Abra Malaga & Vilcabamba Mountains 4 days
Located near the iconic Manu Road, this region offers a unique and diverse birding experience, distinct from its neighboring areas. Abra Málaga, one of the most popular birding spots close to Cusco, features two contrasting ecosystems: the lush cloud forest on the eastern slope of the Andes and the high-altitude Polylepis forest, each hosting a remarkable variety of endemic, local, and small-range species. To enhance this exceptional experience, Tanager Tours proudly includes exclusive access to the remote Vilcabamba Mountains, home to rare endemics like the Vilcabamba Thistletail, Tapaculo, and Brushfinch, as well as a wealth of other Peruvian birdlife. As the only tour company exploring this pristine area, we are dedicated to uncovering new birding destinations and providing unparalleled adventures for birding enthusiasts.
Day 1: Abra Málaga – Polylepis Forest
Our journey begins with a morning drive to the Polylepis Forest at Abra Málaga, a high-altitude birding hotspot renowned for its rare and endemic species. The most sought-after birds here include the elusive Royal Cinclodes, Ash-breasted Tit-Tyrant, and White-browed Tit-Spinetail. While spotting these species—particularly the Royal Cinclodes—requires patience, the area is also home to an incredible variety of other birds, such as the Tawny Tit-Spinetail, Puna Tapaculo, Blue-mantled Thornbill, Giant Conebill, Stripe-headed Antpitta, and Red-rumped Bush-Tyrant.
In the afternoon, we will return to Ollantaytambo and check in at our hotel. On the way back, we will visit the Peña Ruins, an excellent site to observe the endemic White-tufted Sunbeam. Additional highlights may include the Creamy-crested Spinetail, Rusty-fronted Canastero, Black-backed Grosbeak, and, with some luck, the Chestnut-breasted Mountain-Finch.
Overnight: Ollantaytambo (B:L:D)
Day 2: Abra Málaga – Cloud Forest (Eastern Slope)
We will start our day early, departing from Ollantaytambo (or Machu Picchu, if arriving from there). Our journey takes us over the Abra Málaga pass, where we will transition into a completely different ecosystem—the upper cloud forest. This lush habitat is known for its active mixed-species flocks, which may include Parodi’s Hemispingus, Unstreaked Tit-Tyrant, Marcapata Spinetail, Cusco Brushfinch, Inca Wren, White-browed Conebill, Tawny-rumped Tyrannulet, and Tit-like Dacnis, among others.
While difficult to spot, we may hear the calls of Undulated Antpitta, Rufous Antpitta, and the endemic Red-and-white Antpitta, as well as Diademed Tapaculos echoing through the forest. The area is also home to an impressive array of hummingbirds, including the Sapphire-vented Puffleg, Scaled Metaltail, Rufous-capped Thornbill, and the striking Sword-billed Hummingbird.
Later in the day, we will continue descending into the valley, where we have a chance to spot Swallow-tailed Hummingbird, Ocellated Piculet, and Sclater’s Tyrannulet. At night, the forest comes alive with nocturnal species, and we may encounter the Tropical Screech-Owl or, with exceptional luck, the rare and nomadic Buff-fronted Owl.
Overnight: Ipal (B:L:D)
Day 3: Vilcabamba Mountains
Before sunrise, we will depart for the Vilcabamba Mountains, an isolated and biologically rich region where several Peruvian endemic species can be found. This area is home to the Vilcabamba Tapaculo, Vilcabamba Thistletail, and the poorly known Vilcabamba Brushfinch—species that have been the focus of our team’s dedicated explorations over the years.
During our extensive research in these mountains, we have been fortunate to locate these mythical birds. In addition, we may also encounter other Peruvian endemics, such as Johnson’s Tody-Flycatcher and a unique subspecies of Marcapata Spinetail (“Weskei”). This remote forest offers an unparalleled birding experience, providing an opportunity to observe species that are found nowhere else in the world.
Overnight: Ipal (B:L:D)
Day 4: Return to Cusco
Today, we will make our way back to Cusco, making strategic stops along the way to search for any missing target species. Upon arrival in Cusco, we will drop you off at your hotel, marking the end of the tour.
If you have a domestic flight scheduled for this day, we can arrange a direct transfer to the Cusco Airport.
Overnight: Cusco (B:L)
This tour does not include domestic flights. However, please pack light, as we will be taking flights to Cusco, where baggage allowances are typically 23 kg (50.7 lbs.) for checked luggage and 8 kg (17.6 lbs.) for carry-on baggage. Any additional baggage costs will be at your own expense.
We recommend wearing lightweight, comfortable clothing, such as standard field pants and breathable shirts for the duration of the trip. A light jacket will be sufficient for colder locations.
A fleece or light jacket is advisable for higher elevations, though a heavy winter coat is not necessary. If you tend to feel cold easily, consider bringing a warm hat and lightweight gloves, especially for the Polylepis Forest.
Sun protection is essential. Please bring sunscreen, a hat, or a cap to shield yourself from UV rays.
Rain gear is highly recommended. Even if the weather forecast appears favorable, conditions can change rapidly. A compact umbrella and a rain poncho will help keep you dry.
Camouflaged clothing is acceptable; however, please avoid military-style attire to prevent any misunderstandings.
Shower sandals or rubber flip-flops will be useful for added comfort during your stay.
Recommendation:
- Binoculars.
- Extra Batteries.
- Camera.
General:
Birding will primarily take place along the railway and on select trails, with a difficulty level ranging from easy to moderate.
Our journey will take us through elevations ranging from 3,400 meters to 2,400 meters above sea level (11,155 – 7,874 feet), with most of our activities occurring around 2,400 meters.
Expect a variety of weather conditions throughout the trip. However, no special clothing is required beyond the recommended gear.
Electricity will be available at all our destinations, with 220V power outlets conveniently located inside all rooms.
Internet access and Wi-Fi are available in your hotel for your convenience.
Medical and Health Information:
- If you have already spent time in Cusco (3,400m / 11,155 ft) before the tour, acclimatization should not be a concern.
- If you haven’t stayed in Cusco yet, there’s no need to worry—our birding tour is designed to allow gradual acclimatization.
- The highest point of our journey reaches 4,316 meters (14,160 feet), which is generally not high enough to cause serious altitude sickness.
- You may experience shortness of breath, mild nausea, headaches, or fatigue due to lower oxygen levels.
- Your body will naturally acclimate by producing more red blood cells, which is why staying hydrated and avoiding excessive physical exertion is crucial.
- Stay well-hydrated: Drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol or caffeinated drinks, as dehydration can worsen altitude symptoms.
- Coca tea is a traditional and effective remedy that can help alleviate discomfort.
- Eat light on the first day to aid digestion and reduce any nausea.
- I will conduct regular check-ins to ensure that everyone is feeling well.
- If necessary, we can easily visit a local medical center or pharmacy for professional assistance.
- Over-the-counter medications such as acetaminophen (Tylenol), ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), or naproxen (Aleve) can help alleviate headaches. If you are prone to altitude sickness, please consult your doctor in advance about preventive medications.
Travel insurance
Our suggestion is that you use travel insurance service. The normal price of this tour not cover travel insurance.
Books:
- Birds of Peru is the best field Guide.
- If you consider you can bring some other field guide are welcome.
Prices Include:
- Private transportation for the entire duration of the trip.
- Comfortable accommodations for all nights of the tour (Cusco to Cusco).
- Breakfast, lunch (picnic or box lunch, depending on the location), and dinner.
- Snacks and drinking water available at all times.
- Expert birding guide specializing in local avifauna.
- Personalized bird checklist for each participant.
- Entrance fees to all designated birding locations.
- All necessary transfers within Cusco.
- A fully inclusive, private tour experience, designed for your convenience and an unforgettable birding adventure.
Not included:
The following items are not included in the tour package:
- Personal expenses, such as laundry services, phone calls, medical costs, hospitalization, or excess baggage fees.
- Travel insurance, which we highly recommend arranging before your trip.
- Domestic flights are not included; however, we are happy to assist you with booking and coordination if needed.
What I (guide) will have with me:
- Recording stuff Roland R-05/Microphone SENNHEISER ME66/K6.
- Two iPods- speakers.
- A Swarovski ATX 80 scope 20-60 zoom
- Green laser pointer
- Owling light.
- GPS.
- Personal Swarovski Binoculars.
- I will be carrying the new field guide Birds of Peru this can be found on www.amazon.com.
