Cusco tours offer some of the best bird watching in Peru

Bird diversity in Peru

Peru ranks first in the world with 1,879 bird species, including 117 endemic birds found only here.  In 2023, 14 species new to science were documented  , narrowly surpassing Colombia in a friendly rivalry between the two megadiverse nations.

Why choose Cusco for birdwatching?

Additionally, the Inca capital, Cusco, is a prime gateway for both avid birdwatchers and curious travelers to encounter rare bird species, from the serene landscapes of the Sacred Valley to the cloud forest surrounding the mystical ruins of Machu Picchu and beyond. Explore Cusco’s vibrant birdlife with specialized tours that seamlessly combine cultural experiences with birdwatching.

Discover the birdlife of Cusco

Discover endemic species and spectacular birdwatching sites nestled in iconic landscapes. Whether you’re interested in day trips or multi-day adventures, our itineraries are designed to immerse you in the region’s natural beauty and biodiversity.

Cusco City Tour for bird watchers

A trip to Cusco is incomplete without exploring Q’oricancha, the main sacred site of the Incas, and Sacsayhuamán, which stands as a marvel of megalithic architecture and one of the most impressive structures in history. Even the standard Cusco city tour, which takes you to these amazing sites, plus Q’oricancha, Pukapukara, and Tambomachay, becomes a birdwatcher’s paradise. These ancient wonders are also diverse avian habitats for the red-fronted canastero, the chestnut grosbeak, the crested hummingbird, and the giant hummingbird, to name just a few.

City Tour Summary

Discover the mysteries of Machu Picchu

Exploring the magnificent Inca citadel of Machu Picchu with an expert birdwatching guide opens a whole new dimension to your experience. Your guide’s keen eyes and ears will help you discover endemic species you might otherwise miss in the lush landscape. As you wander among the more than 200 ancient structures, you may spot regional specialties such as the masked fruiteater and the rare and musical Inca wren, found only in Peru. In addition to the endemic inhabitants, Machu Picchu’s variety of microclimates and habitats also attracts migrants and visitors. Scan the skies above the citadel for sightings of the agile white-tipped swift. Listen for the musical song of the endemic and restricted green-and-white hummingbird flitting nearby. Peer from the train into the Inca sanctuary along the banks of the Urubamba River to spot the vibrant Torrent Duck. With so much avian life, having an expert bird guide ensures you don’t miss the dazzling birds that call these Inca ruins in the misty Andes home.

Machu Picchu Summary

An epic adventure on a short version of the legendary Inca Trail, following in the footsteps of the ancient Incas through ancient ruins. Stunning mountain landscapes and lush vegetation immerse you in the grandeur and mystery of one of the world’s most iconic trekking routes.

Included in the Tour

• Tourist transport
• Transfers and tourist train
• Personalized assistance
• Cultural guide and bird watcher
• Tickets
• Languages ​​(Spanish/English)

Tour Summary

A breathtaking trip to Machu Picchu, showcasing ancient Inca ruins, dramatic landscapes, and diverse bird species. This tour offers an in-depth exploration of the Inca citadel, which radiates indescribable beauty and mystery.

Bird Species to Watch

• Rufous-and-yellow Tanager
• White-tipped Swift
• Tricolored Finch
• Endemic Inca Wren, among others

Itinerary

• Day 1: Early departure for Machu Picchu, with opportunities for birdwatching en route. Overnight in Aguas Calientes.
• Day 2: Ascend Machu Picchu for a guided tour of the historic sanctuary, followed by lunch in Aguas Calientes and return by train to Ollantaytambo or Cusco.

The scenic splendor of the Sacred Valley

The Sacred Valley of the Incas, located just outside Cusco, is not only a historical and cultural center but also a birdwatcher’s dream. As you travel through this picturesque valley dotted with archaeological treasures, you’ll have the opportunity to spot countless bird species. Scan the skies above Pisac and Ollantaytambo for endemic rarities like the bearded vulture and the rusty-fronted canastero, colorful gems that blend into the undergrowth. Listen for the melodic song of the red-breasted finch echoing off the walls of Inca. Sword-billed hummingbirds are easily visible at hummingbird feeders. The open views of the valley also offer excellent opportunities to observe raptors such as the mountain caracara and the black-headed buzzard taking advantage of the thermal currents. With its unique landscape and biodiversity, the Sacred Valley captivates the eyes and ears of avid birdwatchers.

Summary of the Sacred Valley

Magnificent birdwatching opportunities along the Inca Trail

Particularly for intrepid hikers, Peru’s legendary Inca Trail presents the perfect fusion of Inca archaeology and rare bird sightings around every bend. As you follow in the footsteps of the ancient Incas through verdant cloud forests shrouded in mist, look out for vibrant regional specialties like the Yellow-headed Quetzal and the flamboyant Cock-of-the-Rock, whose brilliant crimson plumage glows through the understory scrub. Listen for the sonorous call of the Masked Fruiteater, with its robber-like black mask and lemon-colored waistcoat. High in the moss-laden branches, keep an eye out for the tiny Sclater’s Tyrant, a tenacious highlander flitting among the ancient trails lined with finely hewn stone and lore. Gazing at these birds and more, you’ll connect deeply with the culture and history alive with every stride. By contemplating these birds and others, you will connect deeply with the culture and history that lives on in every stride.

2-Day Inca Trail Summary

Exploring the enchanting Huacarpay Wetlands

Just a short distance from Cusco are the Huacarpay Wetlands, a RAMSAR wetland of international importance for bird conservation where the songs of endangered species echo. This diverse habitat encompasses dry intermontane valleys, sparkling Andean lakes, and swamps teeming with life. Here you may spot the ethereal Puna Ibis soaring or the cryptic Lammergeier, a tiny bronzed gem that blends into the mountain undergrowth. If you’re lucky, you might spot the dazzling blue-and-yellow tanager flitting through the wetland reeds, as well as the parti-colored gallinule, the plumed rail, the Andean blackbird, and the short-eared owl. The tranquil beauty of Huacarpay’s crystal-clear pools and sloping hills provide a serene backdrop for connecting with the lives of these birds and their fragile environments. It’s a birdwatcher’s paradise.

Summary of the Huacarpay Wetlands

Birdwatching in the Málaga Pass

For intrepid birdwatchers seeking high-altitude Andean rewards, Peru’s Abra Málaga Pass offers a mist-shrouded Shangri-La. Situated 4,316 meters above sea level between craggy peaks, this mountain portal offers breathtaking views and the chance to encounter a wide variety of bird species found nowhere else on Earth. Scan the lichen-covered cliffs for the agile Marcapata Thorntail displaying its rusty-red tail. Listen for the breathy call of the Common Blue Tit, a tiny gray songbird endemic to these isolated slopes. With luck, you’ll spot the legendary Sword-billed Hummingbird, an emerald and sapphire jewel flitting before the flowers with its wildly elongated beak. The rugged grandeur of the Abra de Málaga’s cloud-shrouded crags and valleys provides a dramatic backdrop for viewing these rare birds that have made the skies their refuge. The large habitat gradient also reveals endemic species such as the Junín canastero, the white-cockaded sunbeam, the Cusco brushfinch, and the Urubamba anteater. An unforgettable experience for veteran alpine birdwatchers.

Abra Málaga Summary

The fascinating birds of Maras and Moray & Highland Lakes

The fascinating vistas of Maras and Moray in Peru’s Sacred Valley offer more than just history and scenery: exceptional birdwatching rewards those who travel a little beyond the concentric terraced circles and ancient salt pans. After a picnic lunch, you can explore the highland lagoons of Huaypo and Piuray. Here, amidst stunning scenery, you’ll find a plethora of avian species, including the yellow wagtail, marbled teal, Andean lapwing, plumbeous rail, Andean sable-billed sable-bill, crested capercaillie, Puna ibis, along with the vibrant multi-colored thrush and many other fascinating birds.

Summary of Maras and Moray

Main Features

• Duration: 1 day.
• Difficulty: Easy.
• Maximum altitude: 12,303 feet (3750 meters above sea level).
• Explore the Moray terraces and the Maras salt mines, followed by a visit to the high Andean lagoons of Huaypo and Piuray, enriching your experience with the diversity of bird species.

Bird Species to Watch

• Yellow-billed Duck
• Puna Duck
• Andean Lapwing
• Plumbeous Rail
• Andean Black Boy
• White-crested Grebe
• Puna Ibis
• Seven Colors of the Cane Fields
• Andean Lapwing, among many others

Itinerary

• Visit the circular terraces of Moray to discover Inca agricultural techniques.
• Discover the Maras salt mines, which offer a unique landscape.
• Enjoy a picnic lunch.
• Explore the high Andean lagoons of Huaypo and Piuray, home to diverse bird species.
• Return to Cusco at night.

Included in the Tour

• Tourist transport
• Personalized assistance
• Cultural guide and bird watcher
• Tickets
• Spanish/English language options

The wonders of Manu National Park

One of the crown jewels of birdwatching in Peru is Manu National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a paradise for wildlife lovers. Located in the heart of the Amazon rainforest, Manu National Park boasts an unparalleled diversity of bird species. With over 1,000 recorded species, including iconic birds such as the Cock-of-the-Rock and the Harpy Eagle, this pristine ecosystem offers a truly immersive birdwatching experience. The journey from Cusco to the heart of Manu offers the opportunity to witness an incredible diversity of wildlife. From the five species of monkeys scuttling through the treetops to the vibrant quetzals gliding through the air, there is no shortage of wonders to behold. See golden-headed and crested quetzals, masked and ring-tailed fruiteaters, and the unmistakable red-and-white antbirds. Mixed-species flocks will delight you with species such as the grass-green tanager, scarlet-bellied mountain tanager, and gold-collared tanager, along with the striking crimson-mantled woodpecker. Hidden among the dense foliage, the Yungas Manakin and Yungas Manakin await, offering a glimpse into the rich tapestry of Manu avian life. Exploring Manu National Park is an adventure in itself. From the dwarf forests of Wayquecha Lodge to the cloud forests of San Pedro, each habitat offers unique opportunities to encounter rare and endemic species. You may encounter the stunning Marcapata spinetail, the elusive Rufous-backed treehunter, or the charismatic Inca wren. Ultimately, with the guidance of expert birding guides, you will have the chance to spot these amazing birds while learning about their behavior and habitats.

Manu’s Summary

Manu, known as the most biodiverse place in the world, offers a wide range of altitudes and pristine habitats. This paradise for research and nature tourism spans from the high Andean grasslands to the Amazonian plains. Explore the famous Manu Trail, birdwatching in diverse ecosystems, accompanied every step of the way by expert interpretation.

Included in the Tour

• Tourist transport
• 3 nights accommodation
• Full board
• Full-time specialized birdwatching guide
• Tickets to birdwatching points
• Spanish/English language options

Key Details

• Duration: 4 days.
• Difficulty: Easy.
• Maximum altitude: 11,778 feet (3590 meters above sea level).
• Departures: Daily. Start time: 5:30 am.

Bird Species to Watch

• Mixed flocks
• Toucans
• Tororoíes
• Anthills
• Macaws
• 8 species of primates
• Thousands of insect species
• Thanks to the high endemism and incomparable diversity of the area

Itinerary

• Day 1: Visit to Huacarpay Lagoon with excellent opportunities to observe high Andean aquatic fauna and birdwatching in the afternoon in the dwarf forest at the entrance to Manu.
• Day 2: Morning exploration of the San Pedro Cloud Forest at 1,500 meters above sea level, with afternoon enjoyment of a Cock-of-the-Rock Lek.
• Day 3: Descend into the Amazon plains in search of more tropical species and visit a lake that is home to iconic species such as the Hoatzin.
• Day 4: Start the return trip to Cusco in search of Quetzals and multicolored tanagers, arriving in Cusco around 5:00 pm and transfer to the hotel.

Watch the condors fly in Chonta

Chonta is a village located at 11,155 feet above sea level (3,400 meters above sea level). A gentle hike from the village offers an incredible vantage point for viewing condors over the Apurimac River canyon against the spectacular backdrop of the Salkantay and Humantay Mountains. Up to 70 condors can be observed gathering to take advantage of thermals and soar over the steep cliffs. In addition to condors, a wide variety of endemic and range-restricted birds can be found along the trail through the canyon. Target species include the endemic white-winged stilt, the Peruvian pygmy owl, the Peruvian sierra finch, the mountain velvet, the yellow-bellied loon, and the white-bellied loon. Other possible species include the near-endemic pale-tailed canastero, the Apurimac hawk, the rufous-fronted canastero, the creamy-crested spinetail, the Taczanowski tinamou, and the white-eared puffin. With towering canyon walls, a quaint village, and abundant endemic birdlife, a trip to Chonta offers a memorable blend of culture, spectacular scenery, and excellent birdwatching opportunities. Watching dozens of condors soar along these cliffs will undoubtedly be an unforgettable experience.

Chonta Summary

Expert birdwatching guides in Cusco

To optimize your birdwatching adventure in Peru, it’s crucial to have expert guides who know the terrain and can identify elusive species. We work with brothers Danny and Miguel Vargas and their highly experienced team of birdwatching and wildlife photography guides. Choose from intimate small-group trips or tailor-made private expeditions through Peru’s varied ecosystems. Our team consists of passionate guides certified in wilderness first aid, ensuring a safe and engaging experience. They are equipped with advanced wilderness first aid knowledge, preparing them for the unique challenges of birdwatching in remote locations. Peru’s birdwatching landscapes range from the verdant Manu National Park to the historical splendor of Machu Picchu, each offering distinct ornithological encounters. Our expert guides will lead you through a blend of adventure, cultural immersion, and appreciation of Peru’s rich avian diversity. Equip yourself with binoculars and hiking boots for an unparalleled journey through Peru’s captivating birdlife.

Here is a detailed list of the bird watching optical equipment provided:

• Manfrotto 290 xtra : A robust and reliable tripod, ideal for long observation sessions.
• Vortex Razor 8×42 and Swarovski NL Pure 10×32 : Premium binoculars that offer bright, clear images and a wide field of view.
• Canon 100-400 IS II USM and Canon 7D Mark II : A high-quality camera and lens combination for capturing detailed bird photos.
• Vortex Summit Carbon : A lightweight tripod, making it easy to carry while hiking.
• Vortex Razor 85mm and Swarovski ATS 65mm : High-resolution telescopes for distant bird watching.
• Vortex Razor 50mm : A compact and versatile telescope for varied birding conditions.

(Tours do not include personal binoculars; however, they are available for rent, ensuring that participants can fully participate in the birdwatching experience without missing a sighting.)