Why Cusco Is a Great Birdwatching Destination in Peru
Cusco is the cultural capital of Peru, famous around the world for Machu Picchu and dozens of other Inca archaeological sites. Every visitor is amazed by the incredible history, architecture, and living culture that define this region. But for many travelers, after several visits to ruins and museums, the experience can start to feel repetitive.
That is why alternative activities such as gastronomy, outdoor adventures, and especially Cusco birdwatching tours are becoming some of the best options to add variety and balance to your trip to Peru.
Peru is the second country in the world for bird diversity, with more than 1,900 species recorded. Cusco is the richest region in Peru, home to 1,106 bird species, including more than 60 hummingbirds and many endemic birds found nowhere else on Earth. This incredible diversity makes Cusco birdwatching tours not just an alternative, but a highlight for anyone who loves nature.
What activities to do in Cusco with kids?
Families often ask what to do in Cusco with children besides visiting archaeological sites. The answer is simple: birdwatching. Cusco birdwatching tours are fun, educational, and perfect for introducing kids to the natural side of Peru. Wetlands like Huacarpay or hummingbird gardens such as Inkaterra and Ensifera Camp allow close encounters with colorful species that fascinate both children and adults. This activity offers an ideal balance of adventure, learning, and entertainment for the whole family.
What are the best family activities in Cusco?
Besides cultural tours, families look for experiences that everyone can enjoy together. Birdwatching is one of the best family activities in Cusco because it is accessible, safe, and rewarding. With short walks and easy access to hotspots, it is suitable for all ages. Observing hummingbirds, tanagers, or endemic Andean birds becomes a memorable shared adventure that brings families closer to nature.
What to do in Cusco with young travelers who want more than history?
Not every traveler is equally passionate about archaeology. For young people, repeating ruins and historical lectures can sometimes feel overwhelming. Here, Cusco birdwatching tours offer the perfect balance. Exploring natural landscapes, spotting rare species, and taking amazing photos add variety and excitement to the trip. For groups of friends or couples, birdwatching is also a refreshing way to discover a different face of Cusco.
What activities can you do in Cusco during the rainy season?
Many travelers worry about what to do in Cusco during the rainy season. The good news is that Cusco birdwatching tours are an excellent choice even when rain limits some cultural visits. Birds remain active, and the landscapes are greener and more vibrant. With professional guides, proper planning, and easy access to prime locations, birdwatching becomes one of the most reliable and enjoyable activities in this season.
Why choose Machupicchu Cusco Birding for your Peru birdwatching tours?
At Machupicchu Cusco Birding, the nature division of Peru Unique Destination, we have more than 10 years of experience designing specialized birdwatching tours in Cusco and across Peru. Our team of professional guides, combined with solid logistics and all the required legal permits, guarantees both safety and quality.
Whether you are planning a short stay or a longer trip, we make sure that your Peru birdwatching tours are unforgettable, combining culture, nature, and authentic experiences. Choosing us means turning your trip into more than just a visit—it becomes a journey of discovery, connection, and unforgettable memories.
Check a little about this paradise in this episode: