Hollywood in the Andes: movies filmed in Peru.
Hollywood & International Films Shot in Peru
Hollywood & International Films Shot in Peru
1. The Secret of the Incas (1954)
This thrilling adventure film, featuring the legendary Charlton Heston, is one of the first to bring the breathtaking Machu Picchu to the big screen, paving the way for the iconic Indiana Jones series. Shot on location in Cuzco and at Machu Picchu, it’s often hailed as the spark that ignited the creation of Raiders of the Lost Ark.
2. The Motorcycle Diaries (2004)
With breathtaking scenes captured in Cusco, Lima, and Machu Picchu, this sincere road trip movie chronicles Ernesto “Che” Guevara’s trip across South America. From the magnificent Andes to the thick, vivid Amazon rainforest, the film wonderfully portrays the raw and untamed scenery of Peru and South America.
3. Fitzcarraldo (1982)
Werner Herzog’s epic tale follows a man’s relentless pursuit to build an opera house in the heart of the Amazon jungle, with scenes filmed in the dense Peruvian rainforest. The production team faced numerous challenges, navigating the harsh, untamed environment while capturing breathtaking shots that showcased the raw beauty of the jungle and the immense logistical hurdles of filming in such a remote location
4. Transformers: Rise of the Beasts (2023)
The seventh installment in the Transformers series features thrilling scenes filmed in Cusco and the Peruvian jungle. Iconic locations like Machu Picchu, Saqsaywaman, and the Ahuashiyacu waterfalls serve as stunning backdrops. The film went on to become the highest-grossing movie ever in Peru, earning nearly USD 53 million at the box office.
5. Dora and the Lost City of Gold (2019)
This family adventure film, while mainly set in Peru, was actually filmed in Australia, drawing inspiration from the rich culture and stunning landscapes of Peru. It takes us on a journey through the vibrant Peruvian scenery, showcasing everything from the thick Amazon jungle to the ancient, hidden ruins of the Inca civilization.
6. Don’t Look Up (2021)
This satirical disaster film showcases some stunning scenes shot in the breathtaking Paracas National Reserve in Ica, Peru. The talented Peruvian actor Andre Silva takes the spotlight in this beautiful, protected area. In one memorable scene, he stands in awe as a meteorite races towards Earth, ready to change life as we know it forever.
7. Paddington in Peru ( 2024)
The third movie in the Paddington series takes us on a delightful journey with the bear as he explores Peru, showcasing breathtaking scenes in the Amazon and the Andes. You’ll get to see him in some truly iconic locations, like the Historic Sanctuary of Machupicchu and the majestic Huayna Picchu mountain. This charming film hit UK cinemas on November 8, 2024, and will be making its way to US theaters on January 17, 2025. The third movie in the Paddington series takes us on a delightful journey with the bear as he explores Peru, showcasing breathtaking scenes in the Amazon and the Andes. You’ll get to see him in some truly iconic locations, like the Historic Sanctuary of Machupicchu and the majestic Huayna Picchu mountain. This charming film hit UK cinemas on November 8, 2024, and will be making its way to US theaters on January 17, 2025.
Peruvian Films Showcasing Local Culture.
1. Wiñaypacha (2017)
Imagine a beautiful Aymara-language film that tells the story of an elderly couple living in the breathtaking high Andes. This film, entirely in Aymara, has won a slew of international awards and beautifully captures the stunning landscapes of the Peruvian Andes, featuring majestic mountains and sacred places like Allincapac in Macusani, Puno.
2. Willaq Pirqa (2022)
This film, lovingly dubbed the “Andean Cinema Paradiso,” beautifully tells the story of a village experiencing the enchanting world of cinema for the first time, all set against the breathtaking backdrop of Cusco’s highlands. Shot at an impressive altitude of 3,900 meters, it highlights the lively Andean communities of Pacahuaynaccolca, Maras, Chequereq, and Eqqecco. The film has garnered international acclaim and even earned a nomination for the 2024 Goya Awards.
Notable Filming Locations in Peru
Cusco & Sacred Valley:
These stunning Andean regions have become popular filming spots for some major international productions. In “Transformers: Rise of the Beasts,” we got to see the ancient streets of Cusco, the impressive Inca walls of Saqsaywaman, and the enchanting beauty of the Sacred Valley. “The Motorcycle Diaries” beautifully captured the spirit of adventure in these same landscapes, following the young Che Guevara on his life-changing journey. Meanwhile, “La Reina del Sur Season 3” showcased Cusco’s charming cobblestone alleys and the lively San Blas neighborhood to audiences around the world, mixing thrilling action with the rich cultural vibe of the region.
- Machu Picchu: Iconic site in The Secret of the Incas and The Motorcycle Diaries.
