Day Birding Trip Apurimac 1 day

Day Birding Trip Apurimac 1 day

Apurimac 1-Day Birding Tour: A Must-See for Birdwatchers

Embark on an unforgettable one-day birdwatching adventure in Apurimac, a region teeming with rare and endemic bird species. This trip takes you through diverse landscapes, from high-altitude grasslands to breathtaking canyons, offering incredible birding opportunities and stunning Andean scenery.

Early Morning Birding in Sorayapampa Your journey begins with a 4:00 AM departure, heading toward Sorayapampa Road, just above the village of Mollepata. Arriving at dawn maximizes your chances of spotting elusive species, including:

• Pale-tailed Canastero (ssp usheri) – A highly localized bird.
• Spot-eared Puffbird – Often found in the early hours.
• Apurimac Spinetail & Apurimac Brush-Finch – Endemic species exclusive to this region.
• Creamy-crested Spinetail, Undulated Antpitta, White-winged Black-Tyrant – Additional highlights in the area.

As you ascend further, keep an eye out for Vilcabamba Tapaculo, Andean Flicker, Mountain Caracara, and Andean Lapwing, all thriving in this high-altitude habitat.

Scenic Lunch in Limatambo & Afternoon Birding in Chonta

After a rewarding morning, enjoy lunch in Limatambo, a peaceful town with panoramic views. The journey then continues to Chonta, a picturesque village perched between the Apurimac Canyon and the Anta Valley, with spectacular vistas of the Vilcabamba Mountains, including Salcantay (6,450m).

• Around Chonta, you’ll find:
• Cinereous Ground-Tyrant & Black-billed Shrike-Tyrant
• Andean Lapwing & Rusty-fronted Canastero

The Andean Condor Experience A 3.5 km hike leads to the Chonta Condor Lookout, offering an unparalleled opportunity to witness the majestic Andean Condor, boasting an incredible 3.3m wingspan. This is a bucket-list experience for any birdwatcher.

Other raptors often soaring over the canyon include:

• Black-chested Buzzard-Eagle
• Puna Hawk & White-throated Hawk
• American Kestrel

Day Birding Trip in Apurímac: A Must-Visit for Birdwatchers

Discover Spectacular New Birding Sites in the Day Birding Trip Apurimac .

For avid birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts, the Apurímac region offers breathtaking opportunities to observe rare and endemic bird species. A day trip from Cusco now makes it possible to explore two incredible new birding hotspots: Sorayapampa Road and Chonta. peru bird

Day Birding Trip Apurimac : A Must-See Adventure for Birdwatchers

Early Morning: Birding in Sorayapampa
Departure at 4:00 AM – Begin your journey before sunrise for the best birdwatching experience in Sorayapampa.

Target Species peru bird:

• Pale-tailed Canastero (ssp usheri) – A rare, localized find
  Spot-eared Puffbird – Best spotted in the early hours
  Apurimac Spinetail & Apurimac Brush-Finch – Endemic to this region
  Undulated Antpitta, Creamy-crested Spinetail, White-winged Black-Tyrant – Bonus highlights

Scenic High-Altitude Sightings:Day Birding Trip Apurimac 

Look out for the Vilcabamba Tapaculo, Andean Flicker, Mountain Caracara, and Andean Lapwing thriving in these dramatic landscapes. andean peru bird

Midday: Lunch in Limatambo & Birding in Chonta
Enjoy a relaxing lunch in Limatambo, a charming Andean town with breathtaking mountain views.

Next Stop: Chonta Village – A prime birding location between the Apurimac Canyon and Anta Valley.

 Target Species in Chonta:
Cinereous Ground-Tyrant & Black-billed Shrike-Tyrant
Andean Lapwing & Rusty-fronted Canastero

Afternoon: The Andean Condor Experience
3.5 km hike to Chonta Condor Lookout – One of the best spots to witness the majestic Andean Condor (3.3m wingspan) soaring above the canyon.

Other Raptors You May See:

• Black-chested Buzzard-Eagle
• Puna Hawk & White-throated Hawk
• American Kestrel

Why Choose This Birding Tour?

• Rare & Endemic Bird Species – Exclusive to this region
• Diverse Landscapes – From grasslands to dramatic canyons
• Andean Condor Watching – A bucket-list experience

Location: Apurimac, Peru
Duration: 1 Day  andean birding  cusco

Unveiling a Birding Paradise peru bird

Until recently, spotting the elusive Apurímac Brush-Finch and Apurímac Spinetail required a demanding journey to Abancay, followed by a strenuous hike in the Ampay Reserve in peru bird.

Likewise, the Vilcabamba Tapaculo could only be observed through a four-day trek along the Machupicchu Birding to Inca Trail. However, birders can now find all three of these highly

localized species more easily. peru bird.

WHAT INCLUDED?

Chonta & Sorayapampa Adventure – Full-Day Itinerary

Departure & Early Morning Experience
Start your journey at 4:00 AM, heading into the breathtaking landscapes of the Peruvian Andes. Enjoy breakfast in the field, surrounded by nature’s serenity.

Midday Stop & Entrance Fees
Around midday, pause for lunch in Limatambo, a charming town with scenic views. Note that the Chonta entrance fee (30 soles | ~$9) and Sorayapampa entrance fee are not included in the tour price. Additionally, porter services are available upon request for an extra 30 soles (subject to change).

Evening Return
After a full day of exploration, return to Cusco or Ollantaytambo between 8:00 PM and 10:00 PM, completing an unforgettable Andean adventure.

WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED?

RECOMMENDATIONS OF WHAT TO BRING:

Day Birding Trip Apurimac 1 day

Chonta: Peru’s New Andean Condor Viewing Spot

Perched high above the Apurímac River, Chonta is rapidly gaining recognition as one of the best places to observe Andean Condors in their natural habitat. Often compared to Colca Canyon, this site provides unparalleled views of these majestic birds soaring over the dramatic Andean cliffs. A well-maintained trail leads to the Chonta Condor Viewpoint, offering photographers and nature lovers an unforgettable experience.

1. Why is the Apurimac 1-Day Birding Tour a must-do experience for birdwatchers?

The Apurimac 1-Day Birding Tour offers a rare opportunity to spot endemic and elusive bird species in breathtaking Andean landscapes. From the high-altitude grasslands of Sorayapampa to the dramatic Apurimac Canyon, this trip provides unparalleled birdwatching encounters, including sightings of the iconic Andean Condor.

2. What are the top bird species you can see on this tour?
This tour is a birdwatcher’s paradise, featuring species such as the Apurimac Spinetail, Pale-tailed Canastero, Andean Condor, Black-chested Buzzard-Eagle, and many more. With expert guidance, you’ll have a chance to spot these rare birds in their natural habitats.

3. What makes Sorayapampa a prime birdwatching location?
Sorayapampa, located above Mollepata, is rich in biodiversity and offers excellent birdwatching at dawn. Its mix of grasslands and montane forests provides a habitat for unique species like the Spot-eared Puffbird, Creamy-crested Spinetail, and Apurimac Brush-Finch, making it a top destination for avid birders.

4. What is the best time of year to take the Apurimac Birding Tour?

The best time for birdwatching in Apurimac is from April to October, when the weather is drier, and bird activity is high. Mornings, especially at dawn, offer the best chances to see elusive species.

5. How difficult is the hike to the Chonta Condor Lookout?
The hike to the Chonta Condor Lookout is approximately 3.5 km (2.2 miles) and takes about an hour. It’s a moderate trek with some uphill sections, but the reward is an awe-inspiring view of the Andean Condors soaring over the Apurimac Canyon.

6. Why is Chonta considered one of the best places to see the Andean Condor?
Chonta is a prime Andean Condor viewing spot due to its location along the Apurimac Canyon, where these magnificent birds nest and glide on thermal currents. The Condor Lookout provides an up-close view of their impressive 3.3m wingspan.

7. What other wildlife can be spotted on the Apurimac Birding Tour?
Besides birds, you may encounter Andean foxes, vizcachas (Andean rabbits), and various high-altitude butterflies. The region’s diverse ecosystems also make it home to a range of fascinating flora and fauna.

8. What should travelers bring for the Apurimac 1-Day Birding Trip?

To make the most of your birding experience, bring binoculars, a camera with a zoom lens, comfortable hiking shoes, sun protection, warm clothing for the early morning, and plenty of water. A field guidebook can also enhance your experience.

9. Is this birdwatching tour suitable for beginners?
Whether you’re an experienced birder or a beginner, this tour is designed for all skill levels. Expert guides will help you spot and identify birds while sharing insights about their behavior and habitats.

10. How do I book the Apurimac 1-Day Birding Tour?
Contact a local birding tour operator or eco-travel agency in Cusco to arrange your trip. Many tours include transportation, an expert guide, and a scenic lunch stop in Limatambo.