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
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.