PERÚ TRAVEL PACKAGES
19 June, 2024
A Peru Photography Tours from Europe is a transformative experience that promises to enrich your portfolio and your soul. The country’s diverse landscape and culture offer endless opportunities to capture stunning images and tell unique visual stories. Plan ahead, equip your camera properly, and prepare for a photographic adventure that will delight your senses and inspire your creativity.
Peru is a country of contrasts and natural wonders that has captured the imagination of photographers from around the world. For European photographers, a trip to Peru offers a unique opportunity to explore and capture the cultural and scenic richness of this South American country. From the iconic ruins of Machu Picchu to the Amazon rainforest, proper planning of your photography trip will ensure that you can make the most of every moment and scenery that Peru has to offer.
Choosing the right time to visit Peru is crucial for photographers. The climate varies significantly between the coastal, Andean and Amazonian regions.
The best time is from May to September, during the dry season, when the sky is clearest and conditions for photography are optimal.
The coast has a mild climate year-round, but the summer months (December to March) are the warmest and sunniest.
June to November is ideal, as it is the dry season and it is easier to get around and photograph wildlife.
Planning a photography trip to Peru from Europe is an exciting adventure that requires meticulous preparation. From ensuring you have the necessary documentation to selecting the right photography equipment, every detail counts to ensure your trip is successful and you can capture the best images possible. Here we offer a complete guide to the preliminary preparations necessary before embarking on your photography trip to Peru.
Passport and Visa
Passport: Make sure your passport has at least six months validity from the date of entry into Peru.
Visa: Citizens of most European countries do not need a visa for tourist stays of up to 90 days in Peru. Check the specific regulations for your country at the relevant Peruvian embassy.
Required Vaccinations: If you plan to visit the Amazon, it is advisable to get vaccinated against yellow fever. Bring the international vaccination certificate with you.
Recommended Vaccinations: Hepatitis A and B, typhoid and tetanus. Check with your doctor for any other recommended vaccinations based on your health history and the areas you plan to visit.
Medication: Bring a basic first aid kit with medications for common ailments such as diarrhea, headache, and dizziness. Consider bringing altitude sickness pills if you plan to visit Andean regions.
Travel Insurance
Medical Coverage: Make sure your insurance covers illness, accidents, and medical evacuation.
Equipment Coverage: Insurance that covers your photography equipment against theft, loss, and damage is crucial for a photography trip.
Bookings and Itinerary
Flights: Book your flights in advance for better rates. Consider direct flights or flights with fewer stops to reduce travel time.
Accommodations: Book accommodations that offer safety and comfort. Hotels and hostels with good reviews on sites like TripAdvisor or Booking.com are a good option.
Local Transportation: Research transportation options in Peru. Rent vehicles only if you plan to travel to remote areas; Otherwise, public transportation and taxis are viable options in cities and towns.
Peru is a country of stunning contrasts and indescribable beauty, making it a dream destination for photographers from around the world. From the ancient remains of past civilizations to the lush biodiversity of the Amazon rainforest, Peru offers a plethora of photographic opportunities that capture the essence of its rich cultural and natural heritage. This article highlights some of the must-see photography destinations for those planning a trip from Europe to this magical land.
Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu, the Incan citadel perched high in the Andes, is one of the most iconic and photographed places in the world. Photographers can capture its majesty at sunrise, when the first light of day illuminates the mist-shrouded ruins. Panoramic views from Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain offer unique perspectives of this archaeological wonder.
The Sacred Valley of the Incas, stretching from Pisac to Ollantaytambo, is filled with agricultural terraces, ancient ruins and picturesque Andean villages. Pisac and its market, the stunning Moray Terraces and the Maras Salt Mines are just a few of the highlights that offer incredible opportunities for landscape and local culture photography.
Cusco, the former capital of the Inca Empire, is a city that blends Inca heritage with Spanish colonial architecture. The Plaza de Armas, with its imposing cathedral and the Church of the Society of Jesus, is an ideal starting point. The bohemian neighborhood of San Blas, with its cobblestone streets and panoramic views, offers a charming look at everyday life. The ruins of Sacsayhuamán on the outskirts of the city provide additional historical perspective.
Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake in the world, is a place of serenity and mystical beauty. The floating islands of the Uros, made of totora reeds, are unique in the world and offer exceptional photographic opportunities. Taquile Island, with its rural landscapes and panoramic views of the lake, is another destination not to be missed. The local textiles and traditions of the inhabitants add a cultural touch to your captures.
The Peruvian Amazon is a paradise for nature and wildlife photographers. From Iquitos or Puerto Maldonado, expeditions can be organized to go deep into the jungle. Here, you can capture the rich biodiversity, including exotic birds, mammals, reptiles and unique plants. Sunrises and sunsets in the Amazon, with their golden light filtering through the dense vegetation, create a magical environment for photography.
The enigmatic Nazca Lines, visible only from the air, are one of Peru’s greatest mysteries. Hire a flight over these ancient geoglyphs to get a stunning aerial perspective. Geometric figures and depictions of animals and plants dating back hundreds of years offer a unique and intriguing photographic experience.
Arequipa
Known as the “White City” due to its sillar buildings, Arequipa is an architectural gem. The Plaza de Armas, with its cathedral and the Monastery of Santa Catalina, is a perfect place to begin your exploration. The city also offers spectacular views of the Misti volcano.
Colca Canyon
The Colca Canyon, one of the deepest canyons in the world, is a must-see destination for landscape photographers. The Cruz del Cóndor is the best place to capture images of the majestic Andean condors in flight. Traditional villages and agricultural terraces along the canyon add a cultural dimension to your portfolio.
Huascarán National Park, in the Cordillera Blanca, is the perfect place for lovers of high mountain photography. Nevado Huascarán, the highest peak in Peru, and Laguna 69, with its dazzling turquoise color, are some of the many highlights. This park offers stunning views of glaciers, lagoons, and snow-capped peaks that create a spectacular setting for photography.
Traveling to Peru to capture its rich cultural and natural diversity is a dream for many photographers. From ancient Incan sites to vibrant markets and the lush Amazon, Peru offers endless photographic opportunities. To maximize your experience and ensure you return with a collection of unforgettable images, it is essential to be well prepared. Here are some key tips for photographers traveling to Peru from Europe.
Research and Planning
Study Your Destination: Before you travel, do your research on the places you plan to visit. Understand the best times of year to capture certain landscapes and cultural events.
While it is helpful to have an itinerary, leave room for flexibility. Sometimes the best photographic opportunities arise unexpectedly.
Passport and Visa: Make sure your passport has at least six months validity from the date of entry into Peru. Citizens of most European countries do not need a visa for stays of up to 90 days.
Vaccinations and Health: Check with a doctor about recommended vaccinations, such as yellow fever (if traveling to the Amazon), hepatitis A and B, and typhoid. Bring a first aid kit with basic medications and altitude sickness medication.
Medical Coverage: Choose insurance that covers illness, accidents, and medical evacuations.
Photographic Equipment Insurance: Make sure you have insurance that covers your equipment against theft, loss, and damage.
Cameras and Lenses
Primary Camera: Bring a good quality DSLR or mirrorless camera. Consider bringing a secondary camera as a backup.
Versatile Lenses: A wide-angle lens for landscapes, a telephoto lens for details and wildlife, and a standard lens for street and portrait photography.
Tripod: A must for long exposures and landscape photography.
Filters: Polarizing filters to reduce glare and enhance colors, and ND filters to control light during long exposures.
Batteries and Memory Cards: Bring enough batteries and memory cards so you don’t run out of storage space.
Waterproof Bags: Peru has varied and sometimes unpredictable climates. Protect your gear with waterproof bags.
Cleaning Kit: A cleaning kit to keep your lenses and sensors free of dust and dirt.
Capturing Landscapes and Nature
The Golden Light: Take advantage of the “golden hour,” just after sunrise and before sunset, to capture landscapes in soft, warm light.
Patience and Observation: In the Amazon and other natural environments, patience is key. Take your time to observe and wait for the perfect moment to capture wildlife.
Respect and Permission: Always ask permission before photographing people, especially in rural and traditional communities. Showing respect can open doors and opportunities to capture authentic images.
Participate and Learn: Get involved in local activities, such as festivals and markets. Learning about traditions and customs will enrich your experience and your photographs.
Environmental Monitoring: Keep your equipment safe and be aware of your surroundings, especially in busy urban areas.
Photo Backup: Back up your photos regularly. Use external hard drives and cloud storage services to ensure you don’t lose your images.
Altitude Adaptation
Acclimatization: If you are traveling to high-altitude regions, such as Cusco or Lake Titicaca, take your time to acclimatize. Avoid strenuous physical activity for the first few days.
Hydration and Rest: Stay hydrated and get plenty of rest. Avoid alcohol and eat light meals to facilitate acclimatization.
Local Transportation: Research transportation options. In large cities, taxis and public transportation are convenient. In rural areas, consider renting a vehicle or hiring a local guide.
Accommodations: Book accommodations that offer safety and comfort. Places with good reviews on sites like TripAdvisor or Booking.com are recommended.
Regardless of the season, it’s always advisable to check the weather forecast before departing and have a flexible plan. This will allow you to adjust your itinerary in case of adverse weather conditions, improving your level of preparation for Salkantay.
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