Costa Rica is a wildlife photographer’s paradise, home to six stunning toucan species that thrive in its lush rainforests and cloud forests. During my recent trip, I captured breathtaking images of four vibrant toucans, including the Keel-billed Toucan, Collared Aracari, and Yellow-throated Toucan, in iconic locations like Boca Tapada, Sarapiquí, and San Gerardo de Dota. With its unparalleled biodiversity, Costa Rica offers endless opportunities for toucan photography—though two elusive species remain on my list!

Discover more about my toucan photography journey, the best places to find these birds, and why toucans are essential to Costa Rica’s ecosystems.

Join us on Day 2 of the Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, where physical challenges meet stunning photographic opportunities. Climbing from 8,513 feet to 12,480 feet, we journeyed toward the ancient Llaqtapata ruins, capturing breathtaking Andean landscapes along the way.

Experience the lively energy of the Andean community of Huayllabamba, filled with vibrant moments waiting to be photographed. The steep ascent rewarded us with dramatic, sweeping views of the Andes. As we reached the Llulluchapampa campsite just before dusk, the star-filled sky offered the perfect setting for quiet evening reflections.

Come explore the contrasts of the Classic Inca Trail, where every step reveals new stories and invites you to connect with the rich culture and awe-inspiring beauty of the Andes Mountains.

The first day of the Classic Inca Trail began with excitement as we ventured into the breathtaking Andean landscape. Passing through peaceful pastures and ascending toward the ancient Llactapata ruins, the hike felt like a journey through time, rich with Inca history and significance. Each step invited moments of reflection, allowing me to connect the stunning surroundings with my own emotional journey as a woman exploring the world.

Through my lens, I captured the sweeping vistas of the Andes, each photo a testament to the strength of nature and the healing power of exploration. As the sun set and we reached our mountain campsite, a deep sense of accomplishment settled in. This day marked the start of an unforgettable trek, intertwining the physical challenge of the Classic Inca Trailwith my path toward self-discovery, personal growth, and the empowerment that comes from women's travel.

The exploration of Peru’s Sacred Valley offers an immersive experience, blending altitude acclimatization, cultural engagement, and emotional reflection. A stay at the tranquil Sol y Luna Hotel provides the ideal environment for adjusting to the high altitude while reigniting a passion for photography and fostering a deeper connection to the land. Highlights include a scenic horseback ride to the Maras Salt Mines, where ancient salt harvesting practices are still alive, and a challenging hike to the Perolniyoc Waterfall and Raqaypata Ruins, testing physical endurance while offering serene moments of reflection in stunning natural surroundings. This phase of the journey not only prepares for the Classic Inca Trail but also serves as a personal exploration of grief, illustrating the transformative power of travel. Discover how each adventure in the Sacred Valley enhances both physical readiness and emotional healing.

Traversing Peru’s Sacred Valley and hiking the Classic Inca Trail in September 2019, I not only faced the physical challenges of the journey but also embarked on a path of deep emotional reflection. Marking the 10th anniversary of my son's death, each step through the ancient trails and stunning landscapes became a moment of healing. With my camera in hand, I captured the beauty around me, using photography as a way to process grief and embrace personal growth. This journey became a transformative experience of emotional strength and creative renewal.