Tucked just 15 minutes from Cusco, the Huacarpay Wetland offers a world-class birdwatching experience. This wheelchair-friendly oasis boasts a rich diversity of native and migratory species, from vibrant hummingbirds to rare endemics like the rusty-fronted canastero. Whether you’re a seasoned birder or new to the hobby, guided tours provide invaluable insights, ensuring you make the most of your time in this stunning natural setting. Keen to discover the avian wonders that await?
About Your Stay

- The Huacarpay Wetland, located 15 minutes from Cusco, offers a wheelchair-friendly and accessible birdwatching experience for both beginners and seasoned enthusiasts.
- Guided tours are limited to small groups and include transportation, snacks, and a knowledgeable guide who enhances the birdwatching experience.
- Visitors can expect to spot dozens of native and migratory bird species, including vibrant hummingbirds, herons, and rare Peruvian endemics.
- Previous tours have recorded over 40 bird species, providing an opportunity to immerse in the wetland’s diverse avian life.
- Consistent positive reviews praise the tour company’s reliability, the guides’ excellent English skills, and the overall remarkable birdwatching experience.
Location and Accessibility
The Huacarpay Wetland is situated just 15 minutes outside of Cusco, making it an easily accessible destination for birdwatchers.
The wetland is wheelchair-friendly and near public transportation, allowing even those with mobility challenges to enjoy the birdwatching experience.
The small-group tours capped at 8 participants ensure an intimate and personalized outing.
Whether you’re an avid birder or a nature enthusiast, the Huacarpay Wetland offers a convenient and welcoming setting to discover the diverse avian inhabitants of the region, from hummingbirds to herons and Peruvian endemics.
Looking for more options in Cusco? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Tour Details and Inclusions

Birdwatchers who embark on the Huacarpay Wetland tour can expect a comprehensive experience.
The tour includes:
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Private transportation from Cusco hotels to the wetland site, ensuring a seamless start to the day.
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Snacks provided during the tour, keeping participants energized as they explore the diverse birdlife.
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Knowledgeable guide service, offering insights and expertise that enhances the birdwatching experience.
This small-group tour, capped at 8 participants, provides an immersive look at Peru’s avian wonders, from hummingbirds to herons to endemic species like the rusty-fronted canastero.
With a morning start time and accessibility for wheelchair users, the Huacarpay Wetland tour is designed to accommodate a range of birdwatching enthusiasts.
Birdwatching Experience

As participants embark on the Huacarpay Wetland tour, they’ll have the opportunity to spot dozens of bird species native to Peru and migratory birds.
The knowledgeable guide will share insights about Peruvian birdlife, enhancing the learning experience. Participants can expect to observe an array of hummingbirds, herons, tanagers, and even Peruvian endemics like the rusty-fronted canastero and bearded mountaineer.
Previous tour-goers have logged over 40 bird species, making for a truly memorable birdwatching adventure.
Whether you’re a seasoned birder or a beginner, this tour offers a chance to learn about the diverse avian wonders of the region.
Diverse Birdlife of Huacarpay Wetland

Nestled in the heart of Peru’s Cusco region, the Huacarpay Wetland boasts a vibrant tapestry of avian diversity.
From the iridescent hues of hummingbirds flitting among the foliage to the majestic presence of herons wading in the shallow waters, this wetland sanctuary is a true birdwatcher’s paradise.
Keen observers might spot the elusive rusty-fronted canastero, a Peruvian endemic, or the striking bearded mountaineer, showcasing the region’s unique species.
With over 40 birds logged by previous participants, the Huacarpay Wetland offers an unparalleled opportunity to immerse oneself in the richness of Peruvian birdlife.
The Huacarpay Wetland offers an unparalleled opportunity to take in the richness of Peruvian birdlife, with over 40 species logged.
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Vibrant hummingbird species
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Diverse array of herons and waders
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Rare Peruvian endemics like the rusty-fronted canastero
Knowledgeable Guide Service

The knowledgeable guide service is a crucial component of the birdwatching tour at Huacarpay Wetland. The guides are experts in Peruvian birdlife, eager to share their deep knowledge. They’ll help you spot dozens of species, from endemic Peruvian birds to vibrant migratory ones. Their English skills are superb, ensuring a seamless learning experience.
| Guide Expertise | Exceptional |
|—————–|————-|
| Bird Sightings | Surprising |
| Communication | Excellent |
| Enthusiasm | Contagious |
Participants consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, who elevate the birdwatching adventure to an immersive, memorable experience.
Positive Customer Feedback

Customers have consistently praised the birdwatching tour at Huacarpay Wetland, highlighting the knowledgeable guides and the surprisingly abundant bird sightings.
Participants have logged over 40 bird species, far exceeding their expectations. The tour’s positive reviews praise:
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The guides’ excellent English skills and in-depth knowledge of local birdlife
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The surprising diversity of species observed, including Peruvian endemics like the rusty-fronted canastero and bearded mountaineer
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The overall reliability of the tour company, which also offers diverse experiences like cooking classes
The birdwatching experience at Huacarpay Wetland has left a lasting impression on customers, making it a must-do activity for nature enthusiasts visiting Cusco.
Enhancing the Birdwatching Adventure

Though the Huacarpay Wetland tour already offers an excellent birdwatching experience, there are several ways travelers can further enhance their adventure. Bringing along high-quality binoculars and a camera can let you capture stunning shots of the diverse bird species. Familiarizing yourself with common local birds beforehand can also help you quickly identify them in the field. Plus, keeping a birding journal to log your sightings and jot down notes can make the experience more engaging and memorable. With these simple tips, you’re sure to make the most of your Huacarpay Wetland birdwatching excursion.
| Tip | Description | Benefits |
| — | — | — |
| Binoculars & Camera | Bring high-quality optics and camera gear | Capture stunning photos, get closer views |
| Pre-trip Research | Learn about common local birds beforehand | Quickly identify species in the field |
| Birding Journal | Keep a logbook of your sightings and observations | Enhance engagement, create lasting memories |
Planning Your Visit

Planning your visit to the Huacarpay Wetland for birdwatching is straightforward. The morning tour starts at 6:00 am, with pickup from your Cusco hotel.
All you need is:
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Comfortable walking shoes
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Binoculars to spot birds
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Weather-appropriate clothing
The small-group tour (max 8 participants) is wheelchair accessible and near public transportation, so it’s easy for most travelers to join.
With a knowledgeable guide and a surprising number of bird species to discover, this birdwatching experience is a must-do in Cusco.
Questions About Your Stay
What Time Does the Tour Return to Cusco?
The tour typically returns to Cusco around 11:00 AM after the morning birdwatching session. Participants can expect to be back at their hotel or accommodation by mid-morning, allowing them the rest of the day to explore Cusco.
Are There Restroom Facilities Available During the Tour?
The tour includes access to restroom facilities during the birdwatching experience. Participants don’t need to worry about finding a bathroom, as the guide will direct the group to appropriate spots along the way.
Can the Tour Be Customized for Specific Bird Species?
The tour can be customized to focus on specific bird species, based on the interests and requests of participants. The knowledgeable guides are able to adjust the itinerary to maximize sightings of target birds during the birdwatching experience.
Is There a Discount for Booking Multiple Tours?
Yes, the tour company offers a 10% discount when booking multiple birdwatching tours. This is a great way to maximize your birdwatching experience and explore more of Peru’s diverse avian life at a reduced cost.
Can Participants Bring Their Own Binoculars or Cameras?
Participants are welcome to bring their own binoculars and cameras on the tour. This allows them to capture the diverse birdlife and enhance their overall birdwatching experience. The tour company encourages participants to bring their personal optics and photography equipment.
Final Verdict On This Stay
Huacarpay Wetland near Cusco offers an exceptional birdwatching experience. It’s easily accessible, wheelchair-friendly, and home to a diverse array of native and migratory bird species. Guided tours provide valuable insights, ensuring visitors make the most of their time and enjoy the stunning natural surroundings. Whether you’re a seasoned birder or a beginner, this is a must-do activity for nature enthusiasts visiting the region.
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