VISIT TWO HUMMINGBIRD OBSERVATORIES IN CUSCO
Full Day from US$ 0.00
Frequency
All year
Max Group
10 personas
Physical Layer
Moderate
General Description
Discover two remarkable hummingbird sanctuaries in the Andes of Cusco: Pachacútec Bosque Andino and Sacred Garden. This full-day birding experience combines close-range hummingbird observation, native flora, Andean landscapes, nature photography, and conservation.
At Pachacútec Bosque Andino, explore a restored Andean forest and observe hummingbirds and other highland species among native plants and nectar-rich flowers. The site is located in San Jerónimo, Cusco, at approximately 3,200 meters above sea level and is part of an active ecological restoration project.
We then continue toward the Sacred Valley and Sacred Garden near San Salvador, where gardens, native plants, flowers, and observation areas create excellent conditions for close encounters with hummingbirds. Species that may be encountered include Giant Hummingbird, Sparkling Violetear, Green-tailed Trainbearer, Bearded Mountaineer, and other Andean birds.
This is more than a birdwatching tour. It is an opportunity to discover how native plants, pollinators, birds, and local conservation initiatives are connected within the Andean landscape.
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Tour Details
- Duration: Full day — approximately 8 hours
- Maximum Altitude: Approximately 3,200 m / 10,500 ft
- Physical Level: Moderate
- Tour Type: Group birdwatching tour
- Availability: Year-round
- Departure: Cusco
- Main Focus: Hummingbirds, Andean birds, native flora, conservation & photography
- Recommended For: Birdwatchers, photographers, nature lovers, families, and travelers interested in biodiversity
Pachacútec Bosque Andino is open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.; reservations are required Monday through Friday, while weekend visits do not require advance booking according to its current published information.
Itinerary
DIA 1:
DIA 1:
7:30 AM – Hotel Pick-Up in Cusco
Your Machupicchu Birding team will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco and begin the journey toward the first hummingbird sanctuary.
8:00 AM – 11:30 AM | Pachacútec Bosque Andino
Arrive at Pachacútec Bosque Andino, a natural refuge and ecological restoration project in San Jerónimo.
Begin with a guided walk through the Andean forest and surrounding gardens, looking for hummingbirds and other highland birds. The area supports a diverse bird community, including White-bellied Woodstar, Black-tailed Trainbearer, Tyrian Metaltail, Green-tailed Trainbearer, Giant Hummingbird, Sparkling Violetear, Andean Parakeet, Andean Flicker, and other species.
There will be time for bird photography, species identification, and learning about the relationship between native flowers, hummingbirds, pollination, and ecological restoration.
11:30 AM – 1:00 PM | Journey to Sacred Garden
Continue toward the Sacred Valley, enjoying the changing Andean landscapes as you travel from the Cusco highlands toward San Salvador.
1:00 PM – 3:30 PM | Sacred Garden
Arrive at Sacred Garden, a hummingbird sanctuary near San Salvador in the Sacred Valley.
Explore the gardens and observation areas surrounded by native plants, flowers, fruit trees, and hummingbird feeders. The sanctuary is known for close encounters with several hummingbird species and provides excellent opportunities for photography.
Depending on the season and natural activity, you may encounter species such as Giant Hummingbird, Sparkling Violetear, Green-tailed Trainbearer, Bearded Mountaineer, and other Andean birds. Sightings are naturally dependent on weather and wildlife activity.
3:30 PM – 5:30 PM | Return to Cusco
Begin the return journey to Cusco. Enjoy the scenery of the Sacred Valley and the surrounding Andes before arriving back at your hotel.
The itinerary may be adjusted according to weather, traffic, bird activity, access conditions, or other circumstances beyond our control.
Incluye
What Is Included:
- Private or shared tourist transportation, according to the selected service
- Professional birdwatching guide
- Visit to Pachacútec Bosque Andino
- Visit to Sacred Garden
- Entrance fees to the hummingbird observatories
- Birdwatching assistance and species identification
- Time for nature photography
- Conservation and ecological interpretation
- Hotel pick-up and drop-off in Cusco
- Assistance throughout the tour
What Is Not Included:
- Meals and beverages unless specifically included in your booking
- Personal expenses
- Professional photographic equipment
- Binoculars, unless specifically included in your selected package
- Travel insurance
- Tips for guides and drivers
- Additional services not mentioned under “Included”
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How many hummingbird species can I expect to see?
The number varies according to season, weather, and natural bird activity. Several hummingbird species may be observed at both sanctuaries, but sightings of specific species cannot be guaranteed.
2. Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes. The experience is suitable for both first-time birdwatchers and experienced birders. The guide will assist with identification and explain the behavior and ecology of the birds.
3. Is the tour suitable for photography?
Absolutely. Both locations offer close-range opportunities for hummingbird photography and observation, making the tour particularly attractive to nature photographers.
4. Do I need to be an experienced hiker?
No. The tour has a moderate physical level and focuses primarily on observation rather than strenuous hiking. However, comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
5. Can the itinerary be customized?
Yes. Machupicchu Birding can adapt the experience for private groups, photographers, serious birders, families, or travelers interested in extending the tour with additional birding destinations in Cusco.
Manual de viaje
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With your booking confirmed, all that’s left is to pack your gear and get ready for the adventure. Whether you are an experienced birder or discovering birdwatching for the first time, Machupicchu Birding will be with you every step of the way.
Your next birding adventure starts here. Discover Peru, follow the birds, and experience nature like never before.
Expert local tour operator with direct service
At Machupicchu Birding* we turn every birding journey into an unforgettable experience. As a local Cusco-based company, we offer safe, reliable, and high-quality birdwatching and nature experiences, helping you discover the incredible biodiversity of the Andes through personalized service and genuine local expertise.
TOP-QUALITY CAMPING GEAR
Enjoy a comfortable night in our high-quality, all-season camping tents, designed to provide protection and comfort in a variety of weather conditions.Our spacious four-person tents accommodate a maximum of two guests, providing plenty of room to relax and safely store your belongings after a day of birdwatching and exploration.
GROUP EXPERIENCES
To ensure a more personalized experience, our birding groups are limited to a maximum of 8 participants.Small groups allow our guides to provide closer attention, better birdwatching opportunities, and a more comfortable experience tailored to each guest’s interests.
Various tour packages for all budgets
Explore our exclusive birding and nature tours and discover the best of Cusco. Each experience is carefully designed around your interests, budget, and available time, combining exceptional birdwatching, nature, photography, and personalized service.
CULINARY DELIGHTS
Complete your adventure with the flavors of Peruvian cuisine. At Machupicchu Birding, we can recommend carefully selected local restaurants and culinary experiences, allowing you to discover the traditional flavors of Cusco and make every meal part of your journey.
ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITMENT
At Machupicchu Birding, we promote responsible and sustainable tourism. We support biodiversity conservation, ecological restoration, and local initiatives while encouraging respect for the natural and cultural heritage of the Andes.We believe every birding journey can create a positive impact by supporting conservation and contributing to sustainable development in our region.