Inti Punku Workshop
Sunrise photography at Inti Punku (Inca Sun Gate) combined with cultural photography at Urubamba's vibrant central market
Everything You Need To Know
Highlights
- Hiking above the incredible Sacred Valley
- Inca ruins juxtaposed with Nevado Veronica, a sacred mountain of 5,911 meters
- Catching sunrise in the Sacred Valley
- Adventure and landscape photography
- Best view of the sacred glaciated mountain Nevado Veronica
What You'll Need
- Designed for photographers of all levels
- Moderate physical fitness for 16km hike with 1,104m elevation gain
- Ability to hike in low light conditions (early morning start at 2:15am)
- Willingness to wake up early for sunrise photography
What Makes This Location Special
Matt chose Inti Punku (Inca Sun Gate) because of its dynamic environment with many opportunities to learn photography skills. There are opportunities to learn skills such as working with light, lens choices, and composition. The Urubamba market complements the day by shifting to an environment with rich cultural and portrait style photography.
Why This Route
The combination of sunrise photography at Inti Punku for adventure and landscape photography, followed by cultural immersion at Urubamba's vibrant central market for portraiture and cultural photography, provides a complete photographic journey. Starting before sunrise allows us to capture the Sacred Valley in its most magical light, while the afternoon market session offers intimate cultural photography opportunities rarely accessible to typical tourists.
Your Journey Unfolds
Inti Punku Sunrise & Urubamba Market
We'll drive from Urubamba to the trailhead at 2:00 AM, then begin hiking at 2:15 AM to arrive at Inti Punku in time for the soft morning light—the best time to take photographs. After capturing the sunrise and the incredible views of Nevado Veronica, we'll return to the Sacred Valley for a mouth-watering Peruvian lunch. Following an editing session and rest, we'll explore and photograph Urubamba's vibrant central market, capturing authentic cultural moments. The day concludes with a final review of your images.
Photo Focus
- Adventure and landscape photography at sunrise
- Portraiture and culture at Urubamba market
Accommodation
None (day trip)
Meals
Breakfast and lunch included
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 is included
Accommodation
None - Not applicable (single day workshop)
Meals
Breakfast and lunch included
Group Size
Maximum 6 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
Investment
USD $599
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
- 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
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.
Inti Punku
USD $599