Iquitos The Ultimate Amazonian Birding
An Amazon birding tour in Iquitos offers a unique and diverse experience. The Amazon River acts as a natural boundary, dividing species like the Black-chinned Antbird (Hypocnemoides melanopogon) on the north bank and the Spot-winged Antbird (Hylophylax punctulatus) on the south. Island formations, including young and old islands, host specialized birds like the Allpahuayo Antwren (Myrmotherula oreni*). The nutrient-poor White Sand Forests are home to unique species such as the Black-tailed Antbird (Myrmoborus melanurus) and the Short-tailed Pygmy Tyrant (Myiornis ecaudatus). With these habitats concentrated near Iquitos, our tour explores lodges on both riverbanks and the White Sand Forests, providing an unparalleled birdwatching adventure.
Iquitos The Ultimate Amazonian Birding
An Amazon birding tour in Iquitos offers a unique and diverse experience. The Amazon River acts as a natural boundary, dividing species like the Black-chinned Antbird (Hypocnemoides melanopogon) on the north bank and the Spot-winged Antbird (Hylophylax punctulatus) on the south. Island formations, including young and old islands, host specialized birds like the Allpahuayo Antwren (Myrmotherula oreni*). The nutrient-poor White Sand Forests are home to unique species such as the Black-tailed Antbird (Myrmoborus melanurus) and the Short-tailed Pygmy Tyrant (Myiornis ecaudatus). With these habitats concentrated near Iquitos, our tour explores lodges on both riverbanks and the White Sand Forests, providing an unparalleled birdwatching adventure.
Day 1: Arrival at Apayacu Lodge
After breakfast in Iquitos, we embark on a 4–5 hour journey along the mighty Amazon River to Apayacu River Lodge, located in the Ampiyacu Apayacu Regional Conservation Area. This 434,130-hectare protected region features diverse lowland forests north of the Amazon River. Upon arrival, we explore the lodge’s trail system, spotting species like Yellow-billed and Large-billed Terns, Green, Ringed, and Amazon Kingfishers, and swallows such as White-winged, White-banded, and Southern Rough-winged. Seasonal visitors like Purple Martins may also appear. We’ll search for rare species like the Bay Hornero, Pale-billed Hornero, and Pearly-breasted Conebill, alongside common birds.
Overnight: Apayacu River Lodge (L:D)
Day 2–3: Exploring Apayacu Lodge
Two full days are dedicated to birding in this rich habitat. Key targets include Gray-winged Trumpeter, Salvin’s Curassow, Black-headed Antbird, Reddish-winged Bare-eye, Rusty-breasted Nunlet, and Variegated Antpitta. Night birding may yield Nocturnal Curassow, Short-tailed Nighthawk, and owls like Crested, Spectacled, and Mottled. Other highlights include Marbled Wood-Quail, Tiny Hawk, and with luck, Harpy Eagle. Over 200 species are possible, from hummingbirds like Fiery Topaz to trogons, puffbirds, and antbirds.
Overnight: Apayacu River Lodge (B:L:D)
Day 4: Transfer to Otorongo Lodge
After a final morning at Apayacu, we journey back toward Iquitos, arriving at Otorongo Lodge by evening. En route, we’ll scan for widespread species and target the Long-tailed Potoo during night birding.
Overnight: Otorongo Lodge (B:L:D)
Day 5: Otorongo to Iquitos
A morning birding session focuses on localized species like Orange-eyed Flycatcher and Black-headed Antbird. After exploring understory and canopy flocks, we return to Iquitos by boat.
Overnight: Iquitos (B:L:D)
Day 6: Allpahuayo-Mishana Reserve to Tahuayo Lodge
We visit the Allpahuayo-Mishana Reserve, renowned for its white sand forest specialties like Allpahuayo Antbird, Zimmer’s Antbird, and Iquitos Gnatcatcher. Other targets include Gray-legged Tinamou, Black-faced Hawk, and Brown-banded Puffbird. In the afternoon, we travel by boat to Tahuayo Lodge.
Overnight: Tahuayo Lodge (B:L:D)
Day 7–8: Tahuayo Lodge Exploration
Two days are spent birding around Tahuayo Lodge. Key targets include Red-headed and Orange-crowned Manakins, Amazonian Black-Tyrant, and the rare Red-winged Wood-rail. Antbirds like Dot-backed Antbird and Saturnine Antshrike are also highlights. Boat birding may yield Varzea Schiffornis and Band-tailed Antbird.
Overnight: Tahuayo Lodge (B:L:D)
Day 9: Transfer to Muyuna Lodge
Morning birding at Tahuayo focuses on Black-tailed Antbird and Varzea Thrush. In the afternoon, we travel to Muyuna Lodge, scanning for Yellow-hooded Blackbird and Sungrebe en route. A night boat trip may produce Great and Common Potoos.
Overnight: Muyuna Lodge (B:L:D)
Day 10–11: Muyuna Lodge Adventures
Two full days at Muyuna Lodge include searching for the endangered Wattled Curassow and Rufous-necked Puffbird. Other targets include Rufous-capped Nunlet, Festive Parrot, and Horned Screamer. River island specialties like Pale-billed Hornero and Pearly-breasted Conebill are also highlights.
Overnight: Muyuna Lodge (B:L:D)
Day 12: Return to Iquitos
A final morning at Muyuna targets missing species like Scarlet-crowned Barbet and Wire-tailed Manakin. Afternoon boat travel takes us back to Iquitos, with a stop at the Nanay River for Black-crested Antshrike and Band-tailed Nighthawk.
Overnight: Iquitos (B:L:D)
Day 13: Allpahuayo-Mishana Reserve Revisited
We return to Allpahuayo-Mishana to search for canopy flocks featuring Iquitos Gnatcatcher, Ancient Antwren, and Pompadour Cotinga. Other possibilities include Paradise Jacamar and Brown Nunlet.
Overnight: Iquitos (B:L:D)
Day 14: Departure
A final morning at Allpahuayo-Mishana targets any remaining specialties. In the afternoon, we catch flights back to Lima.
(B)
- For domestic flights, the baggage allowance is 23 kg (50.7 lbs) for checked luggage and 8 kg (17.6 lbs) for hand luggage. Any additional weight will incur extra costs, which are the responsibility of the traveler.
Pack lightweight, comfortable clothing suitable for fieldwork, such as breathable pants and shirts.
Include a light jacket for cooler areas, but avoid heavy winter coats. If you tend to feel cold easily, consider adding a warm hat or lightweight gloves.
Camouflage clothing is acceptable, but please avoid military-style patterns.
- Laundry facilities are available at Abra Patricia and Moyobamba, allowing you to pack lighter and refresh your clothing during the trip.
Sun protection: Bring sunblock and a hat or cap to shield yourself from the sun.
Insect protection: Mosquito or insect repellent is a must for comfort in the field.
Rain gear: An umbrella and a rain poncho will keep you dry during unexpected showers.
Footwear: Rubber boots (gumboots) are essential, especially for the Plataforma area. Shower thongs or rubber flip-flops are also useful for convenience.
A small flashlight is recommended for owling activities. Your guide will provide a strong owling light, but a personal flashlight can be handy.
A fleece or light jacket is sufficient for high-elevation areas. Layering is key to adapting to varying weather conditions.
Recommendation:
- Binoculars.
- Camera (Optional).
- Extra Batteries (if you have a camara).
- Telescope (Optional).
General:
Birding will primarily take place on forested roads and trails, with a medium to moderate difficulty level. Comfortable walking shoes and a steady pace will ensure you make the most of the experience.
Elevations will range between 0 to 300 meters, making the terrain accessible for most participants.
- Expect warm to hot weather throughout the tour. Lightweight, breathable clothing is recommended for comfort. No specialized clothing is required, but dressing in layers can help you adapt to changing conditions.
All lodges are equipped with 220-volt electricity, and sockets are available in every room.
Please note that in remote locations like Apayacu and Muyuna Lodge, power is supplied by generators and is typically available from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM.
We strongly recommend bringing extra batteries for your devices, as power outages can occasionally occur in these areas.
Medical and Health Information:
Altitude Tips: Preparation for Your Birding Adventure in Peru
If you plan to visit other regions of Peru, it’s important to understand how altitude may affect you. Here’s a compact list of tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience:
Altitude Effects:
- Reactions vary: some may feel no effects, while others may experience shortness of breath, nausea, headaches, or fatigue.
- Symptoms usually subside within 2–3 days as your body acclimatizes by producing more red blood cells.
Acclimatization Tips:
- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol and caffeine.
- Avoid overeating on your first day at high altitude.
- Consider altitude sickness medication (consult your doctor). For headaches, use acetaminophen (Tylenol), ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), or naproxen (Aleve).
Our Tour and Altitude:
- We cover a range of altitudes, allowing for gradual acclimatization.
- The pace will be relaxed, prioritizing your safety and well-being.
Safety Measures:
- As your guide, I will frequently check on your condition.
- If you feel unwell, our driver will quickly take you to a lower altitude.
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:
- Enjoy comfortable and exclusive ground and river transportation throughout the tour, ensuring smooth transitions between destinations.
- All lodging is included, from your arrival in Iquitos to your departure, providing a comfortable retreat after each day’s exploration.
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.
- A specialized bird guide will accompany you, offering expert insights and enhancing your birding experience.
- Each participant will receive a bird checklist to track sightings and enrich your birding journey.
- All entrance fees to birding spots are included, ensuring seamless access to the best locations.
- Convenient transfers within Iquitos are provided for your comfort and ease.
- This is a fully inclusive private tour, designed to offer a personalized and comprehensive experience.
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.
- Domestic flights: Lima to Iquitos, Iquitos to Lima, but we can assist you.
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.
