Northern Peru Enigmatic Missing Species – 10 Days
This tour is designed for birdwatchers with limited travel time who still wish to see the Scarlet-Banded Barbet. Previously difficult to access, Cordillera Azul National Park is now a prime location near Tarapoto to observe this Peruvian endemic species. It also offers a second chance to spot birds missed on previous trips. Our goal is to find all endemic and regional species with great viewing and photography opportunities. Tours are fully customizable—let us know your preferences, skip visited locations, and join only the parts that interest you. Your birdwatching experience is our priority.
Northern Peru Enigmatic Missing Species – 10 Days
This tour is designed for birdwatchers with limited travel time who still wish to see the Scarlet-Banded Barbet. Previously difficult to access, Cordillera Azul National Park is now a prime location near Tarapoto to observe this Peruvian endemic species. It also offers a second chance to spot birds missed on previous trips. Our goal is to find all endemic and regional species with great viewing and photography opportunities. Tours are fully customizable—let us know your preferences, skip visited locations, and join only the parts that interest you. Your birdwatching experience is our priority.
Day 1: Journey to Plataforma / Flor de Café
We begin with an early flight from Lima to Tarapoto, arriving at 8:30 AM. From there, we embark on our expedition to a newly accessible site for the Scarlet-Banded Barbet. Our journey includes a two-hour drive on paved roads, followed by a transfer to off-road vehicles for the ascent. Along the way, we will start birding, searching for endemic species such as the Mishana Tyrannulet and the Scarlet-Banded Barbet. Around midday, we take a break for lunch. In the evening, we can watch a soccer match in the village of Plataforma / Flor de Café and explore the area for night birding, targeting species like the Band-Bellied Owl and Vermiculated Screech-Owl.
Overnight: Plataforma / Flor de Café (L:D)
Day 2: Plataforma – Cordillera Azul Mountains
We dedicate the full day to birding in the foothills above the village, with our primary target being the Scarlet-Banded Barbet. Other highlights may include the Shrike-like Cotinga, Andean Laniisoma, Grey-tailed Piha, Foothill Antwren, and a variety of Fruiteaters (Scaled, Fiery-throated, and Scarlet-breasted). We also seek out species like the Rose-fronted Parakeet, Foothill Schiffornis, Jet Manakin, and the recently discovered Plataforma Antbird, making this a particularly exciting location.
Overnight: Plataforma / Flor de Café (B:L:D)
Day 3: Plataforma to Moyobamba
We spend the morning birding in Plataforma, searching for Yellow-throated Spadebill, Roraiman Flycatcher, and other elusive species. Afterward, we drive toward Moyobamba, making strategic stops for additional sightings. Around the lodge, we will have the opportunity for night birding to spot various owls.
Overnight: Moyobamba (B:L:D)
Day 4: Abra Patricia – Fundo Alto Nieva
We head towards Abra Patricia, making several birding stops along the way. A visit to the Arena Blanca Reserve hummingbird feeders offers the chance to observe Rufous-breasted Wood-Quail, Cinereous Tinamou, and Brown Tinamou. Continuing our journey, we search for Vermilion Tanager, Ecuadorian Piedtail, Speckle-chested Piculet, and Equatorial Greytail. Later, at Fundo Alto Nieva Reserve, we focus on Ochre-fronted Antpitta and Rusty-tinged Antpitta. At night, we attempt to spot the Long-whiskered Owlet and Cinnamon Screech-Owl.
Overnight: Abra Patricia (B:L:D)
Day 5: Abra Patricia – Owlet Lodge
A full day is dedicated to exploring Fundo Alto Nieva, a renowned site for forest-dwelling birds. Our targets include Bar-winged Wood-Wren, Cinnamon-breasted Tody-Tyrant, Variable Antshrike, and Rufous Spinetail. We may also encounter mixed flocks featuring Blue-browed Tanager, Metallic-green Tanager, Yellow-Scarf Tanager, and Grass-green Tanager. In the evening, we move toward Abra Patricia Pass, continuing our search for the Long-whiskered Owlet.
Overnight: Abra Patricia (B:L:D)
Day 6: San Lorenzo / Chido Trail – Huembo Ecolodge
We leave early for San Lorenzo, where we target the elusive Pale-billed Antpitta, one of Peru’s rarest endemic species. Other key birds include Russet-mantled Softtail, Unstreaked Tit-Tyrant, and Peruvian Wren. After exploring fragmented forest patches, we descend to Huembo feeders, hoping to observe the Marvelous Spatuletail, Little Woodstar, White-bellied Hummingbird, and Sickle-winged Guan. As night falls, we have a final chance to spot the Long-whiskered Owlet.
Overnight: Abra Patricia (B:L:D)
Day 7: Rioja Marshes to Tarapoto
Descending from the highlands, we visit marshes to search for Pale-eyed Blackbird, Black-billed Seed-Finch, and Point-tailed Palmcreeper. We also make a quick stop at an Oilbird colony, where sightings are almost guaranteed. From there, we drive to Tarapoto.
Overnight: Tarapoto (B:L:D)
Day 8: Tunnels – San Lorenzo
We begin the day birding around Cordillera Escalera, where our targets include Plumbeous Euphonia, Koepcke’s Hermit, and Blackish Pewee. Later, we travel to Yurimaguas to take a small aircraft flight from the Huallaga River to the Marañón River, where we focus on the White-Masked Antbird, one of the most mysterious birds in the region.
Overnight: San Lorenzo / Datem del Marañón (B:L:D)
Day 9: San Lorenzo – White-Masked Antbird
San Lorenzo offers excellent birding opportunities, with targets including Black-necked Cotinga, Blue-crowned Manakin, Double-banded Pygmy-Tyrant, Rufous-tailed Flatbill, and Chestnut-throated Spinetail. Additional highlights may include Velvet-fronted Grackle, Black-banded Crake, Green-tailed Goldenthroat, and Silvered Antbird. In the afternoon, we take a boat trip to search for species like White-eared Jacamar, Green-and-Rufous Kingfisher, and Scarlet-crowned Barbet.
Overnight: San Lorenzo / Datem del Marañón (B:L:D)
Day 10: Flight Back to Yurimaguas – Lima
We dedicate the morning to a final search for the White-Masked Antbird, taking advantage of the best birding hours for optimal viewing and, with luck, photography. Afterward, we transfer to the airport for a return flight to Yurimaguas, followed by ground transport back to Tarapoto, where our tour concludes.
Return flight to Lima (B:L)
- Luggage Limitations: Please pack light. 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 costs for excess baggage will be at your own expense.
- Clothing: Comfortable, lightweight field pants and shirts are recommended for the entire trip. A light jacket will be sufficient for cooler locations.
- Laundry: Laundry services are available in Abra Patricia and Moyobamba.
Essential Items:
- Sun Protection: Bring sunscreen, along with a hat or cap to shield yourself from the sun.
- Insect Protection: A mosquito or insect repellent is essential.
- Rain Gear: A small umbrella and a rain poncho will be useful in case of rain.
- Footwear: Rubber boots/gumboots are highly recommended, especially for the Plataforma and San Lorenzo areas.
- Lighting: A small flashlight is necessary for night birding (owling). The guide will provide a strong owling light.
- Cold Weather Gear: A fleece or light jacket is recommended for higher elevations. Heavy winter coats are not necessary. If you are sensitive to cold, consider bringing a warm hat and lightweight gloves.
- Clothing Considerations: Camouflage-patterned clothing is acceptable, but please avoid military-style attire.
- Footwear for Showers: Rubber flip-flops or shower thongs will be useful.
By following these guidelines, you will be well-prepared for a comfortable and enjoyable birding experience across various terrains and climates.
Recommendation:
- Binoculars.
- Extra Batteries.
- Camera (Optional).
- Telescope (Optional).
General:
- Birding Conditions: Most birding will take place on forested roads and trails, with a moderate level of difficulty.
- Elevation Range: We will be traveling at elevations between 200 and 2,900 meters above sea level (656 – 9,514 feet), with most of the time spent between 1,200 and 2,300 meters.
- Weather Conditions: Expect a variety of weather conditions, but no specialized clothing is required.
- Electricity & Power Supply: All accommodations provide 220V electrical power, with sockets available in all rooms.
- Backup Power & Batteries: While electricity is generally available, occasional power outages may occur in remote locations such as Abra Patricia, Fundo Alto Nieva, and Plataforma. In these areas, electricity is often supplied by generators, typically running between 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM. We highly recommend bringing extra batteries for your electronic devices.
Medical and Health Information:
- Altitude Considerations: Upon arrival in Tarapoto, you will be at sea level, and we will gradually ascend the eastern slopes of the Andes, reaching a maximum elevation of 2,900 meters (9,514 feet). While this altitude is generally not high enough to cause severe altitude sickness, individual responses can vary.
- 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.
- Hydration and Precautions: Staying well-hydrated is essential, as increased red blood cell production thickens the blood. Drink plenty of water while avoiding alcohol and caffeine, which can exacerbate dehydration. It is also advisable to eat lightly on the first day to aid acclimatization.
- Acclimatization Plan: Our birding itinerary is designed for gradual altitude increase, allowing for natural acclimatization. By the time we reach the highest elevations, 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. We will conduct regular check-ins 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.
- Altitude Sickness Medication: If you are concerned about altitude sickness, consult your doctor regarding preventive medications. For mild symptoms, over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen (Tylenol), ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), or naproxen (Aleve) can help alleviate discomfort.
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 full duration of the tour (Tarapoto to Tarapoto).
- Three meals per day, including breakfast, lunch (picnic or boxed lunch, depending on location), and dinner. Snacks and drinking water are available at all times.
- Expert birding guide specializing in local species.
- Personalized bird checklist for each participant.
- 4×4 vehicle transportation for access to Plataforma.
Entrance fees to all designated birding sites. - Round-trip airfare from Yurimaguas to San Lorenzo.
- All necessary transfers in Tarapoto.
- Full-board private tour experience.
- Domestic flights: Round-trip tickets from Lima to Tarapoto.
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.
