Discover Peru's Photogenic Wonders
Peru's diverse landscapes, from the Andes Mountains to its historic cities, offer photographers a palette of captivating scenes. The contrast between the snow-capped Andes and the arid coast, or the blend of ancient and modern in Cusco, provides unique photographic opportunities.
The serene Lake Titicaca and its surrounding communities, along with the iconic Machu Picchu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, are must-visit locations for any traveler. Don't miss the chance to capture the essence of these places.
Explore more with our guide to the best beaches in Peru and consider the freedom of a rented car for your travels. For accommodation options, check out the best hotels in Peru, and for a more personalized experience, look into private tours with local guides.
1. Machu Picchu
![Llama at Machu Picchu](/media/peru-in-pictures-best-places-to-photograph-machu-picchu-llama.jpg)
Machu Picchu, set high above the Urubamba River, offers more than the classic ruins shot. Capture llamas roaming, stone structures, and the cloud-wrapped mountains for dramatic effects. For additional mountain and ruins photography, hike the Inca Trail.
2. Sacred Valley
![Sacred Valley](/media/peru-in-pictures-best-places-to-photograph-sacred-valley-terraced-hills.jpg)
The Sacred Valley, near Cusco, is home to terraced mountainsides, ruins, and picturesque villages. The daily life against the mountainous backdrop is a photographer's delight.
3. Ollantaytambo
![Street in Ollantaytambo](/media/peru-in-pictures-best-places-to-photograph-ollantaytambo-street-and-shops.jpg)
Ollantaytambo's streets, hills, and local shops, along with its impressive ruins, make it a photogenic destination in the Sacred Valley.
4. Lake Titicaca's Floating Islands
![Floating Islands in Lake Titicaca](/media/peru-in-pictures-best-places-to-photograph-floating-islands-lake-titicaca.jpg)
The reed-made floating islands on Lake Titicaca, though tourist-oriented, offer vibrant photo opportunities with locals in colorful attire and a mountainous backdrop.
5. Cusco
![Cusco](/media/peru-in-pictures-best-places-to-photograph-cusco-old-architecture.jpg)
Cusco's old architecture, plazas, and Inca foundations provide a rich tapestry for photographers. Roam the streets to find your perfect shot.
- Read More: Top Tourist Attractions in Cusco
6. Salinas de Maras
![Salt ponds in the Sacred Valley](/media/peru-in-pictures-best-places-to-photograph-salinas-de-maras.jpg)
The Salinas de Maras' salt ponds, with their white and brown hues, are a striking contrast against the hills, especially when capturing the human element within the scene.
7. Moray
![Moray](/media/peru-in-pictures-best-places-to-photograph-moray-sacred-valley.jpg)
The circular terraces of Moray, an often-overlooked Inca ruin, offer a unique perspective, especially when photographed with a person for scale.
8. Lima
![Lima's historic district](/media/peru-in-pictures-best-places-to-photograph-lima-city-center.jpg)
Lima's colonial architecture and the bustling Plaza de Armas are highlights of the capital. The cliffside views over the Pacific Ocean are also not to be missed.
- Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Lima
9. Nazca Lines
![Nazca Lines](/media/peru-in-pictures-best-places-to-photograph-nazca-lines.jpg)
The mysterious Nazca Lines, best viewed from the air, depict large geoglyphs in the desert, offering a unique aerial photography experience.
10. Colca Canyon
![Colca Canyon](/media/peru-in-pictures-best-places-to-photograph-colca-canyon.jpg)
Visit Colca Canyon for breathtaking views of one of the world's deepest canyons and the chance to photograph soaring condors.
11. Barranco
![Barranco, Lima](/media/peru-in-pictures-best-places-to-photograph-barranco-lima.jpg)
Barranco, a suburb of Lima, is known for its colorful architecture and stunning sunsets, especially near the Bridge of Sighs.
12. Cordillera Blanca, Andes Mountains
![Mountain scenery on the Cordillera Huayhush Trek](/media/peru-in-pictures-best-places-to-photograph-cordillera-blanca-hike.jpg)
The Cordillera Blanca offers some of the most spectacular alpine landscapes, with the Cordillera Huayhuash Trek being a highlight for adventurous photographers.
13. Vinicunca
![Vinicunca](/media/peru-in-pictures-best-places-to-photograph-vinicunca.jpg)
The Rainbow Mountain, with its colorful mineral deposits, is a popular and visually striking photography spot near Cusco.
14. Amantani and Tequile Islands on Lake Titicaca
![Tequile Island on Lake Titicaca](/media/peru-in-pictures-best-places-to-photograph-lake-titicaca-tequile-island.jpg)
Amantani and Tequile Islands on Lake Titicaca offer serene landscapes and cultural photography opportunities.
15. Arequipa
![Arequipa](/media/peru-in-pictures-best-places-to-photograph-arequipa.jpg)
Arequipa's "white city" charm and colonial architecture, set against a volcanic backdrop, make it a picturesque destination.
- Read More: The best hotels in Arequipa
16. Oasis of Huacachina
![Oasis of Huacachina](/media/peru-in-pictures-beautiful-places-to-photograph-oasis-of-huacachina.jpg)
The Oasis of Huacachina, with its tranquil lake and towering dunes, offers a unique desert landscape for photography.
17. The Amazon Rainforest
![Capybaras in the Amazon rainforest in Manu National Park, Peru](/media/peru-in-pictures-beautiful-places-to-photograph-the-amazon-jungle-capybara-manu-national-park.jpg)
The Amazon rainforest, teeming with wildlife and lush vegetation, is a hidden gem for nature photographers.
18. Iquitos
![Traditional house on the Amazon river in Iquitos, Peru](/media/peru-in-pictures-beautiful-places-to-photograph-iquitos.jpg)
Iquitos offers a mix of colonial architecture, local culture, and traditional river homes for a diverse photographic experience.
- Read More: The best hotels in Iquitos
19. Tambopata National Reserve
![Scarlet macaws in the Tambopata National Reserve](/media/peru-in-pictures-beautiful-places-to-photograph-tambopata-national-reserve.jpg)
The Tambopata National Reserve's rich ecosystem is ideal for capturing stunning wildlife images.