Manu Road Birding Cusco 16 days

Itinerary Manu Road Birding Tours 15 days

Tour Day 1: Cusco – Huacarpay - Huayquecha Biological Station .Manu Road Birding Tours.

Today we will leave at 5:30 am from the hotel heading towards Laguna Huacarpay, which will take approximately 45

minutes. Here, we can see the endemic Bearded Mountaineer, which is a special hummingbird found in the area. It is

not the only hummingbird you can see in the region of Cusco, but it does not exist in other parts of the world. We can

also observe many other types of birds such as: Plumbeous rail, Cinnamon teal, Puna teal, Yellow-billed pintail,

White-tufted grebe, Cinereous harrier, Black-chested buzzard Eagle, Streak-fronted thornbird, multi- colored rush

tyrant, Rusty fronted canastero and creamy-crested spinetail which are also endemic birds, and many others.

Afterwards, we will have a quick breakfast and then continue looking for more birds around the lake. Later we will

take the bus to Manu. We will arrive in the highest part of the tour to have lunch at the entrance of Manu National

Park (3,565 masl). From here, we will enter the cloud forest to see tanagers hummingbirds, antpittas, tyranulets, flycatchers, toucans, toucanets, and many other bird species.

We will arrive to our lodge in Huayquecha around 4:30pm. At night, before we to go bed, we will look for Swallow tailed nightjars.

 Tour Day 2:  Manu Road Birding Tours- Huayquecha Biological Station - All Day Watching .

We will start our day at 5:40am to observe birds at the elevation of 3600 masl. In this area we can observe birds such

as: Puna thistleail, Rufous Antpitta, Puna Tapaculo, Greal sapphirewing, Yungas pygmy Owl, Red crested cotinga,

Barred fruiteater, Buff Brested Mountain Tanager, Hooded Moumtain Tanager, Grass green Tanager, Golden

plumed Parakeet, Scaly naped Parrot, Moustached plowerpiercer, Rufous Bellied Bush tyrant, Sedge wren, Scarlet

Bellied Mountain Tanager, White browed conebill, Three striped Hemispingus, Line fronted Canastero, Scribble

tailed canastero, and many more birds. Then we will return to our lodge in Huayquecha for lunch and a short break.

In the afternoon we will look for: White winged Black tyrant, Rufous capped thornbill, Plushcap, Crimson mantled

woodpecker, Trilling tapaculo, Gray breasted Mountain Toucan, and Blue capped tanager.

At night after dinner we will look again for Swallow tailed nightjars.

Tour Day 3:  Manu Road Birding Tours -  Huayquecha Biological Station - Cock of the Rock Lodge  Manu Cloud Forest .

Today we will head to Cock of the Rock Lodge. On the way we will search for birds such as: Golden collared tanager,

Grass green Tanager, Scaled metaltail, Mountain Cacique, white collared jay, Barred parakeet, Barred fruiteater,

Band tailed fruiteater, Marcapata Spinetail , Red and white antpitta, Blue Banded Toucanet, Hooded Mountain

Tanager, Black and Chestnut Eagle, Black solitary Eagle, White throated Antpitta, Slaty Tanager, Slaty Backed Chat

tyrant, Fulvos Wren, Chestnut crested Cotinga, Crested Quetzal, Golden Headed Quetzal, Black Streaked Puffbird,

Yellow Throated Tanager, Buff Breasted Mountain Tanager, Superciliary Hemispingus, and many more.

At night we will look for Rufous-bellied Nighthawk.

 Tour Day 4:  Manu Cock of the Rock Lodge - All Day Watching .

In order to visit the “Lek” of the Peruvian national bird called the Andean Cock of the Rock, we will have to start the

tour very early in the morning. At the lek we can see the “Gallito de las Rocas” displaying; besides the Andean Cock of

the Rock we can also see species like: White crowned Tapaculo, Yungas Manakin, Crested Quetzal, versicolored

Barbed, Orange Eared Tanager, Highland Motmot, and many more. After the morning activity we will return to the

lodge for breakfast and then go out for a walk along a trail to see more birds such as: Slaty Gnateater, Chestnut

breasted Wren, Cinnamon faced Tyranulet, Spotted Nightingale Thrush, Amazonian Ambrella Bird, Tyrannine

Woodcreeper, Masked Trogon, Crimson Bellied Woodpecker, Black Streaked puffbird, Paradise Tanager, Saffron

Crowned Tanager, Golden Tanager, Brown Tinamou, and possibly monkeys. Later we will return to the lodge for lunch.

Around the lodge we have flowers that attract hummingbirds. In total we will be able to see around 13 species

of them: Booted Racket Tail, Wire crested Thorntail, Gree Hermit, Buff Tailed Sicklebill, Many Spotted

Hummingbird, Violet Fronted Brilliant, White Bellied Woodstar, Peruvian Piedtail, long Tailed Sylph, Wedge Billed

Hummingbird, Speckled Hummingbird, Fawn Breasted Brilliant, and common Sparkling Violetear are the species of

humming birds we can see. After lunch we will take another walk along the road to see the Lyre Tailed Nightjar and

the Rufusent Screech Owl. Then we will return to the lodge to have dinner.

 Tour Day 5:  Manu Road Birding Tours - Cock of the Rock Lodge  to  Amazon Lodge  .

After breakfast we will drive towadrs our third lodge. On the way we will have chances to observe birds like the

Ornate flycatcher, Lanceolated monklet, Peruvian piedtail, Black backed tody flycatcher, Black faced tanager, blue

headed Macaw, Chestnut fronted Macaw, Fiery capped Manakin, White eyed parakeet, Chestnut backed Antshrike,

Golden Tanager, Orange eared Tanager, black solitary eagle, and much more. Once we reach Atalaya we will switch

our transportation and start sailing down river for about 15 minutes. At the Lodge we will be able to see: Rufous

crested coquette, Violet headed humminbird, Golden tailed sapphire, koepcke´s Hermit, Amethyst woodstar, Rufous

webbed Brilliant, and Gould´s jewelfront. Along the trails we can see: Amazonian Antpitta, Blue headed macaw,

Great Tinamou, Spot back antbird, Hoatzin, Sungrebe, Chestnut capped puffbird among other birds. After dinner we

will return to the trail to observe owls such as: Tawny bellied screech owl, Long tailed potoo, Black bandad owl, Great potoo, and Band Bellied owl.

Tour Day 6:  Manu Road Birding Tours - Amazon Lodge - All Day Watching .

We will start our day with breakfast and then do some birding along the trail as well as from a observation tower

where we may see canopy bird species such as: Plum throated Cotinga, Spangled Cotinga, Opal rumped tanager,

Turquoise tanager, Round tailed Manakin, Striolared puffbird, Half collared Gnatwren, Tawny-throated Leaftosser,

Razor billed Corassow, Military Macaw, and much more. Then we will return to the lodge for lunch before hiking into

another trail to observe: Scarlet Hooded Barbet, Lemon throated Barbet, Buff Throated Woodcreeper, Red Billed

Tyranulet, Fine Barred Piculet, Double Toothed Kite, Undulated Tinamou, Rufous breasted Piculnet, and Plain

browed Woodcreeper, Blue crowned Trogon, Red Throated Caracara, Chestnut fronted Macaw, Black Capped

Tinamou, Cinereous Tinamou, Bluish fronted Jacamar, Pygmy Antwren, Goldi’s Antbird, and others. Late in the afternoon we will return to the lodge for dinner.

 Tour Day 7:  Amazon Lodge   to  Pantiacolla Lodge  .

Today we will continue traveling down the river in our motor boat for 3 hours towards Pantiacolla Lodge to observe the following species: Great Jacamar, Black faced Antbird , Blue crowned Manakin, Chestnut eared Aracarí, Curl crested Aracari,White fronted Nunbird, White Flanked Antwren, Long winged Antwren, Gray Antwren, Bluish Slate Antshrike, and Plain winged Antshrike. After lunch we will have a free time, after the deserved break we will walk through a bamboo forest looking for:

Peruvian Recurvebill, Rufous Headed Woodpecker, White Throated Jacamar, Manu Antbird, White line Antbird,

Bamboo Antshrike, Goldi’s Antbird, Striated Antbird, White cheeked Tody Tyrant, Scarlet Hooded Barbet, and some

other species. At night, after dinner, we will walk through the forest in order to see some owls.

Tour Day 8:  Pantiacolla Lodge - All Day Watching .

Today we will be able to see the following species along the trails: Royal Flycatcher, Purple throated Fruitcrow,

Amazonian Barred Woodcreeper, Elegant Woodcreeper, Black Banded Woodcreeper, Rusty breasted tapaculo, Ash

throated Gnateater, Bare necked Fruitcrow, Band Tailed Manakin, Round Tailed Manakin, Johannes’s tody Tyrant,

White eyed Antwren, White crested spadebill, Ringed Antpipit, Black tailed leaftosser, Red Necked Woodpecker,

Black bellied Cuckoo, Cream Colored Woodpecker, Yellow Backed tanager, Paradise Tanager, Red crowned Ant

Tanager, Golden Collared toucanet, White throated toucan, Sooty Antbird, Black Spotted Bare eye, White throated

Antbird, Pale winged trumpeter, Barred Forest Falcon, Black and White Hawk Eagle, Ornate Hawk Eagle, Slate colored Hawk.

Tour Day 9: Pantiacolla Lodge   - Manu Amazonia Lodge .

On this day, after breakfast, we will take a boat for about 4 hours towards Manu Amazon Lodge where we will spend

4 days exploring the area. In the forest of this area we can observe rare and exotic species. We will arrive at the lodge

in the afternoon for lunch. After lunch we will take one of the trails in order to find species such as: Yellow billed

Nunbird, Festive Coquette, Chestnut crowned Foliage Gleaner, Pale winged trumpeter, White chinned sapphire, among others.

At night we may be able to observe Black banded Owl, Crested Owl, and Mottled Owls.

 Tour Day 10:  Manu Amazonia Lodge - All Day Watching .

After breakfast, early in the morning, we will explore a bamboo forest the whole morning where we will see species

like the Rufous headed Woodpecker, Rufous Breasted Piculet, Red Billed Scythebill, Chestnut throated Spinetail,

Dusky Cheeked Foliage Gleaner, Brown Rumped Foliage Gleaner, Peruvian Recurvebill, White Cheeked Tody Tyrant,

Flammulated Pygmy tyrant, Large Headed Flatbill, Dusky Tailed Flatbill, Rufous Capped Nunlet, Chestnut Throated

Spinetail, Bamboo Antshrike, Ihering´s Antwren, Dot Winged Antwren, Black Spoted Bare Eye, Goeldi´s Antbird,

Plumbeous Antbird, White Lined Antbird, Long crested Pygmy Tyrant, Pavonine Cuckoo, Rufous Vented Ground

Cuckoo, and many more. After lunch we will rest until 2:30pm before going to the observation tower from where we

will observe birds such as: Red Billed Tanager, Masked Tanager, Plum Throated Cotinga, Spangled Cotinga, Purple

Throated Fruitcrow, Pink Throated Becard, Yellow Backed Tanager, Guira Tanager, Bare Necked Fruitcrow, Sirystes,

Rufous Bellied Euphonia, Dusky Capped Greenlet, Lemon Chested Greenlet, White Necked Puffbird, Pied Puffbird,

Paradise Jacamar, Black and White Hawk Eagle, Aras, parrots, and parakeets. Then we will head back to the lodge to eat dinner and sleep.

Tour Day 11:  Manu Amazonia Lodge – Parrot and Macaw Clay Lick .

On this lovely morning we will leave early in the morning and head towards the river. After a 15-min ute walk we will

reach the Macaw Clay Lick, a clay lick where we can observe several parrots, parakeets and macaws. Mealy Parrots,

Blue Headed Parrots, Yellow Crowned Parrots, and Orange cheeked Parrots will arrive first. Later in the morning,

the Red and Green Macaws, Scarlet Macaws, Tui Parakeets, Cobalt Winged Parakeets, among others, will arrive.

We might have the chance to see the Harpy Eagle, Ornate Hawk Eagle, Orange Headed Tanager, Spotted Tody

Flycatcher, River Tyranulet, subtropical Doradito, and the Greater Ani; after the beautiful macaw show we will visit

Cocha Camungo (Camungo Oxbow Lake); close the lake there is a 45-meter-tall metal tower; from here we can

observe the following species: Guira Tanager, lemon Throated Barbet, Gilded Barbet, Long Billed Woodcreeper,

Orange Backed Troupial, Purple Throated Cotinga, Purus Jacamar, and Black eared Fairys.

Later we will sail up river towards Blanco Oxbow Lake. Here, there is an observation platform from where we can see

several species of birds while sailing on the Catamaran. At the oxbow lake we will see species such as the Grebe, Pied

Billed Grebe, Horned Screamer, Green Ibis, Agami Heron, Rufescent Tiger Heron, Limpkin, Snail kite, Black

Collared Hawk, Sungrebe, Muscovy Duck, Rufous sided Crake, Gray necked Wood rail, Wattle Jacana, Green King

Fisher, Green and Rufous Kingfisher, Purus Jacamar, Hoatzin, Pale Eyed Black Bird, Band Tailed Antbird, and silvered Antbirds.

If we are lucky we might also see Giant Otters. Late in the afternoon we will make our way back to the comfort of the lodge.

 Tour Day 12:  Manu Amazonia Lodge Watching Birds .

Today, after breakfast, we will head to the observation tower where we will observe species such as: Red Billed tanager, White Necked Puffbird, Chestnut winged Hookbill, yellow Backed Tanager, White Throated Toucan,

Channel Billed Toucan, Curl Crested Aracari, Golden Collared toucanet, Ivory Billed Aracari, Gilded Barbet, Paradise

Jacamar, Pale Rumped Swift, Black Bellied Cuckoo. After, we will hike down the trail to see collared Puffbird, White

Eyed Antwren, Great Jacamar, Collared Trogon, Pavonine Quetzal, Cinereous Mourner, Razor Billed Curassow, Blue

Crowned Mankin, Long winged Antwren, Dwarf Tyrant Manakin, Long Tailed Woodcreeper, Elegant Woodcreeper,

Black Banded Woodcreeper, Round Tailed Manakin, Band Tailed Manakin, Blue Back Manakin, Black Faced

Antbird, Sooty Antbird, Fasciated Antshrike, Plain Winged Antshrike, Black Spotted Bare Eye, and many more.

We will return to the lodge for lunch and to take a short break until 2:00pm. After this deserved break we will

explore one of the trails to look for the Harpy eagle, White browed Hawk, Red Rumped Cacique, Bronsy Jacamar,

Paradise Jacamar, Ruddy Spinetail, Point Tailed Palmcreeper, Chestnut Capped Puffbird, Black Bellied Cuckoo,

Scale Breasted Woodpecker, Ringed Woodpecker, Red Necked Woodpecker, Great Potoo, Black tinamou, Ringed

Antpipit, White Crested Spadebill, and Rufous Tailed Flatbill, among others. We will return to the lodge for dinner and then have the option to go out to look for owls.

 Tour Day 13:  Manu Amazonia Lodge .

This day will be our last day at Manu Amazon Lodge. We will have a chance to see some birds that we may have

missed, such as slender Billed Xenops, Rufous Tailed Xenops, Semicollared Puffbird, Curl crested Aracari, Golden

Green Woodpecker, Ringed Woodpecker, Cream colored woodpecker, Strong Billed Woodcreeper, Lineated

Woodcreeper, Spot Backed Antbird, Rufous Capped Antthrush, Rusty Belted Tapaculo, White Browed Purpletuft,

point Tailed, great Jacamar, Collared Puffbird, Chestnut Capped Puffbird, Black tailed Leaftosser, cinereous

Mourner, Winged Barred Manakin, Blue Manakin, Pavonine Quetzal, Musician Wren, and Red Billed Tanagers. After

lunch and a short break, we will walk towards Cocha Piñara to see Pale Eyed Black Birds, Rufous Sided Crake, Varzea

Chiffornis, Buff breasted Wren, Black billed Seed Finch, Chestnut Eared Aracari, Chestnut Fronted Macaw, Spot

Breated Woodpecker, Rusfescent Tiger Heron, Striated Heron, tui parakeet, Gray Necked Wood- Rail, and Long Billed Woodcreeper.

Tour Day 14:  Manu Amazonia Lodge  to Puerto Maldonado .

After we sail for a couple of hours we will reach Colorado mining town. There we will switch to a taxi or mini-bus and drive towards Inambari River, and from here we will continue our trip to Puerto Maldonado by the new Interoceanic road that joins Brazil and Peru. We will make a few stops to see some more birds and then head to the hotel to get some well-deserved rest.

 Tour Day 15:  Puerto Maldonado - Cusco - Lima .

On the last day we will head out to observe some more birds. We will ride in our mini-bus for about 15 minutes to a

location to await southern Cararas, Southern Lapwings, Red Breasted Black Birds, White Tailed kites, White

Throated Jacamar, Wattled Jacanas, Upland Sandpipers, Picui Ground Dove, Blue Headed Macaws, Lesser Yellow

Headed Vulture, Chestnut Bellied Seed eaters, Burrowing Owls, Barn Owls, Point Tailed Palmcreepers, Red Bellied

Macaws, and Scaled pigeons. After breakfast we will visit the city of Puerto Maldonado to purchase indigenous art

and crafts. In the afternoon we will go to the airport to catch our flight to Cusco or Lima where we will say goodbye to our team.

Discover the Ultimate Manu Road Birding Tours & Lowland Lodges

Manu Road Birding Cusco , combined with the Manu Lowland lodges, offers one of the most extraordinary birdwatching experiences on the planet. With unparalleled biodiversity and a variety of ecosystems, this route is a must for passionate birders and wildlife enthusiasts alike. Manu Rainforest .

Manu Road Birding Cusco

This birding tour includes a visit to the Chonta Mirador, where Andean Condors are frequently seen soaring over the canyon. We will also explore the Soraypampa area, home to several unique and rare bird species found only in Cusco and Apurímac. The journey continues to Abra Málaga, a hotspot for endemic species, followed by visits to two beautiful bird gardens located along the Sacred Valley of the Incas.

From there, we will travel into the cloud forest of Manu National Park, eventually descending into the lowlands of the UNESCO-designated Manu Biosphere Reserve. Here, we will visit a Tapir Clay Lick and observe the spectacular Red-and-Green Macaw Clay Lick—an unforgettable wildlife experience.

Cusco – Chonta – Apurímac – Abra Málaga – Manu Biosphere Reserve**

Manu Road Birding Cusco 16 days

Birding Areas

This tour covers a diverse range of ecosystems across southern Peru, including:

• Mirador de Chonta
• Soraypampa
• Abra Málaga
• Incan Sacred Valley

Manu Cloud Forest Road

• High Jungle of Manu Park
• Lowlands of Manu Park

Bird Species

• The species listed in the tour itinerary are referential and highlight the most iconic and sought-after birds of the region. Not all possible sightings are included.
• Endemic species are marked with *** in the itinerary.

Climate

• Expect varying and unpredictable weather conditions:
• Mornings & Afternoons: Humid, cold, and often foggy

Midday: Can be very hot

General: Sudden changes, occasional cold fronts, and frequent rain
Recommended: Rain ponchos, umbrellas, and layered clothing.

Difficulty

• Easy.
  Walks are generally gentle, though the itinerary includes long drives and early starts.

Tour Price

• Complete pricing information appears in the section below.

Group Size

• Tour departure requires a minimum of 2 participants.

Accommodations

Hotel and lodge accommodations are included only during the tour.
Guests must arrange their own accommodations in Cusco prior to and/or after the tour.
If you need help selecting or booking a hotel, we are happy to assist.

Gear Used

• Professional spotting scopes
• High-quality binoculars

Day 1: Cusco – Chonta – Limatambo – Mollepata

Our main destination before reaching Mollepata is the Mirador de Chonta, one of the best places to observe Andean Condors in flight. Along the road we will make strategic birding stops where we commonly observe species such as:
Black-chested Buzzard-Eagle, Puna Ibis, Spot-winged Pigeon, Andean Flicker, Bare-faced Ground Dove, Peruvian Sierra Finch, Ash-breasted Sierra Finch, Band-tailed Sierra Finch, as well as White-bellied Hummingbird, Black-backed Grosbeak, Golden-billed Saltator, and Eared Dove.

In the afternoon we continue toward Mollepata, an excellent area for Andean endemics including:
Chestnut-breasted Mountain Finch, Rusty-fronted Canastero, Koepcke’s Screech-Owl, Aplomado Falcon, Rust-and-yellow Tanager, Cinereous Conebill, Buff-fronted Owl, and Black-throated Flowerpiercer.
Overnight in Mollepata.

Day 2: Mollepata – Soraypampa – Ollantaytambo

After breakfast we drive toward Soraypampa, birding along the road. This route provides excellent chances for Apurímac endemics:
Creamy-crested Spinetail, Apurímac Spinetail, Apurímac Brush-Finch, White-tufted Sunbeam, and Vilcabamba Thistletail.
Other species include: Tufted Tit-Tyrant, Purple-backed Thornbill, Tawny-rumped Tyrannulet, White-banded Tyrannulet, Crimson-mantled Woodpecker, Bar-bellied Woodpecker, D’Orbigny’s Chat-Tyrant, Red-crested Cotinga, Creamy-winged Cinclodes, Tit-like Dacnis, Andean Condor, Mountain Caracara, Variable Hawk, and more.

In the afternoon we return toward Cusco and continue to the Sacred Valley, overnighting in Ollantaytambo.

Day 3:  Manu Road Birding Cusco – Ollantaytambo – Abra Málaga – Cloud Forest – Ipal Lodge .

Early departure toward Abra Málaga, an important hotspot for high-Andes and cloud-forest endemics. We will search for:
Inca Wren, Marcapata Spinetail, Cusco Brush-Finch, Unstreaked Tit-Tyrant, and Puna Thistletail, as well as Parodi’s Hemispingus and mixed-species flocks typical of the area.
Overnight at Ipal Lodge.

Day 4: Ipal Lodge – Abra Málaga – Ipal Lodge .

We begin birding at 4,316 masl within high-elevation Polylepis forest, home to highly specialized endemics:
White-browed Tit-Spinetail, Royal Cinclodes, Creamy-crested Spinetail, White-tufted Sunbeam, Chestnut-breasted Mountain Finch, Puna Tapaculo, Andean Hillstar, Giant Conebill, Stripe-headed Antpitta, and more.
Return to Ipal Lodge for the night. wildlife tour

Day 5: Ipal Lodge – All Day .

Today we visit a lek of the Andean Cock-of-the-Rock (Rupicola peruvianus). Along the road and trails we may also observe Green Jay, Swallow-tailed Hummingbird, Red-crested Finch, Masked Trogon, and other foothill species.
Overnight at Ipal Lodge.

Day 6: Ipal Lodge – Abra Málaga – Ollantaytambo .

After breakfast we bird the road linking the lodge back to Ollantaytambo, scanning for species missed previously.
Overnight in Ollantaytambo.

Day 7: Ollantaytambo – Ensifera Garden – Sacred Valley – Wayqecha Biological Station .

We visit Ensifera Bird Garden, famous for the Sword-billed Hummingbird and Great Sapphirewing, followed by another garden where we can observe the stunning endemic Bearded Mountaineer.
Afterward we drive about 3.5 hours to the entrance of Manu National Park, arriving at Wayqecha Biological Station.
Overnight at Wayqecha.

Day 8: Manu Road Birding Cusco to  Wayqecha – Cock-of-the-Rock Lodge .

While descending through montane forest toward lower elevations, we will search for:
Golden-collared and Grass-green Tanagers, Scaled Metaltail, Mountain Cacique, White-collared Jay, Barred Parakeet, Barred Fruiteater, Band-tailed Fruiteater, Marcapata Spinetail, Red-and-white Antpitta, Blue-banded Toucanet, Hooded Mountain Tanager, Black-and-Chestnut Eagle, Black Solitary Eagle, White-throated Antpitta, Slaty Tanager, Slaty-backed Chat-Tyrant, Fulvous Wren, Chestnut-crested Cotinga, Crested and Golden-headed Quetzals, Black-streaked Puffbird, Yellow-throated and Buff-breasted Mountain Tanagers, Superciliary Hemispingus, and more.
Night search for Rufous-bellied Nighthawk.
Overnight at Cock-of-the-Rock Lodge.

Day 9: Manu Road Birding Cusco to  Cock-of-the-Rock Lodge – All Day .

At dawn we visit the lek of the Andean Cock-of-the-Rock, witnessing males displaying. Other species include:
White-crowned Tapaculo, Yungas Manakin, Crested Quetzal, Versicolored Barbet, Orange-eared Tanager, Highland Motmot, and more.

After breakfast we explore local trails for:
Slaty Gnateater, Chestnut-breasted Wren, Cinnamon-faced Tyrannulet, Spotted Nightingale-Thrush, Amazonian Umbrellabird, Tyrannine Woodcreeper, Masked Trogon, Crimson-bellied Woodpecker, Black-streaked Puffbird, Paradise Tanager, Saffron-crowned Tanager, Golden Tanager, Brown Tinamou, and others.

Around the lodge we expect up to 13 hummingbird species, including:
Booted Racket-tail, Wire-crested Thorntail, Green Hermit, Buff-tailed Sicklebill, Many-spotted Hummingbird, Violet-fronted Brilliant, White-bellied Woodstar, Peruvian Piedtail, Long-tailed Sylph, Wedge-billed Hummingbird, Speckled Hummingbird, Fawn-breasted Brilliant, and Sparkling Violetear.

Late afternoon walk for Lyre-tailed Nightjar (Uropsalis lyra) and Rufescent Screech-Owl.
Overnight at Cock-of-the-Rock Lodge.

Day 10: Manu Road Birding Cusco and Cock-of-the-Rock Lodge – Manu Lodge .

Today we travel deeper into the rainforest. En route we may observe:
Ornate Flycatcher, Lanceolated Monklet, Peruvian Piedtail, Black-backed Tody-Flycatcher, Black-faced Tanager, Blue-headed and Chestnut-fronted Macaws, Fiery-capped Manakin, White-eyed Parakeet, Chestnut-backed Antshrike, Orange-eared and Golden Tanagers, Black Solitary Eagle, and more.

Around Manu Lodge we can find numerous hummingbirds such as:
Rufous-crested Coquette, Violet-headed Hummingbird, Golden-tailed Sapphire, Koepcke’s Hermit, Amethyst Woodstar, Rufous-webbed Brilliant, and Gould’s Jewelfront.

Forest trails may reveal:
Amazonian Antpitta, Great Tinamou, Spot-backed Antbird, Hoatzin, Sungrebe, Chestnut-capped Puffbird, and more. After dinner we search for Tawny-bellied Screech-Owl, Long-tailed Potoo, Black-banded Owl, Great Potoo, and Band-bellied Owl.
Overnight at Manu Lodge.

Day 11:Manu Road Birding Cusco  Manu Lodge – All Day .

Morning birding from canopy towers and trails for:
Plum-throated Cotinga, Spangled Cotinga, Opal-rumped Tanager, Turquoise Tanager, Round-tailed Manakin, Striolated Puffbird, Half-collared Gnatwren, Tawny-throated Leaftosser, Razor-billed Curassow, Military Macaw, and others.

Afternoon hike targeting:
Scarlet-hooded and Lemon-throated Barbets, Buff-throated Woodcreeper, Red-billed Tyrannulet, Fine-barred and Rufous-breasted Piculets, Double-toothed Kite, Undulated Tinamou, Plain-brown Woodcreeper, Blue-crowned Trogon, Red-throated Caracara, Chestnut-fronted Macaw, Black-capped and Cinereous Tinamous, Bluish-fronted Jacamar, Pygmy Antwren, Goeldi’s Antbird, and more.
Overnight at Manu Lodge.

Day 12: Manu Lodge – Hot Springs – Tapir Clay Lick .

By boat we navigate the Alto Madre de Dios River, stopping at Manu Hot Springs to relax before continuing to our lodge. In the evening we hike to the Tapir Clay Lick, where we spend the night in the hide.

Day 13:  Manu Road Birding Cusco  Tapir Clay Lick – Tapir Lodge .

We continue downriver, scanning for Herons, Egrets, Orinoco Geese, Terns, Skimmers, Black and White Caimans, Side-necked Turtles, Sand-colored Nightjars, and possibly Jaguar along the riverbanks.
Night walk optional.
Overnight at Tapir Lodge.

Day 14:  Manu Road Birding Cusco  Tapir Lodge – Macaw Clay Lick – Cocha Blanco – Tapir Lodge .

At dawn we visit the largest Macaw Clay Lick in Manu, where hundreds of parrots and 80–100 macaws gather in a spectacular eruption of color and sound.

Later we visit Cocha Blanco, an oxbow lake known for its Giant Otters.
Overnight at Tapir Lodge.

Day 15: Tapir Lodge – All Day -Manu Road Birding Cusco

We explore the rich diversity of forest types—varzea, tierra firme, transitional floodplain—giving this area one of the highest bird diversities on Earth (over 567 species recorded).

Special targets include: Rufous-fronted Antthrush, Bartlett’s Tinamou, Razor-billed Curassow, Pale-winged Trumpeter, Sunbittern, Pavonine Quetzal, Purus Jacamar, Striolated Puffbird, Gray-cheeked Nunlet, Cream-colored Woodpecker, Ocellated Woodcreeper, Collared Puffbird, Ruddy Spinetail, Plain Softtail, Striped Woodhaunter, Sclater’s Antwren, Banded Antbird, Ash-throated Gnateater, White-throated Antbird, Black-spotted Bare-eye, Black-faced Cotinga, Musician Wren, Pale-eyed Blackbird, Yellow-shouldered Grosbeak, and more.

Night birding may produce: Long-tailed, Great, and Common Potoos; Amazonian Pygmy-Owl; Spectacled Owl; Ocellated Poorwill; Silky-tailed Nightjar.

Optional: second visit to the Mammal Clay Lick.
Overnight at Tapir Lodge.

Day 16: Tapir Lodge –   Atalaya – Manu Road Birding Cusco

We return by boat to Atalaya Port, then continue by vehicle back to Cusco, arriving around 8:00 pm.

Manu Road isn’t just for bird lovers—it also offers the best mammal sightings in Peru. With a bit of luck and patience, you may encounter:

10 species of primates, including Red Howler Monkeys and Emperor Tamarins

• Tapirs foraging in the forest
• Giant Otters swimming in the oxbow lakes
• Exclusive Wildlife Experiences

Recently, new hummingbird feeders have been installed between Pilcopata and Atalaya, enhancing opportunities to

view these energetic creatures up close. Additionally, a Harpy Eagle nest has been discovered along the lower Manu

Road. Contact us to confirm whether the nest is active—a once-in-a-lifetime sighting. Birding Peru

A Photographer’s Paradise

From mist-covered cloud forests to lush lowland jungles, every leg of the Manu Road journey offers stunning

photographic opportunities. Capture intimate portraits of rare wildlife, sweeping landscapes, and unique cultural

encounters as you immerse yourself in this biodiversity hotspot.

 

 

 

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?

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:

Manu Road Birding Cusco 16 days

Manu Road Birding Tours   Don’t miss the chance to experience one of the world’s premier birding and wildlife destinations. Our expertly guided tours provide deep insights and seamless logistics, ensuring you make the most of your time in Manu.

Tour Overview
Birding Destinations

Chonta Condor Viewpoint

Soraypampa (near Humantay Lake)

Abra Málaga & Polylepis Forest

Ollantaytambo & the Sacred Valley

Ensifera and Sacred Hummingbird Gardens

Manu Cloud Forest

Manu Amazon Lowlands (Tapir & Macaw Clay Licks)

What Makes This Tour Special

Spot a combination of high-Andean endemics, cloud-forest specialties, and Amazon megadiversity.

Visit two of the world’s most impressive wildlife spectacles: the Tapir Clay Lick and the Macaw Clay Lick.

Explore habitats ranging from 4,300 masl to the Amazon basin.

Climate

Expect a mix of climates: cool and foggy mornings, hot afternoons in the valleys, and humid conditions in the cloud forest and lowlands. Weather can be unpredictable, so rain gear is essential.

Difficulty Level

Easy to moderate. Early starts and long travel days, but walking distances are short and usually on gentle terrain.

Group Size

Minimum 2 travelers.

Included Equipment

Spotting scopes

Binoculars

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Why Choose the Manu Road Birding Tours .

Due to the remote location and rugged terrain, exploring Manu Road requires time—but the rewards are exceptional. Our expanded 15-day program ensures you visit the most significant sites with ample time to spot a vast array of bird and mammal species. This itinerary is designed to maximize your chances of encountering rare wildlife  and capturing breathtaking photographs.

Unmatched Biodiversity: Over 1,000 Bird Species Recorded-Manu Road Birding Tours

Manu Road is renowned as one of the richest birding routes worldwide, with more than 1,000 recorded bird species. During our 15-day journey, you can expect to observe approximately 600 bird species, including iconic Andean and Amazonian specialties.

Birdwatching Highlights:

• Colorful tanagers and toucans
• Rare antbirds and manakins
• Iconic Andean Cock-of-the-rock displays
• Hummingbird feeders attracting dazzling species
• Prime Mammal-Watching Opportunities

1. What makes the Manu Road Birding Tour special?

The Manu Road Birding Tour is a unique 15-day adventure offering access to one of the most biodiverse regions on Earth. It covers diverse ecosystems from the Andean cloud forests to the Amazon basin, providing opportunities to spot over 1,000 bird species, including endemic and rare species. This tour also emphasizes sustainable practices and immersive experiences with local communities.

2. What level of birding experience is required?

The tour is suitable for birders of all levels, from beginners to seasoned enthusiasts. Our expert guides cater to various skill levels, providing detailed information and assistance in bird identification.

3. What is the best time of year to take the Manu Road Birding Tour?

The tour operates year-round, but the best birding conditions are during the dry season (May to October) when birds are more active and the trails are easier to navigate.

4. What kind of accommodations are provided?

We offer a range of comfortable accommodations, including eco-lodges and cozy cabins strategically located to maximize birdwatching opportunities. All lodging is chosen for its proximity to prime birding areas and commitment to sustainability.

5. How physically demanding is the tour?

The tour involves moderate physical activity, including walks on uneven terrain and occasional uphill hikes. Participants should have a basic level of fitness. We accommodate varying physical abilities and provide regular breaks.

6. What is included in the tour package?

• The package includes:
• Accommodation for 14 nights
• All meals during the tour
• Experienced bilingual birding guides
• Ground transportation
• Entrance fees to protected areas
• Use of birding scopes and checklists

7. What is not included in the tour package?

Exclusions:

• International and domestic flights
• Personal expenses and tips
• Travel insurance (required)
• Alcoholic beverages and additional snacks

8. How many participants are in each group?

To ensure an intimate and personalized experience, we limit groups to a maximum of 8 participants.

9. Is it possible to customize the itinerary?

Yes! We offer customizable options for private groups or specific birding interests. Contact us to discuss tailored itineraries.

10. What bird species can I expect to see?

Expect to see iconic species such as the Andean Cock-of-the-rock, Amazonian Umbrellabird, and a variety of tanagers, hummingbirds, and antbirds. Our guides provide daily checklists to track sightings.

11. What equipment should I bring?

We recommend:

• Binoculars (8×42 or 10×42 are ideal)
• Camera with telephoto lens (optional)
• Field guide for South American birds
• Lightweight, breathable clothing in neutral colors
• Sturdy hiking boots and rain gear

12. Are there medical facilities nearby?

While the tour is in remote areas, basic first-aid support is available. We recommend bringing personal medications and consulting your doctor about vaccinations and health precautions.

13. Is the tour family-friendly?

The tour is best suited for adults and older children (12+ years) with a keen interest in nature. We can adjust the itinerary for private family groups.

14. How do I book the tour?

You can book the tour through our website or by contacting our reservations team. A deposit is required to secure your spot, with full payment due 60 days before departure.

15. What is the cancellation policy?

• Cancellations 90+ days before departure: Full refund minus administrative fees
• 60-89 days: 50% refund
• Less than 60 days: No refund
  Travel insurance is strongly recommended for unforeseen circumstances.

16. Are there opportunities to engage with local communities?

Yes! We collaborate with local communities to offer cultural exchanges, including traditional craft demonstrations and sustainable practices.

17. What conservation efforts does the tour support?

A portion of your fee supports local conservation initiatives, including habitat preservation and community-led environmental programs.

18. Can dietary restrictions be accommodated?

Absolutely. We cater to vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other dietary needs. Please inform us of any requirements when booking.

Birdwatching and Mammal Spotting: A Dream Come True

Birdwatching Highlights: From flamboyant hummingbirds at feeders along the route to the vibrant Andean Cock

of the Rock, the birding opportunities in Manu are unparalleled. On this tour, expect to spot over 600 species of

birds, including colorful tanagers, flycatchers, toucans, and rare raptors.

Mammal Sightings: Manu is also one of the best regions in Peru for mammal watching. Over the course of the

tour, you may encounter up to 10 species of primates, including howler monkeys and squirrel monkeys. You’ll also

have a chance to see the elusive Tapir, the endangered Giant Otter, and more.

Hummingbird Photography: Several of the lodges along the route feature hummingbird feeders, making for

perfect photography opportunities. New hotspots have even appeared along the road between Pilcopata and Atalaya

port, where you can capture images of some of the most stunning hummingbird species in the world.

Expanded Itinerary for Maximum Wildlife Encounters

Due to the long distances and challenging roads in this remote region, our expanded 15-day program is designed to

do justice to the journey. This extended itinerary ensures that you’ll have ample time at each location, optimizing

your chances of spotting a variety of birds, mammals, and other wildlife.

Special Features: The Harpy Eagle, one of the world’s most powerful raptors, has a known nest along the Manu Road

. If the nest is active, you’ll have a rare opportunity to witness this magnificent bird in its natural habitat. (Check with us for updates!)

Why Choose This 15-Day Manu Birdwatching & Wildlife Tour?

Unmatched Biodiversity: Manu National Park is a top destination for birdwatching and wildlife photography. With over 1,000 species of birds and more than 500 mammal species, the region promises incredible sightings for nature enthusiasts.
Prime Birding Locations: The itinerary covers the best birding hotspots in the park, ensuring you’ll have the chance to see the park’s most spectacular species.
Exclusive Wildlife Encounters: Spot rare mammals like Giant Otters, Tapirs, and 10 primate species, making this tour perfect for both bird and wildlife lovers.
Photography Opportunities: With hummingbird feeders, Harpy Eagle nests, and countless breathtaking landscapes, the tour offers abundant photography opportunities.