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The department of Cusco features a major diversity of species
that are appreciated by ornithologists from all over the world.
Lake
Huacarpay or Lake Lucre (3,000 masl) is the best spot for
sighting the main bird species in the Cusco region. The
lake, with its tranquil waters, sprawling totora reed clumps
and flooded areas, is overlooked by hills studded with cacti
and trees.
At the same time, the dirt road between Ollantaytambo and the
town of Quillabamba (Cusco cloud forest) offers visitors
a chance to cross over an incredible range of altitudes
and eco-systems, in addition spectacular views of nearby
peaks, particularly Mount Veronica (5,750 masl). The area
known as San Luis features many of the bird species found
elsewhere around the country.
The Machu Picchu historic sanctuary,
and particularly the forests that line both banks of the Urubamba River, below the citadel
of Machu Picchu itself, are home to the habitats of an enormous
variety of bird species, calculated at more than 400, such
as the cock-of-the-rocks (Rupicola Peruviana), considered
Peru's national bird. The area also features brightly-colored
orchids and tree-born ferns, considered treasures of the
sanctuary.
Climate: Rainy during the summer
months (from December to March). Sunny from May to September,
although rain showers are common. Temperatures reach a maximum
of 27° C, and rarely drop below 11° C.
Access:
- Lake Huacarpay is located 25 km south of Cusco.
- To reach the Abra Malaga pass, travelers should take the
road from Ollantaytambo (97 km from Cusco). - To study bird
species in the Machu Picchu area, watchers should take the
trail from Aguas Calientes (the town of Machu Picchu), continuing
downstream for several kilometers.
Click on the following links for birdwatching
opportunities:
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