Birding in Machu Picchu
Birding in Machu Picchu
The Birding in Machu Picchu Tour is a unique full-day experience that combines birdwatching in one of the most biodiverse cloud forests of the Andes with the cultural and historical richness of the Machu Picchu Historic Sanctuary.
The day begins very early with a walk along the Vilcanota River in the Mandor sector, one of the best places to observe river-dependent species such as the Torrent Duck. As the morning progresses, the tour moves to orchid- and hummingbird-rich gardens near Machu Picchu Pueblo, followed by a visit to the iconic Machu Picchu Citadel, where birdwatching blends seamlessly with archaeology.
The descent on foot allows further exploration of dense cloud forest habitats, offering opportunities to observe colorful tanagers, mixed flocks, and emblematic species such as the Andean Cock-of-the-rock, Inca Wren, and Golden-headed Quetzal. This tour is ideal for birdwatchers and nature lovers seeking a high-quality wildlife experience in one of the world’s most iconic destinations.
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Itinerary
- 5:30 a.m: Mandor sector (walk at river level)
- We leave very early to start walking along the river and then along the train tracks towards the Mandor Gardens. This is the best time to observe the torrent duck (Merganetta armata) jumping between the Vilcanota rivers. During the trip, we will have a light breakfast to fill us with energy and allow us to continue the journey with enthusiasm, as the main objective will be to see the following species: light breakfast to fill us with energy and allow us to continue on our way with enthusiasm, as our main objective will be to see the following species:
Key species: White-capped Waterbird, Cock-of-the-Rock (they start moving early), and the Andean Momoto (watchmaker).
- 09:00 am: Inkaterra Hotel Gardens (or surrounding areas)
- Even if you are not staying there, you can visit the surrounding area (with prior reservation/payment) or the nearby public areas. They have the largest concentration of orchids and hummingbirds in the area.
- Hummingbirds Target: The Green and White Hummingbird (endemic), the Racket-tailed Hummingbird, and the spectacular Inca Hummingbird.
- 11:00 a.m: Ascent to the citadel of Machu Picchu.
- Take the bus to the archaeological site. Here, observation blends with history.
- Species in the ruins: Look for the Inca Wren (Pheugopedius eisenmanni) in the walls or bushes. It is a species that only lives in this place. (sanctuary).
- Skies: Look towards Huayna Pichu to see the Andean condor or the black and chestnut eagle.
- 01:00 p.m: Picnic-style lunch: We will enjoy a variety of local cuisine.
- 02:00 pm: Descent along the pedestrian trail
- If you have the energy, walk down from the citadel to the village (instead of taking a bus).
- Along the way, you will be able to observe a variety of flora and fauna. You will pass through dense forest where you can see mixed flocks of tanagers (blue-throated tanagers, golden-throated tanagers).
- Top species to look for in terms of colors
- Unlike Huacarpay, we have:
- The cock-of-the-rock: the male is a bright orange-red.
- Inca wren: your main target because it is endemic.
- Golden-headed quetzal: majestic and difficult to see, but it lives in these forests.
- Paradise tanager: one of the most colorful birds in the world.
Includes
- Strong insect repellent: it is essential to bring this because there are many varieties of small mosquitoes that bite very hard. Insect repellent is your best friend.
- Rain poncho or raincoat: in the cloud forest, it can rain at any time, so this is essential to be able to shelter or protect yourself from the rain, as it can rain even when it is clear.
- Protection for your equipment: waterproof covers for your camera and binoculars, as the humidity is very high and can damage or dampen your equipment.
- 8×42 binoculars: the forest is dense, so binoculars with good light transmission will help you see birds in the shadows of the trees.
- Footwear with non-slip soles: The stone steps of the city and the mandor trails can be slippery due to humidity.
- Water in reusable containers: It is prohibited to enter the citadel of Machu Picchu with single-use plastic bottles.
Does not include
- Large umbrellas: these are not allowed because they obstruct the passage and the view.
- However, you may bring rain ponchos and waterproof jackets.
- Tripods or selfie sticks: These are prohibited within the archaeological site as they are very dangerous and can cause injury.
- Drones: Their use is strictly prohibited in the Historic Sanctuary. Fines are very high, and they confuse territorial birds.
- Large backpacks: these cannot be brought in and must be left in the storage room before entering the citadel. Try to bring something compact.
- Neon or brightly colored clothing: as on other routes, the cloud forest requires a lot of discretion. Wearing earth tones or greens will allow you to get closer to shy species such as the quetzal or the cock-of-the-rock.
- Noisy food: Avoid snacks that come in packaging that makes a lot of noise, as the sound alerts the birds and pollutes the environment.