Birdwatching Manu Machu Picchu 10 days

Birdwatching Manu -Machu Picchu

Itinerary Birds Road Manu / Machu Picchu 10 days

Birds Road Manu / Machu Picchu .Join us on this extraordinary journey as we explore the depths of Peru's avian wonders, uncovering the secrets of its remote landscapes and encountering some of the world's most sought-after endemic species. Reserve your place now and become a part of this enchanting narrative.

Day 1:  Cusco to Wayquecha  Lodge .

We will start birding near Cusco at Huacarpay Lake, which offers a great opportunity to see the bearded mountainer, cinnamon teal, plumbeous rail, streak-fronted thornbird, among other birds. After we will continue to Manu Road where we will make several stop to see important birds.

 Day 2:  Wayquecha  to Cock of the Rock Lodge Amazon Field

Today, we will start birding early in the morning near Wayquecha and Manu Road, which provides chances to see big mixed flocks of tanagers, flycatchers, hummingbirds, finches, toucans, and others, such as Grass-green Tanager, Golden-collared Tanager, White-throated Tyrannulet, Gray-breasted Mountain Toucan, and Rufous-capped Thornbill. After birding, we will return to the lodge for breakfast, and then we will continue for a full day of roadside birding. Today we will have good opportunities to see the Golden-headed Quetzal, White-collared Jay, Red and White Antpitta, Black and Chestnut Eagle, until we arrive at the Cock of the Rock Lodge.

Day 3:  Cock of the Rock Lodge Manu - Amazon Field  toBirdwatching Manu -Machu Picchu 

Today, early in the morning, we will visit the Cock of the Rock Lodge lick, where will see the dance  of some male birds. Then we will return to the lodge for breakfast and continue for a full day of roadside birding, looking for birds such as the Andean Cock of the Rock, Black Streak Puffbird, Crested Quetzal, golden tanager, Saffron-crowned tanager, Slaty Gnateater, and many others birds in the cloud forest.

Day 4:  Cock of the Rock Lodge Manu to Amazonia Lodge  . 

Today, we will eat breakfast very early and then continue birding along the route, where we will have chances to see the Black-backed Tody Flycatcher, Peruvian Piedtail, Amazonian Umbrella Bird, Ornate Flycatcher, Cusco Warbler, Solitary Eagle, and many other lowland birds.

 Day 5:  Full day birding Amazonia lodge  to Birdwatching Manu -Machu Picchu 

We will walk a good trail for birding around the lodge and little tower at the foothill forest where we can find Plum-throated Cotinga and red-billed Tyrannulet. Then we will return to the lodge to see many hummingbirds, Rufous-crested Coquette, Golden-tailed Sapphire, White-necked Jacobin, Long-billed Starthroat, Violet-headed Hummingbird, Fine-barred Piculet, Scarlet-hooded Barbet, Amazonian Antpitta, and many other birds

Day 6:  Amazonia Lodge Manu Park  to Ollantaytambo Hotel  -Birdwatching Manu -Machu Picchu 

Early in the morning, we will begin birding the same trails before returning to Ollantaytambo. We can see the Band-tailed Manakin, White line Antbird, Goeldi´s Antbird, Bamboo Antshrike, Blue-crowned Trogon, and many more birds. Then we will return to the lodge to pick up our suitcases, return to Atalaya, and then travel to Ollantaytambo

Day 7:  Ollantaytambo Hotel -  Abra Malaga Birding  -Birdwatching Manu -Machu Picchu 

Today, we will leave our hotel early to travel to Abra Malaga for roadside birding. We will start in the cloud forest, where we can see birds such as the Chusquea Bamboo, Marcapata Spinetail, Cusco Brush Finch, Parodi´s Hemispingus, Inca Wren, unstreaked Tit Tyrant, Puna Thistletail, Scarlet-bellied Tanager, and many other birds. After birding, we will return to our hotel in Ollantaytambo.

Day 8: Ollantaytambo Hotel - Abra Malaga Birding  to  Machupicchu .

Today we will begin birding again in Abra Malaga, at an altitude of 4,316 masl, a good elevation to see special birds, such as Royal Cinclodes, Puna Tapaculo, Ash-breasted tit tyrant, Giant connebill, White-browed tit spinetail, Andean Hillstar, sierra finches, hummingbirds, and gound tyrants. After birding, we will will go back to the train station in Ollantaytambo. From here, we will take a train to Aguas Calientes, a town near Machu Picchu, where we will stay in a hotel.

 Day 9:  Aguas Calientes Hotel  – Machu Picchu Tours .

Today, after breakfast at the hotel, we will begin birding in Mandor, a very good place to see the Masked Fruit Eater, Ocellated Piculet, Green and white hummingbirds, Pale-legged Warbler, Golden-napped Tanager, Sclater´s Tyrannulet, among other birds. After birding we will return to Aguas Calientes for lunch and relax in the afternoon in Aguas Calientes. We will spend the night in a hotel in Aguas Calientes.

 Day 10:  Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu Tours .

Today after breakfast we will visit Machu Picchu, where we will learn about Inca history and see a spectacular view for photography. After exploring all of Machu Picchu, we will go back to Aguas Calientes and then take the train to Cusco.

Birdwatching Manu  – Machu Picchu 10 days

Birdwatching Manu Machu Picchu : Discover Peru’s Extraordinary Biodiversity on a Premier Birdwatching Adventure.

Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime birdwatching expedition through one of the world’s most biodiverse regions—Manu National Park, located in the heart of Peru. This immersive tour will take you through the diverse ecosystems of the cloud forests, high jungle, and lowland Amazon, where you’ll encounter a wide array of fascinating and non-native bird species. Spend most of your time at our specialized birding lodges, strategically located to offer optimal

opportunities for spotting remarkable birdlife – Birdwatching Manu -Machu Picchu  .

Birdwatching Manu & Machu Picchu

A Bucket-List Birding Adventure in the Andean Highlands and the Amazon

Experience one of the world’s most spectacular birding routes on this Manu & Machu Picchu birdwatching tour, a journey that blends Andean peaks, cloud forests, Amazon lowlands, and the ancient Inca citadel. Over ten unforgettable days, you’ll travel the legendary Manu Road, explore Manu National Park, and finish your expedition at the mystical Machu Picchu. birding Tours adventure 

With expert guides, high-quality optics, and comfortable birding lodges, this trip gives you a rare chance to observe Andean endemics, Amazon specialists, mixed flocks, hummingbirds, tinamous, macaws, antpittas, and more than 500 possible species along one of the richest biodiversity corridors on Earth.

Day by Day Birdwatching Manu Machu Picchu Itinerary (10 Days / 9 Nights).

Day 1: Cusco – Huacarpay – Huayquecha Biological Station .

Your adventure begins with a warm welcome in Cusco and an orientation to the upcoming Manu birding route. At dawn, depart toward Laguna Huacarpay, one of Cusco’s top high-Andean wetland hotspots. Here you’ll search for the endemic Bearded Mountaineer, along with Plumbeous Rail, Cinnamon Teal, Puna Teal, Yellow-billed Pintail, White-tufted Grebe, Cinereous Harrier, and Streak-fronted Thornbird.

You may also spot three Cusco endemics:

• Bearded Mountaineer
• Rusty-fronted Canastero
• Creamy-crested Spinetail

After breakfast, continue toward Manu, reaching the high pass at 3,565 m. As you enter the cloud forest, expect tanagers, hummingbirds, antpittas, toucanets, flycatchers, and mixed flocks. Arrive at Huayquecha Biological Station by late afternoon and search for Swallow-tailed Nightjar after dark.

Day 2: Birdwatching Manu Machu Picchu Huayquecha Biological Station – Cock-of-the-Rock Lodge .

Travel deeper along the Manu Road, one of the world’s most celebrated birding routes. Keep an eye out for Golden-collared Tanager, Grass-green Tanager, Scaled Metaltail, White-collared Jay, Barred Parakeet, and Chestnut-crested Cotinga.

You may encounter endemics such as:

• Marcapata Spinetail
• Red-and-White Antpitta
• Slaty-backed Chat-Tyrant

Arrive at Cock-of-the-Rock Lodge, perfectly situated for cloud-forest birding. In the evening, look for Rufous-bellied Nighthawk.

Day 3: Birdwatching Manu Machu Picchu and  Cock-of-the-Rock Lodge – Cloud Forest Birding .

Before sunrise, walk to the famous Cock-of-the-Rock lek to watch males perform their dramatic displays. Other specialties here include Highland Motmot, Versicolored Barbet, Yungas Manakin, and White-crowned Tapaculo.

After breakfast, explore forest trails where you may find:

• Slaty Gnateater
• Chestnut-breasted Wren
• Amazonian Umbrellabird
• Masked Trogon
• Paradise Tanager
• Brown Tinamou

Around the lodge gardens, you can spot up to 13 hummingbird species, including Booted Racket-tail, Long-tailed Sylph, Peruvian Piedtail, and Sparkling Violetear.

Sunset brings opportunities for Lyre-tailed Nightjar and Rufescent Screech-Owl.

Day 4: Birdwatching Manu Machu Picchu to Cock-of-the-Rock Lodge – Amazonia Lodge .

Descend into the foothills toward your next location. Along the route, you may find Black-backed Tody-Flycatcher, Fiery-capped Manakin, Blue-headed Macaw, Ornate Flycatcher, and Chestnut-backed Antshrike.

From Atalaya, switch to a boat for a short river journey to Amazonia Lodge, one of Manu’s best lowland birding bases.Manu Biosphere Reserve

Here you may encounter hummingbirds such as:

• Rufous-crested Coquette
•  Violet-headed Hummingbird
• Koepcke’s Hermit
• Golden-tailed Sapphire
• Amethyst Woodstar

A night walk offers chances to observe Long-tailed Potoo, Black-banded Owl, Great Potoo, and Tawny-bellied Screech-Owl.

Day 5: Birdwatching Manu Machu Picchuto   Amazonia Lodge – Lowland Rainforest Birding .

Begin your day at the canopy tower where species like Plum-throated Cotinga, Spangled Cotinga, Turquoise Tanager, Striolated Puffbird, and Military Macaw often appear.

Afternoon trails may reveal Scarlet-hooded Barbet, Lemon-throated Barbet, Fine-barred Piculet, Red-billed Tyrannulet, Double-toothed Kite, Blue-crowned Trogon, Red-throated Caracara, and a variety of tinamous and antbirds.

Day 6: Birdwatching Manu Machu Picchu  Amazonia Lodge – Parrot Clay Lick – Ollantaytambo.

Rise early to witness a Parrot & Macaw Clay Lick, where species such as Blue-headed Parrot, Amazon Parrot, and Chestnut-fronted Macaw gather in vibrant flocks. Tour Tambopota Reserved 

Afterward, navigate upriver to Atalaya and continue by road to Ollantaytambo for a night in the Sacred Valley.

Day 7: Birdwatching Manu Machu Picchu to Ollantaytambo – Abra Málaga .

Climb toward Abra Málaga, one of Peru’s most reliable regions for Andean endemics. Today’s highlights include:

• Inca Wren
• Marcapata Spinetail
• Cuzco Brush-Finch
• Parodi’s Hemispingus
• Puna Thistletail

Return to Ollantaytambo in the afternoon.

Day 8: Ollantaytambo – Polylepis Forest – Aguas Calientes .

Start at 4,316 m in a pristine Polylepis forest, home to some of the Andes’ rarest specialists, such as:

• White-browed Tit-Spinetail
• Royal Cinclodes
• Puna Tapaculo
• Giant Conebill
• White-tufted Sunbeam
• Chestnut-breasted Mountain Finch

After lunch, take the scenic train to Aguas Calientes.

Day 9: Aguas Calientes & Machu Picchu – Birding and Ruins .

Enjoy morning birding near Machu Picchu, where you may find:

Masked Fruiteater

• Ocellated Piculet
• Slaty Tanager
• Sclater’s Tyrannulet
• Torrent Duck
• Andean Cock-of-the-Rock
• Highland Motmot

Then explore the lost city of the Incas with your guide before returning to Cusco by train.

Day 10: Machu Picchu Visit – Return to Cusco .

Enjoy a final guided visit to Machu Picchu, with the optional hike to Huayna Picchu (tickets not included). In the afternoon, take the train back to Ollantaytambo and continue to Cusco by bus, concluding your Manu & Machu Picchu birding tour.

Bird Species in the Manu Park

Throughout this tour, you’ll encounter some of the most iconic and sought-after bird species in Peru, including those marked with  to highlight endemic species. Manu National Park is home to over 1,000 bird species, and although we’ve listed the most well-known ones in the itinerary, be prepared for many delightful surprises.

From elusive hummingbirds to majestic raptors, every day will bring new sightings.

Birdwatching Destinations

• Cusco: Begin your journey in Cusco, Peru’s historic city and the gateway to the Amazon Basin. Here, you’ll get a taste of Peru’s rich cultural heritage before heading into the wildlife amazon peru.
• Huacarpay Lakes: A prime location for observing waterfowl and highland bird species. The peaceful lakes offer an
• incredible opportunity for birdwatching in a serene setting.
• Manu National Park: One of the world’s most acclaimed birdwatching destinations, home to hundreds of bird species, including rare and endemic varieties.
• Huyquecha Biological : Located in a lush forest, this station is a hub for research and offers fantastic birding opportunities in its diverse surroundings.
• Cock of the Rock Lodge: Famous for its resident Andean Cock-of-the-Rock, this lodge provides easy access to watch this colorful bird and other highland species.
• Manu Cloud Forest: Step into the misty cloud forest, a magical place where biodiversity flourishes, and new species are waiting to be discovered.
• Amazonia Lodge: Nestled deep in the lowland Amazon, this lodge offers an unparalleled chance to observe a vast range of Amazonian birdlife and wildlife.

 Why This Trip Is a Signature Birding Experience

This itinerary is designed for serious birders and nature lovers seeking maximum habitat diversity and unforgettable encounters.
You’ll enjoy:

• Cloud forest, foothill, and Amazon lowland birding
• Access to top Manu birding lodges along the route
• Expert guiding with spotting scopes and binoculars
• A spectacular transition from rainforest to Andes
• Cultural immersion culminating at Machu Picchu

From river excursions to parrot clay licks and from endemic-rich elfin forests to iconic Inca ruins, this tour combines Amazon birdwatching Peru and Andean endemics like no other.

WHAT INCLUDED?

• Tour guide with binoculars and spotting scope
• Bird Check List
• Transportation in Private Service
• Accommodations in Lodges and Hotels
• All meals except last diner
• All Entrance fee to Private and Natural Reserves.
• Mineral Water
• Snacks
• Rubber boots when needed,
• Cook, if needed
• First aid kit

Exclude

• Travel Insurance
• Mineral water in the first day
• Last day Dinner
• Alcoholic beverages
• Tips for the team

WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED?

What’s Not Included

• Flights to or from Cusco
• Alcoholic drinks
• Laundry services
• Gratuities
• Any additional activities, services, or personal expenses not specifically listed as included.

RECOMMEND TO BRING TO RAINFOREST BIRDS

• Binoculars
• Cameras
• hats
• Rain poncho
• Insect Repellent
• torch
• extra drinks , beer wine, juice , or soda
• sun block
• Dark clothes for birding .
• Extra clothes for change , sandak, shirt, pants, jacket.
• Long sleeve , Umbrella , rain jacket, Little Bagpack, hat , sun block , insect repellent ,

RECOMMENDATIONS OF WHAT TO BRING:

Birdwatching Manu Machu Picchu 10 days

 Why This Trip Is a Signature Birding Experience

This itinerary is designed for serious birders and nature lovers seeking maximum habitat diversity and unforgettable encounters.
You’ll enjoy:

• Cloud forest, foothill, and Amazon lowland birding
• Access to top Manu birding lodges along the route
• Expert guiding with spotting scopes and binoculars
• A spectacular transition from rainforest to Andes
• Cultural immersion culminating at Machu Picchu

From river excursions to parrot clay licks and from endemic-rich elfin forests to iconic Inca ruins, this tour combines Amazon birdwatching Peru and Andean endemics like no other.

Manu Birdwatching Tour – Climate, Difficulty, Group Size, Accommodations & Highlights

Climate in Manu National Park

The climate in Manu National Park is famously unpredictable, creating a dynamic environment for birdwatchers. Early mornings are often warm and humid, while afternoons may turn cool and misty as clouds roll over the forest canopy. Midday temperatures can rise sharply, especially in the lowland jungle.

To stay comfortable in all conditions, we recommend packing:

• Lightweight, breathable clothing
• A durable rain poncho
• An umbrella for sudden showers

Quick-dry layers for shifting temperatures

Being prepared ensures you enjoy uninterrupted birdwatching, no matter what the rainforest brings.

Difficulty Level

This Manu Birdwatching Tour is designed for accessibility and ease, making it suitable for beginners and seasoned birders alike. Trails are mostly flat and manageable, with minimal physical exertion required.

What to expect:

• Gentle walking routes through the forest
• Birdwatching outings tailored to all experience levels
• Early starts and some longer travel segments

No strenuous hikes required

• Our goal is to provide a relaxing nature experience while maximizing wildlife sightings.
• Group Size
• We welcome both solo travelers and small groups. By keeping our group sizes intimate, we ensure:
• Personalized guidance

Better wildlife viewing opportunities

A comfortable, friendly atmosphere

Whether you’re embarking on a personal birdwatching retreat or sharing the adventure with friends or family, you’ll enjoy a customized and engaging experience.

Accommodations

Your tour includes overnight stays in birding-friendly eco-lodges and hotels strategically located in prime wildlife hotspots. These comfortable lodgings keep you close to nature, allowing early-morning and late-afternoon birdwatching right outside your door.

Please note:

• Accommodations in Cusco before or after the tour are not included
• Our team can assist with selecting and booking Cusco hotels for a smooth travel experience

Essential Birdwatching Gear

To help you make the most of every sighting, we provide:

• High-quality binoculars
• Professional spotting scopes

Whether you’re an enthusiast or a first-time birder, these tools ensure you enjoy clear, up-close views of Manu’s vibrant birdlife.

Why Choose Our Manu Birdwatching Tour?

1. Explore a World-Class Birdwatching Destination

Manu National Park is one of the most biodiverse protected areas on Earth. With hundreds of resident and migratory species, it offers an unparalleled opportunity to observe birds in pristine habitats—cloud forests, lowland rainforest, and lake ecosystems.

2. Learn From Expert Guides

Our passionate naturalist guides bring years of field expertise. They assist with species identification, behavior insights, and ecological explanations that deepen your understanding of the forest’s intricate web of life.

3. Encounter Exceptional Wildlife

On this tour, you’ll explore diverse landscapes—from lush cloud forests to vibrant wetlands such as Huacarpay Lakes. Expect unforgettable encounters with:

• Toucans
• Hummingbirds
• Raptors like the majestic eagle
• Countless other colorful and rare species
• Every day is a new wildlife spectacle.

4. Stay in Exclusive Birding Lodges

Relax in handpicked eco-lodges designed with birdwatchers in mind. These peaceful retreats blend comfort with immersion in nature, offering the perfect setting to unwind after a day of adventure.

Birdwatching Manu -Machu Picchu 10 days

What is the best time of year for this birdwatching tour?

The best months are April to November when weather conditions are dry and bird activity is high.

Do I need prior birdwatching experience?

No prior experience is required. Our guides cater to all skill levels.

What should I pack for the trip?

Essentials include binoculars, a field guide, comfortable walking shoes, insect repellent, a hat, sunscreen, and layered clothing.

Is the altitude challenging?

Some areas, such as Abra Malaga, are at high altitudes (4,316 masl). We recommend acclimatizing in Cusco before the tour.

Are accommodations included?

Yes, accommodations in lodges and hotels throughout the itinerary are included.

Can dietary restrictions be accommodated?

Yes, please inform us in advance of any dietary requirements.

What species might we see?

Expect to see iconic species like the Andean Cock of the Rock, Royal Cinclodes, Scarlet-hooded Barbet, and over 400 other bird species.

Is the tour physically demanding?

Moderate physical activity is involved. Participants should be comfortable walking on trails and uneven terrain.

What languages do the guides speak?

Our guides are fluent in English and Spanish.

Are permits required for Machu Picchu?

Yes, and we handle all necessary permits and entry fees.

Is there internet access during the tour?

Limited access is available at some lodges. Aguas Calientes and Cusco offer reliable connections.

What is the group size?

Group sizes are small (4-8 participants) to enhance the birding experience.

Are transfers included?

All ground and train transfers are included in the package.

What safety measures are in place?

We follow strict safety protocols, and our guides are trained in first aid.

Can I extend my stay in Peru?

Yes, we offer optional extensions to other destinations.

Are children allowed on the tour?

The tour is best suited for participants aged 12 and above due to its duration and physical demands.

What is the cancellation policy?

Contact us for detailed information on our cancellation and refund policies.

How do I book the tour?

Visit our website or contact us directly to reserve your spot