Sacred Valley Workshop
Personalized instruction in outdoor photography with published adventure photographer Matt Stacy
Everything You Need To Know
Dates
Upon Request
Duration
1 Days / 0 Nights
Difficulty
Intermediate
Group Size
Max 3 People
Location
Sacred Valley, Peru
Investment
From USD $599
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
- Basic to intermediate photography skills
- Ability to hike on dirt trails in low light conditions
- Willingness to wake up at 3:00am for sunrise photography
- Moderate physical fitness for morning hike
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
Sacred Valley Photography Immersion
3:30am - Arrive at trailhead and begin pre-sunrise hike. Starting early ensures soft, natural light at the ruins. Soak in the beauty of the lush valley and enjoy breakfast to fuel the day's instruction. Mid-morning - Hike back to trailhead for a lunch of mouthwatering Peruvian cuisine, followed by an editing session. Afternoon - Explore the Maras Salt Mines for cultural and landscape photography. Evening - Final review and feedback session.
Photo Focus
- Sunrise and golden hour light techniques
- Composition with ancient ruins as subjects
- Long exposure waterfall photography
- Cultural and portrait photography at salt mines
- In-field editing and critique session
Accommodation
Not included - participants arrange their own accommodation in nearby Urubamba or Cusco
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
“Matt's teaching style is highly personalized, adapting to each participant's skill level and creative goals. He balances technical instruction with artistic exploration, encouraging photographers to see beyond the obvious and develop their own storytelling approach. Whether you're learning manual settings for the first time or refining your compositional eye, Matt provides hands-on guidance in real shooting situations.”
The Practical Details
Meeting Point
The Sacred Valley, Urubamba (exact trailhead location provided upon booking)
Transportation
Private transportation throughout the day included. Pickup from Urubamba or Sacred Valley accommodations.
Accommodation
N/A - Not included. We recommend staying in Urubamba or Cusco the night before the workshop.
Meals
Breakfast and lunch of authentic Peruvian cuisine included. Dinner not 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
From USD $599
Balance Due
- • Deposit Required: $199 USD deposit required to secure your spot
- • Balance Due: Balance of $400 USD due by April 1, 2025
Payment Methods
Credit Card, PayPal, Bank Transfer
Cancellation Policy
Full refund if cancelled 14+ days before workshop. 50% refund if cancelled 7-13 days before. No refund if cancelled within 6 days of workshop date.
View Full Cancellation PolicyWhat's Included
- Transportation throughout the day
- Breakfast and lunch
- Entrance fee to Maras Salt Mines
- Headlamp for early morning hiking
- Tripod (if needed for last-minute bookings)
- Emergency first aid kit
- Professional photography instruction
- In-field editing session
Not Included
- Accommodations
- Dinner
- Camera equipment
- Laptop for editing
- Extra snacks
- Gear and travel insurance
- Tips for instructor (optional)
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.
Sacred Valley
From USD $599