As a landscape photography travel destinations, you’re always on the lookout for new places to shoot, right? Whether you’re hoping to capture the perfect sunrise over a mountain range, or chasing the perfect light on a serene lake, finding the right location can make all the difference. But with so many incredible spots around the world, where do you begin?
In this guide, we’re going to dive into 10 scenic destinations that are perfect for capturing stunning landscape photography.
Whether you’re just getting into photography or you’re a seasoned pro, these destinations offer plenty of opportunities to expand your portfolio.
Along the way, we’ll include practical tips, insider advice, and a few personal stories to help you get the most out of your photography adventures.
Banff National Park, Canada
Why It’s Perfect for Landscape Photography Travel Destinations
Banff National Park is one of Canada’s most iconic natural wonders, located in the heart of the Canadian Rockies.
With its striking mountain peaks, turquoise lakes, and wildlife, Banff offers a diverse range of photographic opportunities.
Whether you’re capturing sweeping vistas or intimate forest scenes, there’s no shortage of breathtaking landscapes.
Best Locations in Banff
- Lake Louise: This glacier-fed lake is famous for its bright turquoise color, framed by the towering Victoria Glacier. Early morning or late evening is the best time for capturing the soft light reflecting off the lake, with fewer crowds.
- Moraine Lake: A must-see for any photographer, Moraine Lake is one of the most photographed locations in the park. The surrounding jagged peaks and the intense blue water create stunning reflections.
- Sunshine Meadows: If you’re looking to shoot alpine meadows with wildflowers in the summer, this spot is perfect. In the fall, the changing foliage adds even more color to your shots.
Photography Tip: The light in Banff can change rapidly, especially in the fall or spring, so always be ready to adjust your settings. I remember one chilly morning waiting at Lake Louise for the first light of the day, and within minutes, the mist lifted to reveal the most breathtaking scene—those moments make the early mornings worth it.
Best Time to Visit
- Summer for the wildflower blooms and clear skies.
- Autumn for the stunning fall foliage, which provides a great contrast against the evergreen forests.
Iceland’s South Coast
Why It’s Perfect for Landscape Photography Travel Destinations
Iceland is a photographer’s paradise, especially the South Coast. From dramatic waterfalls to volcanic beaches, the variety of landscapes in Iceland offers endless possibilities.
With the right timing, you could also catch the Northern Lights, making it a must-visit location for those looking for something truly magical.
Best Locations in Iceland’s South Coast
- Skógafoss Waterfall: One of Iceland’s largest waterfalls, it drops 60 meters and is incredibly powerful. Capture it from the base for a dramatic shot, or climb the staircase for a bird’s-eye view.
- Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon: Icebergs floating in the lagoon create an otherworldly scene, especially at sunrise or sunset when the light softens. The nearby Diamond Beach, where ice chunks wash up on the black sand, is also a stunning location.
- Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach: The black sand beach, coupled with the striking basalt sea stacks, makes for dramatic shots. The waves crashing against the rocks and the dark, moody skies often make this one of my favorite spots to shoot.
Photography Tip: Icelandic weather is unpredictable, so always be prepared for sudden rain or snow. I’ve had shots ruined by rain only for the skies to clear moments later, creating a rainbow over Skógafoss—patience and quick thinking are key!
Best Time to Visit
- Winter for the possibility of photographing the Northern Lights and snow-covered landscapes.
- Summer for the long days and lush greenery, perfect for capturing Iceland’s famous waterfalls in full flow.
Patagonia, Argentina and Chile
Why It’s Perfect for Landscape Photography
Patagonia offers some of the most rugged and remote landscapes in the world, making it a top choice for photographers looking for dramatic mountain scenery, glaciers, and windswept plains.
The wild weather and untamed beauty of Patagonia provide a unique challenge for photographers, which makes it all the more rewarding.
Best Locations in Patagonia
- Torres del Paine National Park: This park in Chile is home to jagged peaks, deep valleys, and turquoise lakes. The iconic towers (Torres) of granite, rising above the landscape, are a photographer’s dream.
- Fitz Roy Range: Located in Argentina, this mountain range is known for its distinctive spires and is surrounded by glaciers. Early morning light hits the peaks at just the right angle, casting a golden glow over the scene.
- Perito Moreno Glacier: Capture the massive ice wall of this advancing glacier, which calving icebergs into the surrounding waters. The sheer scale and grandeur of the glacier are unforgettable.
Photography Tip: Be prepared for some tough conditions! Patagonia’s weather can change quickly, and it’s known for its strong winds. I’ve had to hold onto my gear for dear life during a sudden gust of wind at Torres del Paine, but the photos were definitely worth the effort.
Best Time to Visit
- Spring (November to early December) and Autumn (March to May) for fewer tourists and more manageable weather.
Scottish Highlands, Scotland
Why It’s Perfect for Landscape Photography Travel Destinations
The Scottish Highlands are filled with dramatic, moody landscapes that feel almost magical.
The rugged terrain, mist-shrouded mountains, and remote valleys provide an ethereal atmosphere that many photographers find irresistible.
The combination of light, weather, and ancient history makes Scotland a truly unique destination for photography.
Best Locations in the Scottish Highlands
- Glencoe: A beautiful valley surrounded by towering peaks, Glencoe is perfect for capturing the Scottish landscape at its most rugged. The changing weather often adds drama to your shots.
- Isle of Skye: Famous for its otherworldly landscape, including the Old Man of Storr, Fairy Pools, and the Quiraing, Skye offers numerous opportunities for landscape photography.
- Eilean Donan Castle: Situated on a small island in Loch Duich, this iconic castle is especially stunning at sunrise or sunset, with the reflections in the loch adding an extra layer of beauty.
Photography Tip: Scotland is often cloudy, but that’s what makes it so perfect for moody, atmospheric shots. Some of my best photos were taken on overcast days when the landscape looked incredibly dramatic.
Best Time to Visit
- Summer for the long days and lush green landscapes.
- Autumn for the chance to photograph the changing leaves, particularly in the glens and valleys.
Yosemite National Park, USA
Why It’s Perfect for Landscape Photography
Yosemite is a land of towering granite cliffs, majestic waterfalls, and lush valleys.
It’s one of the most famous national parks in the USA, and for good reason—it offers some of the most iconic landscape photography opportunities in the world.
Best Locations in Yosemite
- Tunnel View: This viewpoint offers one of the most iconic views in the park, with El Capitan, Half Dome, and Bridalveil Fall all visible in one shot. It’s particularly stunning at sunset.
- Glacier Point: A short drive from Yosemite Valley, this viewpoint offers panoramic views of the valley, including Half Dome and the high Sierra peaks.
- Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias: The towering sequoia trees offer a unique landscape that contrasts with the park’s more famous granite peaks.
Photography Tip: Yosemite is a popular destination, so try to visit early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid crowds and capture the park in the softest light.
Best Time to Visit
- Spring for the best waterfall flows.
- Autumn for fewer visitors and the chance to catch fall colors in the valley.
Tuscany, Italy
Why It’s Perfect for Landscape Photography Travel Destinations
Tuscany’s rolling hills, charming villages, and vineyards create an idyllic setting for photographers.
This region is renowned for its golden light and picturesque landscapes that seem to have come straight out of a painting.
It’s the perfect destination for capturing the beauty of rural Italy.
Best Locations in Tuscany
- Val d’Orcia: This UNESCO World Heritage site offers sweeping views of rolling hills, cypress trees, and rustic farmhouses. It’s an ideal place for wide-angle shots.
- San Gimignano: Known for its medieval towers, this hilltop town provides unique perspectives for your shots, particularly at sunrise or sunset.
- Crete Senesi: The clay hills here create an otherworldly landscape that is perfect for dramatic, monochrome shots.
Photography Tip: Tuscany is famous for its golden hour light, so plan your shoots around the early morning or late afternoon to capture the warm tones of the landscape.
Best Time to Visit
- Spring and Autumn for the best light and fewer tourists.
New Zealand’s South Island
Why It’s Perfect for Landscape Photography Travel Destinations
New Zealand’s South Island is renowned for its diverse and stunning landscapes, from dramatic fjords and pristine lakes to rugged mountains and lush forests.
This island offers a plethora of opportunities for photographers looking to capture nature in its most unspoiled form.
Best Locations in New Zealand’s South Island
- Milford Sound: Known as the “eighth wonder of the world,” Milford Sound offers towering cliffs, waterfalls, and serene waters. The iconic Mitre Peak is a favorite subject for landscape photographers.
- Mount Cook (Aoraki): The highest peak in New Zealand, Mount Cook is surrounded by a stunning alpine environment. The Hooker Valley Track provides excellent viewpoints of the mountain and its glaciers.
- Lake Tekapo: Famous for its turquoise waters and the Church of the Good Shepherd, Lake Tekapo is particularly beautiful in spring when the lupines are in bloom.
Photography Tip: The weather in New Zealand can be unpredictable, especially in the mountainous regions. Be prepared for sudden changes and always have protective gear for your camera. One morning at Lake Tekapo, I was greeted by a thick fog that lifted just in time to reveal the church and the lake in perfect light—a reminder that patience is key.
Best Time to Visit
- Spring for the blooming lupines around Lake Tekapo.
- Autumn for vibrant foliage and clear skies.
Norwegian Fjords
Why It’s Perfect for Landscape Photography Travel Destinations
The fjords of Norway offer some of the most dramatic and pristine landscapes in the world.
Carved by glaciers, these deep, narrow inlets are surrounded by towering cliffs and lush greenery.
The interplay of light and water in the fjords creates stunning reflections and atmospheric conditions perfect for photography.
Best Locations in the Norwegian Fjords
- Geirangerfjord: One of the most famous fjords, Geirangerfjord is known for its steep cliffs, lush vegetation, and numerous waterfalls. The Seven Sisters and the Suitor waterfalls are particularly photogenic.
- Nærøyfjord: This UNESCO World Heritage site is one of the narrowest fjords in Norway. The towering cliffs and serene waters create a mystical atmosphere, especially in the early morning.
- Lysefjord: Famous for the Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock) viewpoint, Lysefjord offers breathtaking views of the fjord from high above.
Photography Tip: The light in the fjords changes dramatically throughout the day. Early morning and late evening provide the best light for capturing the serene and mystical quality of the fjords. I recall an evening in Geirangerfjord when the low sun cast a golden glow on the water, creating a scene straight out of a fairytale.
Best Time to Visit
- Summer for long days and vibrant greenery.
- Autumn for stunning fall colors and fewer tourists.
Great Ocean Road, Australia
Why It’s Perfect for Landscape Photography
The Great Ocean Road in Australia offers a stunning coastal drive with plenty of opportunities for landscape photography.
From rugged cliffs and rock formations to lush rainforests and pristine beaches, this route provides diverse landscapes to capture.
Best Locations on the Great Ocean Road
- Twelve Apostles: These limestone stacks rising out of the ocean are one of the most iconic sights along the Great Ocean Road. Sunset and sunrise offer the best light for capturing these formations.
- Loch Ard Gorge: Named after a shipwreck, this gorge features dramatic cliffs and a serene beach, perfect for capturing the power of the ocean.
- Otway National Park: This park offers lush rainforests, waterfalls, and the opportunity to photograph the beautiful Great Otway Lightstation.
Photography Tip: Coastal weather can be unpredictable, so be ready for sudden changes. On my last visit, a storm rolled in quickly, but it provided dramatic clouds and light that made for some unforgettable shots at the Twelve Apostles.
Best Time to Visit
- Spring and Autumn for mild weather and fewer tourists.
Namibia
Why It’s Perfect for Landscape Photography
Namibia is home to some of the most surreal and otherworldly landscapes on the planet.
From the towering dunes of the Namib Desert to the eerie beauty of the Skeleton Coast, Namibia offers a unique palette of colors and textures for photographers.
Best Locations in Namibia
- Sossusvlei: Known for its striking red sand dunes, Sossusvlei is a photographer’s dream. The contrast between the deep red dunes and the clear blue sky creates stunning images, especially at dawn and dusk.
- Deadvlei: Located near Sossusvlei, this white clay pan is dotted with dead camelthorn trees, creating a stark and hauntingly beautiful landscape. The best time to photograph Deadvlei is early in the morning when the sun casts long shadows across the pan.
- Etosha National Park: For wildlife photographers, Etosha offers the chance to capture some of Africa’s most iconic animals against the backdrop of Namibia’s arid landscape.
Photography Tip: The desert light can be harsh, so shooting during the golden hours (early morning and late afternoon) is essential. I remember the first time I visited Deadvlei, arriving just before sunrise. The changing colors of the sky and the long shadows cast by the trees made for some of my favorite photos ever.
Best Time to Visit
- Winter (May to September) for cooler temperatures and clearer skies.
Conclusion
Landscape Photography Travel Destinations is as much about the journey as it is about the destination. Each of these 10 scenic locations offers unique opportunities to capture the beauty of our world.
By planning your trips carefully, being prepared for changing conditions, and always looking for new perspectives, you can create stunning images that tell the story of your adventures.
Remember, the best camera is the one you have with you, and sometimes the most unexpected moments make for the best photos.
So pack your gear, hit the road, and happy shooting!
FAQs
What are some of the best destinations for landscape photography?
Some of the top destinations include:
- Iceland: Known for its dramatic landscapes featuring glaciers, waterfalls, and volcanic formations, offering year-round photographic opportunities.
- Yosemite National Park, USA: Famous for its granite cliffs, waterfalls, and diverse ecosystems, Yosemite presents unique photographic opportunities in every season.
- Banff National Park, Canada: Renowned for its stunning mountain scenery, turquoise lakes, and abundant wildlife, making it a paradise for photographers.
- The Isle of Skye, Scotland: Offers rugged coastlines, dramatic cliffs, and picturesque castles set against a backdrop of the Scottish Highlands.
- Tuscany, Italy: Known for its rolling hills and charming countryside dotted with cypress trees and vineyards, especially vibrant during spring and summer.
What makes Iceland a unique destination for landscape photography?
Iceland’s unique features include its diverse landscapes characterized by geysers, hot springs, ice caves, black sand beaches, and dramatic waterfalls.
The natural phenomena like the Northern Lights also provide exceptional photographic opportunities throughout the year.
When is the best time to visit these destinations for photography?
- Iceland: Best visited in summer for lush landscapes or winter for snow-covered scenes and Northern Lights.
- Yosemite: Fall is ideal due to temperate weather and vibrant autumn colors; spring offers blooming flowers.
- Banff: Summer provides access to hiking trails and vibrant colors, while fall showcases stunning foliage.
- Scotland (Isle of Skye): Late spring to early autumn offers the best weather and light conditions for photography.
Are there specific photography workshops available in these locations?
Yes, many locations offer specialized photography workshops led by experienced photographers. For example:
- Workshops in Yosemite National Park focus on capturing its iconic landscapes.
- The Isle of Skye offers guided tours that highlight the best spots for landscape photography during optimal lighting conditions.
What types of landscapes can photographers expect to capture at these destinations?
Photographers can capture a wide variety of landscapes:
- Iceland: Glaciers, waterfalls (like Gullfoss), volcanic landscapes.
- Yosemite: Granite cliffs (El Capitan), waterfalls (Yosemite Falls), meadows.
- Banff: Mountain ranges (Rocky Mountains), glacial lakes (Lake Louise).
- Scotland: Rugged coastlines (Neist Point), rolling hills (Fairy Pools).
- Tuscany: Rolling hills adorned with vineyards and historical architecture
