photography Manu Expeditions 4D/3n

Embarking on a 4-day/3-night photography expedition through Manu's diverse ecosystems offers an unparalleled opportunity to observe a vast array of avian species. This journey traverses from the high-elevation cloud forests of Wayqecha to the lush lowlands of the Amazon, providing birders with access to a multitude of habitats and the species that inhabit them.

Itinerary day by day

Day 1: Cusco to Wayqecha Biological Station (approx. 2,900–3,600 m)

Departing from Cusco, the journey ascends to the Wayqecha Biological Station, situated at the transition between Andean highlands and cloud forests. This area is renowned for its rich biodiversity, including over 250 bird species. Notable avian residents include the Gray-breasted Mountain Toucan (Andigena hypoglauca), Red-and-white Antpitta (Grallaria erythroleuca), and Marcapata Spinetail (Cranioleuca marcapatae), among others.Meals Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 2: Wayqecha to Cock-of-the-Rock Lodge (approx. 1,400 m)

Descending into the cloud forest, the route leads to the Cock-of-the-Rock Lodge. En route, birders may encounter species such as the Crimson-mantled Woodpecker (Colaptes rivolii), Blue-banded Toucanet (Aulacorhynchus coeruleicinctis), and a variety of hummingbirds including Gould’s Inca (Coeligena inca) and Amethyst-throated Sunangel (Heliangelus amethysticollis) .​Meals Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3: Exploring Cock-of-the-Rock biological station lodge

This day focuses on the subtropical and lower temperate zones surrounding the lodge. Highlights include visiting a lek of the Andean Cock-of-the-Rock (Rupicola peruvianus), where males perform elaborate displays. Other species in the area encompass the Amazonian Umbrellabird (Cephalopterus ornatus), Golden-headed Quetzal (Pharomachrus auriceps), and various tanagers such as the Saffron-crowned Tanager (Tangara xanthocephala) .​Meals Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4: Biological lodge the Amazon Lowlands and Return to Cusco

The final day involves a descent into the Amazonian lowlands, offering opportunities to observe species adapted to this environment. Birders might spot the Wire-crested Thorntail (Discosura popelairii), Long-tailed Sylph (Aglaiocercus kingii), and various antbirds and flycatchers . After birding, the journey concludes with a return to Cusco.Meals Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Wayqecha Biological Station (Operated by Asociacion Conservacion Amazonica – ACA)

Located at 2,900–3,500 meters above sea level in the cloud forests of the eastern Andes, Wayqecha is one of the few field stations in the world dedicated to studying cloud forest ecosystems, which are among the most threatened habitats on Earth.
✅ What Wayqecha Does for Nature:

• Conservation Research: Hosts scientists studying climate change, species migration, and forest ecology. Their research helps inform conservation policy and action in the Andes-Amazon transition zone.
• Habitat Protection: Protects over 1,450 hectares of cloud forest, crucial for many endemic and migratory bird species.
• Reforestation & Restoration: Supports projects that restore degraded areas and test high-elevation reforestation methods.
• Environmental Education: Trains students and community leaders in ecology and sustainable practices.
• Biodiversity Monitoring: Continuous monitoring of bird, amphibian, plant, and insect species to understand long-term environmental trends.

​Includes

Information

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• Airport pickup/drop by a private vehicle
• Wayqecha Cloud Forest Lodge – Discover high-elevation endemics and stunning Andean views in this pristine cloud forest ecosystem managed by the Andes Amazon Fund.
• Cock-of-the-Rock Lodge – Witness the dazzling courtship displays of the iconic Andean Cock-of-the-Rock at one of the best viewing spots in the region.
• Manu Learning Centre / Biological Station Lodge – Explore lowland rainforest trails teeming with Amazonian birdlife, including toucans, tanagers, macaws, and antbirds.
• Professional birding guide with expert knowledge of Manu's avifauna.
• Opportunities to spot over 500 species, including rarities like the Masked Trogon, Amazonian Umbrellabird, and Rufous-crested Coquette.
• Comfortable eco-lodge accommodations in strategic birding locations.

Perfect for: Bird photographers, ornithologists, and wildlife lovers looking to experience the magic of Manu in a compact yet intensive itinerary.
​Group Size: Small groups for personalized birding experience
Best Season: April to November.
Reserve your Birding Expedition today and experience Manu’s unmatched avian diversity!

Pricing per person:2025

​1.- traveller $2300.00
2.- travellers $1250.00
4.- travellers $1150.00
6+ travellers $1050.00.