Next Photo Tour of Peru dates: August 30th – Sept 12th, 2020
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.
Peru Photo Tour – 14 Days
- Where: Peru
- When: August 30th – September 12th, 2020
- 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.
- 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 leader, professional photographers Daniel Korzeniewski.
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.
I can immerse myself in activities knowing the details are all covered
I have recommended all your tours, as from the moment we get there till we leave the focus is on experiencing the culture, food, landscapes and all the country has to offer without having to fuss with the details of where to stay, where to eat.
It allows me to immerse myself in the activities and just live in the moment as you have looked after all the details.
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 |
|---|---|
| 9 – 12 People Nice group size with a maximum of 12 people |
$5595 USD |
| Small Group Supplement With less than 9 people (6 – 8), a small group fee will apply |
+$300 USD |
Maximum group size: 12
Remaining Spots: 8
This is less than many other Peru photo tours which include 15 – 20 travelers – please look at that when researching and comparing tours!
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.
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.
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 Sacred Valley. 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 alpacas and vicunas. 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.
Great Value
Staying with the Cuban families in their homes was a big plus and was one of the highlights of my trip. People were all welcoming and very enjoyable.
Having a specific focus like photography was very good.
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 settle.
We will formally meet as a group for the first time in the early afternoon for a welcome meeting, and orientation. We will have our first photo shoot at sunset time followed by dinner at a very special place.
- Day 2 – Lima > Arequipa (B, L, D)
- After enjoying breakfast together at the hotel 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 into our hotel before we head out to lunch in the oldest part of Arequipa.
After lunch you will have free time to wander the square. In the afternoon we will drive to Yanahuara for a sunset shoot from a stunning viewpoint overlooking the city.
- Day 3 – Arequipa (B, L, D)
- We will start our day with a morning shoot at Complejo de la Compañía de Jesús with models. Later on we will photograph the Monastery of San Francisco.
We will spend the afternoon tour in our first visit to the Monastery of Santa Catalina. In the evening we will shoot the sunset and blue hour from terrace overlooking the wonderful cathedral and central plaza.
- Day 4 – Arequipa (B, D)
- This morning we will head to photograph the San Camilo market, a great opportunity to photograph the locals and their daily activities. Today, lunch will be on your own and you’ll have time to relax or wander the old town in the afternoon.
Tonight we will have a second chance to photograph the Monastery of Santa Catalina. With tripods, we will head back to the monastery where you will photograph its many sections under a different light.
- Day 5 – Arequipa > Cusco (B, L, D)
- Our fifth 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 to begin acclimating to the altitude
- Day 6 – Cusco (B, L, D)
- We will be spending the day together exploring the city of Cusco.
Highlights of the day will include the Qoricancha museum, the San Pedro Market, and the amazing lights in the district of San Blas.
- Day 7 – Cusco (B, D)
- Today we will have some free time in the morning to wander the city on your own. Then we will spend the afternoon visiting Sacsayhuaman and the amazing Inca sites around Cusco.
- Day 8 – Cusco > Sacred Valley (B, L, D)
- We will depart from Cusco in the morning to travel to the Sacred Valley. On the way we will pass through the Valley in Chinchero, and then spend some time visiting the village of Maras.
We will be stopping to photograph the several stunning points of views of the Sacred Valley
- Day 9 – Sacred Valley (B, L, D)
- Today we will visit a local community with the NGO organization of Awamaki.
We will travel to Ollantaytambo and then drive to the village where we will spend time photographing the locals. Learn their way of life and enjoy a typical Pachamama lunch.
We will return to Ollantaytambo wander the town, followed by blue shoot and dinner.
- Day 10 – Sacred Valley (B, L, D)
- Two of the highlights of the tour are in schedule for this day. We will visit the famous Inca terraces of Moray and after spending some time there we will head to the salt mines (salineras). In the afternoon we will photograph the kids and activities of a local charity.
- Day 11 – Sacred Valley > Machu Picchu Pueblo (Aguas Calientes) (B, L, D)
- After Breakfast together at the hotel you will have some time to wander around the Inca-era cobblestoned streets whilst exploring the colorful and vibrant artisan market of Ollantaytambo.
After lunch at 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 hotel for the night, enjoy dinner together and then it’s time for an early night as we will have an early start in the morning to make it to Machu Picchu for sunrise.
- Day 12 – Machu Picchu Pueblo (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. The afternoon will be free to rest or enjoy a photo walk on your own around town.
- Day 13 – Machu Picchu Pueblo > Cusco (B, L, D)
- Today, our Vistadome train will take us back to Ollantaytambo. We will have lunch there and in the afternoon we will drive back to Cusco stopping in the Pisac market for one more opportunity to photograph the locals. We will have our farewell dinner in a special restaurant.
- 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.
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.
Darlene is an excellent tour leader.
The tour guide that we had was also excellent.
The tour visited interesting places and was well paced. The numerous social occasions to eat together and enjoy the local culture was an excellent way for group members to bond and to also appreciate the Cuban people.
Darlene is an excellent photo instructor who is very knowledgeable and has a talent for helping students at all levels to learn.
Your Photo Tour Leader:
Daniel Korzeniewski
Your tour leader 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.
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 six.
| Group Size | Price |
|---|---|
| 9 – 12 People Nice group size with a maximum of 12 people |
$5595 USD |
| Small Group Supplement With less than 9 people (6 – 8), a small group fee will apply |
+$300 USD |
Maximum group size: 12
Remaining Spots: 8
This is less than many other Peru photo tours which include 15 – 20 travelers – please look at that when researching and comparing tours!
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
The price of the tour includes:
- 13 nights accommodations.
- Meals – 13 breakfasts, 10 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 September 12th, 2020.
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.
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.
I can immerse myself in activities knowing the details are all covered
I have recommended all your tours, as from the moment we get there till we leave the focus is on experiencing the culture, food, landscapes and all the country has to offer without having to fuss with the details of where to stay, where to eat.
It allows me to immerse myself in the activities and just live in the moment as you have looked after all the details.
One of my best trips ever!
Maybe because our husbands and wives were not there, maybe because we all shared the same interest, the group was really ONE, not little groups as we always find in a trip. Same age, same experience, no competition, everybody relaxed, funny talks, etc etc
I had much fun and enjoyed every minute of these days. One of my best trips ever.
I really enjoyed my tour of Morocco
I really needed this opportunity to loose the fear of clicking, to see the camera as a part of my body, a toy I love to play with, a BFF.
What to look for, the details, include people as a point of much interest, how others look at a scene ,bending low, searching other angles, other types of light.
Practicing is much different than simply learning the theory and this photo tour gave me much time to practice.
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).