Sacred Valley & Abra Málaga Bird Photography Tour
Sacred Valley & Abra Málaga Bird Photography Tour
The Sacred Valley & Abra Málaga Bird Photography Tour (2 Days / 1 Night) is a specialized experience designed for nature photographers and birding enthusiasts seeking high-quality photographic opportunities in two of southern Peru’s most scenic ecosystems.
The tour combines the soft light and cultural landscapes of the Sacred Valley with the dramatic high-altitude environments of Abra Málaga, ranging from traditional farmlands and Inca stone walls to cloud forest and high-Andean puna. The itinerary is carefully paced to allow ethical wildlife observation, optimal lighting conditions, and time to focus on bird behavior, composition, and flight photography.
Participants will have the opportunity to photograph iconic Andean species, including hummingbirds, tanagers, trogons, and high-altitude specialists, guided by a professional birding and photography expert.
Book Now
Our tours are Fully Customizable and leave 365 days a year! Our travel experts are happy to help
Small Groups
Expert Service
24/7 In-Trip Assistance
5,000+ Testimonials
Itinerary
High-Andean birds + entrance to the cloud forest
We depart early from Cusco, crossing Andean valleys and high mountain passes.
During our first stops, we may observe uncommon species such as:
- Crested Quetzal
- Chestnut-breasted Mountain Finch
- Black-faced Conebill
- Golden-billed Saltator
As we approach Acjanaco Pass, the vegetation changes dramatically as we enter the impressive Manu Cloud Forest.
New opportunities include:
- Mountain Caracara
- Sunbeam
- White-throated Hawk
In the late afternoon, we will take a short outing to look for nocturnal birds such as the Scissor-tailed Nightjar.
- Overnight: Wayqecha
- Meals: Lunch & Dinner
The heart of the cloud forest
After breakfast, we explore trails surrounded by epiphytes, mosses, and orchids.
Among the trees we may find:
- Crimson-mantled Woodpecker
- Blue-banded Toucanet
- Gould’s Inca
- Violet-throated Starfrontlet
We will also look for mixed flocks with vibrant tanagers such as:
- Golden-collared Tanager
- Blue-and-black Tanager
And more elusive species like:
- White-bellied Antpitta
- Andean Guan
With some luck, we may photograph raptors such as the Black-and-chestnut Eagle.
- Overnight: Cock-of-the-Rock Lodge
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Cock-of-the-Rock display + Lowland rainforest
Before dawn, we visit a Cock-of-the-Rock lek, where males perform an incredible courtship dance amid the forest mist.
We then descend to the warmer areas of the lower Manu, home to:
- Golden-headed Quetzal
- Black-billed Treehunter
- Saffron-crowned Tanager
- Masked Trogon
- Amazonian Umbrellabird
- Long-tailed Sylph
- Booted Racket-tail
At night:
Nocturnal birdwatching (screech-owl, nightjars)
- Overnight: Paradise Lodge
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Farewell to the cloud forest
- At dawn, we will enjoy our final birding outing to increase the species list.
During the return journey, we will make strategic stops to continue enjoying birdwatching. - Arrival in Cusco in the afternoon, with an unforgettable experience and unique photographs.
Includes
- Professional birding and photography guide
- Private transportation throughout the tour
- Target species checklist
- Ethical wildlife observation practices
- Photo-friendly pacing with extended stops
- Guided bird photography sessions in the Sacred Valley and Abra Málaga
Does not include
- Accommodation (hotel or lodge)
- Meals not explicitly mentioned in the itinerary
- Personal photography equipment (camera bodies, lenses, tripods)
- Personal expenses
- Travel insurance
- Tips (optional)
Recommendations
- Telephoto lens (300–600 mm)
- Fast camera body suitable for low light and action shots
- Tripod or monopod
- Warm clothing (especially for Day 2 at high altitude)
- Layered clothing system
- Hat, gloves, and windproof jacket
- Sunscreen and sunglasses (high-altitude exposure)
- Water bottle and snacks
- Comfortable walking shoes