Join us for an unforgettable 8-day bird photography adventure in the Manu National Park Cloud Forest!

Day 1: High-Andean Hummingbird Paradise – Cusco & Sacred Valley Bird Garden

Kick off your Peruvian birding adventure with a captivating day in the Sacred Valley of the Incas. We'll delve into a specialized bird garden, expertly designed to attract and allow for intimate photographic encounters with a spectacular variety of high-altitude hummingbirds. Prepare your lenses for the iconic Sword-billed Hummingbird, the dazzling Tyrian Metaltail, and the elegant Black-tailed Trainbearer. Other target species include the majestic Great Sapphirewing, iridescent Shining Sunbeam, distinctive White-tufted Sunbeam, delicate White-bellied Woodstar, unique Bearded Mountaineer, and the vibrant Green-and-white Hummingbird. Return to Cusco, brimming with your first set of incredible images.

Day 2: Gateway to Manu – Cusco to Wayquecha Cloud Forest Lodge

Today, our Peru bird photography tour ventures towards the buffer zone of the legendary Manu National Park. As we ascend towards the cloud forest, the journey itself becomes a thrilling birding experience. Keep a sharp eye out for powerful raptors soaring overhead, including the impressive Mountain Caracara, the graceful Red-backed Hawk, and the formidable Black-chested Buzzard-Eagle. Upon arrival at the renowned Wayquecha Lodge, we'll begin to explore the surrounding cloud forest for species like the elusive Yungas Pygmy Owl, vibrant Golden-collared Tanager, and the striking Grey-breasted Mountain Toucan. This day promises a diverse introduction to the richness of Manu's avian life

Day 3: Wayquecha Lodge Immersion – Cloud Forest Bird Photography

Spend a full day immersed in the biodiverse wonders surrounding Wayquecha Lodge. We'll explore both the scenic main road and the tranquil trails winding through the pristine cloud forest, maximizing our photographic opportunities. Our primary targets include further encounters with the magnificent Grey-breasted Mountain Toucan, the exquisitely colored Scarlet-bellied Mountain Tanager, and the brilliant Hooded Mountain Tanager. We'll also seek out the distinctive Golden-collared Tanager and hope for more chances to capture the unique Sword-billed Hummingbird in its natural habitat. This deep dive into the cloud forest is a highlight for any bird photographer.

Day 4: Descent to San Pedro – Manu Road Birding & Andean Cock-of-the-Rock

Our expedition continues its descent along the fabled Manu Road, one of the world's premier birding routes. Every turn in the road offers new photographic possibilities as we move through different altitudinal zones. This day's focus includes capturing the breathtaking Andean Cock-of-the-Rock, Peru's national bird, and the vibrant Golden-headed Quetzal. We'll also search for the striking Andean Motmot, more opportunities with the Grey-breasted Mountain Toucan, the colorful Versicolored Barbet, and the enigmatic Andean Potoo. Keep an eye out for primates like the Gray Woolly Monkey too, adding to the rich wildlife experience

Day 5: San Pedro Lodge Highlights – Cock-of-the-Rock Lek & Tanager Garden

A full day at San Pedro Lodge is dedicated to some of Peru's most sought-after avian treasures. Our morning begins with a visit to a vibrant lek of the Andean Cock-of-the-Rock, offering unparalleled chances to photograph their spectacular courtship display. Later, we'll explore a dedicated Tanager Garden, providing close-up views and photographic opportunities for a myriad of colorful tanager and hummingbird species. Beyond the Cock-of-the-Rock, target species include the stunning Golden-headed Quetzal, the majestic Crested Quetzal, the distinctive Andean Motmot, the vivid Versicolored Barbet, the striking Green Jay, and the camouflaged Andean Potoo. This is a prime day for capturing iconic images!

Day 6: Amazonian Umbrella Bird Quest & Lodge Photography

Today, our bird photography adventure takes us further down the Manu Road in search of one of the Amazon's most unique birds: the elusive Amazonian Umbrellabird. We'll explore various habitats, photographing birds at the lodge, along the roadside, and at a well-situated tanager garden. This offers a diverse range of photographic subjects and environments. Other key target species for the day include the charming Peruvian Piedtail, the powerful Black-and-chestnut Eagle, and the vibrant Blue-banded Toucanet. Prepare for a day of exciting discoveries and diverse photographic challenges

Day 7: San Pedro Lodge – Target Species Review & Last Chances

On our final full day at San Pedro Lodge, we'll dedicate our efforts to tracking down any target species we may have missed in previous days. This flexible day allows us to revisit productive spots, explore new trails, or spend more time perfecting shots of our favorite subjects. Whether it's a specific hummingbird, a shy antpitta, or a brilliantly colored tanager, we'll make every effort to ensure your memory cards are full of stunning images. This day is crucial for maximizing your photographic checklist and enjoying the last moments in this birding paradise.

Day 8: Return Journey – San Pedro Lodge to Cusco

After a final breakfast surrounded by the sounds of the cloud forest, we'll begin our scenic journey back to Cusco. The return trip offers more opportunities to enjoy the incredible landscapes and possibly spot some final birds you may have missed on the way down. We aim to arrive back in Cusco between 3 PM and 6 PM, concluding your unforgettable 8-day Peru bird photography expedition with a lifetime of incredible memories and a vast collection of unique bird images.