Lines on Andean Faces

Andean faces — of people and places — have lines of weather, years, and light that falls across them. This is an afternoon photographing the people of the Sacred Valley. See it through the eyes of a photographer who lives here — and whether you shoot portraits seriously or are simply drawn to faces, you'll have a chance to look closely. Beyond the Sacred Valley's famous archaeological sites, this route draws you into everyday life. You begin at a family's home, where the warmth of your hosts, a home-cooked snack with coca or muña tea, the colors of the walls and a dark room with soft light make for natural, intimate portraits. From there you drive to a highland lagoon viewpoint – over 4100 m - for sweeping views across the mountains and photos with members of the family. Late afternoon, you close with an alpaca blessing ritual, an enduring Andean tradition normally performed at festivals and shared here with you: a look at the bond between people, animals and the land.

Rather than driving a circuit on your own, your afternoon is led by a local photographer to the people and traditions that shape daily life in the Sacred Valley. Your host knows how to find beauty in everyday moments as much as in the vast landscapes — and brings together encounters rarely found: visiting a family's home, an alpaca blessing with a shepherd. It's an afternoon experience by design. Starting at 1 PM and getting back by around 6 if you're staying in the Sacred Valley, it leaves your morning open — come after a late brunch and return in good time for dinner. Curated by a Peru-based professional photographer with long ties to the region, and hosted by a photographer from the Sacred Valley, the experience treats photography not as the only focus but as a natural way to approach the place and its people. Which is why it suits amateur and seasoned photographers alike: there is room for conversation, curiosity and the encounters that happen along the way.

This Sacred Valley experience is designed and curated by Dan and hosted by one of his trusted local guides from the valley. Throughout, your host — a professional photographer himself — helps you capture the Sacred Valley from a personal, human perspective, sharing stories and mentoring you in the craft. It’s his relationships with the community that make this experience possible. Originally from France with Danish roots, Dan has lived in Peru since 2017. A professional photographer, he leads and curates private photography tours across Peru and elsewhere in South America, focusing on real life, local culture, and the encounters that come with them — from remote Andean communities to markets and quiet landscapes. Part of what he earns is shared with the local communities he works with, to support their livelihoods and traditions.

Your camera, or a fully-charged smartphone with enough memory. Dan recommends a mid-range zoom lens for portraits and landscapes; a prime lens (35, 50, or 85mm) is ideal for portraits. Comfortable footwear. Sunscreen and a sunhat — essential at this altitude. Water. A warm layer and/or rain jacket. The weather at the viewpoint can turn quickly. ** Message Dan via Fernwayer Chat about any dietary requirements or allergies.