15 dream destinations for travel photography

Wanderlust is REAL. Right now, we’re all thinking of where we want to travel to next. If your inner travel bug is going through some serious withdrawal, why not start planning your next trip around the epic travel photos you’ll capture? With so many places in the world to explore and photograph – from the epic Northern Lights to jaw-dropping Petra – it’s tough to know where to start. Here, we’ve rounded up 15 of the dream destinations for travel photography so you can snap happy for a very long time!

15. The skies in Iceland

Get ready to go chasing waterfalls. This country is full of amazing landscapes for travel photographers. During the day, spend time exploring Iceland’s diverse landscape. From active volcanos to geysers, black beaches and fjords, you’ll have plenty to explore with your camera lens. At night this dream travel photography destination comes alive with clear views of the stunning stars splayed across the sky. If you plan your trip from September-March, you may even be able to experience the Northern Lights.

14. The Grand Canyon, USA

If you’re looking for some gorgeous landscapes to shoot, the Grand Canyon National Park shouldn’t be missed. The fiery-red rock and undulating terrain across the national park will make it feel like you’re shooting Mars. The deep canyons allow you to test your photography skills with perspective. It’s a great way to play with light and colour in your shots. Some key areas of the park include towering sandstones in Monument Valley and narrow channels of Antelope Canyon.

13. The temples and beaches in Thailand

There are plenty of travel photography opps in beautiful Thailand! Capture the culture of Thailand by visiting Buddhist temples like Wat Arun. Head into the city for Thai night markets to see how the locals live. If you’re feeling beachy, visit any of the Thai islands to capture those white sand and turquoise waters shots. The limestone cliffs around Krabi will also add something extra to your beach photos – include a long tail boat and you’ll master that iconic Thai shot.

12. The streets of Marrakesh, Morocco

This colourful country is a must-do travel destination for any shutterbug. But the city of Marrakesh is one of the best spots for travel photography – it’s full of energy, spices and beautiful architecture. In the city, you’ll find souk markets and endless mosaic doorways. Some of the best travel photography spots further afield include Atlas Mountains, the Sahara deserts and the Jardin de Majorelle. If you have some extra time, head outside the city to Chefchaouen to discover buildings full of beautiful blue hues.

11. The pagodas and forests in Kyoto, Japan

Japan has done a great job a preserving their traditional culture in Kyoto. In the heart of the city, you’ll find so many photo opportunities. Think Japanese castles, pagodas and temples. North of the city, you’ll find the bamboo forest in Arashiyama. Although the bamboo can be quite dense, use the natural light in your photos to capture the serenity of the area.

10. The wildlife in South Africa

Spend some time exploring Table Mountain and Cape Town’s coastal scenery. What makes South Africa stand out on this list is its opportunity for wildlife photography. Go on an African safari to capture amazing photos of lions, giraffes and elephants. The flat landscape in the area makes it easy to see Mount Kilimanjaro in the background.

9. The canals of Venice & Burano, Italy

The canals of Venice make this city one of the most photogenic spots in the world. Expect to find something interesting to shoot at every turn. The architecture, gondolas and reflections on the water make it worth the trip. To avoid the crowds, wake up early to capture some of the key tourist areas on camera. And if you have some extra time, head to nearby Burano. Famous for its colourful buildings, this island has quickly become a must-do on every travel photographer’s list.

8. Lake Tekapo, New Zealand

Lake Tekapo is any landscape photographer’s dream destination. During the day, play with reflections and perspectives of the landscape’s mountains and lakes. Once the sunsets, get ready for some amazing night photography. Defined as a dark sky reserve, this area is protected from artificial light pollution, making it a great astrophotography spot. Not only will you be stargazing, you’ll see the night sky come to life, all through your camera lens.

7. The streets of Paris, France

The architecture in Paris makes the city a street photographer’s dream travel destination. Let your camera lead the way because Paris is a city you can easily get lost in. Play with perspective near the streets of the Arc de Triomphe. Wander from the Eiffel Tower to the Louvre and capture photos of the locals along the way. You’ll end up discovering why so many people fall deeply in love with the City of Lights.

6. The mountains and deserts in Peru

There are loads of reasons why Peru is the ultimate travel photography destination. From the Andes Mountains to the deserts of Huacachina, there’s so much for your camera lens to take in. Capture iconic locations like Machu Picchu and Rainbow Mountain. And don’t forget to snap some photos of llamas and alpacas in the Sacred Valley. Remember to dress appropriately when shooting in Peru because the weather can vary quite drastically. If you find it a bit chilly, support a local shop by buying an alpaca sweater (or two).

5. The colours of Guatemala

Adventure awaits in Guatemala! Full of colour, epic hikes and jungles, this destination is  dreamy. You’ll find hidden Mayan ruins, active volcanos and breathtaking lakes. One of the most beautiful spots to photograph in Guatemala is Lake Atitlán. Made from the massive volcanic crater and surrounded by the Sierra Madre mountains and three active volcanos, this body of water connects to several indigenous villages that are yours to discover.

4. The wonders of Jordan

Attracting tourists from all over the world, Jordan is home to one of the seven wonders of the world, Petra. These stunning canyons carved into an ancient temple are definitely a sight to see and shoot. But don’t forget to visit everything else that Jordan has to offer to capture some amazing travel photos. Travel through the stunning desert landscapes of Wadi Rum or float freely in the Dead Sea. There’s so much to see and do in this beautiful dream travel photography destination.

3. The tea plantations of Sri Lanka

The Sri Lanka is a true dream travel photography destination. For anyone travelling to Sri Lanka, the spectacular views in Ella overlook a large gap in the southern mountain wall. Hop on a train and travel through the Sri Lankan countryside to see the sliding hills full of verdant tea plantations and forests.

2. The wilderness of Tasmania, Australia

Head to the land down under for some unbelievably wild shots. Visit the white sandy beaches, orange granite rocks and crystal waters in the Bay of Fires conservation area or hike up the mountains near in Wineglass Bay to take some aerial photography. Other areas to explore the wilderness are the Tasman Peninsula, Mount Wellington and Cradle Mountain. You’ll find so much to shoot in Tasmania that you may need to put aside an extra week (or two) to capture it all.

1. The lakes of Canada

Spend some time exploring and shooting the great outdoors in Canada. The Rocky Mountains in British Columbia and Alberta will absolutely take your breath away. Drive through Banff National Park and visit some of the major lakes like Moraine Lake and Lake Louise to discover turquoise glacial waters, mountains and tons of wildlife.

If you’re planning to take photos, there are a few things you should keep in mind to make the most out of your trip. It’s always good to ask before shooting. Watch out for signs that say, “no photography”. After you have permission, get to know the locals and understand their story because it’s the best way to understand their everyday life that you considered picture worthy. Show them your work and move along because there’s so many more dream travel photography destinations that await.