Manu Andes & Foothills - 10 days
Manu is the ultimate birdwatching destination in the Andes and Amazon. Its greatest advantage is an accessible road that descends from the Andean treeline through pristine cloud forests to the lowland rainforest. At the end of this route, comfortable lodges allow you to enjoy an unparalleled level of biodiversity. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced birder, Manu offers unique opportunities for bird photography and wildlife observation in a breathtaking natural setting. This tour can also be combined with cultural visits to Machu Picchu, the Sacred Valley, or Cusco, as well as specialized birding extensions to Abra Málaga, Mollepata, the Central Andes, or Vilcabamba for endemic species. Contact us to design a custom experience for you.
Manu Andes & Foothills - 10 days
Manu is the ultimate birdwatching destination in the Andes and Amazon. Its greatest advantage is an accessible road that descends from the Andean treeline through pristine cloud forests to the lowland rainforest. At the end of this route, comfortable lodges allow you to enjoy an unparalleled level of biodiversity. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced birder, Manu offers unique opportunities for bird photography and wildlife observation in a breathtaking natural setting. This tour can also be combined with cultural visits to Machu Picchu, the Sacred Valley, or Cusco, as well as specialized birding extensions to Abra Málaga, Mollepata, the Central Andes, or Vilcabamba for endemic species. Contact us to design a custom experience for you.
Day 1: Through the Dry Andes to Manu
Our journey begins with a morning of birdwatching at Huacarpay Lake, where we will observe wetland species such as the Many-colored Rush-Tyrant and Plumbeous Rail. In the surrounding scrub, we will search for specialties like the Rusty-fronted Canastero and Streak-fronted Thornbird. As we traverse the dry Andean landscape towards Manu, we aim to spot three endemic species: the Chestnut-breasted Mountain-Finch, Bearded Mountaineer, and Creamy-crested Spinetail.
In the afternoon, we enter the humid montane forest, targeting high-altitude specialties like the Golden-collared Tanager, Moustached Flowerpiercer, and, with some luck, the elusive Scribble-tailed Canastero. As the day draws to a close, we have our first opportunity to encounter the enigmatic and endemic Red-and-white Antpitta. Our night will be spent in the montane forest, where we may spot nocturnal birds such as the Yungas Pygmy-Owl, Rufous-banded Owl, and Swallow-tailed Nightjar.
Overnight: Wayquecha Lodge (B: L: D)
Day 2: Middle Manu Road
We start the day at Wayqecha, searching for high-elevation species including the Grey-breasted Mountain-Toucan, Puna Thistletail, and Marcapata Spinetail. As we descend along the Manu Road, we explore highly productive birding areas with endless possibilities: from Blue-banded Toucanet and Handsome Flycatcher to rarities like the Greater Scythebill and Andean Potoo.
Mixed flocks may bring encounters with tanagers, Versicolored Barbet, Striped Treehunter, Inca Flycatcher, and the elusive Band-tailed Fruiteater. We will also be on the lookout for challenging species such as the Hazel-fronted Pygmy-Tyrant, Unadorned Flycatcher, and White-throated Antpitta.
In the evening, we settle into a lower elevation (1,400m / 4,593ft), in an ideal habitat for the Andean Cock-of-the-rock.
Overnight: Cock-of-the-Rock Lodge (B: L: D)
Days 3–4: Manu Cloud Forest
We dedicate two full days to exploring the lush cloud forests surrounding Cock-of-the-Rock Lodge, a true paradise for tanager enthusiasts. Depending on our birding targets, we will cover elevations ranging from 1,000m to 2,400m (3,280–7,874ft). Mixed flocks may yield sightings of Golden-eared, Golden-naped, Black-goggled, Orange-eared, and Paradise Tanagers, among many others.
Additional highlights include the Crested and Golden-headed Quetzal, Andean and White-eared Solitaires, Amazonian Umbrellabird, and, with great luck, the Black-streaked Puffbird. The lodge gardens attract Many-spotted Hummingbird, Booted Racket-tail, and, occasionally, the rare Buff-tailed Sicklebill.
A trail system behind the lodge provides opportunities to spot Chestnut-breasted Wren, Scaled Antpitta, and the rare Cerulean-capped Manakin. Night birding may reveal the Lyre-tailed Nightjar, Band-bellied Owl, or Rufescent Screech-Owl.
Overnight: Cock-of-the-Rock Lodge (B: L: D)
Day 5: Lower Manu Road – Villa Carmen
Descending further along the Manu Road, we seek elusive endemics such as the Black-backed Tody-Flycatcher, Peruvian Piedtail, and the enigmatic «Bamboo Tanager.» Additional species to watch for include the Lanceolated Monklet, Two-banded Warbler, Chestnut-backed Antshrike, and Golden-collared Honeycreeper.
At midday, we transition to the open country before reaching Villa Carmen, a biological station at 500m (1,640ft) offering a unique bamboo forest ecosystem. This habitat is home to specialist species that make birdwatching here particularly rewarding. In the evening, we embark on a night birding excursion in search of Spectacled, Black-banded, and Striped Owls.
Overnight: Villa Carmen Lodge (B: L: D)
Days 6–7: Bamboo Forest Exploration
For two full days, we immerse ourselves in the bamboo forests surrounding Villa Carmen, targeting species such as the White-cheeked Tody-Flycatcher, Manu Antbird, and the elusive Rufous-headed Woodpecker. Beyond bamboo, we may encounter Amazonian Antpitta, Striolated Puffbird, and the rare Scarlet-hooded Barbet. This region is also a prime location for observing macaws and various mammal species.
Nocturnal birding may yield sightings of Tawny-bellied Screech-Owl and Fine-barred Piculet.
Overnight: Villa Carmen Lodge (B: L: D)
Day 8: Amazonia Lodge – Machu Wasi Oxbow Lake
A short boat ride takes us to Amazonia Lodge, where the gardens attract hummingbirds such as the Rufous-crested Coquette, Gould’s Jewelfront, and the endemic Koepcke’s Hermit. Exploring the nearby forest, we seek Hoatzin, Black-capped Tinamou, and Spot-backed Antbird. In the evening, we may observe Tawny-bellied Screech-Owl or, with luck, the elusive Black-banded Owl.
Overnight: Amazonia Lodge (B: L: D)
Day 9: Lowland Forest – Return to the Andes
We dedicate the morning to exploring the lowland forests, where our targets include Amazonian Antpitta, Scarlet-hooded Barbet, and the secretive Razor-billed Curassow. After lunch, we begin our ascent back to the Andean highlands, stopping for birding along the way.
Overnight: Cock-of-the-Rock Lodge (B: L: D)
Day 10: Return to Cusco
On our final day, we embark on the scenic 5–6 hour journey back to Cusco, making strategic stops to search for any remaining target species.
Our birding adventure concludes upon arrival in Cusco, with optional drop-off at your hotel or the airport for onward travel. Extensions to other birding hotspots, such as Abra Málaga or the Sacred Valley, can be arranged upon request.
End of Tour (B: L)
- Domestic Flights & Luggage: While no domestic flights are included in this tour, you will need one to reach Cusco. Please pack light, as domestic airlines allow 23 kg (50.7 lbs.) for checked luggage and 8 kg (17.6 lbs.) for carry-on baggage. Any additional baggage fees will be at your own expense.
- Clothing Recommendations: We recommend lightweight, comfortable clothing suitable for field activities, such as standard field pants and shirts. A light jacket will be sufficient for cooler locations.
- Laundry Services: Available at Cock-of-the-Rock Lodge and Villa Carmen Lodge.
- Sun Protection: Bring sunscreen, a hat or cap for sun protection.
- Insect Protection: A mosquito or insect repellent is essential.
- Rain Gear: Pack a compact umbrella and a rain poncho to stay dry during sudden downpours.
- Rubber boots (gumboots) are highly recommended for exploring the Amazonian Tropical Rainforest.
- Shower thongs or rubber flip-flops will be useful for lodge stays.
- Lighting: A small flashlight for nighttime birding (owling) is recommended. The guide will provide a strong owling light.
- Cold Weather Clothing: While no special cold-weather gear is required, temperatures vary across different elevations. A fleece or light jacket should be sufficient. If you are sensitive to cold, consider bringing a warm hat, lightweight gloves, or an insulated jacket for higher-altitude locations.
- Clothing Colors: Camouflage clothing is acceptable, but please avoid wearing military-style attire.
Recommendation:
- Binoculars.
- Extra Batteries.
- Camera (Optional).
- Telescope (Optional).
General:
- Terrain & Difficulty: Birdwatching will take place primarily along forested roads and some trails, with an easy to moderate difficulty level.
- Elevation Range: We will be traveling through elevations ranging from 3,400 meters to 450 meters above sea level (11,154 – 1,476 feet), with most of our time spent between 2,900 and 400 meters.
- Weather Conditions: Expect a variety of weather conditions, but no special clothing is required. Please refer to the packing list for general recommendations.
- Electricity will be available at all destinations, with 220V power outlets in all rooms.
- However, in remote locations such as Cock-of-the-Rock Lodge on Manu Road, power is sometimes supplied via a generator operating between 6:00 PM and 9:00 PM.
- We recommend bringing extra batteries and power banks, as electricity outages can occasionally occur in these areas.
Medical and Health Information:
- The highest point during the tour is 3,500 meters (11,483 feet), with most birding along roadsides requiring minimal physical effort.
- We will gradually ascend from Cusco into the Andes, allowing for natural acclimatization.
- Altitude affects individuals differently; some may feel shortness of breath, mild nausea, headaches, or fatigue in the first two to three days.
- Symptoms improve as the body adjusts by producing more red blood cells.
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
- Avoid alcohol and caffeine, which contribute to dehydration.
- Eat lightly on the first day to ease acclimatization.
- We will monitor participants’ well-being, and our driver will be ready to transport anyone experiencing discomfort to a lower altitude.
- Consult your doctor for preventive medication if needed.
- Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen (Tylenol), ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), or naproxen (Aleve) can help with mild 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 journey.
- Accommodations for the full duration of the tour (Cusco to Cusco).
- All meals included: breakfast, lunch (picnic or boxed lunch depending on location), and dinner, along with snacks and unlimited drinking water.
- Expert birding guide specializing in regional avifauna.
- Personalized birding checklist for each participant.
- Private boat service for all activities in the Amazonian tropical rainforest.
- Entrance fees to all designated birding sites.
- All transfers within Cusco.
- Exclusive private tour with full board service for a seamless and enriching birding 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.
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.
