Manu Road Birding Tour 4 days/3 nights
Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey from the highlands of Cusco into the lush cloud forest and the eastern slopes of the Andes. This experience takes you through a remarkable variety of ecosystems, offering exceptional opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife observation along the way.
From the wetlands of Huacarpay and the high Andean landscapes to the cloud forests of Wayqecha and the forests surrounding Manu, each area reveals a different side of the region’s extraordinary biodiversity. Throughout the journey, you will have the opportunity to observe endemic and native bird species, colorful hummingbirds, raptors, antbirds, flycatchers, and many other species in their natural habitat.
One of the highlights of the experience is visiting a natural lek where the Andean Cock-of-the-Rock can be observed, offering a memorable opportunity for photography and wildlife observation. The journey also includes time to explore forest trails around Manu Biolodge, surrounded by the sounds and landscapes of the Amazonian foothills.
Itinerary
- We depart early in the morning to start our trip.
- We will stop at Huacarpay Lake surrounded by Inca and pre-Inca ruins. We’ll scan the wetlands for high Andean waterfowl and waders, including:
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- Puna, Yellow-billed, and Cinnamon Teal
- Andean Duck, White-tufted Grebe, and Slate-colored Coot
- Specialties:Â Wren-like Rushbird, Many-colored Rush-Tyrant, Puna Ibis, and Andean Negrito.
- Raptors:Â Aplomado Falcon, Cinereous Harrier, and Black-chested Buzzard-Eagle.
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- Crossing the highest point of the route  we’ll look for the endemic Bearded Mountaineer feeding on Tree Tobacco, alongside Giant Hummingbirds and Trainbearers. We’ll also search for the endemic Chestnut-breasted Mountain-Finch, Creamy-crested Spinetail, and Andean Hillstar.
Overnight:Â Wayqecha Lodge
- We spend the day birding this pristine road. We’ll listen for the Red-and-White Antpitta and scan for:Black-and-Chestnut Eagle & Andean GuanE ndemics: Marcapata Spinetail and Fulvous Wren.Hummingbirds: Gould’s Inca, Violet-throated Starfrontlet, and Amethyst-throated Sunangel.
-  In the late afternoon, we visit an Andean Cock-of-the-Rock lek for a spectacular photo opportunity before arriving at Manu Biolodge (500m).
Accommodation:Â The lodge features independent cabins with floor-to-ceiling screened windows, mosquito nets, and luxurious private bathrooms.
Overnight:Â Manu Biolodge.
- We spend a full day exploring the trails and looking for  antbirds, woodcreepers, and flycatchers White-browed Antbird, Plain-winged Antshrike, and Chestnut-backed Antshrike.
- Bamboo Antshrike, Manu Antbird, Dusky-cheeked Foliage-gleaner, and Large-headed Flatbill.
- Sunbittern, Blackish Rail, Rufescent Tiger-Heron, and Gray-necked Wood Rail.
Overnight:Â Manu Biolodge.
DAY 4: MANU BIOLODGE - CUSCO
- After an early morning birding around the lodge and breakfast, we head back up the east slope of the Andes. We will make some stops for any species missed.
- Â We arrive in Cusco in the late afternoon.
End of Tour.
What does it include?
- 01 Night at Wayqecha Lodge based on private cabin
- 02 Nights at Manu Biolodge based on private cabin
- 01 English Speaking Guide
- Private driver and ground transportation
- Meals as indicated; unlimited water, tea and coffee.
- Access to extensive trail systems at each station as well as Canopy Walkway, Feeders and Hide.
What is not included?
- Meals as not indicated
- International and domestic airfare
- alcoholic beverages
- laundry
- tips
- bank fee or any other service not specifically mentioned
Recommendations
Book Your Expedition
Secure your spot for this journey into the heart of Peru. Please fill out the reservation form with your travel details, and our local team will get back to you promptly to confirm your itinerary, verify availability, and finalize your booking.
Do you have any doubts, special requests, or prefer to customize this tour? You can directly contact us via WhatsApp to speak with one of our local travel specialists.