Celebrating Inti Raymi at Machu Picchu

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Although times have changed, the event is as authentic as they come, with lavish feasts still a key part of the ceremony. Locals take on the parts of historical Incan figures, and to be asked to play Sapa Inca, or his wife, is a great honour.

As Machu Picchu has long been associated with sun worship, attending the ceremony is a great way to get a feel of the authentic rituals which were conducted on the grounds of Machu Picchu during solstices of the sun. The most important temple to the sun god, Wiracocha, was housed at Machu Picchu and therefore Inti Raymi couldn’t be a more apt start to your Inca trail trek.

Although the event lasts all day the highlights take place in the evening when stacks of straw are set on fire in honour of the Tawantinsuty, or the Empire of the Four Wind Directions. Afterwards, sufficient feasting follows; although you’re more likely to find yourself enjoying sumptuous alpaca meat and roasted ceviche than chichi and corn bread. Drinking is also a large part of these celebrations, however if you’re attempting to trek the Inca trail to Machu Picchu the following morning you may want to take it easy on the Pisco sours

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