Peru is bursting with stunning photo opportunities, from turquoise lagoons and lush jungles to salt pools and ancient Incan relics. If you’re looking to fill your Instagram feed with jaw-dropping shots, these spots should be on your list!
Turquoise Pools of Millpu, Ayacucho
These turquoise pools are an absolute gem! Surrounded by white minerals, their color shifts to a vibrant green in the summer. Getting there is a bit of an adventure, but the views are totally worth it. Trust me, the effort pays off!
Machu Picchu: Peru’s Crown Jewel
No trip to Peru is complete without a visit to Machu Picchu, the country’s most iconic attraction. Standing amidst these ancient Incan ruins is mind-blowing. Even on a cloudy day, when the mist clears, the Lost City of the Incas reveals its grandeur. Take a moment to soak in the history and beauty of this breathtaking site.
Ausangate Lagoons, Cusco
After an hour and a half of hiking (it’s the altitude, not the hike, that makes it tough), you’ll be rewarded with the first of seven stunning lagoons at Ausangate. The last lagoon is the star of the show, with its mesmerizing turquoise water that changes with the sky. This hike is definitely worth the effort!
Salineras de Maras Salt Pools, Cusco
About an hour’s drive from Cusco, or as part of a day trip to the Sacred Valley, you’ll find over 4,000 salt pools cascading down a valley. After some vandalism in 2019, a fence now keeps visitors from the pools themselves, but the views are still incredible. Snap some photos from the vantage points for stunning shots!
The Dunes of Huacachina
The vast dunes of Huacachina are perfect for capturing desert-like photos that’ll make your friends think you’ve ventured into the Sahara. You can trek to the dunes on foot (challenging but rewarding) or take a thrilling buggy ride with sandboarding.
Rainbow Mountain, Cusco
Rainbow Mountain’s natural colors are nothing short of spectacular. The hike up is pretty tough, so I opted for the alternative route to Palcoyo, which offers stunning views with a bit less strain.
Top Viewpoints in Cusco
Cusco has some fantastic viewpoints where you can get a bird’s-eye view of the city. Here are a few I recommend:
- Cristo Blanco
- Mirador de San Blas
- Limbus Resto & Bar
