Peru Birding & Short Inca Trail: Sacred Valley to Machu Picchu (3-Day Adventure)
| Difficulty: Modete
Embark on an unparalleled 3-day Peru birding tour combined with the iconic Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. This meticulously crafted adventure is designed for nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers who desire an immersive experience without the rigors of multi-day camping treks. Journey through the breathtaking Sacred Valley of the Incas, a region celebrated for its rich biodiversity and ancient history, before embarking on a scenic trek through tropical cloud forests to the majestic Machu Picchu.
Our expert-guided expedition offers exceptional opportunities to observe a diverse array of Peruvian bird species, including endemic hummingbirds at the renowned Ensifera Camp, and unique avian life along the Inca Trail and within the Machu Picchu sanctuary itself. Witness the architectural marvels of Inca civilization, explore archaeological sites like Wiñay Wayna, and experience the awe-inspiring arrival at Machu Picchu via the Sun Gate. This tour provides a perfect blend of cultural immersion, historical discovery, and world-class birdwatching, ensuring an unforgettable journey for those seeking the best of Peru in a condensed, comfortable format.
Highlights:
Exclusive Birding Opportunities: Encounter diverse avian life, including endemic hummingbirds at Ensifera Camp and unique species along the Short Inca Trail and within Machu Picchu.
Short Inca Trail Experience: Trek through stunning cloud forests to Wiñay Wayna and enter Machu Picchu via the iconic Sun Gate, avoiding multi-day camping.
Machu Picchu Immersion: Witness breathtaking sunrise and sunset views of the ancient citadel, with ample time for guided exploration and unique birdwatching within the sanctuary.
Cultural & Historical Discovery: Explore ancient Inca archaeological sites like Ollantaytambo and Wiñay Wayna, delving into Peru’s rich heritage.
Spectacular Andean Landscapes: Marvel at the Sacred Valley’s picturesque scenery, snow-capped peaks, and the Urubamba River’s natural beauty.
Expert-Guided Adventure: Benefit from a professional birding guide with extensive knowledge of local avifauna and Inca history.
Itinerary
Day 1: Cusco to Sacred Valley & Ollantaytambo – Hummingbird Sanctuary & Inca Fortress
Your 3-day Peru birding and trekking adventure commences with an early 5:30 AM pick-up from your Cusco hotel. We journey into the magnificent Sacred Valley of the Incas, a region rich in history and natural splendor. Our first destination is the renowned Ensifera Camp (Hummingbird Sanctuary), a prime birding hotspot. Here, you’ll have exceptional opportunities to observe dazzling species such as the Sword-billed Hummingbird, elegant White-tufted Sunbeam, and iridescent Shining Sunbeam. We’ll also search for the elusive endemic Chestnut-breasted Mountain-Finch and the unique Undulated Antpitta. After a delightful lunch amidst this avian paradise, we continue to Ollantaytambo, where you’ll explore its living Inca city and impressive fortress, a testament to ancient Inca engineering. Overnight in Ollantaytambo
Day 2: Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu – Sun Gate Arrival & Sanctuary Birding
After an early breakfast, we board a scenic train to Km 104, the starting point of your Short Inca Trail experience. This scenic trek ascends gradually through lush cloud forests, leading us to the remarkably preserved Inca site of Wiñay Wayna. Along the way, we’ll keep an eye out for diverse bird species, including potential sightings of the Andean Cock-of-the-Rock, Torrent Duck, and Gray-Breasted Mountain Toucan. Our journey culminates at Inti Punku (the Sun Gate), offering your first panoramic and magical views of Machu Picchu as the sun begins to set. This unique arrival provides unparalleled photographic opportunities and a chance to experience the citadel with fewer crowds. We then descend by bus to Aguas Calientes for dinner and overnight accommodation.
Day 3: Machu Picchu Exploration & Urubamba River Birding – Return to Cusco
Today begins with an early bus ride back to Machu Picchu for a comprehensive guided tour of the magnificent Inca city. You’ll have ample time to explore its terraces, temples, and plazas. Following our archaeological immersion, we embark on a dedicated birding walk along the trail from Machu Picchu down to Aguas Calientes, actively searching for species such as the endemic Inca Wren, Versicolored Barbet, and various colorful Tanagers (Blue-gray, Palm, Silvery, Blue-necked, Beryl-spangled). After lunch in Aguas Calientes, we board a panoramic train back to Ollantaytambo, enjoying the stunning Andean scenery. Our private transportation will then comfortably transfer you back to your hotel in Cusco, concluding your extraordinary Peru birding and cultural journey.
What’s Included:
- Pre-departure briefing at your hotel
- Private transportation from Cusco to Ollantaytambo train station
- Train ticket from Ollantaytambo to starting point of the trek
- Professionally trained Birding tour guide
- Meals during the program
- Entrance fees to Ollantaytambo Archaeological site and Ensifera Camp
- Entrance fees to the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu
- Bus tickets from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes (Day 2)
- First-aid kit including emergency oxygen
- Hotel Ollantaytambo (Day 2) and Aguas Calientes (Day 2)
- Bus ticket from Aguas Calientes to the entrance to Machu Picchu
- Train ticket from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo
- Transfer from train station to hotel in Cusco
What’s Not Included:
- Breakfast on the first day
- Travel insurance
- Lunch on the last day after Machu Picchu
- Tips and extra spending
Tour Pricing & Private Group Rates
At Birding Peru Trips, we offer 100% private birding tours in Peru, including the iconic Peru Birding & Short Inca Trail: Sacred Valley to Machu Picchu. Perfect for birders, wildlife lovers, photographers, and nature enthusiasts, our tours are designed for flexibility, comfort, and the best possible sightings
Group Size and Price Per Person (USD)
1 Person: USD 1490.00 per person
2 Persons: USD 1160.00 per person
3 Persons: USD 1050.00 per person
4 Persons: USD 990.00 per person
5 Persons: USD 970.00 per person
6 Persons: USD 950.00 per person
Custom Groups (6+ Travelers)
Traveling in a larger group? We offer custom private birding tours in Peru with an additional guide to ensure the best experience.
Contact us today to plan your Peru Birding & Short Inca Trail tour in Peru and receive a personalized quote.
Recommended Packing for Your Birding & Trekking Adventure:
Current Passport: Required for all travelers. If your passport expired between booking and starting your tour, bring both the old and new passports.
Day Pack: Essential for carrying daily necessities during the hike.
Rain Gear or Poncho: Peru’s weather can be unpredictable; plastic ponchos are available for purchase in Cusco.
Hiking Boots: Sturdy hiking boots with ankle support are highly recommended for the Inca Trail.
Camera and Binoculars: Capture the stunning landscapes and diverse birdlife.
Hydrating Face and Body Lotion: Protect your skin from the Andean sun and dry air.
Sun Block and Insect Repellent: Crucial for comfort and protection in varying environments.
Water Bottles: Nalgene or metal reusable bottles are required for environmental sustainability.Toilet Paper and Tissues: For personal use during the trek.
Related Tours
