Next Photo Tour of Peru dates for 2020 Coming Soon
Picture this! One day you’re photographing ancient peoples and spectacular ruins among the towering Andes Mountains. Later, you’ll find yourself eating wonderful food at a restaurant in Lima overlooking the crashing waves of the Pacific ocean below.
This is Peru, and it is magical!
Our photo tour of Peru will take you to all of the right spots for a simply perfect shot. We’ll spend plenty of time photographing the country’s popular wonders, like Machu Picchu, as well as taking you on specially-designed excursions to photograph many of Peru’s hidden gems as well.
Join us on our 14-day photography tour of one of the world’s most intriguing and culturally-rich countries. You’ll be awestruck by the variety of photo opportunities the Land of the Incas presents.
This expedition to Peru will take you from Lima to Arequipa, through the amazing and unique Colca Canyon, and stopping off to marvel one of the most ancient wonders of the world, Machu Picchu. For those craving more adventure there is an option of extending the tour by four days to journey into Amazon jungle with us.
Peru Photo Tour – 14 Days
- Where: Peru
- When: 2020 date coming soon
- Length: 14 Days (13 nights)
- Who: 12 photography enthusiasts.
- What: A 14-day photo tour of Peru, catering to photographing in the best locations at the best time of day for light. You will travel and learn in an informal small group setting, with a flexible schedule (including free time to explore) and customized photography tips and tutoring in the field to match the group members. This tour is also perfect to bring non-photographers along as well. Although it is customized for photographers there is still a lot to be enjoyed even without a camera in hand.
- Why: Total photography immersion, in a safe and relaxed environment, with experienced professional photographers, and expert local guides (where applicable) providing lots of hands-on help.
- Jungle Extension: Spend an additional three days in the Amazon jungle with our unique, 5-day Jungle extension
- Jump to: Tour itinerary, FAQ’s
Beginner? Pro Photographer?
This tour is designed for all levels of photographers to get the most out of every experience at every site along our journey. Our small tour group allows personal access to your tour leaders, professional photographers Daniel Korzeniewski and Darlene Hildebrandt.
Comfort and safety go hand-in-hand with fun and adventure as we travel and photograph this spectacular country.
Join us on our 14-day photography tour of Peru: the world’s most popular tourist destination.
DPM tours are the gold standard as far as I’m concerned
I just came back from a 14-day tour put on by another photographer. Now that I have something to compare to, it made me realize just how good you guys are.
Darlene, your tours are the gold standard as far as I’m concerned.
How much is this photo tour of Peru?
This tour is designed to offer you both adventure and comfort.
We stay in comfortable and clean rooms in properties with local character and style when possible.
All your meals (except times on your own) and in-country transport are included. We also take care of little incidentals like bottled water daily, entrance fees for all attractions, and snacks on the transport for a smooth easy experience.
| Group Size | Price |
|---|---|
| 10 – 12 People Nice group size with a maximum of 12 people |
$5795 USD |
| Small Group Supplement With less than 10 people (8 – 9), a small group fee will apply |
+$500 USD |
Maximum group size: 12
Remaining Spots: 0
Please add yourself to our waitlist for notifications of the next dates or if a spot becomes available on this tour. Members of the wait list will be notified first when registration becomes available.
This is less than many other Peru photo tours which include 15 – 20 travelers – please look at that when researching and comparing tours!
NOTE: We have lowered the maximum number of participants on this tour to 12. This is less than many other photography tours which include 15 – 20 people – please look at that when researching and comparing tours. Keeping the size down allows for a smaller, more intimate group in order to give you the best experience.
This means you will have more time with the tour leaders (there are 2 on this tour), more time to get to know your fellow travelers and a really nice group size.
Single Supplement Price:
- Prices quoted are for double occupancy. NOTE: You will be paired with someone of the same gender if you do not have a travel partner and request a roommate – if one is not available you will be charged the single supplement.
- Price for single room is an additional $895 USD
Do you love to travel?
Are you are as obsessed with travel and photography as we are?
Then you need to join us in picturesque Peru for an adventure you will not want to miss. Not only will you learn how to take better photographs, through the support of our expert teachers, but you can rest assured you will travel to some of the best locations Peru has to offer photographers.
DPM tours are the gold standard as far as I’m concerned
I just came back from a 14-day tour put on by another photographer. Now that I have something to compare to, it made me realize just how good you guys are.
Darlene, your tours are the gold standard as far as I’m concerned.
The Best Light
This photography tour to Peru has been put together by our expert team of tour leaders and local guides to ensure each day we are always photographing in the best light possible.
Over the 14 days, you will learn all about lighting, and how to overcome any challenging lighting situations you may face with tips from the tour leaders and in the field assistance to make sure you get the best shot right there.
Expect Machu Picchu at sunrise, panoramic mountain views at sunset, and everything in between.
The Best Locations
These are not your normal tourist destination, and this is not your average tour.
Although we will be taking you to sights you may read about in your guidebook, on this photo tour expect the unexpected. Where others might go in, we go around.
Let us take you beyond the tourist trail in search of the real Peru. This is a custom designed photo tour, by a photographer, for photography enthusiasts.
Less Rushed
Hate feeling rushed in big group tours? Us too. That’s why we always keep our group sizes small, so you will never feel rushed.
We make sure you have all the time you need to get the best photographs possible. This also means that anytime you feel like taking a break or skipping a location, that’s fine with us.
We are here to support your photographic passion, and if that means taking a break, you got it!
Picture Yourself in Peru
From capturing the sunrise in the Ancient city of Machu Picchu. To practicing your night photography deep in the jungle. Peru is full of magic and wonders just waiting for you to discover.
But there is more to Peru than the ancient ruins. On our 14-day photography tour, you may experience incredible wildlife including tropical birds, condors, butterflies, sloths, and monkeys. Meet locals through community work in Cusco and visit the Sacred Valley.
Let us take you on a Peruvian style road trip you will never forget!
One-on-One Access to Tour Leaders
Beginner? Pro photographer? This tour is designed for all skill levels of photographers.
By keeping our tour groups small you will have more personal one-to-one access to your tour leader. This means you can improve your images no matter where you are on your photography journey.
We have specially-designed our tour as a small group experience. You’ll have plenty of room to find just the right light and direct as many questions as you need to towards your experienced tour leader.
We will only be accepting a maximum of 12 photo tour guests.
Improve Your Camera Skills
If you like photo vacations with an emphasis on improving your camera skills, then this photo tour to Peru is for you.
Over the course of the tour, we will offer you help and guidance in any areas where you may be struggling as well as develop skills in new areas.
Because of the small group size, we are able to create a more unique experience than other large group tours. Each tour is customized based on the group dynamic, needs, and skill level.
Explore the mysteries of ancient civilizations in Peru
We’ll arrive in Lima, Peru’s capital and one of the largest cities in South America. From there, we fly to Cusco, nestled high in the Andes at more than 11,000 feet. The ancient city was once capital of the Inca Empire. There, you can sample a pisco sour – Peru’s national drink – or head over to the Plaza de Armas in the heart of Cusco for some prime people-watching and street photography.
While in the Cusco area, we want to give back. We’ll spend time working alongside a local organization to help others in the area. Some of the most rewarding travel adventures we’ve experienced have been those where we’ve found a way to get involved in the area community and get to know the locals.
The Sacred Valley of the Incas
From Cusco, we’ll travel to Ollantaytambo, a riverside village in the Sacred Valley.
The city is known for its colorful market and its ruins are considered to be one of the finest remaining Inca archaeological sites in the country. Photograph Pisac’s warm residents, historic structures, and agricultural terraces on the steep hillsides that are still in use in this rural farming region.
Explore Peru’s center of weaving on our side trip to the ancient city of Chinchero – locals say it’s the birthplace of the rainbow.
Travel back in time as you stroll through the streets of this small Andean village. Stop for a photo of weavers working on their craft, locals in traditional dress selling and buying goods in the morning market or cleaning the front of their adobe homes.
In the main plaza, take a moment to photograph a colonial church from the 1600s, built on top of the ruins of an Incan Palace.
Machu Picchu
You’ve dreamed for months – maybe years – of taking this photo. You’re finally here – setting up your once-in-a-lifetime shot of the ancient Incan mountaintop city of Machu Picchu.
Just as you get your settings just right, and the light shines perfectly amongst the Andes peaks, a llama photo-bombs your shot. The misadventure ends up being one of your favorite photos from this unforgettable trip.
Machu Picchu was discovered by American explorer Hiram Bingham in July of 1911 and on our tour, you’ll have a full morning to explore every nook and cranny of this breathtaking site yourself. We’ll be sure we have just the right light for a variety of photos, including sunrise.
Peruvian Cuisine
Peruvian food is unlike any other country and is well-known in the world for some of the best cuisine available! Cuisine in Peru has been influenced by a mixture of native and immigrants culture.
There is a reason why Peru was crowned as “World’s Leading Culinary Destination” by the World Travel Awards more than five years in a row.
This boom started about ten years ago. Nowadays famous chefs from all over the world are looking at Peru and are opening restaurants due to the unique characteristics of the ingredients and spices that can only be grown in the region.
On this tour, not only will you get to see and photograph many interesting locations. But we’ll also expose you to the taste of Peru and all this country has to offer.
Sip on a pisco sour or perfecto (pisco and wine mixture), have some fresh ceviche as an appetizer, and try some anticuchos (beef heart, it sounds gross but it’s actually really good!), a tasty causa (a stuffed potato dish that’s amazing), or you could get really brave and go for the alpaca steak or cuy (guinea pig) a local delicacy.
The tour was non-stop and full of photographic opportunities that one would not normally have.
I like my time to be filled with planned events or visits and this tour had minimal down time. Even though some of our bus trips were long, the bus that we had made it easy to handle.
The tour was non-stop and full of photographic opportunities that one would not normally have.
The people of India were amazing but when I look at my photos, I realize the highlight of my trip was the Pushkar camel fair.
This is a tentative schedule, may not be exactly as shown here:
- Day 1 – Lima (D)
- Upon arrival in Lima, you will be met at the airport, where you will be transferred to our hotel. After checking in you will be free to relax and get settled. We will formally meet as a group for the first time in the evening for a welcome orientation, followed by our first evening meal together at a nearby restaurant.
Casa Andina Select
- Day 2 – Lima (B, L, D)
- Our first full day together will be spent exploring Lima.
In the morning we will visit the main square (Plaza de Armas) and see the catacombs under Iglesia San Francisco. We’ll head back to the Miraflores district for lunch near our hotel.
In the late afternoon, we’ll head down to the ocean to a unique spot with dramatic cliffs for sunset. Then we’ll go down to the beach to browse the shops on the pier and photograph blue hour over the Pacific. Then we’ll have dinner at a spectacular restaurant over the water, you can’t ask for a better view!
Casa Andina Select
- Day 3 – Arequipa (B, L, D)
- After enjoying breakfast together at our accommodations, we will travel to the airport to take a flight to Arequipa.
Arequipa is the colonial-era capital of the Arequipa Region framed by three volcanoes. This pretty town is known for its chalky white baroque buildings constructed from volcanic stone.
You will have some time to settle in before we head out to lunch in the historic part of Arequipa. You’ll have some free time to wander or visit a nearby museum to see a mummy (on your own). Our afternoon will be spent visiting a stunning point of view, overlooking the city.
Tierra Viva
- Day 4 – Arequipa (B, D)
- In the morning we will be visiting a local market for some photography, followed by exploring the many wonders around the city of Arequipa. You’ll have the opportunity to see all the wares and eat lunch at the market.
Our day will end with the late opening at the Monasterio Santa Catalina for some sunset and blue hour photography. Dinner will be at the trattoria next door for some amazing Italian food.
Tierra Viva
- Day 5 – Chivay (B, L, D)
- Today we start by visiting Colca Canyon.
You’ll be picked up by private transport to the first and most important town of the canyon, Chivay. We will be passing through the nature reserve where you’ll likely see many wild vicuña and other animals roaming.
Casa Andina
- Day 6 – Colca Canyon (B, L)
- Get ready for a packed day full of viewpoints and wildlife.
After breakfast, you’ll head to the Cruz del Condor lookout, passing through Yanque and stopping at viewpoints such as the Antahuilque and the Choquetico Tombs. After spending time viewing and photographing the condors, we’ll retrace our steps back to Arequipa.
For dinner, you’ll have the chance to pick from many of the amazing local places nearby (we can offer suggestions) or you can join us for a meal at a 4-star restaurant (at your own cost)
Tierra Viva
- Day 7 – Cusco (B, L, D)
- Our seventh day together begins with an early flight to Cusco. In the afternoon once settled in, we will take an easy walk together along the cobblestone streets of the old capital of the Inca empire.
Andenes del Cielo
- Day 8 – Cusco (B, L, D)
- We will spend the day see all the amazing Inca sites in and around Cusco. Time permitting we may see some of all of the following; Qoricanch, Sacsayhuaman, the San Pedro market, and a spot overlooking the city.
We’ll photograph the sunset in the San Blas neighborhood where our hotel is located. Dinner will be in a local restaurant.
Andenes del Cielo
- Day 9 – Sacred Valley (B, L, D)
- We will depart from Cusco in the morning to travel to the incredible Sacred Valley of the Incas.
If you think you saw it all, prepare to be amazed in the next couple of days. The scenic Urubamba Valley is full of fantastic landscapes and villages.
From Cusco to the Sacred Valley, will be visiting the Chinchero market, Moray, and Salineras (salt mines).
We will be stopping to photograph the several stunning points of view of the Sacred Valley before arriving at our hotel for the evening.
NOTE: This property is vegetarian but you’ll like not even notice because the food is that good. They grow most of their own produce on the grounds, and you can even go pick your own avocado or tangerine as a nice snack if you wish.
Wilka T’ika
- Day 10 – Sacred Valley (B, D)
- This morning you will visit Ollantaytambo Ruins while in the afternoon, have some free time to explore the town. Lunch is on your own today, as there are many fun places to pick from in Ollantaytambo.
We may have the option of doing some local volunteer work in the afternoon.
Our evening will be spent relaxing and enjoying the many spa treatments on offer (at your own cost) at the hotel.
Wilka T’ika
- Day 11 – Machu Picchu Pueblo (B, L, D)
- After breakfast, you will have some time to wander around the Inca-era cobblestone streets while exploring the colorful and vibrant artisan market of Ollantaytambo. Make note if you’re a shopper, the prices here are usually better than in Macho Picchu or Cusco!
After lunch at or near the market, we begin our journey to what will be the highlight of this Peru photo tour, Machu Picchu. Together we will take the train from Ollantaytambo to Machu Picchu Pueblo (previously known as Aguas Calientes).
On arrival, we will check into our accommodations for the night, enjoy dinner together and then it’s time to call it a night as we will have an early start in the morning to make it up to Machu Picchu for sunrise.
Tierra Viva
- Day 12 – Sacred Valley (B, L, D)
- Today is the day you have all been waiting for! We will spend the morning exploring the lost city of the Incas – Machu Picchu.
After our tour, guided by a local, you will have plenty of free time to capture this exquisite world wonder for yourself.
In the afternoon, we’ll be heading back to the Sacred Valley.
Sonesta Posada del Inca
- Day 13 – Cusco (B, L, D)
- It’s an early morning start today to visit a local market for some photography and to try some fresh Peruvian snacks after breakfast.
Be sure to soak up the views as we travel through the Sacred Valley to visit a local community.
We’re going to visit a local community where we’ll have traditional Peruvian lunch, learn about weaving techniques and listen to local musicians.
It’s then back to our hotel in Cusco for our final evening meal together at a wonderful local restaurant.
Andenes del Cielo
- Day 14 – Leave for home (B)
- After we share our last breakfast together at the hotel your journey home begins. Alternatively, you can choose to extend your trip, at your own expense, and stay on a few more days in Lima or join us on the jungle extension.
Immersing yourself on a photo tour in Peru will allow you to dedicate and focus your time on creating your best images. On this tour, we will offer you a supportive environment to maximize your learning opportunities. You will be offered individual help, have time to ask questions and get your images reviewed privately (time permitting).
It’s Time for Peru
When you return home from Peru and begin to go through your images, you’ll recall stories from the trip and be amazed at all you learned and experienced. You’ll come back with cutting-edge photo tips and tricks, new friends, incredible memories, and, of course, hundreds of breathtaking photos!
Alluring. Diverse. Ancient. Enchanting. Simply Spectacular.
Get out your passport. It’s time for Peru.
Beyond pleased with the trip!
Every day was a pleasant surprise and I really didn't want to know the agenda! We explored places that I would never have found on my own.
I have met some absolute wonderful photography friends and I would like to have another gathering of our group!
Your Photo Tour Leaders:
Daniel Korzeniewski
One of your tour leaders for the Peru photo tour is Daniel Korzeniewski. Daniel is a Miami-based travel photographer whose work has appeared in several publications. He contributes to various stock photography outlets and often leads photo travel tours.
Daniel contributes articles about travel photography here on Digital Photo Mentor and is one of the photo leaders for this photo tour of Peru, our Morocco photo tour, and also India. Daniel is fluent in both Spanish and English.
Darlene Hildebrandt
Your second tour leader for this photo tour of Peru is Darlene. Darlene is the creator of Digital Photo Mentor, a photography teacher, tour leader, traveler, and a cat owner.
She has over 30 years of experience as a professional photographer, has been teaching since 2011 and has led over 8 photo tours and 20 photography workshops.
Darlene is a Fuji user but speaks almost all other photography languages. Whatever your skill level and experience, she can help you unlock the next level and take better photos.
Cost of Photo Tour of Peru
We have lowered the maximum number of participants on this tour to 12. This is less than many other Peru tours which include 15 – 20 people – please look at that when researching and comparing tours. Keeping the group sizes small allows for a smaller, more intimate group in order to give you the best experience.
This means you will have more time with the tour leader(s), and a really nice group size.
The minimum number of people required to run the tour is eight.
| Group Size | Price |
|---|---|
| 10 – 12 People Nice group size with a maximum of 12 people |
$5795 USD |
| Small Group Supplement With less than 10 people (8 – 9), a small group fee will apply |
+$500 USD |
Maximum group size: 12
Remaining Spots: 0
This is less than many other Peru photo tours which include 15 – 20 people – please look at that when researching and comparing tours!
NOTE: We have lowered the maximum number of participants on this tour to 12. This is less than many other photography tours which include 15 – 20 people – please look at that when researching and comparing tours. Keeping the group sizes small allows for a smaller, more intimate group in order to give you the best experience.
This means you will have more time with the tour leaders (there are 2 on this tour), and a really nice group size.
Single Supplement Price:
- Prices quoted are for double occupancy. NOTE: You will be paired with someone of the same gender if you do not have a travel partner and request a roommate – if one is not available you will be charged the single supplement.
- Price for single room is an additional $895 USD
Join the waiting list above to get notified early and grab a spot.
The price of the tour includes:
- 13 nights accommodations.
- Meals – 13 breakfasts, 11 lunches, and 13 dinners (includes non-alcoholic beverages and tips).
- Local English-speaking guide who is also a photographer.
- Air-conditioned transportation – included driver, fuel, and insurance.
- Flights – Lima > Arequipa, Arequipa > Cusco, Cusco > Lima
- Train – Sacred Valley > Machu Picchu and return
- Excursions listed above.
- Entrance fees for any attractions the group goes to including monasteries, Machu Picchu, etc.
- Organized photo shoots.
- Photography lessons in the field and image reviews one-on-one (as time permits).
- Photography tutoring and help as needed, you just have to ask.
- Portage tips for bags.
- Water daily.
The price DOES NOT include:
- Your flight or other travel to Peru.
- Tips for your guide, driver, and tour leaders.
- Lunches and dinner during free time.
- Alcoholic beverages.
- Personal spending (souvenirs, spa treatments, etc.)
- Optional activities like being digging for Inca gold, alpaca jumpers, spa treatments, etc.
Flights to Peru: We travel to Peru through Jorge Chávez International Airport. Transportation will be provided to meet you and take you to our hotel.
Note: We actually recommend arriving a day or two early in order to get acclimatized to the time zone and be well rest ready to go.
Flights home from Peru: The tour ends and you depart from Jorge Chávez International Airport, so make your travel arrangements accordingly. The last day of the main tour is Sept 13th, 2019 while the last day of the Jungle Extension tour is Sept 17th, 2019. So if you are taking the extension, plan your departure flight accordingly.
Beyond pleased with the trip!
Every day was a pleasant surprise and I really didn't want to know the agenda! We explored places that I would never have found on my own.
I have met some absolute wonderful photography friends and I would like to have another gathering of our group!
FAQs
What is the physical fitness level needed for this tour?
We are not doing formal hiking on this tour but for most locations, there will be some walking involved. It will encompass roughly 3-5km (on mostly flat ground) most days, sometimes less. So if you are in good health and fitness level, you will be fine. That means if walk regularly, can walk that far, and go up 3-5 flights of stairs without a problem, then you can do this tour.
But this tour is NOT recommended for people with mobility issues (for example bad knees) or those who are sedentary (sit a lot, not physically active). Many of the boutique hotels we use and some restaurants and viewpoints have many levels and often there are no elevators.
What skill level do I have to be in photography?
We encourage all skill levels to join us on this tour. It is not about what you know it’s about doing photography together, enjoying the adventure, and learning a few things along the way. Whatever your level you can get some tips from the tour leader. We do however recommend you have a basic level of knowledge and experience using your camera (don’t go on a tour with a brand new camera you don’t know yet). You don’t even have to be a photographer, but can come along and appreciate the relaxed pace of this tour.
Where does the tour start and how can I get there?
The tour starts in Lima. Jorge Chavez International Airport is denominated as LIM. Book your flights accordingly.
What should I know about the altitude of some of these locations?
For some people altitude sickness occurs at heights over 2,400 meters above sea level. Because Peru geography is diverse, we’ll be above this altitude on several occasions. Symptoms of breathlessness or headaches can occur during the first 24 to 48 hours after reaching this altitude. As generally speaking everybody’s body reacts differently, it is very difficult to predict if you are going to suffer from altitude sickness or not. You can rest assured that we have taken this in consideration and we’ll be moving at a slow pace for proper adaptation. However, if you are concerned about this we recommend you talk to a doctor or consult a travel clinic before departing or registering for the trip.
What sort of food should I expect to eat?
Peru is a foodie paradise, there is a great variety of options. Peruvian food is an important cultural expression. You’ll find plenty of options, from traditional Peruvian food to international cuisine.
I don’t like Peruvian food, will there be other options?
Of course, there will plenty of options. You may also be surprised by what Peruvian food is all about and like it after all!
Is Peru safe?
Peru is pretty safe, our itinerary focuses on safe areas and you can rest assured we have outlined the itinerary as such. There is also safety in numbers so just by going with a group you’ll be more secure than traveling alone.
What if I don’t have a roommate but don’t want to pay the extra for a single?
If you request to share a room and we cannot match you with a roommate you will be required to pay the single supplement fee. We do our best to pair everyone up but due to gender mismatches or uneven numbers, we may not always have equal numbers of males or females. But you can certainly ask a friend to come along as well to share with you.
Do you have to be a photographer to go on this tour?
Our tours are custom-designed specifically with photographers in mind, allowing for the best possible photographic opportunities.
However, they are an amazing way for any non-photographers to see a new country as well, just in a slower manner. In general, we cover less ground and do fewer things but we spend more time at each of the most interesting places and go deeper.
All travel enthusiasts are welcome to join our tours, and all the activities (like a photo shoot at sunrise) are optional, so you can sit any of them out if you wish.
Explore the country on this photo tour of Peru. Meet fellow photographers from around the world and make new friends.
5-Day Jungle Extension
Not quite ready for the tour to end? We hate to leave you wanting more so we have devised this 5-day extension, perfect for the more adventurous photographer.
In this add-on extension, you’ll spend three days on the edge of an Amazonian river photographing parrots by day and hunting caiman alligators with a camera by night.
Dates: Sept 13 – 17, 2019
DAY 1 – Amazon Jungle (B/L/D)
For those choosing to extend their tour with us, we will travel together to the airport to take a short flight to Puerto Maldonado. For the rest of the day, we will settle into our jungle lodge, situated on the edge of the Madre de Dios River.
We will have an optional 2-hour trek into the jungle to see the local flora and visit a reproduction of a camp where they demonstrationg the collection of rubber process. Here we will spend a relaxed evening photographing sunset across the river, then it’s time to go hunting (cameras only please!) for caimans.
DAY 2 – Amazon Jungle (B/L/D)
It’s an early morning start today as we travel to the parrot clay lick to photograph some of the Jungles most colorful residents.
A clay lick (locally known as colpa or collpa) is a naturally forming wall of clay on a riverbank caused by erosion from the river. This is the world’s largest known parrot clay lick, and the area contains the highest known concentration of parrots in the world.
In the afternoon we will head to visit a village to learn about the uses and the importance of the forest for the local inhabitants, where we will have the opportunity to practice our portrait skills (and use a traditional bow and arrow!).
The Machiguenga are one of the many ethnic groups that exist in the Peruvian Amazon. A family of native Machiguenga will receive us for a visit. They will show us the cultural value of their ancestors, as well as language and customs, including traditional clothes, hunting gear, handicrafts and the music they play during ayahuasca ceremonies. They will teach us how to take advantage of natural products to make tools, and what they use to make their houses, dresses and ornaments, each important for their daily life.
You will also have the option of visiting Monkey Island (weather permitting).
DAY 3 – Amazon Jungle (B/L/D)
After breakfast, we will travel to the Sandoval Lake (Tambopata Reserve). During a 3 km hike through the wild vegetation, we will enter the territory of Tambopata National Reserve, where you will have the chance to admire giant trees, different snakes, monkeys (squirrel monkeys, howler monkeys, and capuchin monkeys) and various birds (notably the Hoatzin – also known as the stink bird-, kingfishers and snakebirds).
Once on Lake Sandoval, we will embark in small rowboats in search of giant river otters. We will also have the possibility to spot a good number of other reptiles, mammals and birds in their natural habitat. When the guide finds an opportune spot where you can continue to observe nature, we will eat breakfast. For the return trip, make sure you have gathered your belongings and we will row back to the pier.
Afternoon you’ll have time to rest or visit the lookout tower. Your tour guides will be available for Q&A or one-on-one help.
Day 4 – Lima (B/L/D)
This is our final day together in the jungle. Today, we will begin the journey home, next stop, Lima.
Day 5 – Head for home (B)
After we share our final breakfast at the hotel you will travel to the airport to catch your flight home. Alternatively, you can choose to extend your trip, at your own expense, and stay on a few more days in Lima.
Group size: 4-7 people (need 4 to make it happen, maximum 12 plus Dan and Darlene)
Dates: Sept 13 – 17, 2019
Prices:
- 4-7 people: $1495 / person (double occupancy)
- 8-12 people: $1195 / person (double occupancy)
Includes:
- All transport from Cusco and back to Lima
- Lodging for 3 nights in the jungle
- Airport shuttles in Cusco and the jungle
- All meals
- A chance to hang out and shoot with the tour leader and explore together in a small group workshop setting
I have been on four of Darlene's photography tours
I have been on four of Darlene's photography tours and all of them are full of adventure, learning opportunities, and fun!
Darlene creates situations that allow you to be creative with your photography and gives you advice on trying new techniques, all in beautiful settings.
Experience what Cuba is really like
If you want a photo excursion that offers you a chance to experience what Cuba is really like on a realistic local level the Digital Photo Mentor tour to Cuba is for you. When I was on the tour I sometimes wished for a fancy hotel but when I did a tour and stayed in a fancy hotel I realized I was missing what Cuba was really like.
I did two different trips of Cuba.
While they were both good, if I had only taken the second trip and not the DPM one, I would not have had any idea of what life in Cuba is really like.
The trip I took with Darlene and the group was one of the highlights of anything I had ever done.
You were awesome
I really loved the way that you got yourself involved and showed us all how to have fun. As for accommodations, I really loved the them all, far exceeded my expectations.
Join us on this photo tour of Peru. Explore the country, meet fellow photographers from around the world and make new friends.
Our Photo Tours & Workshops
Click here for our complete list of photo tours of Central America, Africa, Asia, and South America, and if you’d like more hands-on, photography education, you’ll love one of our workshops, held in Western Canada (new locations coming soon).