Cusco Through the Lens: Top Photography Spots
Cusco, the former capital of the Inca Empire, is a captivating destination for photography enthusiasts. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and breathtaking landscapes, Cusco offers a wealth of photographic opportunities. Whether you’re a professional photographer or a traveler with a smartphone, Cusco has something for everyone. We’ll explore the city’s best photography spots, from iconic landmarks to hidden gems that will make your Instagram feed shine.
1. Sacayhuamán*
Sacsayhuamán, a massive Inca fortress, commands a panoramic view of Cusco. Its colossal stone walls create captivating geometric patterns that are a delight to photograph.Visit during the late afternoon for warm, golden-hour shots, or capture the dramatic lighting at sunrise for a unique perspective.
2. Plaza de Armas
Cusco’s central square, Plaza de Armas, is a bustling hub of activity and a perfect spot for photography. It is surrounded by impressive colonial architecture, including the Cusco Cathedral and the Church of the Society of Jesus.Experiment with different angles and viewpoints to capture the square’s vibrant atmosphere. Visit at night when the square is illuminated for a different ambiance.
3. Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca)
Located a few hours from Cusco, Rainbow Mountain is renowned for its vibrant colors resulting from mineral deposits in the earth’s layers. The hike to the summit offers incredible photo opportunities of the mountain and the Andean landscapes.Start your hike early to capture the mountain in the soft morning light, and don’t forget to photograph the llamas and alpacas along the way.
4. Coricancha (Temple of the Sun)
Once the most significant temple in the Inca Empire, Coricancha showcases a captivating blend of Inca and colonial architecture. The golden walls of the temple are particularly striking.Visit during the day to capture the golden glow of the walls. Experiment with wide-angle lenses to capture the grandeur of the architecture.
5. San Blas Neighborhood
San Blas is a charming neighborhood famous for its narrow cobblestone streets and artisan workshops. It’s an excellent place to capture the local culture’s essence.Explore the neighborhood’s winding streets to discover hidden courtyards and unique angles for your shots. Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for soft, flattering light.
6. Humantay Lake
A day trip from Cusco will take you to Humantay Lake, nestled in the Andes. The lake’s deep turquoise waters and surrounding mountains create a postcard-perfect scene.Hike to the viewpoint above the lake for a breathtaking panoramic shot. Use a polarizing filter to enhance the colors of the lake and sky.
7. Ollantaytambo
This picturesque Inca town is known for its well-preserved ruins and charming streets. The terraced agricultural terraces and the massive stone walls of the Ollantaytambo Fortress are ideal for photography.Capture the symmetry of the terraces and the dramatic shadows cast by the stone walls. Visit during the morning to avoid crowds.
8. Moray
Moray is an archaeological site featuring concentric agricultural terraces resembling an ancient amphitheater. The unique design offers striking visual opportunities.Use a drone to capture aerial shots of the terraces and their intricate patterns. Visit during the late afternoon for beautiful sidelight.
9. Pisac Market
The bustling Pisac Market is a haven for vibrant colors, traditional Andean textiles, handicrafts, and fresh produce, making it an ideal photography location.Engage with the locals and capture candid portraits. Focus on the vibrant colors of the textiles and crafts.
10. Maras Salt Ponds
The Maras Salt Ponds are a network of ancient terraced salt pans that create a mesmerizing patchwork of white, pink, and brown. It’s a unique photographic location.
Photography Tip: Experiment with different compositions to capture the geometric patterns of the salt ponds. Visit during the dry season for the most striking colors.
11. Chinchero
Chinchero is a charming town known for its traditional weaving and stunning views of the surrounding mountains. It’s an excellent place for photographing Andean culture.Visit the weaving workshops to capture artisans at work. Don’t miss the opportunity to photograph the local women dressed in vibrant traditional clothing.
Cusco is a photographer’s paradise, offering a diverse range of subjects and settings to capture. From the ancient ruins of the Inca Empire to the vibrant streets of the city, each corner of Cusco tells a unique story through the lens. Whether you’re a professional photographer or an enthusiastic traveler with a camera, Cusco’s picture-perfect beauty awaits your creative eye. Pack your gear, charge your batteries, and get ready to capture the magic of this enchanting Peruvian city.
Tags: Coricancha, Cusco, Plaza de Armas, Sacsayhuamán