Birding Cusco and the Amazon Rainforest (EA110)

Early departure to the subtropical valleys of Limatambo to search for the Andean Condor soaring over the Apurímac Canyon. Throughout the day, birding stops are made in wetlands, scrub, and mixed habitats along the route. Species may include Black-chested Buzzard-Eagle, Variable Hawk, Aplomado Falcon, Puna Ibis, Eared Dove, Andean Lapwing, Giant Hummingbird, Golden-billed Saltator, Hooded Siskin, and key endemics such as Apurímac Brush-Finch, Apurímac Spinetail, White-tufted Sunbeam, Chestnut-breasted Mountain-Finch, Creamy-crested Spinetail, and Rusty-fronted Canastero.

The day ends near the Sacsayhuamán Archaeological Park before returning to Cusco. (B, Box L)

Morning birding at Huacarpay Lagoons in southern Cusco Valley, a rich wetland supporting resident and migratory birds across marshes, rocky slopes, and woodlands. Possible sightings include Andean Caracara, Cinereous Harrier, Andean Teal, Yellow-billed Pintail, Puna Teal, Cinnamon Teal, Ruddy Duck, White-tufted Grebe, Plumbeous Rail, Andean Coot, Andean Gull, Streak-fronted Thornbird, Wren-like Rushbird, Many-colored Rush Tyrant, and Yellow-winged Blackbird.

Continue into the Sacred Valley along the Vilcanota River, enjoying a buffet lunch and birding in warmer, greener habitats. Species here may include Andean Flicker, Andean Negrito, Sparkling Violetear, Black-tailed and Green-tailed Trainbearers, White-crested Elaenia, Yellow-billed Tit-Tyrant, White-browed Chat-Tyrant, Rufous-naped and Spot-billed Ground-Tyrants, Greenish Yellow-Finch, Peruvian and Mourning Sierra-Finches, Bare-eyed Ground Dove, and more. Return to Cusco. (B, L)

Flight from Cusco to Puerto Maldonado, followed by transfer to the river port and boat journey up the Tambopata River to Sachavacayoc Lodge. Along the way, travel through pristine rainforest, successional forests, river beaches, and terra firme cliffs, with excellent birding opportunities. Possible sightings include White-throated Toucan, Chestnut-eared Aracari, Mealy Parrot, Yellow-headed Macaw, Blue-headed Parrot, Chestnut-fronted Macaw, Red-bellied Macaw, Capped Heron, Sand-colored Nightjar, Black Caracara, Orinoco Goose, Pied Lapwing, Roadside Hawk, Black and Yellow-headed Vultures, Black Skimmer, and many more species along the riverbanks.

At Sachavacayoc Lodge, explore intact Amazon rainforest with towering canopy supporting species such as Spix’s and Piping Guans, Paradise, Sayaca, Green-and-gold Tanagers, Black-faced Dacnis, and other canopy specialists. Lower forest levels are rich in woodcreepers, woodpeckers, and antbirds, with chances to observe monkeys and other mammals along riverbanks. Birding continues until sunset. After dinner, night walks offer opportunities to find nocturnal species such as Great and Common Potoo, Tawny, Spectacled, and Horned Owls. Overnight at Sachavacayoc Lodge. (B, L, D)

Early departure to the Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick in Tambopata National Reserve, where large flocks of macaws and parrots gather, including Mealy and Yellow-headed Parrots, Red-bellied, Chestnut-fronted, Red-and-green, Blue-and-yellow, and Scarlet Macaws. Breakfast is served while observing this spectacular natural gathering.

Continue by boat downriver and hike to Condenado Oxbow Lake for further birding in primary rainforest and lake habitats. Species may include White-necked Heron, Jabiru, Roseate Spoonbill, Horned Screamer, Muscovy Duck, Amazon and Ringed Kingfishers, Grey-necked Wood-Rail, Yellow-rumped Oriole, Purus Jacamar, Collared and Great Black Hawks, King Vulture, Bat Falcon, Russet-backed Oropendola, Purple and Violaceous Jays, and more. Return to Sachavacayoc Lodge. Optional night birding after dinner. (B, L, D)

Early breakfast accompanied by the sounds of Red Howler Monkeys and morning bird activity including tinamous and motmots. Depart the Tambopata River and return by boat to Puerto Maldonado for transfer to the airport. Flight to Cusco or Lima. (B)