Easy Birding to Growth your List!
Price
$150 per person
Duration
Full Day
Destination
Huacarpay Lake
Travellers
2+
2 Reviews
5 out of 5

Birds, Archeology & Andean Landscapes Full-Day Birding in Cusco & Sacred Valley

Are you looking for an unforgettable birdwatching experience in Cusco? Look no further! Cusco is a paradise for birdwatchers, boasting a wide variety of species to observe and enjoy. From the majestic Hummingbirds to the endemic species, Cusco has a diverse selection of birds to explore. Our full-day birdwatching tour in Cusco provides you with the perfect opportunity to take in the incredible wildlife of this region. We’ll provide you with the right equipment as well as tips and tricks for your birdwatching excursion.
  • Information
  • Tour Plan
  • Route
  • Gallery
  • Reviews
  • Download Info
  • Similar Tours
Are you looking for an unforgettable birdwatching experience in Cusco? Look no further! Cusco is a paradise for birdwatchers, boasting a wide variety of species to observe and enjoy. From the majestic Sword Billed Hummingbird to the endemic species, Cusco has a diverse selection of birds to explore. Our full-day birdwatching tour in Cusco provides you with the perfect opportunity to take in the incredible wildlife of this region. We’ll provide you with the right equipment as well as tips and tricks for your birdwatching excursion. You’ll get to visit the best birdwatching spots in Cusco and explore the different species of birds in the area. So, come join us for a full day of birdwatching in Cusco and create lasting memories!

What's included

Destination
Huacarpay Lake Discover Huacarpay Lake
Departure Location
Cusco City
Return Location
Cusco City
Tour Start Date & Time
Everyday at 05:45
Price includes
  • Activities Listed in the Program
  • Birding Specialized Guide
  • Duffel Bags for Repacking
  • Entrances Fees to the Birding Sites
  • Free Storage Room in Cusco
  • Meals (according the itinerary)
  • Purified Water to Refill
  • Snacks (Fresh Fruits, Cookies Juices )
  • Transport (Air Conditioned Minivan or SUV)
Price does not include
  • Alcoholic Drinks
  • Binoculars (Available to rent)
  • First Day Breakfast
  • Single Supplement Upgrade
Additional Prices
Single Supplement: $ 80 Private Tour Upgrade: $ 60 Per Participant Pick up or Drop Off away from Cusco: $ 40.00 Per Group on each Way

Birding in Cusco Full-Day

Huacarpay Lake, Sacred Garden & Laguna de Rumichaca

Introducing our premier birding program in Cusco – the ultimate choice for experienced birdwatchers and avid bird photographers seeking to elevate their sightings without extensive travel.

This meticulously designed tour offers a perfect blend of convenience and accessibility, ensuring a hassle-free experience. With easy booking and availability year-round, we provide flexibility to suit your schedule.

Birding in Cusco

Embark on a captivating journey that seamlessly integrates archeology, nature, landscape, and diverse bird species within a single-day excursion. Our expert guides will accompany you through breathtaking landscapes, revealing the hidden treasures of Cusco’s avian world.

As you immerse yourself in the magic of these high-elevation habitats, marvel at the pre-Inca ruins of the Wari culture, enhancing your birding adventure with a touch of history and culture. Prepare to be awed as your sightings multiply and your camera captures breathtaking moments.

Hotspot Locations Birding in Cusco

Huacarpay lake

These beautiful wetlands are also home to many plants that allow nature to thrive. And in turn, come the birds. The wild Tobacco and eucalyptus shrubs growing around the lake are the most effective in attracting hummingbirds in this area. Such as; the Giant Hummingbird, Sparkling Violetear, and Green-tailed Trainbearer.

Birding in Cusco , explore the hotspots for birding in a full day specialized tour

In addition, this vegetation and eucalyptus forest have created a habitable environment for owls and also birds such as; the Streaked Fronted Thornbird, and Yellow-Billed Tit-Tyrant. High reeds surround the Lake’s edges which makes it an easy spot to see the birds that dwell here; Yellow Winged Black-bird, Wren-like Rushbird, and the Many Colored Rushtyrant.

Chilean Flamingos at Huacarpay lake - Birding in Cusco full day - If you are looking for an unforgettable birdwatching experience in Cusco? Look no further!  Our full-day birdwatching tour in Cusco provides you with the perfect opportunity to take in the incredible birds of Cusco and Sacred Valley. The tours are guided by expert birding guides. They have the right equipment as well as tips and tricks for your birdwatching excursion. You’ll get to visit the best birdwatching spots in Cusco and explore some archeological sites. So, come join us for a full day of birding in Cusco and create lasting memories!

Furthermore, there is a collection of interesting species here, including most of the aquatic birds; Slate-colored Coots, Common Gallinule, Puna Teals, Yellow Billed Pintail, Cinnamon Teal, Puna Teal, and seasonally Chilean flamingos, and more.

This makes it highly possible to see around 40 species by day.  Check Huacarpay Lake Bird List on E-Bird

Sacred Garden near Pisac

The Sacred Garden near Pisac and San Salvador Town. This lush garden and its surroundings are home to over 40 species of birds, including the Endemic Bearded Mountaineer, Giant hummingbirds,  and Creamy Crested Spinetail.  The garden also offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Visitors to the Sacred Garden can explore its trails to see the local plantations of Quinua, Corn, and Quiwicha. Birding in Cusco

During your visit, you may spot some of the more common species such as Sparking Violetears, Mitred  Parakeets, and Black-Blacked Grossbeaks. But you may also be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of Peruvian Pygmy Owls.

Discover the full bird list of the Sacred Garden on E-Bird!

Birding in Cusco - Sacred Garden at San Salvador

Rumichaca Lake

Keep your eyes peeled for species such as the Andean Goose, known for its striking appearance, as well as other elusive birds like the Peruvian Sierra Finch, Chestnut-breasted Mountain Finch, Andean Flicker, Rusty-fronted Canastero, Andean Hillstar and the Creamy-crested Spinetail.

Prepare for an unforgettable day of birding and immerse yourself in the wonders of these high-elevation habitats. Discover the full bird list of the Sacred Garden on E-Bird!

Birding in Cusco, laguna Rumichaca

Exploring  Archeological Sites

During this exciting birding day, not only will you have the pleasure of observing a wide range of bird species, but you will also have the unique opportunity to encounter the remnants of the Wari culture, adding an extra layer of fascination to your adventure.

The Pre-Inca ruins of the Wari culture serve as a captivating backdrop, adorning the landscapes with their ancient structures and mystique. As you navigate the natural habitats and search for elusive avian treasures, you’ll also be immersed in a magical landscape where nature and history seamlessly intertwine.

Truly, this birding experience offers much more than bird sightings – it provides a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the Cusco region.

Birding in Cusco - Pre Incan buildings at the vicinity of Huacarpay lake
Parque Arqueologico Pikillacta – Sector Kañaraqay

Which are the Endemic Species?

The endemic species that are regularly seen at Huacarpay Lake are the Bearded Mountaineer and Rusty rusty-fronted canastero. The ride uphills towards Rumichaca Lake will favor the observation of Chestnutbreasted mountain Finch, White Tufted Sunbeam, Creamy Crested Spinetail

Chestnut-breasted Mountain Finch: The Chestnut-breasted Mountain Finch (Poospiza caesar) is a beautiful songbird that inhabits the cloud forests and montane habitats of the Andean region. Its chestnut-colored breast and contrasting plumage make it a delight for birders to spot. Birding in Cusco

Recommended Birding  Apps

Are you a birdwatching enthusiast looking for the perfect tools to enhance your experience? Look no further! With the right apps, you can easily access the latest bird lists. Find the best birdwatching spots, and get important tips and tricks. Here are some of the most useful apps for birdwatchers. EBird, which offers a comprehensive list of the different species of birds in Cusco; this includes a list at the Hotspots; Laguna de Huacarpay, Puente Huambutio, Sacred Garden, and Ensifera Camp 

  • Merlin App is a free download app that is a handy field guide for identifying different birds; and provides detailed information on bird habitats and behaviors. So, download these essential apps and get ready to explore the wonders of birdwatching
  • Ebird, with so much to see and explore, its important to stay up to date on the latest bird lists in the area. Thats why we recommend using the Ebird App to get the most accurate and uptodate information. With eBird, youll be able to easily access a comprehensive list of the different species of birds in Cusco and any other locations on the globe. 

Discover more Peru Birding Tours here Birding in Cusco

Birding in Cusco, more info about longer tours

  • Full Day
Full Day

Huacarpay Lake - Sacred Garden -High Andean Lake

We will visit the lake early morning, located some twenty-five kilometers south of Cusco, which is situated above 10,500 feet. One of the lakes resembles an extensive saltpan interrupted here and there by beds of reeds, another a shallow crater. Both are lined with marsh vegetation, which is highly rich in nutrients, attracting birds for miles around. The lakes are surrounded by xeric ravines (quebradas in Peruvian Spanish) and rocky hills covered with shrubs, various cacti, tree tobacco, and small trees. The area deserves at least several hours of attentive birding and is definitely a popular place to start our tour since the viewing conditions are easy. You'll want your scopes for this area, though your guide will have a scope along too. The marshy shores and waters of the lakes support Andean water birds and waders, including; White-tufted Grebe, Puna Ibis, Puna Teal, Yellow-billed Pintail, and Andean Duck, Plumbeous Rail, and Andean Lapwing. In addition, there are usually a few boreal shorebird non-breeders or migrants (quite a few later in the season). The extensive rush beds shelter Cinereous Harriers, Yellow-winged Blackbirds, Wren-like Rushbirds, and the beautiful Many-colored Rush- Tyrant. The scrubby slopes are home to a number of land birds, including; Bare-faced Ground-Dove, Giant Hummingbird (at nine inches, the largest-bodied of the hummers). Streak-fronted Thornbird, large flocks of Greenish Yellow-Finches (usually). Ash-breasted Sierra-Finches, Band-tailed Seedeaters, and the endemic Rusty-fronted Canastero. Another Peruvian endemic, the spectacular Bearded Mountaineer, feeds on the tubular yellow flowers of the wild Tree Tobacco that grows in the outwash plains near the lakes. Hanging above the slopes on occasion are chested buzzard eagles and below them hurtle Aplomado Falcons in pursuit of some unsuspecting dove. After birding around the lake we will drive along the Sacred Valley road passing by interesting Andean landscapes and Incan Ruins. As part of the morning time, we will make a stopover at the renowned Sacred Garden. Here, bird enthusiasts can indulge in the joy of observing a variety of endemic hummingbird species. Immerse yourself in the beauty of these tiny avian wonders, as they hover and flit through the garden's vibrant flora. Lunch in Town. Later prepare for a captivating journey as we drive uphill, unveiling a collection of endemic bird species amidst the awe-inspiring beauty of the Andean lake and landscape. Upon reaching the Puna grassland, you will be treated to sightings of unique avian wonders that call this habitat home. Spend the afternoon surrounded by majestic mountains, overlooking the Sacred Valley, as you immerse yourself in the natural splendor of the Andes. Return drive to Cusco and arrival expected at 4:00 PM

Are you looking for an unforgettable birdwatching experience in Cusco? Look no further! Cusco is a paradise for birdwatchers, boasting a wide variety of species to observe and enjoy. From the majestic Sword Billed Hummingbird to the endemic species, Cusco has a diverse selection of birds to explore. Our full-day birdwatching tour in Cusco provides you with the perfect opportunity to take in the incredible wildlife of this region. We’ll provide you with the right equipment as well as tips and tricks for your birdwatching excursion. You’ll get to visit the best birdwatching spots in Cusco and explore the different species of birds in the area. So, come join us for a full day of birdwatching in Cusco and create lasting memories!

Travelicious Review

9.6
4.8out of 5
Birding Guides Skills
Transport
Food
Summary

"Discover the most amazing and endemic bird species in Cusco"

User Reviews & Comments

  • Mark Konop
    5 out of 5

    I was in Cusco with an extra free day and sent an email the day before to see if there was an opportunity to do some birding in the area. Luis got right back to me and we arranged a day tour of Lake Huarcapay and the Sacred Valley. The trip, even though there was rain, was awesome. He picked me up from the hotel, we visited several areas, he took care of lunch and really knew where to go and what to see. Awesome trip. I will definitely travel with them again.

    Guides Birding Skills
     5 out of 5
    Transport
     5 out of 5
    Food
     5 out of 5

    26 May, 2023

    Reply

  • Marina Fiften
    5 out of 5

    A relaxed day of birding with Luis. We saw a lot of waterbirds and hummingbirds. Really nice. Luis had good equipment and after Huarcapay lake we visited an archeological site where we saw the endemic hummingbird. Because of the rain, we could not go up the mountain but visited a beautiful campsite full of hummingbirds. Amazing! Thanks, Luis for a great day birding.

    Guides Birding Skills
     5 out of 5
    Transport
     5 out of 5
    Food
     4 out of 5

    10 February, 2020

    Reply

Write your Review

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

More about this tour

  • Download the Full Itinerary in PDF 

 

Available All Year Around !
From $180 $150
The Newest Birding Tour on 2024
From $990 $980
Early Booking Discounts
From $1050 $990
DISCOUNTED ON EARLY BOOKING & GROUPS
From $790 $750
Growth your Bird List in Just 3 Days !
From $600 $550
Morning Departures from 5:30 AM
From $120 $100
Minimun 2 Travelers
From $400 $350
Discounts on Fixed Departures
From $1250 $1200
Share on social networks
Manu National Park Tours are the perfect way to experience the spectacular beauty of the Amazon rainforest. From the wildlife to the unique cultures, you will be sure to have a memorable and unforgettable experience. So, what are you waiting for? Book your tour today and start exploring!
RUC 20603494521
Contact Us
Address
Calle Chihuampata 580
San Blas - Cusco - Peru
Emails
info@wildwatchperu.com
wildwatchperu@gmail.com
Phone (WhatApps)
+51 964422262
+51 972999987
Close

Birding at Huacarpay Lake & Sacred Valley - Full Day

Price
$150 per person
Duration
Full Day
Destination
Huacarpay Lake
Travellers
2+

    FOR RESERVATIONS FOLLOW THE STEPS (Register Multiple Participants )

    Considerations: "Solo Traveler" and Travelers looking for other "Dates of Departure" contact us at the Enquiry Form ⬈ Once the form is sent. It will undergo an availability review. If accepted, a payment link will be sent soon!

    Enjoy your Trip!!

    Confirmed Departures On

    Number of Participants

    Your Birding Level & Interest

    Attach Your Passport (Optional)