The Minister of Foreign Trade and Tourism of Peru (Mincetur)- Elizabeth Galdo, announced that the celebrations for the Inti Raymi and the Feast of San Juan to be held this week (from June 24), in different regions of the country, would mobilize more than 196,000 people, generating an economic impact greater than S/ 72 million (about 20 million dollars).
The Inti Raymi (feast of the sun) is of Inca tradition and is celebrated in honor of inti (the sun god), normally taking place every winter solstice (June 24). The current inhabitants of the Andean countries (such as Peru), with the presence of national and foreign visitors, continue to carry out this tradition, now considered a ceremony of tourist interest.
It should be noted that for tourism, Peru has two Wonders of the World. One is the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu, highlighted for its historical value and the beauty of the entire archaeological site, which was chosen as one of the New 7 Wonders of the World in July 2007. And one of the most visited places during the Inti Raymi.
And in 2011, the Amazon River (which crosses, Brazil, Colombia and Peru) was chosen as one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature, thus becoming another of the Wonders of the World that can also be enjoyed in Peru.
Events that generate movement
As for the mobilization generated by the Inti Raymi and the Feast of San Juan, the Minister of Foreign Trade and Tourism of Peru, explained that as estimated by the General Directorate of Research and Studies in Tourism and Crafts of Mincetur, the Inti Raymi is expected to generate excellent profits in Cusco and the Feast of San Juan will contribute to the economies of the regions of Loreto, Ucayali, San Martín, Madre de Dios and Huánuco, among others.
“These festivities represent a significant source of income for regional and local economies. In addition, they are important generators of jobs. This is a clear example of the importance of tourism for Peru,” said the head of Mincetur.
INTI RAYMI
According to Mincetur’s projections, the number of visitors to the city of Cusco generated by attendance at the Inti Raymi festival would reach approximately 45,500 visitors, 26.4% more than the festivities of June 2023.
Of these attendees, approximately 50% would be local residents of Cusco, followed by foreign tourists and a quarter would be domestic tourists.
According to information from previous years, among foreign visitors, tourists living in the United States, Brazil and Colombia stood out. In the case of national tourists, most of them came from the city of Lima.
It should be noted that visitors value the organization of the party and the variety of tourist attractions, the natural landscapes and the history and culture of the region. Meanwhile, Machu Picchu and gastronomy represent the most outstanding attractions during the visit. The vast majority of tourists plan their visit more than 3 months in advance.
ST. JOHN’S DAY
On the other hand, attendees of the feast of San Juan – one of the most emblematic and expected festivities in the Peruvian jungle, would reach 150,500, 50.5% more than in June 2023.
During these holidays, visitors are mainly national and have a majority participation of local residents.
This event, which will take place from June 22 to 24, is a tribute to St. John the Baptist and stands out for its rich cultural heritage and the active participation of local communities. In this sense, visitors, in addition to enjoying the holiday, know the beautiful landscapes and nature of the Peruvian jungle among which the Amazon River stands out, as well as enjoy the excellent regional gastronomy.
They also take advantage of their stay to visit important tourist attractions, for example, the Plaza de Armas and other natural places, which results in an average stay of 3 to 4 nights.