The World’s Ten Most Photogenic Countries

Have you ever been inspired to travel somewhere because of a photo you saw? Maybe it was in a National Geographic magazine, or (even more likely these days!) in your Facebook or Instagram feed. ”Where IS that? you wonder, quickly scanning the caption for a hint of how you too could stand in that spot, with that view.

We polled our well-travelled office staff to find out which countries in the world deserve the title “most photogenic”. We’ve whittled it down to ten, not without some heated discussion. It's definitely a subjective list, but we bet you'll agree all ten most photogenic countries in the world deserve to be there.

The World’s Ten Most Photogenic Countries

1. Iceland

This Nordic nation just doesn’t take a bad photo! Waterfalls, geysers, hot springs, glaciers, lava fields…Even in dark mid-winter, the northern lights put on a spectacle overhead. Iceland's diverse and dramatic landscapes offer endless opportunities for capturing breathtaking photos, from the serene beauty of its ice caves to the rugged coastlines.

2. Greece

Who among us hasn’t seen a postcard-worthy shot of the whitewashed walls of Santorini bathed in a sunset glow? Or the striking ruins at Delphi? The Mediterranean sparkles against a backdrop of olive groves and ancient history in this sun-kissed country. From the charming streets of Athens to the crystal-clear waters of the Aegean Sea, Greece offers a rich tapestry of vibrant colours and historical wonders that make every photo a unique masterpiece.

3. New Zealand

There’s a reason Lord of the Rings won an Oscar for Best Cinematography, and it probably had more to do with the location scouts who chose to film the entire trilogy in New Zealand than it did with camera angles. Whether you’re traveling on the north or south island, get ready to be wowed by the majestic backdrops to every outdoor activity. New Zealand’s varied landscapes, from its lush rainforests to its dramatic fjords, provide a stunning canvas for photographers seeking to capture nature’s wonders in all its forms.

4. United States

The USA gets kudos for being host to some of the most diverse landscapes on earth. Mountains, rugged coast, sandy beaches, desert, canyons, prairies…if you’ve never trolled Instagram for places like #sedona or #yosemite, be prepared to be blown away by the beauty on offer. The United States is a treasure trove of photogenic destinations just waiting to be explored and photographed.

5. South Africa

Really want to fill up your memory card? Have fun getting shots of the “Big Five,” all of which can be spotted in South Africa’s Kruger National Park. As if safaris weren’t enough, South Africa also plays home to the oh-so-charming African Penguins, several colonies of which are easily spotted along the dramatic coastline around Cape Town. South Africa offers an array of photo-worthy scenes that capture the wild and rugged beauty of the region.

6. Nepal

The Himalayas. Need we say more? With its towering mountain ranges, tranquil monasteries, and vibrant cultural traditions, Nepal provides an incredible backdrop for photography that beautifully blends adventure with peacefulness.

7. Italy

Italy is a delight for all the senses (not the least of which is taste!) but its landscapes are a true feast for the eyes. Hikers keep their cameras at the ready while traversing the dramatic silhouettes of the Dolomites in the north, and it’s nearly impossible to put them away while exploring such vivid coastal landscapes as the Cinque Terre or the Amalfi Coast, or the idyllic rolling hills of Tuscany. Italy’s rich history, picturesque towns, and stunning natural beauty make it an endlessly photogenic destination where every corner holds a new visual story.

8. Indonesia

This nation of islands (18,000 at last count!) is known for black sand beaches, active volcanoes, Komodo dragons and jungles sheltering elephants, orangutans and elusive tigers. There’s an adventure around every corner, and thousands of photos to attest to Indonesia’s lush, equatorial beauty. From the vibrant underwater scenes to the tranquil rice paddies, Indonesia’s diverse landscapes offer a plethora of opportunities for stunning and unique photography.

9. Ireland

If you like green, make a beeline to Ireland, where you’ll find every shade imaginable, from the wild Atlantic waves to the rolling fields of clover. The pastoral landscape is dotted by bright wooly sheep and the moody relics of ancient stone castles, while village pubs provide colourful contrast – and a warm welcome. Ireland’s enchanting landscapes and historic charm make it an ideal destination for capturing the essence of natural beauty and cultural heritage in your photos.

10. Chile

Chile, though one of the skinniest nations around, sees vastly different landscapes from east to west. The rugged, snowy Andes form the country's backbone, while the Pacific coast laps at its front. In between are other-worldly deserts, active volcanoes, advancing glaciers, ice-carved fjords and reflective salt plains speckled with pink flamingos (plus a night sky absolutely doused with stars.). Chile’s diverse terrain, from the arid Atacama Desert to the lush Patagonia region, provides a dramatic and varied backdrop for photography enthusiasts looking to capture the extremes of natural beauty.

Of course we’ve left some of the most beautiful places in the world off this list – there was much noise for Switzerland, Thailand, Peru and Morocco to name just a few. We also realized when we tried to create a counter list (least photogenic countries) that it’s actually hard to do! There’s beauty to be found absolutely everywhere on our planet, and we’re extremely fortunate to have the ability to explore it.

Where are YOU going to take your next great photo?