong memories!
Experience June in Cusco with Andean Travel Experience!
Andean Travel Experience provides luxurious tours that immerse you in Andean culture, allowing you to visit Cusco's most iconic landmarks during its most vibrant month.