Day of Birding at Huacarpay Lake & Sacred Valley

Birding at Huacarpay Lake & Sacred Valley is a must-see.

Undoubtedly one of the best-located sites for birding near Cusco city. With spectacular views, and most importantly, a range of birds only seen in certain regions of the world. It is the perfect spot to spend a few hours or the entire day, to see species of high-elevation aquatic birds. Up to 60 residents are situated here or use the lake as a vital resting ground.
First of all, the drive only takes around 40 minutes from Cusco.

Part of the Pikillaqta Archeological Park, this High-Andean wetland is situated at an altitude of 9908 Feet. This wetland area there comprises, four permanent and one temporary lagoon, two swamps, and two rivers. As a result, this provides considerable food and refuge to various threatened species such as; Peregrine and Aplomado Falcon and the 2 endemics; Bearded Mountaineer, and Rusty fronted Canastero.

Tucked in between the Mountain ranges, is an especially great spot for birds to come together. This area in which the environment and nature work as one is humbling. The lake is the perfect location to explore.

Birds at Huacarpay Lagoon, near Cusco

The Huacarpay Lagoon is part of a protected natural area. These beautiful wetlands are also home to many plants which 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.

In addition, this vegetation and eucalyptus forest has 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 colorful Many colored Rushtyrant.

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 50 species by day.  See the complete Huacarpay Lake bird list via E-Bird 

With species being threatened more and more each day, this is definitely a place to visit and see some rare and exquisite birds in their natural habitat. Keep your eyes peeled, and your binoculars out.

While we are talking birds. In the vicinity of the Lake, there are also Archeological sites and ruins, located on a small plateau with a huge mountain behind to the east of the lagoon. The ruins of Urpicancha were built by the Wari culture, its name could be translated as the “House of the doves”, is structures reveal the Wari’s techniques.

How to get to Huacarpay Lake from Cusco?

By booking a tour to Huacarpay Lake, the service includes transfers to and from your hotel, along the Sacred Valley route, and finally to the Lake. The tour with an expert local guide is without a doubt the best option providing insight knowledge, and advice. It is the most effective way to get to and from the lake, from one site to another. And most importantly to get up close and personal with the birds, with the best view spots.