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PortuguêsBirds, Tea, and Machu Picchu Tour: A Complete Adventure in Cusco
Looking for a different and natural way to reach the world wonder? The Birds, Tea, and Machu Picchu Tour is the most complete expedition for lovers of biodiversity and local culture. During this journey, you will explore the cloud forests of Cusco’s eastern slope, a paradise for spotting exotic birds. Additionally, you will participate in the traditional artisanal tea process at a local farm, where you’ll prepare your own drink. Therefore, this program is ideal for those wishing to avoid conventional routes and who prefer adventure. From the Abra de Malaga to the foot of the Inca citadel, every kilometer offers breathtaking landscapes. Furthermore, our professional team will ensure an educational and safe experience at all times.
A Sensory Journey from the Cloud Forest to the Inca Citadel
This journey offers much more than a simple transfer to the archaeological site. By choosing the Birds, Tea, and Machu Picchu Tour, you will take part in an adventure that connects wildlife with tea traditions and the legacy of the Incas. First, you will spot tanagers and hummingbirds in their natural habitat beneath the snowy Veronica mountain. Later, you will walk through tropical trails alongside the Urubamba River before conquering the sacred mountain. Consequently, this combination of activities allows you to enjoy the best of rural and archaeological Cusco. Additionally, you will stay at a strategic ecolodge that facilitates access to the adventure zone of Hidroeléctrica.
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Birds, Tea, and Machu Picchu Tour
Day 1: Cusco – Abra de Málaga – Huayopata – Tea Experience
We begin the Birds, Tea, and Machu Picchu Tour very early with a departure from Cusco. We will travel towards Abra de Málaga, located at 4,230 m.a.s.l., to contemplate the majesty of the Verónica mountain. During the descent towards Huayopata, we will start birdwatching in their natural habitat. You will be able to see brightly colored tanagers and exotic hummingbirds that inhabit the cloud forest. Likewise, we will identify unique species such as the Inca Wren and various raptors soaring over the valleys. Upon arrival at Ipal Ecolodge, you will enjoy lunch surrounded by gardens full of wildlife visiting the feeders. In the afternoon, we will visit an artisanal Tea Farm, where you will have the opportunity to prepare your own drink. You will learn the entire process: from leaf selection and infusion to tasting your own creation. This immersive experience awakens all the senses and connects you with the land. After dinner at the lodge, we will go on an optional night outing to observe tropical owls under the stars. Finally, you will rest in the tranquility of the high jungle before the great adventure of the following day.
Day 2: Huayopata – Hidroeléctrica – Machu Picchu – Cusco
The second day of the Birds, Tea, and Machu Picchu Tour begins at 4:40 am with the departure to Hidroeléctrica. You will enjoy spectacular landscapes and crystalline rivers as we enter the subtropical zone. From Hidroeléctrica, we will begin a 10 km hike (approx. 3 hours) along trails surrounded by lush vegetation until reaching Aguas Calientes. This route is famous for its natural beauty and proximity to the train tracks. Subsequently, we will go up to the citadel of Machu Picchu on the Consetur buses for our guided tour. A professional guide will accompany you to reveal the history, architecture, and secrets of the ancient Inca city. You will have time to capture the most iconic photographs before descending back to the town. Finally, we will take the bus down to Aguas Calientes and walk back to Hidroeléctrica. There, our private transport will be waiting for us for the return trip to Cusco. We will arrive in the city at approximately 7:00 pm, thus concluding an epic and transformative journey.
- Transportation: Private transfer Cusco – Huayopata – Hidroeléctrica and return Hidroeléctrica – Cusco.
- Specialized Guide: Professional guide expert in birdwatching and archaeology at the citadel.
- Accommodation: 1-night stay at Ipal Ecolodge with all services included.
- Meals: Plan including 1 lunch, 1 dinner, and snacks for the hike.
- Tea Experience: Guided visit to an artisanal farm and preparation of your own tea beverage.
- Machu Picchu: Official entrance to the citadel and Consetur bus tickets (up and down).
- Technical Material: List of birds spotted throughout the entire expedition.
For transparent planning, remember to consider these additional points:
- Breakfasts: Breakfast is not included during the days of the tour.
- Trains: Train tickets outside the established itinerary (Hidroeléctrica route).
- Drinks: Alcoholic beverages and personal expenses outside of meals.
- Insurance: Personal travel insurance (recommended).
- Gratuities: Optional tips for guides, drivers, or support staff.
- Extras: Any other service not specifically mentioned in the program.
- Hiking Gear: Use sturdy trekking boots and lightweight, quick-drying clothing. Consequently, you will walk the 10 km to the town of Machu Picchu with greater comfort.
- Personal Protection: Carry potent mosquito repellent and sunscreen. Likewise, do not forget a waterproof jacket, as rains are common in the cloud forest.
- Photography: Bring binoculars and a camera with charged batteries. Therefore, you will capture both the wildlife and the majesty of the archaeological remains.
- Hydration: Carry a reusable water bottle for the hike from Hidroeléctrica. It is vital to stay hydrated due to the heat and humidity of the area.
- Documentation: It is mandatory to carry your original passport or ID card (DNI) to enter the Inca citadel.
The difficulty is medium. The terrain is mostly flat, but the 10 km distance requires a healthy, basic physical condition to complete it in 3 hours.
Yes. If you prefer to avoid the walk, you can purchase train tickets from Hidroeléctrica to Aguas Calientes on your own. However, walking is an essential part of the scenic adventure.
It is completely immersive. Unlike a simple tasting, you will personally participate in the leaf selection and infusion process, learning the art of creating your own traditional drink.
We usually arrive at the citadel in the middle of the morning, after the hike. This allows you to enjoy a guided tour with good natural light for photographs.
The signal is unstable on the Hidroeléctrica section, but it improves significantly in Machu Picchu Pueblo. Take the opportunity to disconnect and enjoy the natural surroundings.
