Claire Dean
Travel in South America is a joy to behold. The rich variety of destinations, experiences, landscapes and geography fascinated me so much, that I chose to relocate here, over 20 years ago! The best thing I ever did! Allow me to share my knowledge and passion for Central and South America with you and help you plan your holiday of a lifetime!
TRAVEL PHOTOGRAPHY - Exploring the Salkantay Trek
Written by:Claire Dean
Published: 2023-06-22
Situated in the heart of the Andes Mountains, the Salkantay Trek in Peru is a remarkable journey that captivates trekkers, adventurers, and nature enthusiasts alike. This awe-inspiring route to Machu Picchu presents a perfect opportunity for photographers to capture the breathtaking beauty of the region. From snow-capped peaks to turquoise lakes and lush valleys to ancient ruins, the Salkantay Trek offers an abundance of photographic marvels. In this article, we will delve into the key points of interest and highlight the photography hotspots along this famous trek through the Peruvian Andes.
Incredible Salkantay with a Llama
Mollepata
The Salkantay trailhead can be found in the charming village of Mollepata. Nestled amidst verdant valleys and surrounded by towering mountains, this town provides an excellent starting point for capturing the rustic beauty of the region. Photographers can explore the vibrant local market, interact with the friendly inhabitants, and document the traditional Andean way of life.
Salkantay in The Distance
Humantay Lake
As the journey unfolds, one of the major highlights is Humantay Lake. With its dazzling turquoise waters and awe-inspiring glacier backdrop, this picturesque gem is a true photographer's paradise. The contrast between the azure hues of the lagoon and the rugged mountainous terrain creates a captivating composition, perfect for stunning landscape photography.
Humantay Lake
The Salkantay Pass
Ascending to an elevation of approximately 4,600 meters, the Salkantay Pass offers magnificent panoramic vistas. Capture the majesty of the surrounding snow-capped peaks, the play of light and shadow on the surrounding landscapes, and the rugged beauty of this high-altitude terrain. This dramatic setting provides ample opportunities for breathtaking wide-angle shots and intimate portraits of fellow trekkers.
Salkantay Pass
Cloud Forest
Descending from the lofty heights of The Andes, the Salkantay Trek continues through a mystical cloud forest. Cloaked in a lush emerald canopy, this ethereal environment is home to a rich array of flora and fauna, as well as coffee and mango plantations. Photographers can embrace the magical atmosphere, capturing the interplay of light filtering through the dense foliage, the vibrant hues of exotic orchids, and the fleeting glimpses of elusive wildlife native to the region.
Waterfall on the Salkantay Trek
Llactapata Ruins
The Salkantay Trek unveils hidden ancient ruins that add a historical dimension to this famous Andean trek. The Llactapata ruins, perched on a ridge overlooking the Sacred Valley, offer a unique vantage point to capture the grandeur of Machu Picchu from a distance. Photographers can explore the intricate stone structures, experiment with different angles, and frame the iconic citadel against the backdrop of spectacular Andean peaks.
Llactapata Ruins
Machu Picchu
The pinnacle of the Salkantay Trek is, of course, the iconic Machu Picchu. As you head to this sacred Inca citadel to catch your first glimpse of this ancient site, be prepared to photograph one of the world's most iconic archaeological sites and one of the 7 wonders of the world. Photographers can document the intricate stone masonry, the mysterious terraces, and the harmonious blend of human architecture with the surrounding natural splendor. if Machu Picchu is a mind-blowingly spectacular experience, the location where the Inca s chose to build the site is truly remarkable and has to be seen with your own eyes to be believed.
Machu Picchu
The Salkantay Trek in Peru beckons trekkers and photographers of all ranges of experience, to embark on a remarkable visual journey through diverse landscapes, ancient ruins, and cultural encounters. From the serene beauty of Humantay Lake to the panoramic grandeur of the Salkantay Pass, and finally, to the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu, every step of this trek reveals remarkable opportunities for capturing breathtaking photographs. Immerse yourself in this unparalleled adventure and let your lens capture the timeless allure of the Andean highlands. Find out more here!
