Birding at Cusco Apurimac 8 days

Birding at Cusco Apurimac 8 days

Our Bird Watchers Cusco Apurimac - Cusco and Apurímac Jewels" itinerary offers an exceptional array of endemic, range-restricted, and classic Andean bird species. In just one week, you'll explore Cusco, a world-renowned destination known for its rich cultural and archaeological heritage. While thousands of tourists flock to Cusco annually, many are unaware of the region's diverse ecosystems and numerous unique bird species found nowhere else . Rainforest Tours

Our journey begins in Cusco -Bird Watchers Cusco Apurimac.

Where we'll visit the Huacarpay wetlands to spot various Andean species, including our first endemic, the Rusty-fronted Canastero. From there, we'll head to the charming town of Ollantaytambo and stay at the cozy Hotel Pakaritampu. The hotel's gardens are home to our second target, the endemic Bearded Mountaineer. Hotel Pakaritampu will serve as our base for three nights as we explore the renowned Abra Malaga Pass.

We'll spend a full day in the Polylepis temperate forest, one of the most endangered ecosystems in the Andes, at the base of the snow-capped Veronica mountain. Here, we aim to find several endemics: the White-browed Tit-Spinetail, Creamy-crested Spinetail, Junin Canastero, White-tufted Sunbeam, Ash-breasted Tit-Tyrant, Tawny Tit-Spinetail, and, with luck, the Critically Endangered Royal Cinclodes. As we descend the mountain pass into the cloud forest, we'll look for mountain tanagers, including the endemic Parodi’s Hemispingus, and have our first opportunity to spot the endemic Inca Wren and Cuzco Brushfinch

Birding at Cusco Apurimac -

Bird Watchers Cusco Apurimac  An extraordinary journey meticulously designed to immerse you in the captivating world of birdwatching. Over the span of eight days, you'll discover a diverse selection of endemic, range-restricted, and classic Andean bird species within the stunning landscapes of Cusco and Apurímac. This adventure promises an unrivaled opportunity to explore rich ecosystems and encounter avian treasures that are unique to this region.

Day 1-3: Cusco Exploration -Bird Watchers Cusco Apurimac.

Our expedition commences in the vibrant city of Cusco, renowned for its cultural heritage. Beyond its historical significance, Cusco is home to an array of distinct ecosystems harboring rare avian inhabitants. At the Huacarpay wetlands, you'll be introduced to Andean species and seek out the Rusty-fronted Canastero, an endemic gem. Transitioning to the picturesque town of Ollantaytambo, our base at the cozy Hotel Pakaritampu unveils the opportunity to observe the endemic Bearded Mountaineer within its charming gardens. Over the next three nights, we delve into the Abra Malaga Pass mountain area, where the endangered Polylepis temperate forest cradles treasures like the Ash-breasted Tit-Tyrant, White-browed Tit-Spinetail, and more.

Day 4-5: Machu Picchu Marvels .

A train journey transports us to Aguas Calientes, now Machu Picchu Pueblo. The iconic Machu Picchu site beckons, offering a glimpse into history. While our time here is brief, it's an ideal moment to capture the elusive Inca Wren. The lush tropical forests surrounding Machu Picchu house the Masked Fruiteater and the Slaty Tanager, adding to the avian spectacle.

Day 6-8: Apurímac Exploration

The Apurímac valley near Cusco is a treasure trove of endemic species. Species like Apurímac Spinetail, Apurímac Brushfinch, and Vilcabamba Tapaculo await discovery. The majestic Andean Condor graces us with its presence at the Chonta condor viewpoint. The enigmatic Buff-fronted Owl may reveal itself, offering a remarkable sighting to conclude our expedition.

Bird Watchers Trip Cusco Apurimac 8 days

This meticulously crafted itinerary unveils the captivating realm of avian life in the Andes Bird Watchers Trip Cusco Apurimac . A fusion of breathtaking landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and endemic species, the "Birding Tour Peru: Cusco and Apurímac" promises an unparalleled journey for avid birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. Join us in this immersive experience that transcends observation and fosters a deep connection with the natural world

 Day 01. Flight to Cusco, birding the Cusco area, transfer to Ollantaytambo .Bird Watchers Trip Cusco Apurimac.

We will have an early flight from Lima to the city of Cusco and transfer to the Huacarpay Lake. We will explore the arid scrub surroundings, looking for the endemic Rusty-fronted Canastero. The reeds around the lake hold Yellow-winged Blackbird, Many-colored Rush Tyrant, and Wren-like Rushbird. Other birds include Band-tailed Seedeater, Blue-and-yellow Tanager, Chiguanco Thrush, Streak-fronted Thornbird, Andean Flicker,Green-tailed Trainbearer, Golden-billed Saltator, Black-chested Buzzard-Eagle, Andean Lapwing, and several waterfowl such as Puna Teal, Yellow-billed Pintail, Yellow-billed Teal, Cinnamon Teal, White-tufted Grebe, Andean Coot, Puna Ibis, and others. We will then transfer to Ollantaytambo, where we will spend the rest of the afternoon enjoying the hotel gardens, looking for Black-throated Flowerpiercer and the endemic Bearded Mountaineer. Overnight: Hotel Pakaritampu, Ollantaytambo

Watch Bird Day 02. Birding the Abra Malaga mountain pass .Bird Watchers Trip Cusco Apurimac .

We will have an early start to explore the famous Abra Malaga mountain pass at the base of the Veronica snowcapped mountain. This area is good for several range-restricted Polylepis species such as White-browed Tit-Spinetail, Ash-breasted Tit-Tyrant, Giant Conebill, Line-fronted Canastero, Streak-headed Antpitta,Puna Tapaculo, Tit-like Dacnis,Junin Canastero, Tawny Tit-Spinetail, and with some

luck the Critical Endangered (IUCN) Royal Cinclodes. Other birds in the area might include our first chance for Andean Condor,Andean Goose, Great Sapphirewing, the endemic White-tufted Sunbeam, Shining Sunbeam,Andean Parakeet, Short-billed Pipit, and Mountain Caracara. Overnight: Hotel Pakaritampu, Ollantaytambo

Day 03. Birding the Quillabamba road -Bird Watchers Trip Cusco Apurimac.

Today we will focus on species that occur at the lowest parts of the Abra Malaga mountain pass along the Quillabamba Road. We will look for the endemics Parodi’s Hemispingus,Inca Wren, Cuzco Brushfinch,Marcapata Spinetail, and Unstreaked Tit-Tyrant, and forGolden-collared Tanager, Scarlet-bellied Mountain Tanager, Grass-green Tanager, Plushcap,Black-eared Hemispingus, Three-striped

Hemispingus, Puna Thistletail, Diademed Tapaculoand Yungas Pygmy Owl. Overnight: Pakaritampu, Ollantaytambo

Day 04. Visit to Machu Picchu and birding the Area -Bird Watchers Trip Cusco Apurimac .

After a 1.5-hour train ride from Ollantaytambo we will reach Aguas Calientes, the gateway to the world-famous Machu Picchu ruins. We will spend a couple of hours visiting the ruins and looking for the endemic Inca Wren and for Pale-legged Warbler. In the afternoon we will walk along the railway, looking for Highland Motmot, Torrent Duck, White-capped Dipper, Saffron-crowned and Blue-necked

Tanagers, Azara’s Spinetail, Grey-breasted Wood Wren, Torrent Tyrannulet, White-bellied Hummingbird, Slate-throated Whitestart, and others. Overnight: Casa Andina Classic Machu Picchu

 Day 05. Birding the Mandor Valley -transfer to Cusco -Bird Watchers Trip Cusco Apurimac

We have a full morning to explore the lush forest on the way to the Mandor Valley near Aguas Calientes, looking for the endemic Masked Fruiteater, Versicolored Barbet, Golden-naped and Silver-backed Tanager, Blue-naped Chlorophonia, White-eared and Andean Solitaires, Ashy-headed, Plumbeous-crowned, Mottled-cheeked, and Sclater’s Tyrannulets,Ocellated Piculet, Chestnut-capped Brushfinch,

Mitred Parakeet,Plum-crowned Parrot, Slaty Tanager, Barred Becard, Golden-olive Woodpecker, Capped Conebill, the endemic Green-and-white Hummingbird, and Dusky-green Oropendola.

In the afternoon we will return to Ollantaytambo by train and then transfer to Cusco. Overnight: Casa Andina Cusco Hotel

Day 06. The Andean Condor and Limatambo -Bird Watchers Trip Cusco Apurimac .

We will drive to Limatambo and explore the condor viewpoint at Chonta, where we will have close-up encounters with Andean Condor.

Other birds in the area include American Kestrel,Variable Hawk, Aplomado Falcon, and Black-chested Buzzard-Eagle. Our lodge grounds are good for the seldom-seen Buff-fronted Owl (which will be the main target here), Pacific Pygmy Owl, and the localized race of the endemic Koepcke’s Screech Owl (sometimes called Apurímac Screech Owl). Overnight: Yoga Limatomba Guesthouse, Limatomba

Day 07. Birding the Mollepata Area -Bird Watchers Trip Cusco Apurimac .

Today we will explore the Mollepata valley, looking for the localized and endemic Vilcabamba Tapaculo,Creamy-crested Spinetail, Apurímac Brushfinch, Apurímac Spinetail,Chestnut-breasted Brushfinch,Tyrian Metaltail, and others.

Here we also will have a second chance for Buff-fronted Owl after dusk. Overnight: Yoga Limatomba Guesthouse, Limatomba

 Day 08. Departure tour -Bird Watchers Trip Cusco Apurimac .

After an exciting week of birding in the Andes we will return to Cusco to connect with our domestic flight back to Lima, where the tour ends.

Please note that the itinerary cannot be guaranteed as it is only a rough guide and can be changed (usually slightly) due to factors such as availability of accommodation, updated information on the state of accommodation, roads, or birding sites, the discretion of the guides and other factors.

Birding at Cusco Apurimac 8 days

Bird Watchers Cusco Apurimac Experience the ultimate Peruvian birding adventure with our Birding Tour Peru: Cusco, Machu Picchu & Apurímac Jewels. This exclusive one-week itinerary is specially crafted for birding enthusiasts seeking to discover a stunning variety of endemic, range-restricted, and classic Andean bird species in some of the most breathtaking locations in South America.

Why Choose This Tour – Birding at Cusco Apurimac 8 days

Cusco is world-renowned for its rich cultural heritage and archaeological wonders, but few realize that it also boasts diverse ecosystems teeming with rare and endemic bird species. This tour takes you beyond the well-trodden paths, offering unparalleled birding opportunities in spectacular Andean landscapes. amazon  birding

Birding in Cusco & Apurímac: A Journey Through Peru’s Andean Biodiversity .

Embark on an unforgettable birdwatching adventure through the Cusco and Apurímac regions, two of Peru’s most spectacular birding destinations. This itinerary blends world-class archaeology with remarkable biodiversity, offering travelers the chance to encounter rare endemics, breathtaking landscapes, and the living pulse of the Andes. Whether you’re a dedicated birder or a nature-loving traveler, this route brings you closer to some of South America’s most iconic species. Andean birds.

Days 1–3: Cusco Exploration – Gateway to Andean Avifauna .

Your journey begins in Cusco, a city celebrated for its Inca history and vibrant culture—and equally impressive for its birdlife.
The nearby Huacarpay Wetlands, one of the region’s top birding hotspots, offer early encounters with Andean waterbirds and specialties such as the Rusty-fronted Canastero, an endemic that often delights visitors with its active, curious behavior.Cloud Forest Birding:

From there, the Sacred Valley welcomes you with its sweeping mountain vistas. During your stay at Hotel Pakaritampu in Ollantaytambo, you can observe the dazzling Bearded Mountaineer, a striking endemic hummingbird frequently seen feeding among the hotel’s gardens.

A highlight of these first days is the excursion to Abra Málaga Pass, a high-altitude site where Polylepis woodlands shelter rare and localized species. Here, birders search for treasures like the White-browed Tit-Spinetail, Creamy-crested Spinetail, Ash-breasted Tit-Tyrant, and the critically endangered Royal Cinclodes, one of Peru’s most sought-after endemics.

Days 4–5: The Birds of Machu Picchu .

No visit to Cusco is complete without experiencing Machu Picchu, and for birders, the site offers even more magic.

After a scenic train ride to Aguas Calientes, you’ll explore trails surrounded by lush cloud forest rich in life.

A key target here is the Inca Wren, an elegant endemic often heard before it’s seen, singing among dense bamboo

stands. The forests also reveal colorful species such as the Masked Fruiteater, Slaty Tanager, and Highland Motmot,

all adding to the diversity of your Machu Picchu bird list.

Days 6–8: Apurímac – A Haven for Endemics .

The final stretch of your expedition leads into the dramatic Apurímac Valley, one of Peru’s top destinations for

localized Andean endemics. This region is home to specialties found almost nowhere else, including the Apurímac

Spinetail, Apurímac Brushfinch, and the elusive Vilcabamba Tapaculo.

A visit to Chonta, perched high above the valley, offers one of the most unforgettable moments of the tour: watching

Andean Condors soaring effortlessly along the cliffs. For the dedicated birder, the possibility of spotting the Buff-

fronted Owl adds a thrilling nocturnal challenge to the experience.

Why This Tour Is Perfect for Birdwatchers

This Cusco–Apurímac birding itinerary is crafted for travelers seeking meaningful encounters with Peru’s unique

landscapes and wildlife. From high Andean passes to cloud forests and canyon viewpoints, every stop delivers a

chance to observe rare species and deepen your connection with nature.

Join us for an extraordinary journey into the heart of Andean birdlife—where culture, wildlife, and adventure come

together in one unforgettable expedition.

WHAT INCLUDED?

• Bilingual local tour guide.
• Meals according to requirement (vegetarian).
• Purified water.
• Transfer transportation to the airport.
• Rooms with private bathroom.
• First-aid kit.

WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED?

Not Included -Birdwatching Tour .

• International/ Domestic Flights
• alcoholic drinks
• laundry
• extra activities
• items of personal nature.

What you need to bring with you

• Mosquito repellent (minimum DEET 35 recommended).
• Original passport for identification.
• Long-sleeved shirts and comfortable long pants for protection.
• Cotton socks (to tuck into pants to avoid bites).
• Comfortable walking shoes and sandals for different terrains.
• Rain gear (poncho or jacket).
• Swimsuit .
• Binoculars (available for rent) and camera (with charger).
• Plastic bags to protect your clothes and camera.
• Hat for sun and rain protection.
• Toiletries, small towel, and toilet paper.
• Antibacterial gel, sunscreen, and sunglasses.
• Flashlight with spare bulbs and batteries.
• Water bottle (minimum 1 liter).
• Cash (soles) for drinks, souvenirs or tips.

RECOMMENDATIONS OF WHAT TO BRING:

Highlights of the Tour Birding at Cusco Apurimac 8 days

Huacarpay Wetlands & Cusco’s First Endemics Bird Watchers Cusco Apurimac

Your journey begins in Cusco, where we’ll visit the Huacarpay wetlands, an excellent introduction to Andean birdlife. Here, we will search for our first endemic species, the Rusty-fronted Canastero, among a variety of high-altitude waterbirds.

Ollantaytambo & Abra Malaga Pass – A Birding Haven

Next, we head to the charming town of Ollantaytambo, staying at the comfortable Hotel Pakaritampu. Its lush gardens are home to our second highlight, the Bearded Mountaineer. Over three days, we will explore the legendary Abra Malaga Pass, a hotspot for rare Andean birds.

Polylepis Forest Exploration: Venture into one of the most endangered Andean ecosystems, where we’ll seek out endemics like the White-browed Tit-Spinetail, Creamy-crested Spinetail, Junin Canastero, and White-tufted Sunbeam. If lucky, we may spot the Critically Endangered Royal Cinclodes.

Cloud Forest Birding: Descend into the lush cloud forests, where vibrant mountain tanager flocks and sought-after endemics such as the Parodi’s Hemispingus, Inca Wren, and Cuzco Brushfinch await.

Machu Picchu – Ancient Wonders & Avian Treasures

A scenic train ride takes us to Machu Picchu Pueblo (Aguas Calientes), where we’ll combine a brief tour of the iconic Inca ruins with thrilling birdwatching. In the tropical forests below, we’ll target Inca Wren, Masked Fruiteater, and Slaty Tanager.

Apurímac Valley – Endemic Bird Spectacle

The final leg of our journey brings us to the Apurímac Valley, a paradise for endemic species. Our targets include the Apurimac Spinetail, Apurimac Brushfinch, Chestnut-breasted Mountain Finch, Vilcabamba Tapaculo, and Koepcke’s Screech Owl.

Majestic Andean Condors & Night Birding

We’ll cap off the adventure at the Chonta Condor Viewpoint, where you’ll witness the awe-inspiring Andean Condor soaring above breathtaking landscapes. As night falls, we’ll search for the Buff-fronted Owl, adding a touch of mystery to the journey.

Our itinerary “Birding Tour Peru:

Cusco and Apurímac is designed to provide you with one of the best selections of endemic, range-restricted, and classic Andean species in one of the most popular and famous locations in South

America and the world, Cusco – and in one week only. Cusco is visited by thousands of tourists every year due to its rich culture and archaeology, but few people know that the Cusco Region also possesses a

large number of different ecosystems and holds several endemic birds that are only found here.
We will start our trip in Cusco, visiting the Huacarpay wetlands as an introduction to several Andean

species and looking for our first endemic, Rusty-fronted Canastero. Then the trip will take us to the picturesque town of Ollantaytambo to stay at the comfortable Hotel Pakaritampu. The gardens of this

beautiful, small hotel hold our second target of the day, the endemic Bearded Mountaineer. We will use

the Hotel Pakaritampu as our base for the next three nights in order to explore the famous Abra Malaga Pass mountain area.

The Polylepis temperate forest is one of the most endangered ecosystems in the Andes,

with only a few patches of forest remaining. We will spend a full day at the base of the snow-capped Veronica mountain, looking for the endemic and near endemic Ash-breasted Tit-Tyrant, White-browed

Tit-Spinetail, Tawny Tit-Spinetail, Creamy-crested Spinetail, Junin Canastero, White-tufted Sunbeam, and with luck the Critically Endangered (IUCN) Royal Cinclodes. Below the mountain pass the road

descends into the cloudforest, where several flocks of mountain tanagers are often seen, including the endemic Parodi’s Hemispingus, and here we have our first chance for the endemic Inca Wren and Cuzco Brushfinch.

After three nights in Ollantaytambo we will take a train to Aguas Calientes (now officially Machu Picchu Pueblo) and visit Machu Picchu. We shall spend a couple of hours on the site for those who want to

briefly visit and take pictures of the site, but, most importantly, we will have another chance for Inca Wren. Birding the lush tropical forest below Machu Picchu will provide also good chances for the

endemic Masked Fruiteater and the range-restricted Slaty Tanager.

Finally, the Apurímac valley near Cusco

provides excellent chances to add more endemic birds to the trip list, such as Apurímac Spinetail, Apurímac Brushfinch, Chestnut-breasted Mountain Finch, the localized Vilcabamba Tapaculo, and Koepcke’s Screech Owl.

In addition to this amazing list of species you will be able to have close-up views of the majestic Andean Condor at the condor viewpoint at Chonta and a good opportunity for the mysterious Buff-fronted Owl.

This itinerary could easily be combined with custom dates for our Central Peru Tour, Northern Peru Tour, and Northern Ecuador Tour with one night in Lima required. Please ask us for details.

General Information

What is the duration of the Bird Watchers Cusco Apurímac tour?

The tour lasts 8 days, covering key birdwatching sites in Cusco and Apurímac.

What makes this tour unique?

This itinerary is carefully designed to showcase endemic, range-restricted, and iconic Andean bird species in breathtaking landscapes, including Polylepis forests, cloud forests, and high-altitude wetlands.

What type of habitats will we explore?

You’ll visit a variety of ecosystems, including wetlands, temperate forests, cloud forests, and high-altitude grasslands, each home to unique bird species.

Is this tour suitable for beginner birdwatchers?

While this tour is ideal for experienced birders, beginners with a passion for nature and birds are welcome. Our expert guides will assist in spotting and identifying species.

How physically demanding is the tour?

Some sections involve hiking at high altitudes (up to 4,300 meters/14,100 feet), but most birding locations are accessible by vehicle with short to moderate walks.
Birdwatching Details

What are the highlight species we may see?

Endemic species include Bearded Mountaineer, White-tufted Sunbeam, Inca Wren, Apurímac Spinetail, and Royal Cinclodes. You’ll also look for the Andean Condor, Giant Conebill, and Tawny Tit-Spinetail.

How many bird species can we expect to see?

While numbers vary, you can expect to spot 200+ species, including many Andean endemics.

Do we need to bring our own binoculars and field guides?

Yes, we recommend bringing your own binoculars. A spotting scope will be available for group use, and our guides will have local field guides for reference.

Will we have opportunities for bird photography?

The itinerary includes multiple opportunities for photography, especially at Machu Picchu, Abra Málaga, and Chonta for Andean Condors.

Are night birding activities included?

Yes, we’ll look for Buff-fronted Owl, Pacific Pygmy Owl, and Apurímac Screech Owl during night birding sessions.
Logistics & Accommodation

What type of accommodation is included?

You’ll stay in comfortable lodges and hotels such as Hotel Pakaritampu (Ollantaytambo), Casa Andina (Cusco & Machu Picchu), and Yoga Limatomba Guesthouse (Limatambo).

Are meals included?

all meals are included throughout the tour, with a focus on fresh, local cuisine.

Is transportation included?

all ground transportation, train tickets to Machu Picchu, and airport transfers are

included in the package.

Will altitude sickness be a concern?

Some locations are at high altitude (above 3,500 meters/11,500 feet). We recommend acclimatizing in Cusco before the trip and staying hydrated.

Do we need travel insurance?

travel insurance is required and should cover medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and high-altitude trekking.

Booking & Additional Considerations

What is the best time of year for this tour?
The best time is April to November, during the dry season, when bird activity is high and conditions are favorable.

What is the group size for the tour?

Groups are small, usually 4-8 participants, ensuring an intimate experience and personalized guiding.

What should we pack for the trip?

Essentials include binoculars, a camera, a field guide, comfortable hiking shoes, a rain jacket, sunscreen, a hat, insect repellent, and layers for changing temperatures.

Are there any cultural experiences included?

You’ll visit Machu Picchu, Ollantaytambo, and local Andean communities, offering a mix of birding and cultural immersion.

How do I book this tour?

You can contact us directly via our website or email to reserve your spot. A deposit is required to confirm your booking.