Birding Manu Cloud Forest – Manu Birding Lodge

Day 1: Cusco to Wayqecha Biological Station (2950m) Departing early, we’ll drive through picturesque intermontane valleys, making stops to spot Creamy-crested Spinetail and Chestnut-breasted Mountain-Finch, among others. As we ascend to the high mountain pass at Acjanaco, the diverse habitats reveal species like Mountain Caracara, Shining Sunbeam, and Bar-winged Cinclodes. The descent towards the Manu foothills introduces cloudforests, where White-throated and Variable Hawks may soar. With luck, we might spot a Swallow-tailed Nightjar in the evening. Overnight stay at the Wayqecha Biological Station. (L:D)

Day 2: Wayqecha to Cock of the Rock Lodge Today’s birding targets include Crimson-mantled Woodpecker, Blue-banded Toucanet, and various hummingbirds like Gould’s Inca and Chestnut-breasted Coronet. Exploring mixed flocks, we aim to find species such as Montane Woodcreeper, Marcapata Spinetail, and Spectacled Redstart, among others. The day concludes at Cock-of-the-Rock Lodge with a list of potential sightings ranging from Andean Guan to Scarlet-bellied Mountain-Tanager. (B:L:D)

Day 3: Cock of the Rock Lodge (Lower Manu cloud forest 1400m) Venturing along the Manu road, we’ll explore subtropical and lower temperate life zones, reaching a lek of the Andean Cock-of-the-Rock. Specialties in the area include Black-billed Treehunter, Slaty Gnateater, and Golden-headed Quetzals. The birding spectacle continues with the search for Olive-backed Woodcreeper, Brown-capped Vireo, and the vibrant Violet-fronted Brilliant among hummingbirds. Nighttime pursuits include Rufescent Screech-Owl and Lyre-tailed Nightjar. (B:L:D)

Day 4: Cock of the Rock Lodge to Cusco Our final birding in lower Manu cloud forest precedes the return journey to Cusco, providing opportunities to spot any species we may have missed.

Trip Considerations

Walking: The walking effort is easy to moderate.

Climate: Conditions vary, ranging from cool to cold at high altitudes in the early morning. At middle elevations, many days are dry and sunny, occasionally overcast.

Accommodation: Jungle lodges are comfortable but simple; some may lack full-time electricity but provide generators for a few hours daily. Wayqecha Biological Station offers shared bathroom facilities. Single rooms are unavailable at Wayqecha Research Center, but we’ll pair you with a same-sex roommate if you book as a single. Cock-of-the-Rock Lodge features double rooms with private toilet and shower facilities. Hot and cold water is always available, and all toilet facilities flush.

Bird Photography: Opportunities are worthwhile.

Linkable Amazon Birding: Northern, Central & Southern Peru Birding Tours

What to Bring:

• Binoculars and photo equipment
• Spotting scope (if available)
• Flashlight for night birding
• Light day pack
• Sunscreen and insect repellent
• T-shirts and a long-sleeved shirt
• Comfortable jeans or quick-drying nylon pants
• Cotton socks
• Sweater, jacket, or fleece for night birding
• Light jacket, water-resistant, or poncho
• Hiking boots or sturdy shoes
• Sandals for after hours
• Hat and sunglasses
• Plastic bags for camera, clothes, etc.
• Personal toiletries (shampoo, towel, etc.)

Amazon Birding looks forward to welcoming and guiding you soon! Note that last-minute bookings will be accepted, but be aware that space at the hotel or on the tour you prefer might not be guaranteed.