Ahobamba Photo Expedition
A quiet route to Machu Picchu through the Ahobamba Valley, from the glaciers beneath Nevado Salkantay down into untouched cloud forest, with time to photograph every step.
Everything You Need To Know
Highlights
- Sunrise and sunset sessions
- Private mule support and logistics team
- Curated pacing for best photo opportunities
- Access to remote alpine viewpoints
What You'll Need
- Moderate to strong fitness is required. You should be comfortable hiking 4-8 miles (6.5-12.8 km) per day on mountain trails with elevation gain
- The pace is steady and manageable, with breaks for instruction and photography
What Makes This Location Special
The Ahobamba Valley is one of the most beautiful and least known routes to Machu Picchu. The trail crosses private land and is open to only a small number of people, so your group will likely be the only one you see. The trip starts in the high alpine, face to face with the 6,000-meter Nevado Salkantay, then drops into a cloud forest that is almost untouched. Every part of the route is planned to give you the chance to make world-class photographs and experience the raw beauty of Peru, led by a photographer who knows exactly when and where the best images show up.
Why This Route
Most photographs of Machu Picchu are taken from the same few viewpoints. Arriving through the Ahobamba Valley, you'll spend five days in landscapes very few photographers have worked in, so the images you make are your own rather than copies of shots you've already seen online.
Your Journey Unfolds
We drive a few hours from Cusco to the trailhead at Waywakunka Pass and start walking beneath Nevado Salkantay, crossing Incachiriaska and Palqay passes before descending into the Ahobamba Valley.
- Distance
- 13.3 km
- Ascent
- 800 meters
- Descent
- 1500 meters
Photo Focus
- Adventure and landscape style shots
- Sublime glaciated peaks
- Lush Peruvian cloud forest
MealsLunch, dinner
We camped just above the valley's homesteads the night before. From here it's an easy walk down a tranquil corridor of the upper valley to the Mountaineer's House.
- Distance
- 6 km
- Ascent
- 50 meters
- Descent
- 900 meters
Photo Focus
- Waterfalls
- Peruvian cloud forest
- Biolife
MealsBreakfast, lunch, dinner
A free day around the Mountaineer's House, with plenty to photograph: a hike to the waterfall, the Inca ruins a short walk away, and bird watching in the forest.
Photo Focus
- High waterfall
- Rivers
- Lush cloud forest
MealsBreakfast, lunch, dinner
We hike down a lush valley with bamboo forests and viewpoints of pristine cloud forest landscapes. We will stay at a coffee farm that has been in operation for generations.
- Distance
- 13 km
- Ascent
- 50 meters
- Descent
- 1400 meters
Photo Focus
- Deep cloud forest scenes
- Bridge crossings
MealsBreakfast, lunch, dinner
We hike to Aguas Calientes and join the main hiking trail to Machu Picchu.
- Distance
- 13 km
- Ascent
- 200 meters
- Descent
- 700 meters
MealsBreakfast, lunch, dinner
We go to visit the 'Lost City of the Incas,' Machu Picchu. After visiting the site, we will return to Cusco by train.
Photo Focus
- Machu Picchu
MealsBreakfast, lunch
Who's Leading This Adventure
Matt Stacy
After falling in love with Peru's mountains in 2022, Matt has led dozens of expeditions into the Cordillera Huayhuash. Living full-time in Peru for 4+ years, he's intimately familiar with the optimal shooting locations, weather patterns, and logistical intricacies of this remote circuit. His photography has been featured in adventure publications worldwide.
Local Guide Partners
Supported by experienced Peruvian mountain guides who know every trail, pass, and campsite. Our local team handles all logistics so you can focus entirely on photography.
The Practical Details
Meeting Point
Cusco, Peru
Transportation
Airport and bus terminal transfers. Transportation to trailhead and back to Cusco. Train tickets back to Cusco from Machu Picchu.
Accommodation
Mixed—Hotel & Camping - Hotel in Machu Picchu town. Camping during the trek with tents provided.
Meals
All meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
Group Size
Up to 10 photographers for optimal flexibility
Our Philosophy
We keep groups intentionally small so you have the flexibility to capture the shots that matter to you. No waiting in line for the perfect angle, no rushing because the group needs to move on. Everyone gets the time and space they need.
What's Included
Investment
USD $3,000
Balance Due
- • Deposit Required: Upon booking to secure your spot
- • Balance Due: 60 days before departure
Payment Methods
Bank Wire Transfer, Credit Card
Cancellation Policy
90+ days: Full refund minus $200 admin fee. 60-89 days: 50% refund. 30-59 days: 25% refund. Less than 30 days: No refund. Travel insurance strongly recommended.
View Full Cancellation PolicyWhat's Included
- Airport and bus terminal transfers
- Transportation to trailhead and back to Cusco
- Entrance fees to Machu Picchu
- Hotel in Machu Picchu town
- Train tickets back to Cusco from Machu Picchu
- All meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
- Certified mountain guide
- Cooks, porters and mules
- Tents
- Emergency horses
- Published photography guide
Not Included
- International and domestic flights
- Transport from Lima to Cusco
- Accommodations
- Sleeping bag (rentals available)
- Camera equipment
- Extra personal snacks
- Photography equipment insurance
- Travel insurance
- Tips
- Alcoholic beverages
- Personal gear
What To Bring
Essential camera equipment for this adventure
What to pack for comfort and safety
Equipment and services included
Have Questions About Gear?
Don't have all the equipment listed? We can provide recommendations for rentals or alternatives. The most important thing is to bring what you have and be ready to learn. We'll work with your current setup to help you get the best possible results.
Ahobamba Photo Expedition
USD $3,000