Birdwatching in Huancavelica

Huancavelica: A Hidden Paradise for Bird Lovers in Peru

If you're looking for a lesser-known destination full of life and stunning landscapes, Huancavelica is a natural gem that should definitely be on your itinerary. Located in the heart of the Peruvian Andes, this region is an ideal spot for birdwatching enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Why Go Birdwatching in Huancavelica?

Huancavelica’s ecological richness is truly impressive. Its diverse ecosystems—including montane forests, high Andean scrublands, and riparian vegetation—create the perfect habitat for a wide range of bird species, many of which are endemic or hard to find in other parts of the country.

Here are some top reasons to visit Huancavelica if you're a birdwatcher or simply a nature enthusiast:

Unique Andean landscapes: Walking among mountains, lagoons, and valleys covered in native flora turns every sighting into a magical experience.

High bird diversity: From hummingbirds and tanagers to raptors and waterbirds, it's common to spot both iconic and rare species.

Unparalleled photo opportunities: With minimal visual pollution and a peaceful atmosphere, it’s the perfect place to capture breathtaking images.

Authentic and sustainable tourism: As a less-traveled region, you’ll enjoy a close, respectful connection with the local community and the environment.

Birdwatching in Huancavelica

Birdwatching in Huancavelica: Discover Avian Treasures Amidst Andean Beauty

Welcome to Huancavelica, a hidden gem for bird enthusiasts nestled in the heart of the Andes Mountains in Peru.

Prepare to embark on an extraordinary birding adventure through stunning landscapes and diverse ecosystems,

where the skies are alive with the colorful plumage and melodious songs of the region’s unique avian inhabitants.

Huancavelica’s rugged terrain and varied habitats make it a haven for birdwatchers seeking both common species

and rare gems. Whether you’re an avid birder or a novice, the rich biodiversity of Huancavelica offers an unmatched

opportunity to connect with nature and uncover a captivating array of avian wonders.

Explore the misty cloud forests and catch a glimpse of elusive species like the Coppery Metaltail, with its striking

copper-colored plumage glinting in the dappled sunlight. Marvel at the Mountain Caracara as it soars above, its

distinctive markings making it a true Andean icon.

Listen to the enchanting calls of the Rufous Antpitta and the Ash-colored Tapaculo, both masters of camouflage amidst the forest floor.

Journey to the high-altitude grasslands, where the Andean Flicker and Andean Lapwing thrive against the

backdrop of breathtaking vistas. Witness the spectacle of Andean Condors riding thermal currents, their massive

wingspans an awe-inspiring sight against the rugged mountains.

Our knowledgeable guides are passionate about sharing their expertise and leading you to the best birding spots,

ensuring you have the chance to observe and photograph these feathered wonders up close. Their deep

understanding of Huancavelica’s avian residents adds an educational dimension to your adventure, enriching your

experience with insights into the intricate relationships between birds and their environment.

Join us on a birdwatching expedition that promises not only incredible bird sightings but also a profound

connection to the natural beauty of Huancavelica.

Let the melodies of its birds and the breathtaking landscapes create memories that will linger long after your journey

ends.

Birdwatching in Huancavelica

BIRDS HUANCAVELICA EARTH IS HOT SPRINGS AND DANCERS OF SCISSORS AND BEAUTIFUL LANDSCAPES

Huancavelica: Department

Huancavelica: Province

Location: 12 ° 47’06 ” S 74 ° 58’17 ” W / 12 785 , -74.97139

Latitude: 12 ° 47’06 ” S

Longitude: 74 ° 58’17 “W

Altitude: 3 676 m

Distance: 444 km from Lima Huancayo traveling 449 km from Lima

Area: 514.10 [1 ] km ²

Foundation on August 4, 1571 [2 ]

Population 37,255 (2007 ) [3 ] Inhabitants

Population Density 72.46 / km ²

ACCESS ROUTES:

To reach by road from Lima , there are two routes . One is through Huancayo, which can be reached by the Central

road.

The other route is longer and passes along the road Pisco Los Libertadores . IF you travel by bus , you should be

aware that there is a ground terminal on this destination , but most transport companies concentrated around Plaza

Santa Ana

BIRDS HUANCAVELICA:Birdwatching in Huancavelica .

Located 3,676 meters above sea level , was founded by the Spanish in 1571 under the name of Villa Rica de Oropesa ,

following the discovery of the mercury mine of Santa Barbara. During the Viceroyalty was the second ‘ most

important mining site of America after Potosí in Bolivia today . This situation radically changed the fate of these

lands once dominated by wari and chanca . He began to amass great fortunes in the area and it is from this period

that belong to large mansions and colonial-style temples that adorn the main streets of the city, colorful crib

Cathedral . In the province of Castrovirreyna , archaeological ruins Huaytará remains of nearly 1,200 different

periods in twenty areas – are a fascinating and informative destination. You can not help but mention its spectacular

folk events such as the colorful dance of the Negritos , the Girls, and pallas Mochis . As for cuisine , travelers will find

a variety of dishes from the central Andean region , most notably tripe broth , Patasca Pachamanca and suck

pumpkin and classic style calientitos to Huancavelica , to shelter the cold in the Andean night to the sound of a guitar

and the voices of their huaynos . Browse their people is perhaps the best experience that this area has to offer. Since

there is a mass tourism destination , provides the opportunity for greater interaction with its inhabitants through

experiential tourism : learning their customs and participate in rural activities , for example, in growing panllevar as

livestock. and rituals that accompany them.

Modernity, tradition , identity, nature and earthy beat of the Andes in Huancavelica converge to give visitors an

unforgettable experience in one of the oldest cities of Peru trip.

SQUARE CITY HUANCAVELICA:

Maintains colonial arrangement with the Cathedral , the Prefecture and the Palace of Justice, typical Spanish

foundational schema. The main square has the old two-story town hall , famous for their portals. There is also the

chapel of the Virgin of Sorrows and the old movie theater.

In the middle, there is a octagonal shaped pool , built with granite stones, and two sources representing Indian and

faces whose mouths water goes .

COLONIAL BRIDGE OF ASCENSION:

Located in the shred Tambo de Mora, this bridge has four centuries. It was built on the edge of downtown with the

district of Huancavelica Ascension. The beautiful monument retains its original ornamental style, with two rails that

frame , resting in an area of ​​massive stone .

LA MERCED CHURCH:

If you are interested in churches and their history . , Please visit the Iglesia La Merced. It was declared a National

Historic Landmark since there the Constituent Congress of General Gamarra was installed. Their address is: 100

Royal Street .

CATHEDRAL CHURCH OF SAN ANTONIO:

Facing the Plaza de Armas , the Cathedral is the main church of Huancavelica. It was built between the sixteenth and

seventeenth centuries the Baroque style , with its high altar bathed in gold . It has a very unique façade , covered with

reddish stones brought from the Near Puka Rumi. Inside are layers of silver and valuable paintings from the Cusco

School and Huamanga .

SAN SEBASTIAN TEMPLE:

‘s Located at the Plaza Bolognesi . It has a neoclassical facade of the eighteenth century. Their altars are carved wood

covered in gold leaf , like the roof of the right wing . In a small altar , is the Lord of Arrest . It is visited by his

followers during the Easter festivities .

CHURCH AND CONVENT OF SAN FRANCISCO:

It is located in Plaza Bolognesi . It has a style that mixes different trends , both Spanish and locally sourced . It was

built in the eighteenth century. Inside can be seen carved wooden altarpieces and plated with gold , among which

that of San Francisco , which takes its name. According to popular legend of the headless father , that the spirit of a

priest who hanged himself in the convent appears some nights to ring the bells of the Church. Colorful scissors dance

is performed in the atrium during the Christmas holidays and Bajada de Reyes

TEMPLE OF SANTA ANA IN BIRDS HUANCAVELICA:

It was the first church in town flagpole . It is located in the Plaza Ramón Castilla and preserved colonial baroque altars .

In them, you can appreciate works of the disciples of famous European painter El Greco, and colorful ornamental

purposes , as the combination of floral subjects.

TEMPLE OF SANTO DOMINGO:

Located in the plaza of the same name , belongs to the early days of the Viceroyalty , the same as most churches and

temples huancavelicanos . In the temple of Santo Domingo, the faithful worship both Virgin Rosarlo as Santo

Domingo, whose images were brought from Italy. Ancient stories tell that the cloister through secret passages c

ommunicated with the temple of San Francisco.

If you go in January , you can see the traditional dance of the Negritos to be held in the atrium .

HOT SPRINGS POOL OF DISTRICT OF SAN CRISTOBAL:

Visited by its healing properties, the thermal waters of San Cristobal are also recreation center amenities . The place

has a pool for Olympic competitions , besides having other adults and children.

Custodian has the statue of a dancing scissors . Address: Avenue April 28, Barrio de San Cristobal.

CHRIST CHURCH OF ST IN BIRDS HUANCAVELICA:

Located on the highest point of the district of the same name, the Church also has a baroque style . Apart from its

historical and tourism value , has beautiful paintings called Cusco School and murals decorated with motifs from the

eighteenth century Huancavelica .

One of the festivals that are celebrated here is the Child Emmanuel , which takes place during the first days of

February.

TOWN Sacsamarca:Birdwatching in Huancavelica.

With its stone houses built almost four thousand feet , is Sacsamarca , whose name derives from the Quechua words

saksay and marka , meaning ” hospitable and cheerful people.” It has many attractions for the traveler, as Qayara

Puya Raimondi in Kuchu

. The Calvarlo hill is the guardian of the people and Disparate river running through it. Its landscape consists of high

mountains and nature trails. It is just 4 km southwest of the city of Huancavelica, arrive promptly 45 min walk or 10

min by car .

MINE DEATH SANTA BARBARA:Birdwatching in Huancavelica.

Legendary exploited mining center during the time of the Viceroyalty , was the source of extraction of mercury or

quicksilver screed bigger. Due to Inhumane conditions in which they worked , it was considered the ” Mine of Death”

Spain had much interest in this area, as mercury was a necessary mineral in the metallurgical process of purifying

silver, why , Huancavelica neighboring towns were almost alone in terms of the activities of Santa Barbara. To get

there, go 6 km that separate city velica Huanca , about an hour walk or 15 min by car .

LAGUNA Choclococha:Birdwatching in Huancavelica.

This immense mirror in the middle of snow-covered mountains , is the largest lagoon in Huancavelica. It is located

4,600 meters above sea level It is ideal for boating, trout fishing or watching wild ducks. It offers the opportunity to

enjoy the company of vicuña and alpaca approaching the shores in search of food . To access this location, it must

travel 68 km from the city to the community Choclococha , then make a 10 min trip by bus to the town of Santa Ines

and continue the path 15 min.

PRODUCTION AND RESEARCH CENTER OF SOUTH CAMELIDS – Birdwatching in Huancavelica.

Located in Tucumachay Gulch , near the snowy San Andrés , nearly 5,000 meters above sea level and is only 19 km

from the city of Huancavelica or 45 min by bus . It has all the varieties of Andean and South American camelids (

vicuña ,lamas , alpacas and guanacos ) . It is administered by the National University of Huancavelica in

collaboration with specialized institutes . Hopefully , you can see condors flying over the area .

DISTRICT IZCUCHACA:

Le owes its name to a beautiful bridge of lime derived from the Quechua words Izcuchaca ( bridge). The place has

thermal springs located in the towns of Paucari , Huaspu and Aguas Calientes. In the vicinity, you can see remains

that confirm the presence of people in the pre Inca times . The bridge, also known as ” bridge Mantaro ” has a station

in the path of the beloved “male train ” which connects Huancayo to Huancavelica. It is 78 km north of the latter , a 2

hour journey by dirt road .

SECCSACHACA –Birdwatching in Huancavelica .

Known as the ” Sanctuary of Love seqsa – chaca is a Quechua word meaning ” crooked bridge. ” Is also known as”

Villa Cariño . ” In an area of ​​about four acres , is located on the Left Bank bunch grass . a series of geological

formations are volcanic caves. , There are also two hot springs ( the Bath of the Inca and the Three Boas ) . Its tourist

infrastructure is friendly to the environment , because it respects the geology of the area .

ARCHAEOLOGICAL COMPLEX Uchkus Inkañan -Birdwatching in Huancavelica .

A 26 km from the city is the center. Ceremonial , administrative and astronomical observations dating back to a

period prior to the Incas. On a platform , is the remainder of the water bodies , whose function was to reflect the

movements of the Sun and Moon . They also highlight a miniature platform , which proves that it was also a center of

agricultural experimentation.

SNOWY CHONTA

Its peak reaches 5085 m and the area is perfect for adventure sports such as mountaineering and trekking. In the

surroundings , you can see a variety of flora and Incredible mountain fauna typical of the range. It is located 64 km

from Huancavelica and 3 km from the beautiful lagoon Pultocc ( probably an extinct volcano crater ) , known , among

other things, the famous rainbow trout .

EL TREN MACHO  –

Way you will know the train that connects Huancayo to Huancavelica, because ” when I wanted and came out when

he could .” Beyond the irregularity of his travels, he has become an icon of the area by the beautiful scenery that can

be seen in transit. Along the way, passing through the thermal baths of Aguas Calientes and colonial Izcuchaca bridge

Characteristically terminals sellers find potato with cheese or corn and cheese , snacks characteristic of the

mountains, and biscuits and fizzy drinks to waiting passengers . The male train is being remodeled and, for now , is

inoperative Recognized as Cultural Patrimony of the Nation , for many, the scissors dance is an impressive full color

and dexterity artistic display , . , But to the inhabitants of the region Andean center is primarily a ritual.

BIRDS HUANCAVELICA TRADITION -Birdwatching in Huancavelica .

The origin of this dance goes back to colonial times . Some say that the resistance movement emerged in Taki Oncoy (

Singing disease ) against the cultural domination and assimilation of Spanish customs and beliefs . It says that the

Temples gave them strength to the followers of this movement to sing and dance. Others claim that in the sixteenth

century and the descendants of the Chanca , indigenous people of Huancavelica , Ayacucho and Apurimac , took

advantage of Good Friday , the day that the Christian God does not see what happens in the world , to celebrate. That

day , his Andean divinities , in alliance with the devil, the dancers granted supernatural powers , giving them the

opportunity to perform superhuman fates as those performed during the dance . Because of this alliance as it was

originally known supay wasi Tušak or dance the devil’s house . ” Beyond what theory is taken as true, it is Important

to highlight that this is a mestizo ritual. It is a cultural expression where is , choreography , representing the spirits of

the gods prehispáni.cos region . , and that is atavistic religious – ritualistic character .

THE DANCERS – Birdwatching in Huancavelica .

Dansaq also known as ‘or’ gala , trained from young to play the role of mediators between the gods and men. As

mentioned , during the colonial period were believed to have links with the devil , which had enabled them to

perform such feats of flexibility and fakirs . This belief caused them to be persecuted by the extirpation of idolatries

campaign conducted by the Inquisition. Among the skills that a person should have to be dansaq ‘ physical strength is

needed to support the comprehensive performing acrobatic routines . They also receive spiritual training , in which

they perform rituals in comendándose the apus , and are taught to read the coca leaves . Upon completion of the

learning process , they go through . An initiation ceremony that takes place during Easter. Scenario is taken as a

sacred place, which may be a hill or a lake, for learners to show their teachers the skills acquired . When you run the

ball you can not miss them scissors in the right hand . These are two independent steel sheets having a ring on one

end that simulate superimposed scissors. The longest is 26 inches and is called ” male”, weighs a pound and is issuing

the deeper sound , the ” female” of 24 inches , is always perched on the male. These instruments , as they also go

through rituals. When male ” , he bathed in the blood of animal or is covered with grease east. ” Female “is subject to

the winds of the plains and dive in brandy is in the middle of a lake or taste

DRESS – Birdwatching in Huancavelica .

Onsite flashy clothes of the dancers. In the head, will overburden representing the dominant position of the condor.

The illpuy red handkerchief tied around his neck to Prevent dancer forces from escaping. About the white suit ,

wearing a poncho with embroidery apu which instructs the dancer . In the hand , carries a red cloth scarf in keeping

land in square dancing . Spells to prevent

DANCE OF SCISSORS -Birdwatching in Huancavelica

Takes place in religious celebrations and employers are celebrated in the central and southern highlands of the

Andes.

Traditionally, in the dance from April to December just in the dry season and the start of the rainy season ,

very important dates for agricultural villages: Be performed skills in participating composite crews , each for a dancer

, a violinist and a harpist who the beat of different tunes face in a competition known as hapinakuy , as it is called in

these lands. The challenge is to propose increasingly difficult movements in order to prove their superiority .

Contendorla on scissors dance follows a sequence which varies according to the music and be progressively increases

the risk of the dance steps .

These spectacular reach their maximum during the test and . Pasta . In testing the dancer displays his acrobatic

flexibility through movement at the time of executing the pastas, the dancer enters a trance also lets you perform

incredible magic resistance tests or pain. Among them, this swords introducing your esophagus or a violin hanging

his tongue through a thread. Even ‘ made ​​to appear ‘ toads or eat live snakes .

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