Morning Departures from 5:30 AM
Price
$100 per person
Duration
1/2 Day
Destination
Huacarpay Lake
Travellers
2
5 Reviews
4.8 out of 5

GATEWAY FOR THE ENDEMICS Huacarpay Here We Come!

Travel less than an hour from Cusco to get close to high elevation aquatic birds. A RAMSAR site that offer great opportunities for bird observation and photography, Enjoy those beautiful wetlands view of pre-Inca ruins, variety of birds and even migrants can be seen during activities.
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Birding Near Cusco: Avian Delights Quick Birdwatching Escape in Cusco Don’t miss the chance to encounter these amazing bird species and more as we embark on this short birding tour near Cusco. Our expert guides will ensure that you have the best opportunities to see and appreciate the unique and diverse birdlife of the Cusco...

What's included

Destination
Huacarpay Lake Discover Huacarpay Lake
Departure Location
Cusco City - Transfer from Hotels , Airport , Bus Station
Return Location
Cusco City - Airport , Bus Station or any other location along the sacred Valley
Tour Start Date & Time
Everyday at 05:45
Additional Information
Optional: Drop off at Sacred Valley
Price includes
  • Birding Specialized Guide
  • English Speaking Guide
  • Entrances Fees to the Birding Sites
  • Purified Water to Refill
  • Shareable Checklists on Ebird
  • Snacks (Fresh Fruits, Cookies Juices )
  • Storage Room in City
  • Transfer in City, Airport, Bus Station
  • Transport (Air Conditioned Minivan or SUV)
Price does not include
  • Binoculars (Available to rent)
  • Box Lunch
  • First Day Breakfast
Additional Prices
Single Supplement: $60

Birding Near Cusco: Avian Delights

Quick Birdwatching Escape in Cusco

Don’t miss the chance to encounter these amazing bird species and more as we embark on this short birding tour near Cusco. Our expert guides will ensure that you have the best opportunities to see and appreciate the unique and diverse birdlife of the Cusco region.

Get your binoculars ready and prepare for an unforgettable birding adventure filled with fascinating sightings and memorable moments.

One of the best-located sites for birding near Cusco city. Huacarpay Lake is an ideal spot for spending a few hours, or even better, the drive only takes around 40 minutes from the City center.

Birding near Cusco

As well as the best times of year to see specific bird species. It provides considerable food and refuge for various threatened species such as; the Peregrine and Aplomado Falcon and the 2 endemics; Bearded Mountaineer, and Rusty fronted Canastero.

A Must-Do Tour for Birding Enthusiasts

birding near Cusco - Simon Pinares guiding #kingoftheamazon

Birds at Huacarpay Lake

The Huacarpay Lagoon is part of a protected natural area, formed by singular and beautiful wetlands, full of wild Tobacco and eucalyptus shrubs. Due to this, these plants are very effective in attracting the hummingbirds in the area, such as; Giant Hummingbird, Sparkling Violetear, and Green-tailed Trainbearer. The vegetation and eucalyptus forest are also perfect for owls; Great Horned Owls and others like Streaked Fronted Thornbirds, and Yellow-Billed Tit-Tyrant.

Birding near Cusco

There is a collection of interesting species found in the area including most of the aquatic birds; Andean Coots, Common Gallinule, Puna Teals, Billed Pintail, Cinnamon Teal, Puna Teal, and seasonally Chilean flamingos amongst others.

This lake is surrounded by reeds which makes it easy to see birds such as; the winged Blackbird, the Wren-like Rushbird, and the coloured Rushtyrant.  As a result, it is possible to check around 50 species by day. See the complete Huacarpay Lake bird list via E-Bird

Birding near Cusco
Huacarpay Lake – Chilean Flamingos & Puna Ibises Overflying

What else you will be able to see?

 Archaeological Sites

The ruins of Urpicancha were built by the Wari culture, its name could be translated as the “House of the Doves”. Its structures reveal the traditional Wari techniques. It is located on a small plateau with a huge mountain behind to the east of the lagoon Huacarpay in Cusco.

Furthermore, there are also a few other archaeological sites in the vicinity of the lake such as; Qaranqayniyuj, Choquepucjio, Kunturqaqa, and Piquillacta.

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

Sacred Garden

This Tour reaches the  Sacred Garden is located between  Pisac and San Salvador Town. This lush garden and its surroundings are home to over 60 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.

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.

Birding Near Cusco - morning Time
Sacred Garden

Taste of Avian Diversity:

As part of our commitment to providing a comprehensive birding experience, we want to ensure that you have all the information you need before embarking on your journey with us. That’s why we invite you to explore the links to the Ebird database platform for each of the locations we visit this morning!

  • Day 1
Day 1

Cusco - Huacarpay 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 Rush birds, 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 Thorn bird, 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 such; Giant Hummingbird (Southern & Northern), Bearded Mountaineer (Endemic) White Bellied Hummingbird, Green Tailed Trainbearer and some other species Chestnut Breasted Mountain Finch (Endemic), Blue and Yellow Tanager, Black Back grossbeak. Immerse yourself in the beauty of these tiny avian wonders, as they hover and flit through the garden's vibrant flora then we will be returning to Cusco by noon and transfer to the hotels.

Birding Near Cusco: Avian Delights Quick Birdwatching Escape in Cusco Don’t miss the chance to encounter these amazing bird species and more as we embark on this short birding tour near Cusco. Our expert guides will ensure that you have the best opportunities to see and appreciate the unique and diverse birdlife of the Cusco...

Travelicious Review

9.6
4.8out of 5
Birding Guides Skills
Transport
Food
Summary

"Observe the most amazing bird species near Cusco"

User Reviews & Comments

  • Cameron Dunkin
    5 out of 5

    I went out with Herbert for a half day (my partner was sick). I had a great time - Herbert talked a lot and was very knowledgeable about the birds (including endemic species), and also culture. En route we passed by pre-incan ruins, and went to several different areas including lake, farmland, rivers, and a beautiful garden in a small town for snacks. I saw 40 bird species that Herbert kept track of for me with eBird and shared the list at the end. Really fun - even if you don’t know much about birds.

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

    30 December, 2023

    Reply

  • Dean Post
    5 out of 5

    Juan was a great guide and we enjoyed the opportunity to see more birds from Peru. The logistics were perfect. Nice vehicle. Good driver. The snacks were great. Thanks again

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

    28 November, 2023

    Reply

  • Luke Bentley
    5 out of 5

    Herbert was an excellent bird guide to the Huacarpay wetland and Cusco surroundings. Saw loads of new species. Would highly recommend it.

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

    16 October, 2023

    Reply

  • Tamara Loomis
    4 out of 5

    My recent morning birding experience at Huacarpay Lake was an absolute delight. I was fortunated enough to spot a couple of endemic species and few raptors. The knowledgeable guide accompanying me was instrumental in identifying the various bird species and providing fascinating insights into their behaviors and habitats. Their passion for birds was contagious, and their ability to spot and locate even the tiniest of feathered creatures added an extra layer of excitement to the experience. The peaceful and scenic surroundings of Huacarpay Lake added to the overall charm of the morning's birding expedition. The serene lake, surrounded by rolling hills and patches of lush vegetation, provided a tranquil backdrop against which these magnificent creatures thrived. It was a truly immersive experience, connecting with nature . Overall, my morning birding at Huacarpay Lake was a memorable and fulfilling experience. The abundance of bird species, the expertise of the guide, and the stunning natural surroundings all contributed to a truly exceptional outing. I highly recommend Huacarpay Lake to anyone seeking a unique and rewarding birdwatching adventure.

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

    23 July, 2023

    Reply

  • Nancy Dean, Noah Dean, Jason Dean
    5 out of 5

    A relaxed morning birding with Luis. We saw a lot of waterbirds and the endemic hummingbirds. Really nice. Luis had good equipment and after huarcapay lake we visited an archelogical site where we saw more hummingbird species. Thanks Luis for a excellent morning activity!

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

    10 February, 2020

    Reply

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Contact Us
Address
Calle Chihuampata 580
San Blas - Cusco - Peru
Emails
info@wildwatchperu.com
wildwatchperu@gmail.com
Phone (WhatApps)
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Quick Birdwatching Escape in Cusco - Morning Time!

Price
$100 per person
Duration
1/2 Day
Destination
Huacarpay Lake
Travellers
2

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