2026 Founding Season — Single day workshops from $300 per person through Oct 30
Maras Workshop
Personalized instruction in outdoor photography with published adventure photographer Matt Stacy
Everything You Need To Know
Highlights
- Hiking in a lush valley above the town of Urubamba
- Ancient ruins untainted by tourism
- Views of the Sacred Valley from above
- Cultural experience in Maras Salt Lake and Village
What You'll Need
- Designed for photographers of all levels
- Moderate physical fitness for 6 km hike with 400-meter elevation gain
- Ability to hike in low light conditions (early morning start at 3:30am)
- Willingness to wake up early for sunrise photography
What Makes This Location Special
Our first location isn't disclosed online. This is to keep it crowd free and ensure that we will be the only people shooting in the valley at the time of the workshop. Matt chose the Maras Salt Mines for the second half of the day because of the contrast from the environmental portion of the workshop. At the Salt Mines, you will have the opportunity to photograph intimate scenes of the people in the local community who work there.
Why This Route
The combination of pristine natural environments in the morning and cultural immersion at the Maras Salt Mines in the afternoon provides a complete photographic journey. Starting before sunrise allows us to capture the valley in its most magical light, while the afternoon session offers intimate cultural photography opportunities rarely accessible to tourists.
Your Journey Unfolds
Arrive at trailhead and begin hiking at 3:30am before sunrise. Starting early ensures that we arrive to the ruins while there is still soft, natural light. Soak in the beauty of the lush valley and eat breakfast. We'll enjoy a breakfast to give us fuel for the remainder of the day's instruction. Hike back to trailhead for a lunch of mouthwatering Peruvian Cuisine. Editing session. Afternoon in the Maras Salt Mines. Final review.
- Distance
- 6 km
- Ascent
- 400 meters
- Descent
- 400 meters
Photo Focus
- Long exposure photography at optional waterfall
- Ancient inca ruins
- Lush landscapes of forests and mountains above the Sacred Valley
- Portraits of local Peruvians
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.
Teaching Style
“This is an expedition, not a workshop—I'm here to get you to the right place at the right time and set up the shots. We'll discuss technique around camp, but the focus is on capturing incredible images in one of the world's most spectacular locations.”
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
The Sacred Valley, Urubamba
Transportation
Transportation throughout the day
Accommodation
None - Not applicable (single day workshop)
Meals
Breakfast and lunch included
Group Size
Maximum 4 participants for personalized instruction
Our Philosophy
Small group sizes ensure everyone gets personalized attention and dedicated time with the instructor. You're not just another participant—you'll receive individual feedback, have your questions answered, and work at a pace that matches your learning style.
What's Included
2026 Founding Season Rates
(through October 30)
$300
regular $400
per person — groups of 2–4
$450
regular $600
private — just you and Matt
Includes hotel pickup, meals, transport, and a full day of hands-on instruction. Maximum 4 photographers.
After October 30, workshops return to regular rates: $400 (group) and $600 (private).
Why a founding rate?
These are the first workshops of the season, and founding clients help shape what this becomes. In return for the launch price, we ask for your honest feedback — and if you love it, a review.
Balance Due
- Deposit due once we confirm your date
Payment Methods
Bank Wire Transfer, Credit Card
Cancellation Policy
61+ days before departure: we keep 30% of the trip price and refund the rest of your deposit. 31–60 days: we keep 75%. 30 days or less: no refund. Card fees are non-refundable. Travel insurance strongly recommended.
View Full Booking TermsWhat's Included
- Transportation throughout the day
- Breakfast and lunch
- Entrance fee to Maras Salt Mines
- Headlamp for early morning hiking
Not Included
- Transportation to Urubamba
- Accommodations
- Dinner
- Camera equipment
- Laptop for editing
- Extra snacks
- Photography equipment insurance
- Travel insurance
- 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.
Maras Workshop
from $300