2018 Vaya Photo Contest Winners!
Throughout 2018 we were delighted to receive photos taken by our travelers. To everyone who sent us photos, thank you! We look at every one of them, and we appreciate the chance to experience our destinations through your eyes. Whether they’re showcasing outstanding natural beauty, untamed wildlife, or vibrant culture, your photos allow us to share in your excitement as you visit the continent we love to explore.
Once again, we at Vaya were put to the difficult task of choosing this year’s photo contest winners. The decision was not easy, but here, in no specific order, are the winners of this year’s photo contest. Each will receive a new Patagonia Better Sweater. Congratulations! We look forward to seeing your trip photos from 2019.
Sara & Matt Bates
Starry night outside Cusco, Peru
On a clear night, Peru’s Sacred Valley offers spectacular stargazing set off by mountainous peaks. Capturing this beauty in a photo can be difficult, which is why we were particularly impressed by this image. Always remember to look up!
Richard Kranzley
Sea Lion, Galapagos Islands, Ecuador
The Galapagos Islands are a highlight for wildlife viewing, a place where you can interact with local species like sea lions in an up-close and personal way. We appreciated how this photo captured the sea lion’s unconcerned expression as it relaxes on the beach.
Gilbert Williams
Local woman in Cusco, Peru
One of the highlights of travel is getting to meet local people and learn about their daily lives. In the Peruvian highlands, weaving and textile work is an important industry and part of the cultural heritage. We loved the colors and composition of this photo as well as the way it caught a beautiful, candid interaction with this local artisan.
Honorable Mentions
Howard Bergman
The iconic Perito Moreno Glacier in Patagonia, Argentina
Nick Wolfe
A marine iguana standing tall in the Galapagos Islands, Ecuador
John Uscian
A Hyacinth Macaw soars above the Brazilian Amazon.
Nancy Engel
Encountering an Anaconda in Colombia