Andean Watcher

A llama stands in the foreground with Machu Picchu in the background. The ancient Incan ruins are surrounded by lush green mountains under a clear blue sky.

“Andean Watcher”
Location: Cusco, Peru
Date: June 2026
Photographer: Katherine Gibson
Affiliation: Undergraduate Student
Home Country: United States
Category: Places
2026 International Photography Exhibition

“The subject of this photo is a lone llama overlooking the ruins of Machu Picchu. I took this photo because I thought it did a great job encapsulating the landscape and culture of Peru in one image. The llama in the foreground adds a unique and unexpected element to the famous landscape, while the mountains and ruins show the beauty and history of Machu Picchu. This photo is meaningful to me because it captures a moment from my time in Peru that I will always remember. It reminds me of how beautiful and unique the experience of being able to explore Peru was.”