Peru: Exploring the Sacred Valley – A Journey of Reflection
Introduction: A Personal Pilgrimage to Peru’s Sacred Valley
The Sacred Valley of Peru was more than just a destination; it was the backdrop for a deeply personal pilgrimage. As the 10-year anniversary of my son's passing approached in September 2019, the overwhelming need to transform my grief into a journey of both physical and emotional significance grew stronger. Trekking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu had long been a dream, and it felt like the right time to make it a reality.
This quest led me to the Sacred Valley, where the rugged beauty of the Andes and the challenges of high-altitude trails provided a poignant setting for seeking solace and strength.
"Machu Picchu" – A stunning reward where the ancient world meets the clouds after days of trekking the Inca Trail. I was beyond excited to be photographing this iconic site that I had only seen in magazines until now, finally capturing its breathtaking beauty firsthand.
Rediscovering Photography in the Sacred Valley
This journey also marked my return to photography—a passion I had set aside after my son’s death. Armed with a new camera, I rediscovered the joy of capturing the world through a lens. My daughter, Anna, more experienced with digital photography at the time, joined me on this journey, sharing her expertise and enthusiasm for the craft.
Together, Anna and I experimented with lenses and perspectives, finding new ways to frame the breathtaking landscapes before us. For me, photography wasn’t just about the technical aspects; it was a way to reconnect with the world and pause to appreciate the fleeting beauty—a metaphor for life itself.
“Day 1 On the Classic Inca Trail”
Traversing the Sacred Valley was a journey of physical challenge and emotional reflection. Each ascent through the valley’s formidable terrain mirrored the internal struggle of confronting and channeling my grief. The drive to reach the highest points of this breathtaking landscape became a powerful metaphor for my quest to push beyond the pain and find a new sense of resilience. Image courtesy of Anna Sommer.
Transitioning from Film to Digital Photography
Having come from a film photography background, the shift to digital photography was both challenging and invigorating. With my new Canon EOS 6D Mark II, I opted to shoot in JPEG format, focusing on mastering the basics while immersing myself in both the journey and the learning process. Each shot was an opportunity not just to document the adventure but to engage deeply with it—seeing the Sacred Valley with fresh eyes and a renewed sense of purpose.
"Day 2 of the Inca Trail, the Llaqtapata ruins are touched by the early morning light, casting a tranquil aura as a lone figure walks the ancient path."
Preparing for the Inca Trail: Acclimatizing in the Sacred Valley
Every step on this pilgrimage tested my endurance. The effort it took to ascend to some of the Sacred Valley’s most stunning viewpoints mirrored the inner journey I was undertaking. Before tackling the formidable Classic Inca Trail, I spent time acclimatizing at the tranquil Sol y Luna Hotel in Urubamba.
“Nature’s Path to Serenity”. A view of the Sol y Luna Hotel casitas surrounded by vibrant landscaping.
The Sol y Luna Hotel – A Serene Oasis
The Sol y Luna Hotel, a Relais & Châteaux property, was not merely a place of rest but a sanctuary where nature’s beauty began to heal. Set amidst the rugged and majestic surroundings of Peru’s Sacred Valley, the hotel offered luxurious accommodations while helping guests acclimatize to the altitude before embarking on the Classic Inca Trail trek. For a nature photographer, it was a paradise. The verdant grounds reflected the region's rich biodiversity, with vibrant flowers blooming in every corner and native plants creating a tapestry of textures.
Every part of Sol y Luna offered a new canvas, inviting me to slow down and capture the delicate interplay of light and color. As I explored the gardens, it became clear that this serene setting was not only ideal for physical preparation but also provided endless photography opportunities, making it the perfect start to the transformative journey ahead.
“Cheerful Bloom”
Every time I passed by, this little flower brought a smile to my face.
Read on to see more images of the Sol y Luna Hotel and its beautiful grounds below…… ©LonaDownsPhotography
Charming casitas nestled along serene walkways in Sol y Luna's 25 acres of private gardens, abundant with indigenous flowers and birdlife, blending rustic elegance with Andean flair.
Discovering Wayra Ranch and the Majestic Peruvian Pasos
While exploring the grounds of Sol y Luna, I stumbled upon a delightful discovery—the Wayra Ranch, home to the magnificent Peruvian Paso horses. Lovingly raised and cared for by dedicated gauchos, these horses moved with their signature, gentle, rhythmic gait—evoking a deep sense of nostalgia for someone with a lifelong connection to horses. Visiting Wayra Ranch provided not only the opportunity to spend time with these majestic animals in their stables and corral but also a profound spiritual reconnection from my past.
From Tranquil Gardens to Ancient Trails: The Adventure Begins
The Sacred Valley of Peru became not only a place of healing but also the starting point of my great adventure. From exploring the rich culture and history of the Sacred Valley to preparing for the Classic Inca Trail trek, this journey was a transformative experience. The stay at Sol y Luna Hotel was an integral part of my preparation, offering both a connection to the natural world and a refuge from the emotional and physical challenges of the journey ahead.
What’s Next?
In Part 2, explore:
A horseback adventure to the mesmerizing Maras Salt Mines
A trek to the breathtaking Perolniyoc Waterfalls
The cultural richness of Ollantaytambo
Acclimating for the upcoming Inca Trail trek
The ongoing emotional journey and rekindled passion for photography
Click here to read the next chapter: [Peru: Sacred Valley Adventures – Acclimating for the Inca Trail]
For more on my recent travels and gear updates, check out my blog posts on the 2024 Antarctica Expedition and the Camera Equipment I Used. These posts provide a deeper look into the tools and experiences that have shaped my photography journey since the Sacred Valley.
