Peru | Birding the Sacred Valley and Manu Road
About this trip
The Manu Biosphere Reserve in Peru is home to some of the most biodiverse ecosystems on the planet, including a spectacular array of bird life, which some estimates put at more than 1,000 species. Begin your 12-day adventure in the Sacred Valley before making your way along the eastern Andean slope. Ascend from subtropical forest to high Andes grassland and high-elevation elfin forest before descending into cloud forest, foothill forest, and finally the Amazonian foothills, seeking out species characteristic of each distinct habitat. The journey includes stay at two different rustic-yet-comfortable biological stations — Wayqecha Cloud Forest Biological Station and Manu Biological Station and Biolodge — in the buffer zone of Manu National Park. Time in Lima affords opportunities for coastal and wetland species, rounding out the experience.
Highlights
- Discover several locations along Peru's Manu Road, often called one of the “birdiest roads in the world" due to its range of habitats compressed into a small area.
- Traverse Wayqecha's suspended cloud forest canopy walkway for a unique perspective of the treetops and possible sightings of species like the Gray-breasted Mountain-Toucan, Ochraceous-breasted Flycatcher, Mountain Cacique, and a variety of tanagers.
- Observe an Andean Cock-of-the-rock lek at dusk for a chance to see the males' elaborate mating behavior.
- Visit the family-run Ensifera Camp, a private garden and hummingbird sanctuary, where more than two dozen hummingbird species have been recorded, including Sparkling Violetear, Black-tailed Trainbearer, and Giant and Sword-billed Hummingbirds.
- Go birding at Pantanos de Villa, a Ramsar Wetland of International Importance that provides critical habitat for waterfowl and reed-dwelling species like the Many-colored Rush Tyrant and Plumbeous Rail.
- Learn about the vast Inca Empire during visits to two important sites in the Sacred Valley, Sacsayhuamán and Tambomachay.
Activity Level 3: Moderate
Participants should be able to ascend or descend 60 stairs consecutively, plus walk for at least 3 hours over some steep slopes, uneven, and potentially slippery surfaces without difficulty. Physical activities typically last for 3 or more hours at a time.
$4,495
Land Cost
Group size
Book 8 travelers and 1 group
leader travels for free
What makes us different
Top birding guides
Unique Itineraries
Custom-tailored Trips
Sustainable travel
Flight arrangements
Service anytime
Daily Itinerary
Print ItineraryLima
Day 1Lima
Day 2Sacred Valley
Day 3Manu Region
Day 4Manu Region
Day 5Manu Region
Day 6Villa Carmen
Day 7Villa Carmen
Day 8Cusco
Day 9Cusco
Day 10Lima
Day 11USA
Day 12Pricing
Print Pricing$4,495
Land Cost
Group size
Book 8 travelers and 1 group
leader travels for free
What's Included
- Arrival and departure transfers based on individual flight schedules
- Full time expert birding guide for duration of program
- Activities and meals as mentioned in itinerary
- Internal flights relevant to itinerary
- Non alcoholic beverage with meals
- Water refill station during transfers
- Carbon Offset
What's Not Included
- International airfare
- Items of personal nature
- Gratuities
- Travel Insurance
Pricing Details
Prices are valid for travel from Jan 1, 2026 - Dec 20, 2027. Holiday surcharges may apply.
Travel Info
Print Travel InfoEntry & Exit Requirements
U.S. citizens must have a valid passport to enter Peru. Passports must be valid for at least six months past your entry date. Tourists must provide evidence of return or onwards travel. A tourist visa is not required for entry.
If you are not traveling with a U.S. passport, please check with the Embassy of Peru for the requirements based on your nationality.
If your flight to Peru transits through another country, be sure to visit https://travel.state.gov to check the travel information for that destination. Some countries require visas or other authorization to enter, even for layovers where you don't leave the airport.
Health Information
IMMUNIZATIONS
The Centers for Disease Control recommends that all travelers be up to date on routine vaccinations such as measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-pertussis-tetanus vaccine, varicella (chicken pox) vaccine, and your yearly flu shot before every trip.
There are no vaccinations required for entry into Peru.
Though not required for entry, the CDC recommends inoculation against hepatitis A, hepatitis B, and typhoid for most unvaccinated travelers to Peru.
Yellow fever is a risk in certain parts of Peru, primarily east of the Andes at elevations below 7,500 feet. The CDC recommends the yellow fever vaccine for travelers visiting these areas.
Please consult your physician for additional information and recommendations based on your individual circumstances.
MALARIA
The CDC warns that malaria is a risk in certain parts of Peru, primarily east of the Andes at elevations below 6,500 feet. Malaria is caused by a parasite found in Anopheles mosquitos, which are active from dusk until dawn. If you choose to use an anti-malarial drug, as recommended by the CDC, see your doctor for a prescription.
To protect against mosquitos, the CDC recommends that you cover exposed skin with lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and pants, consider treating clothes with permethrin, and use an insect repellent containing an EPA-registered active ingredient like DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE). Apply sunscreen first, followed by the repellent, ideally 20 minutes later.
Be careful when applying products containing DEET, as it can damage or dissolve certain synthetic fabrics as well as plastic, rubber, vinyl, or elastic materials, such as those used in camera equipment, binoculars, phone cases, sunglasses, or watches. Additionally, some research suggests that when DEET and picaridin enter local waterways, they can be harmful to amphibians and other wildlife. When selecting a repellent, it is ultimately up to each traveler to weigh the risks and benefits of different options, keeping in mind both environmental factors and the importance of protecting against illness..
OTHER VECTOR-BORNE ILLNESSES
Other insect-borne illnesses are known to occur in Peru, such as dengue fever, leishmaniasis, chikungunya, and Zika virus. The CDC recommends that travelers to Peru protect themselves against insect bites using the measures noted above.
As a precaution, the CDC advises women who are pregnant to consider postponing travel to any area where Zika virus transmission is ongoing.
After spending time outdoors in grassy or wooded areas, the CDC recommends showering and conducting a full-body check for ticks. If you find a tick attached to your skin, safely remove it as soon as possible.
ALTITUDE SICKNESS
Upon arrival at locations of high elevation, shortness of breath and a pounding heart are normal responses to the lack of oxygen in the air. However, for some visitors, these symptoms can deteriorate into altitude sickness. Headache, extreme tiredness, dizziness, nausea, and loss of appetite are standard symptoms. Staying hydrated and well rested is important to adjust to the altitude. Avoiding heavy, fatty foods and alcohol in the days before arriving to altitude can help. Over-the-counter medications are also available to help prevent or alleviate symptoms. It’s advisable to avoid sleep medications, as they can slow breathing and respiration, which aid in getting the blood oxygenated while sleeping. Participants who take blood pressure medications should discuss this with their doctor as the medication can drop pressure too low at times.
Motion Sickness
This itinerary includes driving on winding mountain roads. Even if you are not normally prone to motion sickness, consider bringing an over-the-counter antihistamine like Dramamine or Bonine, or see your physician for a Scopolamine prescription. Other popular remedies to treat or prevent motion sickness include accupressure wristbands or ginger candy or supplements.
SUN EXPOSURE
The effects of the sun can be damaging to the eyes and skin. Spending time outdoors exposes you to the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays, even on cloudy days. To protect yourself from the sun, use a broad spectrum sunscreen of at least SPF 15, protect skin with clothing, wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses, and drink plenty of fluids.
Respiratory Illness Protocols
Please review our Respiratory Illness Protocols page, which explains our policy and procedures if you or another traveler should develop symptoms of a respiratory illness during your trip. Your participation in a Holbrook Travel program indicates that you are in agreement with these protocols.
Liability Waivers
Please note you may be asked locally to sign liability waivers in order to participate in certain activities. If you would like to receive a copy of any required waiver in advance, please contact Holbrook Travel.
Resources
Print ResourcesSuggested Packing List
Everyone has personal preferences when it comes to packing; for this reason, the information below is offered as a general guide and not a definitive list. You know yourself best: Use your discretion and pack what you think will serve you, based on your personal preferences and specific itinerary.
You may find many of the items below in the New Headings Gear Store. Use code HolbrookGuest10 for a 10% discount on your purchase.
CLOTHING
Casual, comfortable clothing is suitable for most activities. You may wish to bring one or two slightly nicer, i.e. “smart casual” outfits (eg sundress, polo shirt) for dinners out, museum visits, city tours, or similar activities, if indicated.
Bring enough clothing suitable for the length of your program. If you prefer to pack light, note that many hotels offer laundry services (at additional cost). If you plan to hand-wash items, remember that humidity may delay drying time.
This itinerary visits a variety of habitats and elevations, from sea level up to nearly 10,000 feet. Pack clothing that can be worn in layers to adapt to weather changes throughout the day and at varying elevations. At higher elevations, warm clothing is recommended. Temperatures can be cool, especially at night and early in the morning. Consider packing a warm underlayer, as well as a warm, protective outer layer. Clothing that wicks away moisture and dries quickly is recommended.
- A combination of short-sleeved and long-sleeved shirts (lightweight for sun and insect protection; heavier weight for higher elevations)
- Shorts
- Lightweight, quick-drying long pants for sun and insect protection
- Medium to heavy weight cotton pants for the highlands
- Undergarments
- Sleepwear
- Lightweight jacket or sweater/sweatshirt
- Socks – Bring extra pairs.
- Shoes – You’ll likely want at least one pair of comfortable, closed-toe walking or hiking shoes or boots suitable for forest hikes and walking over cobblestones or other uneven terrain. In addition, many participants opt for a pair of sturdy sport-strap sandals (e.g. Keens, Tevas, or similar) and/or casual flip-flops or sandals to wear around the hotel.
- Lightweight rain jacket, hooded poncho, and/or windbreaker – The rainy season is from November to March/April, though it can rain at any time.
- Visor or wide-brimmed sun hat
- Bandana, scarf, or neck gaiter
Personal toiletries
Pack toiletries based on your personal preferences and habits. Below are just a few recommendations to keep in mind.
- Shampoo, conditioner, soap, lotion, deodorant/antiperspirant , etc. – Most hotels provide basic toiletries (shampoo, soap, etc.), but you may wish to bring your own if you prefer specific kinds. If possible, avoid strong fragrances if you are sensitive to insect bites.
- Washcloth or a small, quick-drying microfiber towel – Washcloths are not standard in all hotels.
- Hairbrush, comb, hair ties, shower cap. Many—but not all—hotel rooms provide a hair dryer, but you may wish to bring one from home.
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Razor
- Ear plugs, especially if you are a light sleeper
- Personal hygiene products
- Insect repellent
- Sunscreen and lip balm with SPF
- A travel pack of tissues – also useful as napkins or toilet paper if needed, as it may not be available at all roadside stops
Your local guide will carry a basic first aid kit, but you may also wish to pack a small medical kit for personal use. Helpful items might include: bandages, antihistamine, a pain reliever, motion sickness and/or altitude sickness medication (if you are prone to either), anti-diarrhea medicine, powdered electrolyte packets (to prevent dehydration), aloe vera gel (to treat sunburn), individually wrapped pre-moistened towelettes and/or hand sanitizer, antibiotic ointment, anti-fungal cream, moleskin for blisters, eye drops, tweezers, a mini sewing kit, and an extra pair of disposable contact lenses or eyeglasses if you wear them.
MISCELLANEOUS
Remember to pack valuables such as your passport, cash/credit cards, and medications in your carry-on luggage.
- Passport and photocopies of all travel documentation
- Personal insurance card and travel insurance information
- Money – ATM/credit card and/or cash; small bills in good condition are recommended.
- Prescription medicines (if applicable) – We recommend packing prescription medicines in their original bottles/packaging with pharmacy labeling.
- Sunglasses with strap
- Small day pack for hikes and excursions
- Flashlight and/or head lamp
- Travel alarm clock or inexpensive waterproof wristwatch with alarm – Not all hotels provide alarm clocks.
- A pocket calculator or phone to assist with conversions and currency exchange
- Binoculars with lens cleaner
- Camera and related equipment, such as charger, lenses, and extra memory cards
- Reusable water bottle
- Non-perishable snacks
- Portable handheld or neck fan (rechargeable or battery-operated) and/or cooling towel
- Pocket-knife or multipurpose tool – Pack in your checked luggage.
- Zip-top style bags – useful for packing toiletries, sorting clothing, storing damp or muddy shoes, or as a dry bag for protecting electronics
- Notepad or travel journal and pen
- Entertainment (e.g. music, a deck of cards, reading material and a portable bright light to read by, etc.) for down time, long bus drives, or on the airplane
- Walking stick with rubber tip (folding or collapsible, for walking on rough and uneven terrain) – Pack in your checked luggage.
- A small quantity of laundry detergent if you’ll be washing clothing by hand
- Travel-size umbrella – Some people find this unwieldy to carry, while others find it offers better protection than a rain jacket alone.
- Money belt
- Converter and adapter for electronics
- Chargers for electronics
- Dry bags for electronics
Questions?
For more information, contact us at 800-451-7111 or email travel@holbrooktravel.com.
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