Full Day Birding Tour in the Sacred Valley

Explore the Huacarpay Lagoon and surrounding wetlands at 3,020 meters, a high-Andean sanctuary teeming with birdlife and pre-Inca history. Located within the Pikillaqta Archaeological Park and National Tourist Reserve, the area is home to Inca and Wari ruins and ancient terraces once used by Pikillaqta’s inhabitants, a major Wari cultural center from 600-1200 AD.

With nearly 60 resident bird species, Huacarpay provides vital food and shelter to endangered species such as exotic storks and falcons, alongside colorful residents like the Sparkling Violetear, Yellow-winged Blackbirds, Rush-Tyrants, and Plumbeous Rail. The lagoon attracts a range of highland aquatic birds, including the Andean Goose, Puna Teal, and Yellow-billed Pintail as well as endemic species like the Rusty-fronted Canastero and Creamy-crested Spinetail.

The tour continues to the Ensifera Camp Hummingbird Sanctuary, where rare and vibrant hummingbirds such as the Sword-billed Hummingbird, Giant Hummingbird, White-bellied Woodstar, White-tufted Sunbeam, Bearded Mountaineerand and Shining Sunbeam await.

After a day immersed in Andean birding, we return to Cusco with unforgettable sightings.

This full-day birding adventure offers a unique opportunity to observe endemic bird species in the high Andean wetlands of Huacarpay Lagoon. Surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, you’ll encounter a variety of vibrant species perfect for wildlife photography. The journey continues to the Ensifera Camp Hummingbird Garden, where you’ll have the chance to capture beautiful photos of rare hummingbirds, such as the Sword-billed Hummingbird and Shining Sunbeam, in their natural habitat. A truly immersive experience for bird enthusiasts, nature lovers, and photographers alike.