Category Archives: Cusco Birding Trip

Discover the Beauty of  Bird Watching at Huacarpay Lake

Bird Watching at Huacarpay Lake, the heart of the ancient Inca Empire, is not only famous for Machu Picchu but also for its breathtaking natural wonders. Among these hidden gems are the Huacarpay Lagoon and Piuray Lagoon—two stunning Andean water bodies offering rich biodiversity, cultural experiences, and unforgettable landscapes. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a nature lover, or a cultural enthusiast, these lagoons promise an authentic Peruvian experience. Tour Rainforest Amazon

• Huacarpay Lagoon: A Bird Watcher’s Paradise
• Location: Lucre District, Quispicanchis Province, Cusco
• Altitude: Approximately 3,050 meters (10,006 feet) above sea level

Ecosystem: This Andean wetland is a biodiversity hotspot, teeming with unique flora and fauna. The lagoon forms part of the Ramsar Wetland conservation site, making it a vital ecological treasure.

Biodiversity: Home to over 70 species of birds, including both endemic and migratory species. Bird watchers can spot Andean geese, puna ibis, and the endangered giant coot, among others. The surrounding wetlands also support native vegetation, creating a vibrant natural habitat.

Nearby Attractions: Explore the pre-Inca Piquillacta archaeological complex, wander through picturesque Andean landscapes, and engage with local communities preserving ancient traditions.

Activities:  Bird Watching at Huacarpay Lake

Bird Watching: Ideal for ornithologists and nature enthusiasts seeking rare bird species.

Hiking: Scenic trails surround the lagoon, offering panoramic views.

Boat Trips: Experience the tranquility of the lagoon while floating through its calm waters.

Picnics: Relax and savor local delicacies in a peaceful natural setting.

Accessibility: Located just 30 kilometers (18 miles) from Cusco along the Cusco-Urcos highway, Huacarpay Lagoon is easily reachable by car or tour services.

Why Visit Bird Watching at Huacarpay Lake

Escape the crowds and immerse yourself in nature’s beauty while discovering ancient archaeological marvels. This serene lagoon is a perfect destination for eco-tourism and cultural exploration.

Piuray Lagoon: A Cultural and Scenic Retreat

Location: Chinchero District, Urubamba Province, Cusco

Altitude: Approximately 3,750 meters (12,303 feet) above sea level

Ecosystem: Nestled among the majestic Andes, Piuray Lagoon features pristine, crystal-clear waters and is surrounded by rolling hills and mountain peaks. It serves as an essential water source for Cusco.

Biodiversity: While it hosts fewer bird species than Huacarpay, the lagoon is rich in native Andean flora and offers an immersive high-altitude ecosystem.

Nearby Attractions: Discover the historic town of Chinchero, renowned for its traditional Andean textile markets and awe-inspiring views of the snow-capped Veronica Mountain.

Activities:Bird Watching at Huacarpay Lake

Boat Trips: Enjoy a peaceful ride across the reflective waters.

Hiking: Explore trails with breathtaking mountain vistas.

Andean Ceremonies: Participate in authentic cultural rituals led by local shamans.

Sustainable Tourism: Engage in community-led tourism projects that support local livelihoods and preserve cultural heritage.

Accessibility: Piuray Lagoon is also approximately 30 kilometers (18 miles) from Cusco, accessible via the highway leading to Chinchero.

Why Visit Piuray Lagoon?

Immerse yourself in the cultural heart of the Sacred Valley while enjoying breathtaking landscapes. Piuray Lagoon offers a unique blend of nature, tradition, and sustainable tourism initiatives.

Huacarpay vs. Piuray: Which Lagoon Suits Your Adventure?

Feature   :                     Huacarpay Lagoon                                                                 Piuray Lagoon

Altitude  :                           3,050 m (10,006 ft)                                                                      3,750 m (12,303 ft)

Ecosystem   :.                     Andean wetland with diverse wildlife                Pristine lagoon surrounded by mountains

Biodiversity  :                   70+ bird species, including endemics                          Andean flora, fewer bird species

Nearby Attractions :       Piquillacta ruins, local communities                              Chinchero town, craft markets

Activities :                          Bird watching, boat trips, hiking, picnics                 Boat trips, hikes, Andean ceremonies

Accessibility  :                30 km from Cusco (via Cusco-Urcos highway)        30 km from Cusco (via Chinchero highway)

Both lagoons offer unique experiences—whether you crave a deep connection with nature or wish to immerse yourself in Andean culture. Plan your visit to uncover the hidden beauty surrounding Cusco beyond the typical tourist trails.

Explore the Natural Wonders of Huacarpay Lakes, Peru

Discover a Birdwatcher’s Paradise in the Peruvian Highlands

Nestled at an altitude of 3,100 meters (10,170 feet) in the Peruvian highlands, Huacarpay Lakes is a stunning destination for nature lovers and birdwatchers alike. This serene wetland, part of the Lucre Basin near Cusco, offers breathtaking landscapes, rich biodiversity, and a chance to observe over 139 bird species, including several endemic and near-endemic birds. Whether you’re an avid ornithologist or a casual nature enthusiast, Huacarpay Lakes is a must-visit location that combines natural beauty with unique wildlife experiences.

Some notable species include:

Bearded Mountaineer (Oreonympha nobilis) – A striking hummingbird endemic to Peru

Rusty-fronted Canastero (Asthenes ottonis) – Another Peruvian endemic bird

Many-colored Rush-Tyrant (Tachuris rubrigastra) – Known for its vibrant plumage

2. Rich Ecosystem and Scenic Landscapes  Bird Watching at Huacarpay Lake

Beyond its birdlife, the Huacarpay Lakes region features a mix of highland lakes and shrublands, creating a mosaic of ecosystems that support a variety of wildlife. The area’s natural beauty is enhanced by panoramic views of the Andean mountains, making it a prime spot for photography, hiking, and ecological exploration.

3. Cultural and Historical Significance

Located just 30 km (18 miles) from Cusco, Huacarpay Lakes lies along the ancient Qhapaq Ñan (Inca Road System), a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This proximity allows travelers to combine birdwatching with cultural exploration, including visits to nearby archaeological sites like Pikillaqta, an important pre-Inca city.

Practical Information for Visitors

Location: Lucre Basin, Cusco Region, Peru

Altitude: 3,100 meters (10,170 feet)

Best Time to Visit: April to November (dry season) for optimal birdwatching and clear views

Activities: Birdwatching, photography, hiking, cultural tours

Access: Easily reachable via a short drive from Cusco city

Travel Tips:Bird Watching at Huacarpay Lake

Bring binoculars and a field guide to maximize your birdwatching experience.

Mornings offer the best chances to spot rare bird species.

Dress in layers to accommodate the chilly highland climate.

Bird Checklist at Huacarpay Lakes

Below is a snapshot of the avian diversity found at Huacarpay Lakes. This list includes globally threatened species and migratory birds, reflecting the area’s ecological importance.

Bird Species                                            Status

Bearded Mountaineer                                                          Endemic to Peru

• Rusty-fronted Canastero                                                          Endemic to Peru
• Many-colored Rush-Tyrant                                                       Native, Common
• Andean Goose                                                                               Native, Common
• Puna Ibis                                                                                        Native, Common
• Plumbeous Rail                                                                             Native, Rare
• Black-faced Ibis                                                                              Near-endemic
• Streak-fronted Thornbird                                                           Near-endemic

Ultimate Birding Cusco Apurimac Endemics  : Explore Rare Birds

in the Apurimac Valley and Beyond

Birding Cusco Apurimac Endemics: Embark on a meticulously crafted birding tour through the heart of Cusco

and the renowned Apurimac Valley. This carefully designed itinerary offers an unparalleled opportunity to encounter

the region’s most captivating and range-restricted bird species.

Highlights of the Birding Cusco Apurimac Endemics Tour:

Prime Birding Locations: Discover a curated selection of the best birding hotspots, including the iconic

Apurimac Valley, the diverse Huacarpay Lake, and the high-altitude wonder of Abra Malaga.

Rare and Endemic Bird Species: Spot elusive and endemic birds unique to these regions. From high-elevation

specialists to valley-dwelling rarities, every location offers the chance to expand your birding life list.

Altitude Adventure: Experience birding at elevations ranging from 3,200m (10,500 ft) to over 4,200m (13,800 ft),

offering a variety of ecosystems and birdlife.

Active Exploration: This tour involves moderate to challenging walks to reach prime birding areas. A good level of

fitness is required to fully enjoy the experience.

Explore Cusco’s Best  Birding Cusco Apurimac Endemics Spots:

Apurimac Valley: Famous for its breathtaking scenery and rare bird species, including the Apurimac Spinetail and

Apurimac Brush-Finch. This valley is a must-visit for serious bird enthusiasts.

Abra Malaga: Home to an extraordinary variety of range-restricted birds, this high-altitude pass offers sightings of

Polylepis forest specialists and other hard-to-find species.

Huacarpay Lake: A birding gem near Cusco, this picturesque wetland is perfect for observing waterbirds and

several Andean endemics Apurimac .

2-Day Birding Tour to Soraypampa: Discover 8 Rare Endemic Bird Species

Embark on an unforgettable 2-day birding adventure to Soraypampa, a hidden gem for bird enthusiasts and nature

lovers. Located along the breathtaking route to Salkantay Mountain, this birding tour offers a unique opportunity to

observe 8 rare and endemic bird species found only in the diverse ecosystems of the Peruvian Andes and Amazonia Birding

Why Choose the Soraypampa Birding Tour?

This tour is perfect for both seasoned bird watchers and curious explorers seeking exclusive bird species in their

natural habitat. With diverse landscapes ranging from high-altitude grasslands to cloud forests, Soraypampa is a

hotspot for bird diversity, offering sightings you won’t find anywhere else.

Endemic Bird Species You Can Observe:

During this immersive birding experience, you will have the chance to spot 8 fascinating and

endemic bird species that thrive in the Soraypampa region:

Chestnut-Breasted Mountain Finch (Poospiza caesar)Known for its striking chestnut plumage, this elusive

finch is often found flitting among Andean shrubs and bushy slopes.

Rusty-Fronted Canastero (Asthenes ottonis)Recognizable by its rusty-colored forehead, this small passerine bird

prefers dry scrub and open grasslands.

Creamy-Crested Spinetail (Cranioleuca albicapilla)With its distinctive creamy-white crest, this spinetail is a

highlight for birders exploring the region’s dense vegetation.

Apurimac Spinetail (Synallaxis courseni)Endemic to the Apurimac River Valley, this species is known for its long

tail and preference for montane forests.

Apurimac Brush Finch (Atlapetes forbesi)This colorful brush finch, exclusive to the Apurimac region, thrives in

the undergrowth and bamboo thickets.

Vilcabamba Thistletail (Asthenes vilcabambae)An iconic species of the Vilcabamba range, this thistletail is often

seen clinging to shrubbery along steep mountain slopes.

White-Tufted Sunbeam (Aglaeactis castelnaudii)A dazzling hummingbird with iridescent plumage and distinctive

white tufts on its legs, found only in specific Andean habitats.

Koepcke’s Screech Owl (Megascops koepckeae)A nocturnal wonder, this owl is named after the renowned

ornithologist Maria Koepcke and can be heard calling at dusk.

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.