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Author: Pirwa

Getting the Best Travel Photos

Getting the Best Travel Photos

Exploring the ruins of Ollantaytambo in the Sacred Valley of the IncasAs evidenced by the common “top” lists on photography aficionado sites, Peru is considered one of the best countries for photographing landscapes and people, a treasure-house of amazing shots waiting to be taken. Many travelers who make the trip seek not only to document their experiences, but also to gain some worthy shots for hanging on the wall and sharing on social media, so we’ve compiled some recommendations for them: our six top photogenic sites along with some tips for local photography etiquette.

ATV Quadbiking in the Sacred Valley of the Incas

ATV Quadbiking in the Sacred Valley of the Incas

atv_cusco_4Renting some quad bikes or ATVs marries the beautiful landscape of the Sacred Valley of the Incas and the excitement of off-roading. During the ride, you’ll enjoy expansive views of the tiny green fields which each family relies on for sustenance, picturesque communities with adobe mud-brick homes and colorfully dressed locals, small springs and Puyoc Lake, and the Andean mountains surrounding the valley. At some points, we’ll even be able to look over the city of Cusco.

The exciting terrain of winding dirt paths and frequent hills allows the bravest to jump their bikes in the air. You’ll have the space and time to exceed 4th gear.

Bolivia’s Sacred Sun Island in Lake Titicaca

Bolivia’s Sacred Sun Island in Lake Titicaca

Isla-del-Sol-Sun-Island-Lake-Titicaca-Bolivia-13Sun Island (Isla del Sol) is the most popular attraction on Bolivia’s side of Lake Titicaca, and the largest island on the entire lake. It was considered sacred by the Aymara and the Inca after them, whose creation myths began with the god Viracocha emerging from the water at this location and creating the sun. Hikes on the island showcase Incan ruins, beautiful scenery of green hills contrasted against clear waters and the Andean Cordillera Real in the background, and the simple hallmarks of island life, such as grazing llamas, burdened donkeys, and adobe mudbricks being produced. What you won’t see on this tranquil island are cars or motocycles!

Celebrate Peru’s Fiestas Patrias in Lima

Celebrate Peru’s Fiestas Patrias in Lima

Marinera Dancers-in-Main-Square-of-Lima-Peru-during-Fiestas-Patrias-Peru’s Fiestas Patrias commemorate its proclamation of independence each July 28th and honors its Armed Forces and National Police each July 29th. Most Peruvians take advantage of the holiday to travel domestically, attending concerts or dance shows celebrating Peruvian folklore, or spend independence day with their families enjoying traditional dishes. Here, we’ve compiled the details on the holiday’s biggest events for you:

Paracas National Reserve: Peru’s Desert Coast…and its Penguins

Paracas National Reserve: Peru’s Desert Coast…and its Penguins

Paracas National Reserve near Pisco, PeruParacas National Reserve is known for its natural beauty and surprising wildlife which includes numerous penguin and sea lion colonies. You can reach it by taking a bus from Lima to Pisco, a trip of about 3-4 hours. (Pisco’s a stop on most buses covering the Lima-Arequipa route, with the most frequent Lima-Ica-Pisco buses being Ormeño.)