Your Huacarpay Lake Birding Tour is the essential half-day for birders based in Cusco. Forty-five minutes southeast of the city, the
Lucre–Huacarpay wetland system — a Ramsar site since 2006 spreads its lagoons, reedbeds and wet meadows beneath dry,
cactus-studded hillsides at about 3,020 metres. Because the lake sits well below Cusco itself, it doubles as one of the most
comfortable ways to spend an acclimatisation day: flat, unhurried birding with two Peruvian endemics as the prize.
What to expect
Early in the morning, we will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco and travel to the Huacarpay wetlands, passing through Oropesa, famous for its traditional bread.
Upon arrival, we will explore the reed beds, searching for birds such as the Wren-like Rushbird, Many-colored Rush Tyrant, Plumbeous Rail, and Yellow-winged Blackbird. Using a spotting scope from elevated viewpoints, we will observe the lagoons and look for Andean waterbirds, including teals, ibises, grebes, lapwings, and herons.
Next, we will search for hummingbirds among flowering wild tobacco plants, including the Andean Hillstar, Giant Hummingbird, and Sparkling Violetear. This experience offers excellent opportunities to appreciate the region’s rich birdlife and natural landscapes.
Finally, we will explore the dry slopes and ancient Inca terraces surrounding the lake, looking for additional Andean bird species.
After the birdwatching experience, we will return to Cusco, with an optional stop in Oropesa to taste its famous pan chuta. We expect to arrive in the early afternoon, leaving you free to enjoy the rest of your day