Itinerary
Day 1: Journey to the Cloud Forest
Your adventure begins when we pick you up from your hotel in Cusco or the Sacred Valley. We head towards the city of Paucartambo, a three-hour drive. Our first stop is the Huacarpay Lagoon, a significant Meso-Andean lagoon crucial for migratory and wetland birds. Depending on the season, you'll see a variety of migrating and resident bird species, perfect for birdwatching.
We then continue to Abra Acjanaco, the highest point on the route and the gateway to the buffer zone of Manu National Park. Here, you'll witness a dramatic change in ecosystems, transitioning from high Andean grasslands to lush cloud forests.
We arrive at Wayquecha, our first hotel, where lunch awaits. After settling into your rooms, we'll explore the cloud forest facilities, including a trail, an orchid circuit, and areas set up with feeders for photographing high Andean hummingbirds.
Overnight at Wayqecha Cloud Forest Biological Station (Lunch and Dinner provided)
Day 2: Exploring the Hanging Bridges and Valleys
Rise early for a hearty breakfast before embarking on a visit to the hanging bridges. Here, you'll have the opportunity to spot vibrant mountain tanagers, majestic mountain toucans, and a multitude of other bird species thriving in this unique ecosystem. After a delightful lunch, we continue our descent through the picturesque Qosñipata Valley. Our first stop is at the enchanting Pillahuata tunnels, where you'll be captivated by the cascading waterfalls and the elusive golden-headed quetzal, a true gem for bird enthusiasts.
As the day winds down, we arrive in the tranquil area of San Pedro and check into the charming Cock of The Rock Lodge. Enjoy a delicious dinner and settle into your comfortable accommodations, where you'll stay for the next two nights.
Overnight at Cock-of-the-Rock Lodge (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included)
Day 3: Dance of the Cock-of-the-Rock
Awake early to witness the breathtaking spectacle at the Andean Cock-of-the-Rock lek, conveniently located near the hotel. Spend three mesmerizing hours observing these striking birds' vibrant displays and elaborate courtship dances. After the lek activity, we leisurely descend from the observation blind back to the hotel, keeping an eye out for the stunning crested quetzal, playful woolly monkeys, and a variety of birds along the way.
The remainder of the morning and afternoon will be spent at the bird feeders, where you'll encounter a dazzling array of tanagers, numerous hummingbirds, and the striking versicolored barbet, one of the most photogenic birds along the route. We'll also explore a scenic trail to spot manakins and other fascinating canopy-dwelling species.
Overnight at Cock-of-the-Rock Lodge (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included)
Day 4: Descending to the Amazon Foothills
Another early start, as we aim to spot any remaining bird species before breakfast. We then journey down the valley to the quaint town of Pilcopata, where we'll stay at the historical Villa Carmen estate, now known as Manu Biolodge. After settling in, we'll explore the estate's well-maintained feeders, providing excellent birdwatching opportunities until lunch.
Following a satisfying meal, we'll venture to Cocha Tom, a serene natural lagoon rich with birdlife from both the Amazon lowlands and the mountainous foothills. This tranquil setting offers fantastic opportunities for birdwatching and photography.
Overnight at Manu Biological Station and Biolodge (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included)
Day 5: Birdwatching Extravaganza at Manu Biolodge
Start your day with early morning birdwatching from the estate's panoramic viewpoints before enjoying a hearty breakfast. We then head to the renowned InkaAmazonia hummingbird viewpoint, a haven for birdwatchers and photographers alike. Spend the morning captivated by the myriad of hummingbird species, including some rare endemics, as they flit and feed in this specially designed-observation area.
After returning to the lodge for a delicious lunch, we'll explore the Piñi Piñi River and the remaining scenic trails and viewpoints of the estate. Dinner is followed by a chance to reflect on the day's experiences and prepare for our final day of birdwatching and photography.
Overnight at Manu Biological Station and Biolodge (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included)
Day 6: Final Birdwatching and Return to Cusco
Our final day begins with an early breakfast before heading to the Pico de Hoz viewpoint, a prime location for observing a variety of bird species. You'll be captivated by hummingbirds in their natural habitat and might even spot the majestic king vulture, the vibrant scarlet-hooded barbet, or the versicolored barbet, all perfect for photography. We spend the morning immersed in birdwatching, enjoying the rich biodiversity and stunning views.
As the morning draws to a close, we return to Pilcopata for a hearty lunch, reflecting on the incredible wildlife we've encountered. We then embark on the scenic drive back to Cusco, concluding our adventure with cherished memories of the diverse landscapes and remarkable birds we've seen.
Transfer to the airport and end of services (Breakfast and Lunch included).
Expedition Leader
Juan Diego Shoobridge
- Expedition Leader
- Biologist
- Birdwatcher
- Rock Climber
- Arborist
- Photographer