Central and South America

Peru | Spectacles of Nature: Amazonia, Andes, and the Desert Coast

Duration:
13 Days
Price:
From $6,975
Interests:
Birding
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Tambopata National Reserve
Hoatzin
Humboldt Penguins in their breeding site at the Ballestas Islands
Flame-crested Tanager
Machu Picchu, where more than 400 bird species are estimated to be found
King Vulture (Sarcoraphus papa)
Opal-rumped Tanager
Pied Plover
Community members at Pisac Market
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Organize This Trip

About this trip

From the snow-peaked Andes Mountains to arid desert lowlands, and from steamy cloud forests to sun-kissed Pacific shores, Peru’s tremendous range of ecosystems and the consequent diversity of its endemic species make it a favorite among birders. Explore some of the country's natural and cultural highlights—including the Amazon basin, Machu Picchu, and the Ballestas Islands—while seeking out a variety of avifauna on this active 13-day program. As you traverse different landscapes, you’ll cross more than just birds off your life list: take a boat ride through the rainforest on the Amazon River, walk among the ruins of the Inca civilization, and marvel at the coastal desert of the Paracas Reserve.

Highlights

  • Spot some of the 400-plus species of birds found in the Machu Picchu complex and surrounding areas.
  • Explore the Amazonian lowlands by boat and on foot to look for colorful macaws, tanagers, and the enigmatic Hoatzin.
  • Discover the mist-fed ecosystem of Lomas de Lachay, home to an oasis of dwarf forest in the Peruvian desert.
  • Visit Pantanos de Villa, a Ramsar Wetland of International Importance that provides critical habitat for waterfowl and migratory shorebirds.
  • Witness the seabirds of Ballestas Islands, including species such as the Humboldt Penguin, Peruvian Booby, Inca Tern, and the near-threatened Peruvian Diving-Petrel.

Activity Level 3: Moderate 

This birding tour showcases Peru’s diverse ecosystems—from Amazonian jungle to Andean mountains, desert lowlands, Pacific coast, and beyond. The pacing is moderate, with stays at six locations over 11 nights. Day 12 features a full day of touring followed by an airport transfer for your overnight return flight home. The main daily activity is birding, mostly on unpaved trails that can be rocky, wet, or uneven. At Machu Picchu, expect steep climbs, stairs, and rugged paths. The highest elevation (in Cusco) is 11,152 feet; you must acclimatize properly to avoid altitude sickness. There are two boat excursions and two scenic rail journeys; plus a few select cultural activities. With such regional variation, the weather will also vary. In general, May through October, the dry season, is the best time to travel. This is when the Pacific coast is pleasantly warm. Machu Picchu has year-round average temperatures of 66–68°F. There are three internal flights. Overland travel is aboard private, air-conditioned motorcoaches; the longest transfer is 4 hours.

9 Travelers

Land Cost

$6,975 - Jan 1, 2024 - Dec 31, 2025

$6,975 - Jan 1 - Dec 31, 2026

Book 8 travelers and 1 group
leader travels for free

What makes us different

Custom-tailored trips

We can customize your itinerary so that it’s the ideal match for your interests, travel dates, and budget

Support local communities

We work with local guides and organizations so your trip includes authentic cultural experiences while supporting the economy of the region

Sustainable travel

We believe travel should have a positive impact on the world. We are committed to maintaining responsible travel practices and partner with ClimateSafe to provide carbon offsetting.

Expert guides

We take pride in hiring local guides who are carefully selected for their knowledge, sensitivity and skill in the field

Service anytime

Enjoy worry-free travel — our emergency line is monitored 24/7/365 so we can assist you if any problems arise while you’re traveling with us

Flight arrangements

We’re a full service travel provider and are happy to assist with arranging the flights for your group if desired

AND MORE!

See all the reasons why you should travel with Holbrook

What makes us different

Daily Itinerary

Print Itinerary
Lima
Day 1
Arrive in Lima and travel to your hotel.
Casa Andina Select
Lima
Day 2
Following breakfast and orientation, take a field trip to Lomas de Lachay National Reserve, an oasis of mist in the Peruvian desert. Attend a lecture titled 'The Desert Birds Among the Mist.' The reserve covers an area of 12,528 acres in the foothills of the Huaral Province, and its unique geography and resulting climate have created a special ecosystem where dwarf forests and small birds and mammals thrive. Species often spotted in the area include the Vermilion Flycatcher, Cactus Canastero, Andean Tinamou, and Burrowing Owl, as well as a variety of hummingbirds. This afternoon, return to the hotel for a lecture overviewing the birds of Peru before dinner.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Casa Andina Select
Tambopata
Day 3
After breakfast, travel to the airport for a flight to Puerto Maldonado. Upon arrival, travel by bus for 1 hour to the Infierno River Port, and then travel by boat for another hour to the lodge, stopping along the way to look for birds like Pied Plover, Collared Plover, King Vulture, Bat Falcon, Olive and Russet-backed Oropendola, Ringed Kingfisher, and Amazon Kingfisher. The lodge is a short walk from the river's edge and is located within the territory of the Ese Eja Native Community of Infierno, adjacent to the Tambopata National Reserve. Then, attend a welcome orientation and dinner at the lodge.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Posada Amazonas
Tambopata
Day 4
After breakfast, take a 30-minute walk to the 137-foot canopy tower for bird observation. This area offers the best chance to see hawk-eagles, and on a lucky day perhaps even a Harpy Eagle. The flocks here are composed mainly of tanagers (Paradise, Green-and-gold, Flame-crested, Turquoise, Opal-rumped, and others), as well as Cream-colored Woodpeckers, Gilded Barbets, Plum-throated Cotingas, and Western Striolated-Puffbirds. Macaws and toucans are often seen flying along the horizon, including Chestnut-eared, Lettered, Curl-crested, and Ivory-billed Aracaris. From the canopy tower, venture toward a small clay lick that attracts Dusky-headed, Black-capped, and Cobalt-winged Parakeets. The parrot clay lick is only a 20-minute walk from Posada Amazonas. Visitors can spot dozens of parrots and parakeets from a blind located around 65 feet away as these colorful birds descend on most clear mornings to ingest the clay on a riverbank. Some of the species that can be observed here include Mealy and Yellow-crowned Amazon, Blue-headed Parrot, and Dusky-headed Parakeet. The clay lick is active at dawn, during late morning, and in midafternoon. Return to the lodge for lunch. In the afternoon, go birding along the Shahue Trail in search of Fiery-capped Manakins, Round-tailed Manakins, Pale-winged Trumpeters, and Pavonine Quetzals.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Posada Amazonas
Tambopata
Day 5
This morning, enjoy a 30-minute boat ride followed by a walk to an oxbow lake. Search the palm swamp and grassland vegetation for species such as the Pale-vented Pigeon, Azure Gallinule, Rufescent Tiger-Heron, Gray-breasted Crake, Rufous-sided Crake, and the unusual-looking Hoatzin. Have lunch at the lodge followed by afternoon birding in a secondary forest. Secondary forest can be created in a number of ways, such as degraded forest recovering from selective logging, or areas cleared by slash-and-burn agriculture that have been reclaimed by forest. Generally, secondary forest is characterized by a less developed canopy structure and smaller trees. Focus on species like the Barred Antshrike, Short-tailed Pygmy-Tyrant, Streaked Flycatcher, Boat-billed Flycatcher, Solitary Black Cacique, Gray-fronted Dove, and Ruddy Ground Dove. After dinner this evening, venture out near the lodge to spot Common Pauraque, Tawny-bellied Screech-Owl, Great Potoo, Long-tailed Potoo, Ocellated Poorwill, and if lucky, a Mottled Owl or Crested Owl. There is also the possibility of taking macro shots of horned frogs, tree frogs, and other nocturnal wildlife.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Posada Amazonas
Yucay
Day 6
After breakfast at the lodge, walk to the river to board the boat back to Tambopata River Port and travel to the Puerto Maldonado airport for the flight to Cusco. Upon arrival in Cusco, watch for a variety of hummingbird species during the journey to the Sacred Valley. This afternoon, take an excursion to the famed Pisac Market before heading to the hotel for dinner and a lecture on Andean birds.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Posada del Inca Yucay
Machu Picchu
Day 7
Wake up early in the morning to go birding around the hotel before having breakfast and traveling to the Ollantaytambo train station. The scenic train ride to Aguas Calientes follows the meandering Urubamba River on a journey through the Peruvian Andes. Upon arrival, the journey continues with a bus drive to Machu Picchu. Known as "The Lost City of the Incas," Machu Picchu is probably the best-known yet least understood of all Incan sites. The quality of the stonework and the abundance of ornamental sites indicate that Machu Picchu must have been an important ceremonial center, but knowledge of the city's history has been lost over time. While here, look for the endemic Inca Wren and Cuzco Brushfinch among the ruins. Later, enjoy dinner at the hotel. Please note: there is a strict hand luggage only policy on Peru Rail, so be prepared to pack a backpack weighing less than 11 pounds for the journey to Machu Picchu; the rest of your luggage will be stored until you return.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Machu Picchu Pueblo
Cusco
Day 8
After spending another early morning birding in the cloud forest, travel by train to Ollantaytambo Station. The journey to Cusco includes a visit to the town of Chincheros, an early Inca center that is still primarily inhabited by members of the Chanka Indigenous community. Enjoy an opportunity to tour a local weaving cooperative and learn about the styles and techniques of this ancient tradition. After the late afternoon arrival in Cusco, check in at the hotel and spend the rest of the afternoon at leisure. Later, have dinner at the hotel.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Casa Andina Premium Cusco
Cusco
Day 9
Have breakfast at the hotel before going on a field trip to Huacarpay Lagoon, a small highland lake and a favorite birding spot near Cusco. Receive a lecture on the birds of the area and have some time to seek out a variety of Andean birds including ducks, herons, and grebes. The reed beds here house species such as the Wren-like Rushbird, Many-colored Rush Tyrant, and Yellow-winged Blackbird. Eat a picnic lunch on site, and then enjoy the rest of the afternoon at leisure to explore the city of Cusco or continue birding. Have dinner at a local restaurant for a taste of the regional fare.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
Casa Andina Premium Cusco
Paracas
Day 10
After breakfast, travel to the airport for a morning flight to Lima. Upon arrival, board a bus to Paracas, stopping en route to enjoy a birding field trip to Pantanos de Villa, a protected area recognized by the Ramsar Convention as a Wetland of International Importance for aquatic birds. After a box lunch, continue the journey to Paracas and walk to the salt marsh observation tower to view flamingos and shorebirds. Later, go to the hotel for a lecture on the Peruvian desert and the Humboldt Current, followed by dinner.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
The Legend Paracas Resort
Paracas
Day 11
Today, embark on an early morning boat excursion to the Ballestas Islands, a breeding site for seabirds like the Humboldt Penguin, Peruvian Booby, and Inca Tern. Other target birds are the near-threatened Peruvian Diving-Petrel, skuas, and even albatrosses. Continue toward the continental shelf, possibly spotting shearwaters, petrels, storm-petrels, and other pelagic birds. After lunch at the hotel, visit the Paracas National Reserve to see shorebirds, the cathedral, and a sea lion colony from the mirador. In the evening, have dinner at the hotel.
Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included
The Legend Paracas Resort
Departure
Day 12
Have breakfast at the hotel before venturing into a morning birding exploration of dunes and desert, which includes a box lunch. In the afternoon, enjoy birding in agricultural fields before traveling back to Lima. Upon arrival to Lima in the late afternoon, travel to Jorge Chávez International Airport for your evening flights back to the U.S.
Breakfast-Lunch- included
Day 13
Arrive to the U.S.
9 Travelers

Land Cost

$6,975 - Jan 1, 2024 - Dec 31, 2025

$6,975 - Jan 1 - Dec 31, 2026

Book 8 travelers and 1 group
leader travels for free

What's Included
  • Activities and meals as mentioned in itinerary
  • Accommodations with private bathrooms
  • Carbon Offset
  • Full time expert birding naturalist guide for duration of program
  • Rail tickets relevant to itinerary
  • Internal flights relevant to itinerary
What's Not Included
  • International airfare
  • Tips
  • Trip cancellation coverage
Pricing Details
Rates are based on double occupancy for participants.

Prices are valid for travel from Jan 1, 2024 - Dec 31, 2025. Holiday surcharges may apply.

Travel Info

Print Travel Info

Entry & Exit Requirements

U.S. citizens must have a valid passport to enter Peru. Passports must be valid for at least six months after the date of departure. Tourists must provide evidence of return or onwards travel.

For visits fewer than 90 days, you will be issued a tourist card, called the Tarjeta Andina de Migración (TAM), upon arrival in Peru. It is important not to lose this document, as it can be time consuming and inconvenient to replace.

If you are not traveling with a U.S. passport, please check with the Embassy of Peru for the requirements based on your nationality.

Requirements for Entrance to Machu Picchu

To minimize stress on the Machu Picchu archaeological site, access is strictly controlled and tickets must be secured well in advance.

Holbrook will purchase tickets on your behalf. In order to do so, you will be asked to supply the following information at least 4 to 6 months prior to departure: your passport number, your full name exactly as it appears on your passport, and your date of birth, which are required to purchase the tickets. If you need to apply for or renew your passport prior to traveling, we encourage you to do so as soon as possible.

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.

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 if you are traveling to 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. There is no vaccine to protect against malaria. If you are visiting areas where malaria is present and choose to use an anti-malarial drug, as recommended by the CDC, see your doctor for a prescription. To protect against mosquitos, cover exposed skin with lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and pants, consider treating clothes with permethrin, and use an insect repellent containing an active ingredient like DEET or picaridin.

DENGUE FEVER AND OTHER MOSQUITO-BORNE ILLNESSES

Dengue is common in Peru in the tropical and sub-tropical areas during the rainy season, especially in urban and suburban areas. Mosquitos that spread dengue do not usually live at elevations above 6,500 feet, so the risk of dengue in Cusco, the Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu is low. Additionally, locally transmitted cases of chikungunya and Zika virus have previously been reported in Peru. To protect against mosquitos, cover exposed skin with lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and pants, consider treating clothes with permethrin, and use an insect repellent containing an active ingredient like DEET or picaridin.

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.

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.

Resources

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Suggested 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 our Gear Store.

CLOTHING

Casual, comfortable clothing is suitable for most activities. You may wish to bring a slightly nicer outfit or two (eg sundress, polo shirt) if your itinerary includes dinners out or more formal activities.

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.

Pack clothing that can be worn in layers to adapt to weather changes throughout the day. For higher elevations, 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 mosquito protection; heavier weight for higher elevations)
  • Shorts
  • Lightweight, quick-drying long pants for sun and mosquito protection
  • Medium to heavy weight cotton pants for the highlands
  • Undergarments
  • Sleepwear
  • Lightweight jacket or sweater/sweatshirt
  • 1-2 bathing suit(s)
  • Socks – Bring extra pairs
  • Shoes – Consider your specific itinerary when choosing footwear. For most programs, you’ll likely want at least one pair of comfortable, closed-toe walking or hiking shoes suitable for forest hikes and walking over cobblestones or other uneven terrain. Sturdier hiking boots may be appropriate for more active itineraries. 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.
  • Lightweight rain jacket, hooded poncho, and/or windbreaker
  • 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, lotion, deodorant/antiperspirant , etc. – If possible, avoid strong fragrances if you are sensitive to insect bites.
  • Soap and washcloth or a small, quick-drying microfiber towel – Washcloths are not standard in all hotels. If you normally use a washcloth, you may wish to bring one from home.
  • 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 with DEET or picaridin
  • Sunscreen and lip balm with SPF
  • Aloe vera gel
  • A travel pack of tissues – also useful as napkins or toilet paper if needed

In addition to your personal toiletries, it is useful to pack a small medical kit, which you can easily prepare. 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, 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, traveler's checks, and/or cash; small bills in good condition are recommended
  • Prescription medicines (if applicable), with a copy of the prescription
  • 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
  • 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
  • Music or reading material for down time, long bus drives, or on the airplane, and a portable bright light to read by
  • Walking stick with rubber tip (folding or collapsible, for walking on rough and uneven terrain)
  • 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
PLEASE NOTE:  There is a weight limit of 11 pounds for luggage on the train transfer to Machu Picchu. Please be prepared to pack an overnight bag for the night spent in the Machu Picchu area. Your bag must weigh no more than 11 pounds and measure no more than 62 linear inches / 157 cm (length + height + width). You can safely store excess luggage at the prior night’s hotel, or at one of our field offices.
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