Peru is a must-visit destination for landscape photography. The region boasts some of the world’s most iconic photography spots alongside many relatively unknown valley's just waiting to be discovered. While popular areas cater to tourists, much of the country retains a wild, untouched feel, offering incredible photo opportunities. In this article, we will showcase Peru’s best landscapes, from famous landmarks to lesser-known treasures—so let’s dive in!
1. Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu isn’t just a tourist attraction—it’s a truly unforgettable experience. Nestled high in the Peruvian Andes, this UNESCO World Heritage Site (since 1983) has also been recognized as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World since 2007. Often referred to as “Lost City of the Incas,” Machu Picchu is Peru’s most visited tourist attraction and the most iconic symbol of the Inca Empire.
Built in the 15th century and later abandoned, the site is renowned for its sophisticated dry-stone walls, precisely cut and fitted without mortar, as well as its astronomically aligned structures and amazing panoramic views. Despite extensive research, its purpose in Inca history remains a mystery.
Tips for the Best Experience
Book early: Purchase your entrance tickets online well in advance, ideally securing the first available slots.
Arrive on time: The first bus from Aguas Calientes (a 20-minute ride) can be unreliable, so consider hiking up to ensure you catch the magical sunrise.
Enhance the experience: Hiring a guide can add depth to your visit, providing fascinating insights into the history and significance of the site, it also supports the local economy.
Best Time to Visit: Dry season (April to October) as the trails will be less muddy and it will be less crowded than summer season in June/July.
How to Get There
There are several trails leading to Machu Picchu, each offering a unique experience in terms of difficulty, scenery, and historical significance. Here are the main options:
• If you want the classic, historic experience → Inca Trail
• If you prefer fewer crowds and dramatic scenery → Salkantay Trek
• If you're interested in local culture → Lares Trek
• If you're short on time but still want to hike → Short Inca Trail or Huchuy Qosqo
• If you want an easy option → Train + Bus/Hike
Read on and I will describe the routes in detail below.
Inca Trail (Classic Route)
• Distance: 42 km (26 miles)
• Duration: 4 days / 3 nights
• Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
• The most famous and historic route, following ancient Inca pathways.
• Passes archaeological sites like Wiñay Wayna.
• Ends at the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) with a breathtaking first view of Machu Picchu at sunrise.
• Permit Required: Yes (must be booked months in advance due to high demand). Book here.
Short Inca Trail (2-Day Version)
• Distance: 10 km (6 miles)
• Duration: 2 days / 1 night
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Ideal for those who want a shorter trekking experience.
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Arrives at Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate.
• Permit Required: Yes (limited spots available). Book you permit here.
Salkantay Trek (Alternative to Inca Trail)
• Distance: ~72 km (45 miles)
• Duration: 4-5 days
• Difficulty: Challenging
• A more scenic and less crowded alternative to the Inca Trail.
• Features stunning views of Salkantay Mountain (6,271m).
• Passes through diverse landscapes—snow-capped peaks, cloud forests, and jungle.
• Ends at Aguas Calientes, followed by a short bus or hike to Machu Picchu.
• Permit Required: No, but recommended to book with a guide.
2. Vinicunca (Rainbow Mountain)
At an awe-inspiring 5,200 meters (17,060 feet) above sea level, Vinicunca, or Rainbow Mountain, stands as one of Peru’s most breathtaking natural wonders. In recent years, its vibrant, multicolored slopes have made it a magnet for photographers and travelers alike.
The striking colorful hues that streak across the mountain’s ridges result from mineral-rich sediment layers, which subtly shift in tone depending on weather conditions and the time of year. For the best photography experience, aim to arrive at sunrise—this not only enhances the colors but also helps you avoid the crowds, as most tour groups reach the viewpoint later in the morning.
How to Get There
Rainbow Mountain is located about 100 km (62 miles) southeast of Cusco, and reaching it requires some planning. Here are your main options:
Guided Tour (Easiest & Most Popular Option)
• Duration: Full day (10-12 hours round trip)
• Travel Time: 3-hour drive from Cusco + 1.5-2 hour hike
• Best For: Convenience, first-time visitors, and those who prefer organized logistics.
How It Works:
1. Most tours leave Cusco between 3:30 - 5:00 AM to ensure early arrival.
2. Includes round-trip transportation, breakfast, lunch, and a guide.
3. Tours drop you off at the trailhead, where a moderate 7 km (4.3 miles) hike begins.
4. Cost: $30-$50 per person (varies by company and inclusions).
Independent Travel
• Duration: Full day
• Travel Time: 3-hour drive from Cusco + hike
• Best For: Experienced travelers who want flexibility.
How It Works:
1. Bus from Cusco to Checacupe or Pitumarca (2 hours, $5).
2. Taxi or shared van to the trailhead (1-1.5 hours, $20-$30 one way).
3. Hike to Rainbow Mountain (1.5-2 hours, depending on fitness level).
For those struggling with altitude or hiking you can also rent a horse for roughly 20USD one way. To do this you still need a normal hiking ability as you need to hike part of the way, then rent a horse to cover the steeper sections. Also important to note, the horses will only take you near the summit—final 10-15 minutes must be walked.
3. Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain
If you’re looking for a less crowded but equally stunning alternative to Vinicunca, Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain is a fantastic option with similar landscapes. Located in the Cusco region, Palccoyo is a shorter hike with just as unique views and multiple colorful mountains without the intense crowds or altitude challenge of Vinicunca.
Why choose Palccoyo Over Vinicunca?
It is an easier hike totaling only 1-hour walking compared to the 3-hour hike at Vinicunca. Palccoyo sits at a lower altitude – 4,900m (16,000 ft) vs. Vinicunca’s 5,200m (17,060 ft) so better for those that easily suffer from altitude sickness. For the most part it is less crowded and as we all know fewer tourists make for a more peaceful experience. Here you will also find multiple rainbow mountains – instead of just one, you’ll see three colorful mountains. There is also a stone forest bonus! Nearby Bosque de Piedras (Stone Forest) adds a unique geological sight to explore.
How to Get There
Guided Tour (Easiest & Most Common Option)
• Duration: Full-day trip (10-12 hours round trip).
• Travel Time: 3.5-hour drive from Cusco.
• Hiking Time: 45 minutes to 1 hour (gentle incline).
• Cost: $40-$60 per person (includes transportation, meals, and guide).
Independent Travel (For Adventurers)
• Rent a car or hire a private taxi ($100-$150 round trip from Cusco).
• Drive to the Palccoyo trailhead (3.5 hours from Cusco).
• Pay the entrance fee ($5 per person) and hike 1 hour to the viewpoint.
Best Time to Visit Palccoyo and Vinicunca
The dry season is arguably the best time visit both areas. It starts in May and lasts until around September. This is when the weather is at it’s best with clear skies and vivid colors are more apparent. The wet season runs from December to March and is not as great for photography as the colors can appear less vibrant. In addition, there is extra risk as the trails may be more muddy and hiking can be less enjoable and more slippery.
4. Cordillera Blanca
The Cordillera Blanca Miscellanea is a dream destination for photographers, nestled in Peru’s Ancash region. As a sub-range of the Andes, it boasts dramatic peaks and a sense of untouched wilderness. Unlike other popular mountain regions, the Cordillera Blanca remains largely unspoiled by heavy tourism, preserving its raw and unexplored charm. Spanning approximately 21 km in width and 200 km in length, it holds the title of the world’s highest tropical mountain range. A significant portion of this mountain range lies within Huascarán National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, making it a paradise for nature lovers, hikers and photographers alike.
Read how to get there below - it is the same advice as Huascarán National Park.
Photography tips:
• Use a polarizing filter to reduce glare and enhance blue skies.
• Bring a wide-angle lens (14-35mm) for landscapes and a zoom lens (70-200mm) for mountain peaks.
• Carry extra batteries – Cold weather drains them quickly.
5. Huascarán National Park
This national park encompasses most of the Cordillera Blanca mountain range and has been a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1985. Renowned for its mountaineering opportunities, it also boasts a rich biodiversity, with unique plant species that create stunning foregrounds for landscape photography. The park is home to 722 glaciers and 296 glacial lakes, including the famous Laguna 69. One of its iconic peaks, Artesonraju, is widely believed to have inspired the Paramount Pictures logo. Other prominent summits include Huascarán, Huandoy, Copa, and Huantsán, making this park a true paradise for adventurers and photographers alike.
Photography Tips:
• Make sure you give yourself plenty of time to explore the area you want to shoot during the daytime to best optimize the light during sunrise or sunset. With plenty of wildflowers, unique trees and streams you will not be short of foreground options!
How To Get There
The main entry to Cordillera Blanca and to Huascaran National Park in general is through the Capital of Peru - Lima city. From Lima you must get to Huaraz city, the entry point to the Cordillera Blanca in the Hauscaran National Park.
To get to Huaraz: A bus takes 8 hours from Lima to Huaraz. There are many companies as schedules from Lima to Huaraz. Among the most known bus companies are: Cruz del Sur , Movil Tours and Oltursa. Since 2024 you can also fly directly to Huarez from Lima.
If you come from Trujillo, you can take the Panamerican Highway to Pativilca, (380 Km) then take the same route to Huaraz. There are many bus companies that offer these service, the most known bus companies are Movil Tours and Linea.
I highly reommend you take a bus! They are relatively cheap and really comfortable. I have driven this route from Lima to Huarez and back again in 2025 and the main road is in terrible condition. Picture a thousand potholes for a few hours of the drive and you get the idea. Many times you see people driving towards you on your side of the road to avoid potholes on their side of the road and you have to do the same, so the journey goes slowly. The buses have thicker and bigger tires so they aren't as affected and can drive quicker but even then you see them dodging the potholes too.
Once in Huarez you can explore the many hiking trails the region has to offer including the Huayuash Circuit, The Santa Cruz Trek, Alpamayo Trek and more. Make sure you plan your trip to include acclimatization, this is absolutely essential to avoid altitude sickness.
If you want to drive into the Huascaran National Park there are two main mountain roads crossing the National Park. You can see it on this map, you can go from both directions. The road in the North is quite small and sandy and you have to drive quite slowly. The one in the South is of better quality.
Useful Information: Huascarán National Park Map
Best Time to Visit Huascarán National Park and Cordillera Blanca
For photography, the ideal time to visit is during the summer season from June to July. This period offers the clearest skies, vibrant foregrounds, and flowing streams, creating perfect conditions for capturing stunning landscapes. The region bursts with wildflowers, thanks to its lush tropical valleys and abundant water sources, adding rich color and depth to your shots. Whether you're photographing dramatic peaks or serene lakes, this season provides the best light and scenery for breathtaking images.
Entrance Fee
Tickets can be purchased at park entrance checkpoints, through your tour operator, or at the SERNANP office in Huaraz. The entrance fee - 1 day S/. 30.00 (USD 9.40) - From 2 to 3 days S/. 60.00 (USD 18.80) - From 4 to 30 days S/. 150.00 (USD 47.00)
Final Thoughts
Peru is a true paradise for landscape photographers, offering a stunning mix of world-famous landmarks and wild unexplored mountains. From the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu to the vibrant hues of Rainbow Mountain, and the untamed beauty of the Cordillera Blanca, the country provides endless opportunities for photography.
No matter which locations you choose to explore, planning ahead is key—consider the best seasons for photography, acclimatize to the altitude, and embrace the adventure!
Max Rive is most driven by seeking new perspectives in the natural world and capturing them in his own distinguished style. Max's powerful portrayals of his interactions with the mountains has earned him international recognition in the outdoor community.
Madison McCardle is a passionate landscape photographer driven by curiosity and a desire to capture the true essence of each place she explores. Through her lens, she seeks new perspectives that reveal the beauty and authenticity of the world.
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