Landscape & Astrophotography at Ausangate 7 Lakes & Rainbow Mountain

Experience one of the most exclusive landscape and astrophotography adventures in Peru with Landscape Astrophotography at Ausangate 7 Lakes and Rainbow Mountain

By photo tours peru

1/13/20262 min read

Landscape & Astrophotography at Ausangate 7 Lakes & Rainbow Mountain
Landscape & Astrophotography at Ausangate 7 Lakes & Rainbow Mountain

Landscape & Astrophotography at Ausangate 7 Lakes & Rainbow Mountain

A High-Altitude Night Sky Experience in the Peruvian Andes

Experience one of the most exclusive landscape and astrophotography adventures in Peru with Landscape Astrophotography at Ausangate 7 Lakes and Rainbow Mountain. Designed for photographers, nature lovers, and travelers seeking extraordinary visuals, this journey combines pristine Andean landscapes, glacial lakes, colorful mountains, and some of the darkest skies in South America.

Operated by Inca Land Adventures, this high-altitude photography experience focuses on Milky Way photography, night landscape composition, long-exposure techniques, and dramatic sunrise and sunset sessions in the heart of the Vilcanota mountain range. Far from city lights, Ausangate offers exceptional conditions for astrophotography, making it a dream destination for night sky photographers.

Why Ausangate Is One of the Best Astrophotography Locations in Peru

Exceptional Night Skies

Ausangate sits at over 4,600 m / 15,000 ft, with minimal light pollution and extremely dry air—ideal conditions for Milky Way photography, star trails, and deep-sky nightscapes.

Iconic Landscapes

From turquoise glacial lakes to snow-capped peaks and naturally colored mountains, Ausangate delivers powerful foregrounds that elevate every astrophotography composition.

Rainbow Mountain After Dark

While most visitors only experience Rainbow Mountain during the day, our itinerary allows photographers to capture Vinicunca under the stars, an exceptionally rare opportunity.

Photography Highlights of the Tour

  • Milky Way photography over Ausangate 7 Lakes

  • Night landscape photography with snow-capped Andean peaks

  • Rainbow Mountain astrophotography with dramatic color contrasts

  • Sunset and sunrise photography at high-altitude viewpoints

  • Long-exposure techniques: star trails & night panoramas

  • Andean wildlife and cultural photography opportunities

Ausangate 7 Lakes: A Dream Foreground for Night Photography

The Ausangate region is home to seven spectacular glacial lakes, each with distinct colors ranging from emerald green to deep turquoise. At night, these lakes become perfect reflective foregrounds for the Milky Way, creating once-in-a-lifetime photographic scenes.

During the day, photographers capture:

  • Ultra-wide landscapes

  • Textures of glaciers and mineral-rich mountains

  • Reflections at sunrise and golden hour

At night, the focus shifts to:

  • Galactic core alignment

  • Foreground-light painting (when conditions allow)

  • Advanced composition techniques guided by experts

Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca): Beyond the Daytime Crowds

Known globally as Rainbow Mountain, Vinicunca is usually photographed under harsh daylight. Our carefully timed itinerary allows photographers to experience this iconic location before or after peak hours, focusing on:

  • Sunrise and twilight photography

  • Night sky compositions above multicolored ridgelines

  • Minimal crowds and uninterrupted shooting time

This approach transforms Rainbow Mountain into a high-end photography destination, not just a sightseeing stop.

Best Time for Astrophotography at Ausangate & Rainbow Mountain

The best season for astrophotography in Ausangate is from April to September, when skies are clearer and humidity is low.

Key Astrophotography Windows:

  • April–August: Best Milky Way visibility

  • August–November: Cold nights, crystal-clear skies

  • New Moon phases: Optimal for galactic core photography

Our guides plan departures around moon phases and astronomical conditions, maximizing photographic success.

Designed for Photographers by Photo tours peru

This experience reflects the high standards and professionalism of Photo tours peru, combining logistical excellence, safety, and deep local expertise.

What Sets This Tour Apart:

  • Photography-focused pacing (no rush)

  • Strategic night locations pre-scouted by experts

  • Experienced local guides familiar with altitude conditions

  • Small groups for maximum flexibility

  • Ethical, responsible tourism in remote Andean communities

Ideal For:

  • Landscape & astrophotographers (all levels)

  • Adventure travelers seeking unique night sky experiences

  • Professionals building high-end photography portfolios

  • Travelers looking for exclusive alternatives to classic Cusco tours

Book Your Ausangate Astrophotography Adventure

If you are searching for the ultimate high-altitude astrophotography experience in Peru, Landscape Astrophotography at Ausangate 7 Lakes & Rainbow Mountain delivers unmatched scenery, dark skies, and professional-level photographic opportunities.

📩 Contact Photo tours peru today to secure your place on this exclusive photography-focused journey into the Peruvian Andes.

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Landscape & Astrophotography at Ausangate 7 Lakes & Rainbow Mountain
Landscape & Astrophotography at Ausangate 7 Lakes & Rainbow Mountain