The Australian Museum Extends Machu Picchu Exhibition and Introduces Fiesta de Perú Celebration

Machu Picchu Exhibition

History, culture, and adventure converge at the Australian Museum (AM) with the extension of its highly acclaimed exhibition, Machu Picchu and the Golden Empires of Peru, now running until Sunday, 11 May 2025. As an added celebration of Peruvian heritage, AM is hosting Fiesta de Perú, a dynamic two-day cultural festival from 22–23 February 2025, offering visitors an immersive experience of Andean traditions, music, dance, cuisine, and archaeology.

Machu Picchu and the Golden Empires of Peru: A Journey Through Time

With 134 priceless artefacts from Peru’s most legendary civilizations, this exhibition is a must-see for history and travel lovers alike. Visitors can explore the mysteries of the Inca Empire and the splendor of ancient Peruvian cultures, enhanced by an award-winning Virtual Reality (VR) tour of Machu Picchu, transporting audiences to the heart of the Andes without leaving Sydney.

AM’s Director and CEO, Kim McKay AO, expressed excitement over the exhibition’s popularity:

“The response to Machu Picchu and the Golden Empires of Peru has been fantastic, and we are thrilled to give more visitors the opportunity to experience this remarkable exhibition. Fiesta de Perú adds another layer, allowing everyone to celebrate the vibrant culture of modern Peru.”

Fiesta de Perú: A Celebration of Andean Culture

To complement the exhibition, Fiesta de Perú will transform the museum into a vibrant hub of Peruvian culture, offering an exciting mix of ticketed and free events.

Ticketed Experiences

Pepito’s Pisco Masterclass – Learn to craft the perfect pisco sour with José Alkon, founder of the renowned Pepito’s in Marrickville. (22 & 23 Feb, $80 Members / $100 Non-Members, 18+)

Secrets of the Andean Cloud Forests – Join Professor Kris Helgen in uncovering the biodiversity of Peru’s cloud forests and their ties to Australia. (22 Feb, Free, 16+)

The Social Lives of Human Remains – Dr. Jacob Bongers, Andean Archaeologist at the University of Sydney, delves into ancient Peruvian funerary traditions. (23 Feb, Free, 16+)

Film Screenings & Cultural Talks

Mother Tongue: Film & Q&A – Discover efforts to preserve the Quechua language, followed by a discussion with Dr. Fernanda Peñaloza. (22 Feb, Free, 14+)

AINBO - Spirit of the Amazon – A family-friendly animated adventure set in the Amazon Rainforest. (23 Feb, Free, All ages)

World Above, World Below: Photo Essay – Explore Peruvian Carnaval traditions through stunning 35mm film photography by Isabella Melody Moore. (22 & 23 Feb, Free, All ages)

Live Music, Dance & Food

Duo Jimenez & Te Amo Peru – Enjoy traditional Andean music and Marinera dance performances, plus free dance lessons. (22 & 23 Feb, Free, All ages)

La Cantina de Cusco – Savor authentic Peruvian cuisine, from Andean street food to classic Peruvian dishes. (22 & 23 Feb, Free entry, All ages)

Andean Artisan Markets – Browse handmade crafts from Earthica, Altrimenti, Maloca, Tonsuca, and Peruvian-Australian artist Natalie Estay Valenzuela. (22 & 23 Feb, Free, 10am–4pm)

Exclusive Offers & Giveaways

Machu Picchu Exhibition

Visitors to the exhibition and festival can win a dream 10-day trip to Peru, courtesy of Adventure World and LATAM Airlines. Plus, Adventure World will donate 10% of bookings made during the exhibition period to the Australian Museum Foundation.

Location: Australian Museum, Sydney
Machu Picchu Exhibition: Until 11 May 2025
Fiesta de Perú: 22–23 February 2025
Book Tickets: australian.museum

Whether you’re fascinated by ancient empires, eager to experience Peruvian culture, or simply want to taste the flavors of the Andes, the Machu Picchu exhibition and Fiesta de Perú offer a once-in-a-lifetime journey through the heart of Peru—right in Sydney.