Lima, the capital of Peru, is the main gateway to the country, and most visitors spend at least one night here, offering a great opportunity to explore its attractions. Known as the «City of Kings,» Lima boasts well-preserved 17th-century colonial architecture, museums showcasing Pre-Columbian art and history, and vibrant cultural sites. Beyond its historical charm, the city also offers excellent eco-tourism experiences, including Palomino Island, home to diverse marine wildlife, Lomas de Lachay, a lush desert oasis perfect for birdwatching, and Pucusana, a scenic coastal fishing village. These destinations can easily be combined with any of our customized tours for a well-rounded travel experience.
Day 1: Arrival in Lima – International Flight
Most of our guests arrive in the evening at Jorge Chávez International Airport, where our staff will be waiting to greet you and provide a private transfer to your hotel in Miraflores, one of Lima’s most vibrant and picturesque districts.
Overnight: Lima
Day 2: Lima City Tour
Start your day with a relaxing breakfast, followed by a free morning to explore Miraflores at your own pace. After lunch, enjoy a guided tour of Lima, the «City of Kings.» Discover historical landmarks, colonial and Inca-influenced architecture, residential neighborhoods, stunning shrines and churches, and panoramic ocean views along the Pacific coast.
Overight: Lima (B: L: D)
Day 3: Pucusana – Puerto Viejo – Paracas
We begin the day with a journey south towards Puerto Viejo and Pucusana, two excellent birding destinations. Here, we will spot key coastal species such as Peruvian Thick-knee, Coastal Miner, Surf Cinclodes, Blackish Oystercatcher, Inca Tern, Humboldt Penguin, and Red-legged Cormorant. A boat excursion provides optimal photography opportunities, and with luck, we may even encounter the elusive Peruvian Martin. Later in the day, we return to Lima.
Overnight: Lima (B: L: D)
Day 4: Palomino Islands – Real Felipe Fortress
After breakfast, we head to Callao for an unforgettable boat tour to the Palomino Islands, home to immense seabird colonies, including Peruvian Boobies, Guanay Cormorants, Red-legged Cormorants, and Peruvian Pelicans. You’ll also have the rare opportunity to swim alongside sea lions in their natural habitat.
After our marine adventure, we return to the coast for a delicious seafood lunch before visiting the historic Real Felipe Fortress, an impressive military structure from the colonial era.
For passionate birders, we offer an optional pelagic tour (5–7 hours) via speedboat to explore offshore species. Contact us for details.
Overnight: Lima (B: L: D)
Day 5: Lomas de Lachay – Coastal Wetlands
Today, we journey north to Lomas de Lachay, a unique coastal fog oasis that provides a habitat for endemic and rare species, including Coastal Miner, Cactus Canastero, Raimondi’s Yellow-Finch, Thick-billed Miner, Andean Tinamou, and Least Seedsnipe.
Later in the afternoon, we explore coastal marshes to observe Peruvian Tern, Gray-hooded Gull, Many-colored Rush Tyrant, and Wren-like Rushbird before returning to Lima.
Overnight: Lima (B: L: D)
Day 6: Larco Museum & Gold Museum – Cultural Experience
Begin the day with a visit to the renowned Larco Museum, one of the few museums in the world that opens its vaults to the public, showcasing over 45,000 classified archaeological artifacts. Housed in a 17th-century colonial mansion built atop an 8th-century pyramid, this museum boasts the largest private collection of Pre-Columbian Peruvian art, including the famous Erotic Art Gallery and an exquisite collection of ancient gold and silver treasures.
In contrast, the Gold Museum focuses on metalwork, jewelry, and weaponry of incalculable historical value, displaying priceless gold and silver artifacts used by the Incas, the «Children of the Sun.» Additionally, this museum houses a world-class arms collection, featuring armor, uniforms, and weapons from various civilizations, dating as far back as 1300 B.C.
After the tour, we will transfer you back to your hotel. If you’re interested in additional customized excursions, feel free to contact us, and we will tailor a tour to suit your schedule and interests.
Overnight: Lima (B: L)
- Luggage: This tour does not include domestic flights, but if you plan to take one afterward, the standard baggage allowance is 23 kg (50.7 lbs.) for checked luggage and 8 kg (17.6 lbs.) for carry-on baggage. Extra baggage costs are at your own expense.
- Lightweight, comfortable attire (field pants and breathable shirts).
- Jacket or fleece for cooler areas—no heavy winter coats needed.
- Gloves and a warm hat if you get cold easily.
- Rain poncho and umbrella (especially for rainforest visits).
- Camouflaged clothing is fine, but avoid military-style outfits.
Recommended Gear:
- Camera.
- Binoculars (essential for birdwatching).
- Extra batteries.
- Telescope (optional).
General:
- ites & Activities: The tour includes visits to protected archaeological sites, private museums, and birdwatching locations along forested roads and easy trails—ideal for all experience levels.
- Altitude & Climate: We will be traveling at sea level, experiencing varied weather conditions, but no special clothing is required.
- 220V power outlets available in all rooms.
- WiFi service is provided at your hotel.
- Bring extra batteries (one may not last a full day).
- An additional memory card is recommended—remember to back up your photos daily.
Medical and Health Information:
Lima is at sea level, so there is no risk of altitude sickness upon arrival.
The highest elevation during the tour is 500 meters, allowing for gradual acclimatization.
Symptoms of mild altitude adjustment may include shortness of breath, nausea, headaches, or fatigue. These typically subside as the body adapts by producing more red blood cells.
Stay well-hydrated (drink plenty of water).
Avoid alcohol and caffeine, as they can contribute to dehydration.
Drink Coca Tea, a natural remedy widely used for altitude adaptation.
Avoid overeating on the first day to help with digestion.
Your well-being is our priority—we will conduct frequent check-ins to ensure everyone is feeling well.
If necessary, we can quickly arrange a visit to a local hospital or pharmacy for medical attention.
Altitude sickness medication is available—consult your doctor before traveling.
- For headaches, you may take acetaminophen (Tylenol), ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), or naproxen (Aleve).
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 throughout the entire trip.
Accommodation for the duration of the tour (Lima/Lima). - All meals (breakfast, lunch, picnic or box lunch depending on the location, dinner, snacks, and unlimited water).
- Expert birding guide specialized in local avifauna.
- Entrance fees to all archaeological sites and birdwatching locations.
- Boat trips in Pucusana and Callao, offering unique coastal wildlife experiences.
- Transfers in Lima, ensuring seamless travel logistics.
- Comprehensive full-board service in a private tour setting.
Not included:
- Laundry services.
- Phone calls.
- Medical expenses or hospitalization.
- Excess baggage fees.
- Travel insurance.
- Personal expenses or any items not explicitly mentioned in the inclusions.
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.
