Our Hummingbird Photography Tour is designed for birding and photography enthusiasts who want to capture the world’s smallest and fastest birds in stunning detail. Peru is home to 127 species of hummingbirds, making it a prime destination for observing and photographing these fascinating creatures. Hummingbirds visit an average of 1,000 flowers per day for nectar, and their radiant colors result from iridescent plumage, similar to the shimmering effect seen in soap bubbles or prisms. These birds are found exclusively in the Americas, making Peru a paradise for hummingbird lovers. Due to their rapid movements, getting a clear view or a perfect shot can be challenging, but our strategically placed hummingbird feeders provide excellent opportunities to photograph even the rarest species. This tour focuses on comfortable birding conditions with short walks and easy access to the best photography spots, ensuring a rewarding experience. If you have specific target species in mind, such as the Purple-backed Sunbeam, we can customize an itinerary to include them. Contact us for personalized options and explore our birding tour extensions for even more incredible sightings.
Day 1: Bosque Pomac – Salas
We begin our adventure with an early flight from Lima to Chiclayo, where our private ground transport will be waiting. From there, we drive to Bosque Pomac – Batan Grande, exploring the carob woodlands and deciduous dry habitats in search of Coastal hummingbirds such as Amazilia Hummingbird, Purple-collared Woodstar, Peruvian Sheartail, and Oasis Hummingbird. This region is also home to Tumbes specialties like the Peruvian Plantcutter, Rufous Flycatcher, and Tumbes Tyrant. Later, we continue to Olmos, where we may spot Short-tailed Woodstar and Tumbes Hummingbird, with a bit of luck.
Overnight in Olmos. (L, D)
Day 2: Abra Porculla – Jaén
Before reaching Abra Porculla, we spend time exploring the semi-deciduous dry habitats of the Pacific slope, searching for Tumbes Hummingbird and Short-tailed Woodstar, along with species such as Chapman’s Antshrike, Ecuadorian Piculet, Black-cowled Saltator, and Elegant Crescentchest. At Abra Porculla, we target species like Gray-chinned Hermit (porcullae race) and Spot-throated Hummingbird, with potential sightings of Green-tailed Trainbearer. After midday, we drive to Jaén.
Overnight in Jaén. (B, L, D)
Days 3-4: Huembo Ecolodge – Marvelous Spatuletail
This is a highlight of our journey as we visit Huembo Ecolodge, home to the spectacular Marvelous Spatuletail. En route, we make a quick stop for the endemic Little Inca-Finch. The lodge’s hummingbird feeders attract an excellent variety of species, including Chestnut-breasted Coronet, White-bellied Hummingbird, Andean Emerald, Bronzy Inca, Green and Sparkling Violetears, Little Woodstar, Collared Inca, Speckled Hummingbird, and occasionally, Purple-throated Sunangel and Violet-fronted Brilliant. Depending on the season, the Marvelous Spatuletail displays its incredible courtship dance, an unforgettable sight for photographers.
Overnight at Huembo Ecolodge. (B, L, D)
Day 5: Huembo – Abra Patricia
We spend the morning at Huembo, then head to Abra Patricia, where more hummingbird species await, including White-bellied Woodstar, Fawn-breasted Brilliant, Sword-billed Hummingbird, Collared Inca, Emerald-bellied Puffleg, Amethyst-throated Sunangel, Long-tailed Sylph, Tyrian Metaltail, Shining Sunbeam, and Sparkling Violetear. In the evening, we search for the elusive Long-whiskered Owlet.
Overnight at Owlet Lodge. (B, L, D)
Days 6-8: Abra Patricia – Fundo Alto Nieva
The east slope of the Andes is a haven for endemic species and hummingbirds. At lower elevations, we target Royal Sunangel, Greenish Puffleg, Violet-fronted Brilliant, Tawny-bellied Hermit, White-tailed Hillstar, Speckled Hummingbird, Wedge-billed Hummingbird, Booted Racket-tail, and Rufous-vented Whitetip. We have another opportunity for the Long-whiskered Owlet at night.
Overnight at Owlet Lodge. (B, L, D)
Day 9: Arena Blanca Reserve
Descending in elevation, we stop at a prime location for the near-endemic Ecuadorian Piedtail, alongside Green Hermit, Gray-chinned Hermit, Violet-fronted Brilliant, Fork-tailed Woodnymph, and more. At a private reserve, we encounter additional species such as Green-fronted and Blue-fronted Lancebills, Long-billed Starthroat, White-necked Jacobin, Amethyst Woodstar, Many-spotted Hummingbird, Golden-tailed Sapphire, Sapphire-spangled Emerald, Wire-crested Thorntail, Brown Violetear, Blue-tailed Emerald, Gray-breasted Sabrewing, and Reddish Hermit. Seasonally, the Napo Sabrewing and Black-throated Brilliant may also visit the feeders. Later, we drive to Moyobamba.
Overnight at Wakanki Lodge. (B, L, D)
Days 10-11: Wakanki Lodge – Hummingbird Paradise
We spend two days immersed in hummingbird photography, with highlights including Rufous-crested Coquette, Gould’s Jewelfront, Black-throated Mango, Violet-headed Hummingbird, Black-throated Hermit, White-bearded Hermit, and White-chinned Sapphire. Other possible sightings include the Peruvian endemic Black-bellied Tanager and Mishana Tyrannulet. Evening searches for owls are also possible.
Overnight at Wakanki Lodge. (B, L, D)
Days 12-13: Cordillera Escalera
A long drive takes us to the isolated Cordillera Escalera, home to foothill hummingbird species such as Koepcke’s Hermit (endemic), Black-throated Brilliant, Rufous-breasted Hermit, Pale-tailed Barbthroat, and, if lucky, the Pink-throated Brilliant. Another chance for Rufous-crested Coquette is possible. If time allows, we visit a Golden-headed Manakin lek.
Overnight in Tarapoto. (B, L, D)
Day 14: Return to the Mountains
Leaving the rainforest, we stop at an Oilbird colony cave, offering excellent photographic opportunities. We then return to Arena Blanca Reserve for any missing hummingbird species or additional photography sessions.
Overnight at Owlet Lodge. (B, L, D)
Days 15-16: Utcubamba Valley – Leymebamba
We drive through the Utcubamba Valley towards Leymebamba, stopping to photograph Koepcke’s Screech-Owl and Marañón Crescentchest. At higher elevations, we encounter hummingbird specialties like Purple-throated Sunangel, Little Woodstar, Rainbow Starfrontlet, Sword-billed Hummingbird, and Shining Sunbeam.
Overnight in Leymebamba. (B, L, D)
Day 17: Marañón Valley – Cajamarca
Crossing the Marañón Valley, we stop in humid montane forests to find the endemic Coppery Metaltail. If time allows, we also search for Yellow-faced Parrotlet, Buff-bridled and Gray-winged Inca-finches, and Chestnut-backed Thornbird. As we ascend the high Andes, we look for the Giant Hummingbird (the world’s largest), Black Metaltail, and Andean Hillstar.
Overnight in Cajamarca. (B, L, D)
Day 18: Gray-bellied Comet & End of Tour
Cajamarca hosts the critically endangered Gray-bellied Comet, which we will attempt to photograph at reliable stakeouts. Additional sightings may include Black Metaltail, Giant Hummingbird, and other endemic species such as Rusty-crowned Tit-Spinetail, Striated Earthcreeper, and Baron’s Spinetail. After completing our final hummingbird photography session, we return to Lima by flight, concluding our unforgettable Hummingbird Photography Tour.
(B, L)
To ensure a comfortable and hassle-free experience, please pack efficiently and avoid excessive luggage. For domestic flights, the baggage allowance is 23 kg (50.7 lbs.) for checked luggage and 8 kg (17.6 lbs.) for carry-on baggage. Any additional weight will incur extra charges at your own expense.
- Lightweight and comfortable clothing is recommended, such as standard field pants and breathable shirts for the entire trip.
- A warm jacket and gloves are essential for colder areas, especially in Abra Patricia, Leymebamba, and Cajamarca.
- A day backpack is highly recommended, as we will have some walking activities, and you’ll need to carry essential items.
- Sun protection: Bring sunscreen, a hat, or a cap to shield yourself from the sun.
Insect repellent is essential to protect against mosquitoes and other insects. - Rain protection: A compact umbrella and a rain poncho are advisable, as weather conditions can change unexpectedly, even with a favorable forecast.
- Camouflaged clothing is acceptable for blending into natural environments; however, military-style clothing should be avoided.
- A dry backpack is recommended, especially for river excursions.
- Shower sandals or rubber flip-flops will be useful for certain accommodations.
Recommend
- A camera with your preferred lenses (telephoto, macro, and/or wide-angle).
- A flash for low-light conditions.
- Extra batteries and memory cards to ensure you don’t miss any moments.
- A tripod for stability during long exposures or low-light photography.
- An LED continuous light lamp (optional).
- A remote flash trigger (optional).
- Binoculars (optional) for enhanced wildlife observation.
General:
- During this tour, we will visit protected national parks and privately protected areas, primarily exploring forested roads and easy-level trails. The difficulty level is very accessible, making it suitable for all participants.
- Our journey will take us through varying altitudes, ranging from sea level to 3,000 meters above sea level (0 – 9,842 feet), with most of our time spent between 500 and 2,500 meters (1,640 – 8,202 feet).
- Expect diverse weather conditions throughout the trip; however, no special clothing is required.
- Electricity is available 24/7 at all our destinations. Each room is equipped with 220V power sockets.
- Wi-Fi service is available throughout the tour.
- Extra camera batteries and memory cards are highly recommended, as a single battery may not last an entire day. Please remember to download your photos daily to free up storage space.
Medical and Health Information:
Arriving in Chiclayo is not an issue, as it is at sea level. Our photography tour is designed to be relaxing, with minimal physical effort—mostly comfortable drives and short walks.
Adjusting to higher altitudes varies by individual:
- Some experience no effects, while others may feel shortness of breath, nausea, headaches, or fatigue.
- Your body will naturally acclimate by producing more red blood cells, but it’s essential to stay hydrated and avoid overexertion, as thicker blood can increase discomfort.
- Coca tea is highly beneficial for altitude adjustment.
Tips for a Smooth Adjustment
- Drink plenty of water, avoiding alcohol and caffeine, as dehydration worsens symptoms.
- Eat lightly on the first day to reduce discomfort.
- Your well-being is our priority—we will frequently check in to ensure everyone feels well.
If needed, we can visit a local clinic or consult a pharmacy for medication after a doctor’s evaluation. Over-the-counter options like acetaminophen (Tylenol), ibuprofen (Advil), or naproxen (Aleve) can help relieve headaches.
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 tour.
- Accommodation for the entire trip (Chiclayo & Cajamarca).
- Three daily meals: breakfast, lunch (picnic or box lunch depending on location), and dinner, plus snacks and unlimited water.
- Expert guide & professional photo assistance.
- Access to prime birdwatching locations.
- Transfers in Chiclayo and Cajamarca.
- Full board private tour experience.
- Oxygen bottle for altitude support.
Not included:
- Laundry services, phone calls, medical expenses, hospitalization.
- Excess baggage fees, travel insurance, or any personal expenses.
What I (guide) will have with me
- Camara.
- Tripod.
- 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.
