Dry West Andean Slope - High Puna 5 Days
This short yet rewarding birding tour explores the dry western slopes of the Andes and the high-altitude puna, home to a diverse array of endemic bird species with highly restricted habitats. The Santa Eulalia Valley, easily accessible within a short travel time, offers an impressive variety of habitats, making it an excellent birding destination. Among the highlight species, you may spot the Humboldt Penguin, Great Inca-Finch, White-cheeked Cotinga, Diademed Sandpiper-Plover, and the critically endangered Junín Grebe. With breathtaking landscapes and exceptional wildlife, this tour provides a unique opportunity to experience rare and iconic bird species in a condensed yet fulfilling itinerary.
Dry West Andean Slope - High Puna 5 Days
This short yet rewarding birding tour explores the dry western slopes of the Andes and the high-altitude puna, home to a diverse array of endemic bird species with highly restricted habitats. The Santa Eulalia Valley, easily accessible within a short travel time, offers an impressive variety of habitats, making it an excellent birding destination. Among the highlight species, you may spot the Humboldt Penguin, Great Inca-Finch, White-cheeked Cotinga, Diademed Sandpiper-Plover, and the critically endangered Junín Grebe. With breathtaking landscapes and exceptional wildlife, this tour provides a unique opportunity to experience rare and iconic bird species in a condensed yet fulfilling itinerary.
Day 1: Coastal Birding Adventure
Our journey begins with an early departure to the south, heading directly to Lomas de Asia, a newly discovered birding hotspot. Here, we’ll search for three remarkable endemic species: the Thick-billed Miner, Raimondi’s Yellow-finch, and Cactus Canastero. Afterward, we’ll return to Pucusana and Pantanos de Villa, two exceptional sites where we aim to spot nearly all our target species. Among these are the Peruvian Thick-knee, Coastal Miner, Surf Cinclodes, Blackish Oystercatcher, Inca Tern, Humboldt Penguin, Red-legged Cormorant, Peruvian Booby, Peruvian Pelican, and the vibrant Many-colored Rush Tyrant, alongside a variety of other common species. In the afternoon, we’ll drive to Santa Eulalia, where we’ll spend the night.
Overnight: Santa Eulalia (L:D)
Day 2: Exploring the Santa Eulalia Valley
The breathtaking landscapes of the Santa Eulalia Valley set the stage for an unforgettable day of birding. Our primary focus will be on locating the elusive Rufous-breasted Warbling-Finch and Great Inca-Finch, two rare endemics. Along the way, we’re likely to encounter other Peruvian specialties, such as the Bronze-tailed Comet, Black Metaltail, Rusty-crowned Tit-Spinetail, Black-necked Woodpecker, and Rusty-bellied Brush-Finch. The valley is also home to more common but equally captivating species, including the Giant Hummingbird, White-capped Dipper, Torrent Duck, Andean Swift, Blue-and-Yellow Tanager, and the majestic Andean Condor, which may grace us with a flyby.
Overnight: Santa Eulalia (B:L:D).
Day 3: Milloc to Marcapomacocha – A High-Elevation Birding Extravaganza
Today promises to be one of the most thrilling birding days in Peru, despite the high elevation limiting the total species count. Nearly every bird we encounter is a specialty! We’ll begin by exploring a patch of Polylepis forest in search of the rare White-cheeked Cotinga, alongside other species like the Stripe-headed Antpitta and Striated Earthcreeper. As we ascend the Milloc Valley, we’ll target high-altitude species such as the Black-breasted Hillstar, Junin Canastero, and Black-fronted Ground-Tyrant. In the afternoon, we’ll visit the renowned Marcapomacocha area, where we hope to spot the enigmatic Diademed Sandpiper-Plover, the striking White-bellied Cinclodes, and the unique Olivaceous Thornbill. Other potential sightings include the Gray-breasted Seedsnipe, White-winged Diuca-Finch, and, with luck, rarities like the Puna Tinamou and Rufous-bellied Seedsnipe. After a rewarding day, we’ll drive to La Oroya for the night.
Overnight: La Oroya (B:L:D)
Day 4: Junin Lake – A Quest for Endemics
This morning, we’ll dedicate our efforts to locating the critically endangered Junin Grebe. Depending on conditions, we may take a small motorboat into the deeper parts of Lake Junin for optimal viewing. Our second key target is the recently described Junin Rail, a species confined to a small area of marshland around the lake. Lake Junin is also home to a wealth of other fascinating birds, including the Puna Plover, Andean Avocet (seasonal), Plumbeous Rail, Silvery Grebe, and Chilean Flamingo. In the afternoon, we’ll return to Lima, with a possible final stop to search for the Rufous-bellied Seedsnipe or other lower-elevation species like the Black Metaltail and Rusty-crowned Spinetail.
Overnight: Lima (B:L:D)
Day 5: Pelagic Birding Expedition (Optional)
On our final day, we’ll embark on an unforgettable pelagic birding trip. After an early pickup from your hotel, we’ll head to the ocean, where we’ll use a technique called chumming—a mixture of fish entrails, oil, and popcorn—to attract seabirds. This method often results in a spectacular gathering of species, including Peruvian Diving-Petrel, Sooty Shearwater, Cape Petrel, Markham’s Storm-Petrel, Waved Albatross, and South Polar Skua, among others. The experience of being surrounded by these magnificent seabirds is truly unparalleled. After the trip, we’ll return you to your hotel for a well-deserved rest.
Note: This day is entirely optional.
Packing Essentials for Your Birding Tour
- To ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience during your birding adventure, we’ve prepared a detailed packing guide. Please note that this tour does not include domestic flights, but for your reference, domestic flights in Peru typically allow 23 kg (50.7 lbs) for checked luggage and 8 kg (17.6 lbs) for hand luggage. Any additional baggage fees will be your responsibility.
Clothing Recommendations
- Lightweight and Comfortable Clothing: Pack standard field pants and shirts suitable for outdoor activities. Layering is key, as temperatures can vary significantly.
- Warm Layers: Bring a fleece or insulated jacket, gloves, and a warm hat for colder locations like Marcapomacochas and Junin.
- Rain Gear: An umbrella and a lightweight rain poncho are essential for unexpected showers.
- Footwear:
- Rubber boots or waterproof shoes are highly recommended, especially for wet areas like Marcapomacochas.
- Shower thongs or rubber flip-flops are useful for convenience and comfort.
- Sun Protection: Don’t forget a sunblock (SPF 30 or higher) and a hat or cap to protect yourself from the sun.
Additional Items
- Flashlight: A small flashlight or headlamp is recommended for owling activities. (Your guide will provide a strong owling light, but having your own is helpful.)
- Camouflage Clothing: While camouflaged clothing is acceptable, please avoid military-style patterns to prevent any misunderstandings.
Weather Considerations
This tour will take you through a variety of climates and elevations, so be prepared for all types of weather. If you tend to feel cold easily, consider packing extra layers, such as a warm hat or lightweight gloves.
Recommendation:
- Binoculars.
- Extra Batteries.
- Camera (Optional).
- Telescope (Optional).
General:
- Birding will primarily take place on forested roads and trails with easy to moderate difficulty.
- Suitable for participants of all experience levels.
- We will travel across elevations ranging from 0 to 4,700 meters above sea level (15,419 feet), with most time spent between 2,500 and 4,000 meters.
- Expect a variety of weather conditions, from warm lowlands to cooler high-altitude areas.
- We recommend dressing in layers for maximum comfort.
- All accommodations are equipped with electric power and 220-volt sockets in the rooms.
- It’s essential to bring extra batteries for cameras, binoculars, and other devices, as power access may be limited during outdoor activities.
- Pack comfortable clothing suitable for varying climates.
- Don’t forget sunscreen, a hat, and rain gear (umbrella or poncho).
- Sturdy footwear and rubber boots for wet areas.
Medical and Health Information:
- Altitude Considerations: Upon arrival in Lima, you will be at sea level, and we will gradually ascend into the Andes. The highest point during the tour is 4,700 meters, which may cause mild to moderate altitude-related symptoms for some individuals. However, everyone’s response to altitude varies.
- Possible Effects: Some participants may feel no effects, while others might experience mild symptoms such as shortness of breath, nausea, headaches, or fatigue during the first few days. These symptoms typically improve as the body acclimatizes by producing more red blood cells to enhance oxygen circulation.
- Hydration and Precautions: Staying well-hydrated is essential, as increased red blood cell production can thicken the blood. Drink plenty of water while avoiding alcohol and caffeine, which can worsen dehydration. Additionally, it is advisable to eat lightly on the first day to aid acclimatization.
- Acclimatization Plan: Our birding itinerary is designed to gradually increase altitude, allowing for natural acclimatization. By the time we reach the highest elevations, such as the Puna region, your body should be well-adjusted. We will take a slow-paced, enjoyable approach to birding to ensure comfort and well-being.
- Safety Measures: Your health and safety are our top priorities. Regular check-ins will be conducted to monitor how everyone is feeling. If any participant experiences significant discomfort, our driver will be on standby to quickly transport them to a lower altitude if necessary. We also carry oxygen for emergencies. Altitude Sickness Medication: If you are concerned about altitude sickness, consult your doctor regarding preventive medications. For mild headaches, over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen (Tylenol), ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), or naproxen (Aleve) can help alleviate symptoms.
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: Enjoy the convenience and comfort of private transport throughout the entire tour.
Boat Excursion: A dedicated boat trip on Junin Lake for optimal birding opportunities.
Accommodations: All lodging is included from Lima to Lima, ensuring a seamless and comfortable experience.
Three meals per day: Breakfast, lunch (picnic or box lunch, depending on the location), and dinner.
Snacks and water are available at all times to keep you energized and hydrated.
Expert Bird Guide: A specialist bird guide will accompany you, enhancing your birding experience with expert knowledge and insights.
Bird Checklist: Each participant will receive a personalized bird checklist to track sightings and enrich your birding journey.
Entrance Fees: All entrance fees to birding spots and reserves are included.
Lima Transfers: Hassle-free transfers in Lima for arrivals and departures.
Full Board Private Tour: Essentially a full-board private tour, designed for your comfort and convenience.
Oxygen Support: An oxygen bottle is available for emergencies, ensuring your safety and well-being at high altitudes.
Not included:
- Laundry services, phone calls, medical expenses, hospitalization, or any other personal health-related costs.
- Excess baggage fees beyond the airline’s standard allowance.
- Travel insurance or any other personal coverage.
- Additional personal expenses not specified in the itinerary.
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.
Should this itinerary not fully align with your preferences
Dates don’t work for you?
Prefer a shorter or longer trip?
Looking for a specific destination or species?
Inclusion of places you’d rather not visit again, or if it doesn’t feature a destination or species you’re particularly interested in,
No worries! We want your experience to be perfect for you. Let us know what adjustments you need, and we’ll design a 100% tailor-made itinerary just for you.
