Cusco: Inti Raymi festivities generated income of S/33 million

The Ministry of Foreign Trade and Tourism (Mincetur) announced that the activities held within the framework of the Inti Raymia historic jubilee religious ceremony that takes place every year in the Cusco region as a tribute to the Sun god, generated income of S/33 million due to the arrival of hundreds of national and foreign tourists, in addition to the massive attendance of the Cusco population.

“Around 36,000 attendees were mobilized. 44% were local residents; 31.5%, foreign tourists; and 24.5%, national tourists. The economic activities of the region, especially businesses related to tourism, have experienced a positive boost during these festivities,” said Minister Juan Carlos Mathews.

Of the total number of international tourists present in this new edition of Inti Raymi, 28.1% came from the United States, 16.3% were citizens of Brazil; 11.8% from Colombia; 6.5% from France; from Argentina and Chile 5.9% each; and 3.3% came from Spain, according to the study carried out by the Directorate General for Research and Studies on Tourism and Crafts.

Much of this economic impact has been the result of the various activities carried out by tourists during the festivities. The study indicates that, on average, national tourists spent S/846 per person for approximately four nights in Cusco; while foreign tourists invested an estimated S/2,081, including transportation, lodging, food, and handicraft purchases.

Along these lines, it is known that 65.4% of all tourists stayed in three, four and five star hotels. Hostels, on the other hand, were used by 15.6%, and 12.7% opted for an Airbnb. Likewise, it was announced that 59.5% of visitors hired a travel and tourism agency.

What were the attractions most visited by tourists?

The most visited attractions in the region within the framework of the Inti Raymi were the Plaza Mayor (80%), the citadel of Machupicchu (76.1%), the fortress of Sacsayhuamán (47.8%), the archaeological complex of Ollantaytambo (45.4%), the mountain of seven colors (30 7%), the Koricancha (30.2%), the Cathedral of Cusco (29.3%), the salt mines of Maras (27.8%), Moray (24.9%) and the Humantay lagoon (20.5%). %).

The study also points out that 37% of tourists indicated that the organization of the event and the variety of tourist attractions offered by the region were their greatest pleasures during their stay. Another 34.6% affirmed that they were more admired by the landscapes and nature of the area; 34.6%, due to the history and culture of the region; 32.2%, for Machupicchu; and 21% were admired by the local gastronomy.

Finally, 65.4% of tourists assured that their trip met their expectations, while 33.7% stated that it was above their expectations.