A great photographer can find something worth shooting anywhere — but there's no denying that a truly awe-inspiring location takes your work to another level. From ancient ruins to electric cityscapes, some places on Earth seem almost purpose-built for the camera.
Here are five locations around the world that every photographer should experience through the lens at least once.
1. Fairbanks, Alaska — Aurora Borealis
Fairbanks sits directly beneath the auroral oval — a ring around the North Pole that offers some of the most reliable and spectacular views of the Aurora Borealis on the planet. From late August through April, the night sky above Fairbanks comes alive with ribbons of green, purple, and red light that no photograph can fully do justice to — though that won't stop you trying.
Shooting the aurora requires a camera capable of long exposures in extreme cold, a wide-angle lens with a fast aperture (f/2.8 or wider), and a sturdy tripod. A full-frame mirrorless camera with strong high-ISO performance is ideal — you'll be shooting at ISO 1600–6400 in temperatures that can drop well below -20°C, so battery life and cold-weather performance matter enormously.
Best time to visit: September to March for peak aurora activity and long dark nights.
2. Machu Picchu, Peru — Ancient Wonder
Machu Picchu is one of the world's most photographed sites — and for good reason. Perched high in the Andes at 2,430 metres, this 15th-century Inca citadel is surrounded by dramatic mountain peaks, cloud forest, and the winding Urubamba River far below. The combination of ancient stone architecture and breathtaking natural scenery makes every angle a potential hero shot.
Arrive early — the site opens at 6am — to catch the morning mist rolling through the ruins before the crowds arrive. A versatile zoom lens in the 24–70mm range works well here, letting you capture both sweeping vistas and intimate architectural details without changing glass.
Best time to visit: May to September (dry season) for clear skies and optimal visibility.
3. Havana, Cuba — Street Photography Paradise
Havana is a street photographer's dream. The city is a living time capsule — crumbling colonial architecture painted in faded pastels, vintage American cars from the 1950s cruising the Malécon, and a culture so vibrant it practically leaps into the frame. Music drifts from every doorway, and the people of Havana are among the most photogenic and welcoming subjects you'll encounter anywhere in the world.
A compact mirrorless camera with a 35mm or 50mm prime lens is perfect for Havana — small enough to be unobtrusive, fast enough to capture candid moments in the bright Caribbean light. Always ask permission before photographing people, and take the time to connect with your subjects.
Best time to visit: November to April for dry weather and comfortable temperatures.
4. Venice, Italy — The City of Canals
Venice is unlike anywhere else on Earth. A city built on water, threaded with canals, and filled with centuries of art, architecture, and history — it's the kind of place where you'll fill memory cards faster than you expect. The challenge isn't finding something to photograph; it's choosing what to leave out.
Explore beyond the obvious landmarks. The quieter sestieri (neighbourhoods) of Cannaregio and Castello offer narrow calli, laundry strung between buildings, and reflections in still water that are just as compelling as the Grand Canal. Early morning — before the day-trippers arrive — is when Venice is at its most magical.
Best time to visit: October to November or February to March to avoid peak crowds.
5. Amboseli National Park, Kenya — Wildlife and Kilimanjaro
Amboseli is one of Africa's great wildlife photography destinations. Set against the backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro — the highest peak on the continent — the park is famous for its large elephant herds, which roam freely across open grasslands and marshes. On a clear morning, the sight of a herd of elephants with Kilimanjaro rising behind them is one of the most iconic images in wildlife photography.
For wildlife shooting, a telephoto lens of at least 300–400mm is essential — you need reach to fill the frame without disturbing the animals. A fast burst rate and reliable subject-tracking autofocus are equally important for capturing movement. Pair your telephoto with a wide-angle lens for landscape shots of the plains and mountain.
Best time to visit: June to October (dry season) for the best wildlife sightings and clearest views of Kilimanjaro.
Gear Up for Your Next Photography Adventure
Every destination on this list demands something slightly different from your kit, but a few essentials will serve you well everywhere:
- Mirrorless Cameras — Lightweight, high-performance bodies ideal for travel photography in any conditions.
- Telephoto Lenses — Essential for wildlife, aurora, and distant landscapes.
- Wide-Angle & Standard Lenses — For architecture, street photography, and sweeping vistas.
- Camera Bags & Cases — Protect your gear on the road with a travel-ready bag.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camera is best for travel photography?
A compact, lightweight mirrorless camera is the go-to choice for most travel photographers. Full-frame models offer the best image quality and low-light performance, while APS-C bodies are lighter and more affordable without sacrificing too much quality. The key is finding a system with lenses that cover the range of shooting you plan to do.
What lens should I bring for travel photography?
A versatile zoom in the 24–70mm range covers most travel situations — street scenes, architecture, portraits, and landscapes. If you're visiting wildlife destinations like Amboseli, add a telephoto lens (300mm+). For aurora or night photography, a wide-angle prime with a fast aperture (f/1.8 or f/2.8) is essential.
How do I photograph the Aurora Borealis?
You'll need a camera with manual exposure control, a wide-angle lens with an aperture of f/2.8 or wider, and a sturdy tripod. Set your shutter speed to 5–25 seconds, aperture to f/2.8, and ISO to 1600–6400 depending on the brightness of the aurora. Use a remote shutter release to avoid camera shake, and check aurora forecast apps for activity predictions.
What are the best settings for wildlife photography?
Use a fast shutter speed (1/500s or faster) to freeze animal movement, a wide-to-moderate aperture (f/4–f/6.3) for subject separation, and Auto ISO so the camera adjusts for changing light. Enable continuous autofocus and burst mode to maximise your chances of a sharp shot. A telephoto lens of 300–600mm gives you the reach to fill the frame safely.
Is it safe to travel with expensive camera gear?
With the right precautions, yes. Use a discreet, padded camera bag rather than branded cases that advertise your equipment. Keep your gear in your carry-on luggage when flying, use a cable lock in accommodation, and consider travel insurance that specifically covers photography equipment.