From Ollantaytambo: Abra Malaga Birdwatching Tour

The "From Ollantaytambo: Abra Malaga Birdwatching Tour" offers an incredible opportunity for avid birders to explore the breathtaking Andean landscapes. This comprehensive 11-hour excursion takes participants through stunning high-altitude locations, where they’ll have the chance to spot a variety of endemic species. With specialized guides and all necessary equipment provided, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure for those who appreciate the wonders of avian life.

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Key Points

Comprehensive 11-hour birdwatching tour from Ollantaytambo, priced at $275 per person, with hotel pickup, transportation, and specialized guide.
Highlights include wildlife viewing at high Andean locations, visit to Las Peñas archaeological site, and exploration of Canchaylloq dwarf forest and San Luis cloud forest.
Promises sightings of numerous endemic bird species, such as Chestnut-breasted Mountain-finch, White-tufted Sunbeam, and Inca Wren.
Includes all entrance fees, a picnic lunch, and professional birdwatching equipment available for rent.
Recommends comfortable, sturdy shoes, sun protection, camera, and rain gear for the unpredictable weather conditions.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Abra Malaga Birdwatching Tour is a comprehensive 11-hour excursion from Ollantaytambo, offering travelers the opportunity to enjoy the rich avian diversity of the Peruvian Andes.

Priced at $275 per person, the tour includes hotel pickup, transportation, a specialized bird guide, entrance fees, a picnic lunch, and professional birdwatching equipment.

Highlights include wildlife viewing at high Andean locations, a visit to the archaeological site Las Peñas, and exploration of the Canchaylloq dwarf forest and San Luis cloud forest.

Participants can spot an array of endemic and additional bird species, making this tour a must for avid birdwatchers.

Looking for more options in Ollantaytambo? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Itinerary Highlights

After being picked up from their hotel in Ollantaytambo, guests travel for an hour to reach the stunning Abra Malaga, where they’ll spend five hours immersed in wildlife viewing at high Andean locations.

They’ll also visit the archaeological site of Las Peñas, 15 km away. Birdwatching takes place at Abra Panticalla, over 4,300 meters above sea level.

Guests explore the Canchaylloq dwarf forest and San Luis cloud forest, enjoying a picnic lunch in nature before returning to Ollantaytambo.

Birdwatching Experience

Though the tour promises sightings of numerous endemic bird species, including the Chestnut-breasted Mountain-finch, White-tufted Sunbeam, and Inca Wren, it also offers opportunities to spot additional avian wonders like the Diademed Tapaculo, White-rumped Hawk, and Sword-billed Hummingbird. Birdwatchers can expect to see:

| Endemic Birds | Additional Species |

| — | — |

| Cuzco Brushfinch | Barred Fruiteater |

| Rusty-fronted Canastero | Gray-breasted Mountain-Toucan |

| Marcapata Spinetail | Junin Canastero |

| Creamy-crested Spinetail | Urubamba Antpitta |

| Red-and-white Antpitta | Unstreaked Tit-tyrant |

This diverse array of birds awaits those who embark on the Abra Malaga Birdwatching Tour.

Included Services

This tour includes a comprehensive set of services to enhance the birdwatching experience.

Transportation to and from the hotel, a specialized bird guide fluent in Spanish and English, and all entrance fees are provided.

Enjoy a picnic lunch in nature and utilize professional birdwatching equipment, including binoculars available for rent.

Gratuities are also included, ensuring a hassle-free experience.

With these thoughtful inclusions, you can fully learn about the joy of spotting endemic and diverse bird species at the stunning Abra Malaga region.

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Preparation and Recommendations

To ensure a comfortable and successful birdwatching experience, there are a few key items to bring along.

Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes suitable for hiking. Protect yourself from the sun with sunglasses and a hat. Bring a camera to capture the vibrant birds. Insect repellent is recommended, and it should be biodegradable to minimize environmental impact.

Binoculars are essential for spotting birds; they can be rented if needed. Plus, pack rain gear in case of unpredictable weather.

Maintaining flexibility is important, as the tour offers a reserve now, pay later option. With the right preparation, you’ll be ready to fully learn about the Abra Malaga birdwatching adventure.

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Pickup and Transportation

The tour begins with a pickup from centrally located hotels in Ollantaytambo. This convenient pickup service ensures a seamless start to the birdwatching adventure.

The transportation to Abra Malaga takes approximately 1 hour, allowing guests to sit back and admire the stunning Andean scenery along the way. The tour’s efficient and reliable transportation methods contribute to a well-organized and stress-free experience for the participants.

Key transportation details:

Pickup from hotels in Ollantaytambo
Travel to Abra Malaga via van (1 hour)
Return to Ollantaytambo at the end of the tour

Exploring Abra Malaga

Arriving at Abra Malaga, guests embark on a captivating 5-hour wildlife viewing experience at the high Andean locations. The tour visits the archaeological site Las Peñas, 15 km away, offering a glimpse into the region’s rich history. At Abra Panticalla, towering 4,316 meters above sea level, the group scans the skies for endemic birds like the Chestnut-breasted Mountain-finch and White-tufted Sunbeam. The Canchaylloq dwarf forest and San Luis cloud forest provide opportunities to spot the Inca Wren and Unstreaked Tit-tyrant. A picnic lunch in nature fuels the exploration.

| Endemic Birds | Additional Species |

| — | — |

| Chestnut-breasted Mountain-finch | Diademed Tapaculo |

| White-tufted Sunbeam | White-rumped Hawk |

| Inca Wren | Barred Fruiteater |

| Unstreaked Tit-tyrant | Sword-billed Hummingbird |

| Cuzco Brushfinch | |

Visiting the Archaeological Site

As guests explore the archaeological site Las Peñas, they’ll uncover a glimpse into the region’s rich history.

Located just 15 km from Abra Malaga, this ancient site offers a fascinating look at the area’s past:

Visitors can wander among the well-preserved ruins, imagining the daily lives of the people who once inhabited this high-altitude settlement.
Intricate stonework and architectural features provide clues about the site’s significance and the skilled craftsmanship of its builders.
The panoramic views from Las Peñas showcase the stunning natural beauty that has long drawn people to this remarkable corner of the Andes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Group Size for This Tour?

The tour size is not specified in the given information. However, it’s common for birdwatching tours to have small group sizes to provide personalized experiences and minimize disturbance to the birds.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for Participants?

The tour has no age restrictions, making it suitable for participants of all ages. Children are welcome, though parents should ensure their safety and engagement throughout the birdwatching experience.

Can I Extend the Tour Duration if Needed?

Yes, the tour duration can be extended if needed. The tour operator offers flexibility, allowing participants to reserve now and pay later. Extensions can be arranged with the guide during the tour.

Do I Need to Bring My Own Binoculars?

Binoculars are available for rent as part of the tour’s included services. However, participants can bring their own binoculars if preferred. The tour provides professional birdwatching equipment, so bringing one’s own is optional.

Is There an Option to Customize the Itinerary?

The tour offers flexibility, allowing customers to customize the itinerary if desired. Binoculars are available for rent, so there’s no need to bring your own. The tour provides a professional guide and all necessary equipment for an immersive birdwatching experience.

The Sum Up

The "From Ollantaytambo: Abra Malaga Birdwatching Tour" offers an extraordinary opportunity for birdwatchers to explore the breathtaking Andean landscapes and spot a diverse array of endemic species. With expert guides, specialized equipment, and a delightful picnic lunch, this comprehensive 11-hour excursion promises an unforgettable avian adventure for nature enthusiasts. Priced at $275 per person, this tour provides a remarkable experience amidst the stunning high Andean environment.

You can check availability for your dates here: