Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival and Immersion in Chaparrí Reserve
Arrive in Chiclayo in the morning and transfer directly to Chaparrí Ecological
Reserve, located approximately 90 minutes from the airport, at elevations ranging from 210 to 1,250 meters above sea level. Upon arrival, settle into the eco-lodge, inspired by traditional architecture and nestled within the spectacular landscapes of the dry forest. In the afternoon, embark on your first guided wildlife walk. Visit the Spectacled Bear Conservation Program, where rescued Andean bears live in spacious semi-captive environments designed to support their well-being and conservation. Depending on conditions and luck, you may also encounter wild Andean bears roaming the surrounding hills and cliffs. Keep your eyes open for other fascinating mammals, including the Sechuran fox and white-tailed deer, whilelearning about the challenges of protecting this fragile ecosystem.
Overnight at Chaparrí Ecological Reserve (Lunch and dinner included).
Day 2: Andean Condors Photographic Encounter
Before sunrise, set out along a dry-forest trail toward the Andean condor observation hide, situated at approximately 500 meters above sea level. This remarkable experience takes you into the heart of a conservation initiative supporting the recovery of the local Andean condor population. The birds are attracted to naturally deceased animals and other approved food sources, allowing visitors to observe their behavior while contributing to ongoing conservation efforts. From the hide, these enormous birds may descend to within 40–50 meters, offering exceptional opportunities to photograph their impressive wingspans, social interactions, and unmistakable silhouettes. The arrival of king vultures, turkey vultures, and black vultures can transform the scene into a fascinating gathering of four distinct scavenger species. Observe their behavior, study their interactions, and capture the drama of one of the dry forest's most extraordinary wildlife spectacles. Enjoy a packed lunch in the field before returning in the mid-afternoon, or once the activity concludes.
Overnight at Chaparrí Ecological Reserve (Breakfast, Lunch and dinner included).
Day 3: Condor II or Bear Tracking & Birdwatching
Depending on the previous day's sightings and weather conditions, we may return to the condor hide for another opportunity to watch and photograph these magnificent birds. Alternatively, begin the morning with a guided trek focused on tracking the elusive Andean bear. Chaparrí protects one of Peru's important remaining wild populations of this iconic species. With the guidance of local experts, explore bear habitat, learn to recognize signs of their presence, and gain insight into the ecology and conservation of these remarkable mammals. After lunch, turn your attention to the reserve's extraordinary birdlife. Explore the dry forest in search of regional
specialties and endemic species, including the critically endangered white-winged guan, while watching for owls, hummingbirds, raptors, and other fascinating birds. Throughout the afternoon, enjoy opportunities for observation, photography, and a deeper understanding of the relationships between wildlife and its environment.
Overnight at Chaparrí Ecological Reserve (Breakfast, Lunch and dinner included).
Day 4: Dry Forest Exploration & Andean Bear Program
Spend another full day exploring Chaparrí's diverse habitats, guided by local
naturalists who know the reserve and its wildlife intimately. Morning excursions offer opportunities to photograph the dry forest's remarkable birdlife, from the striking Tumbes tyrant and vermilion flycatcher to king vultures, hawks, parrots, and hummingbirds. Continue exploring wildlife-rich areas, looking for signs of Andeanbears and other mammals while learning how community-led conservation helps protect threatened species and their habitats. In the afternoon, discover additional conservation initiatives, including efforts to restore populations of the endangered white-winged guan. These projects offer a firsthand look at the challenges and achievements of protecting biodiversity through local participation and long-term commitment. As evening approaches, return to the lodge for dinner and, weather permitting, enjoy a peaceful stargazing session beneath the clear skies of the dry forest.
Overnight at Chaparrí Ecological Reserve (Breakfast, Lunch and dinner included).
Day 5: Final Nature Adventure & Moche Worldview
After breakfast, embark on your final guided nature walk through Chaparrí's
intermediate zone, enjoying the tranquility and beauty of the dry forest. Along the trail, explore aspects of the ancient Moche culture worldview and its profound relationship with the natural world. Discover how animals, landscapes, and the forces of nature figured in this civilization's understanding of the relationship between humans and their environment. This final walk offers one last opportunity to observe wildlife, appreciate the forest's intricate biodiversity, and capture photographs before saying farewell to Chaparrí. Return to the lodge to organize your luggage before
enjoying an early lunch and beginning the transfer back to Chiclayo.
Overnight at Chaparrí Ecological Reserve (Breakfast and lunch included). Dinner is included if you stay for the optional extra night).
OPTIONAL DAY 6: Archaeological Discovery
Extend your journey with a fascinating exploration of northern Peru's extraordinary archaeological heritage. Begin at the Túcume Pyramids, an extensive complex of monumental adobe structures associated with the Lambayeque and later regional cultures. Explore this remarkable archaeological landscape and discover the history of the civilizations that flourished here. Enjoy a traditional northern Peruvian lunch, celebrated for its distinctive flavors and culinary heritage. In the afternoon, visit the
Royal Tombs of Sipán Museum, dedicated to the extraordinary
archaeological discoveries associated with the Moche civilization. Admire the treasures of the Lord of Sipán and learn about the artistic sophistication, ceremonial traditions, and social complexity of this ancient culture.
Following the visit, transfer to Chiclayo Airport for
your evening departure (Breakfast included).
Expedition Leader
