Walking through the landscapes of the Cusco jungle allows you to connect with an amazing and little-explored biodiversity. For this reason, we at Trails to Machu Picchu recommend this route if you love nature. You will notice that the path from the Hidroeléctrica offers close encounters with exotic species in a vibrant environment.
Exploring the Machu Picchu biological corridor on foot
You start your walk in a transition zone where the mountain meets the high jungle. This environment is part of the Machu Picchu biological corridor, a vital space for the survival of many species. You will notice that the air becomes more humid and warmer as you advance towards Machu Picchu Pueblo.
Biodiversity of the Vilcanota River
As you move forward, the sound of water will accompany you during almost the entire ten-kilometer route. The biodiversity of the Vilcanota River is fundamental, as its banks serve as a refuge for wading and shorebirds. You will be able to observe the white-capped dipper jumping between the rocks while you look for a place to rest.
Montane forests of Cusco
The trees in this section are covered with mosses, orchids, and giant ferns that climb towards the light. These montane forests of Cusco are home to multicolored tanagers that feed on wild fruits. We suggest you look towards the highest canopies, where these small birds usually gather in the mornings.
Emblematic species in the landscapes of the Cusco jungle
You will notice that the variety of colors and songs increases as you enter the dense vegetation. In these landscapes of the Cusco jungle, each level of the forest houses different types of winged life. If you keep quiet, you could witness truly fascinating courtship or feeding scenes.
The majestic Andean cock-of-the-rock
If you are lucky, you will be able to see the intense red plumage of the Andean cock-of-the-rock among the green foliage. This national bird of Peru prefers the humid and rocky areas near waterfalls. We usually recommend this section because it is one of the best places to spot it without leaving the main route.
Hummingbirds of the high jungle
You will notice that these tiny birds buzz near the tubular flowers that grow next to the tracks. The hummingbirds of the high jungle are experts in quick maneuvers to extract nectar from bromeliads. We advise you to stop for a moment near the red flowers, as that is where they appear most frequently.
Cloud forest birds
In the highest and most humid parts, you will be able to hear the deep song of the masked trogon. These cloud forest birds prefer the middle branches to observe their prey before swooping down. Their presence indicates that the ecosystem remains healthy and balanced despite human activity.
Tropical bird behavior
Many species move in mixed flocks to protect themselves from predators while searching for food. The behavior of tropical birds is usually more active just after a light rain. You will notice that the forest fills with a chatter of whistles and calls at those specific moments.
How to plan your bird watching in Cusco?
Doing some bird watching in Cusco requires patience and a good choice of time of day. For this reason, we at Trails to Machu Picchu suggest you plan your outing with enough time. If you walk without rushing, you will discover details that travelers who go by train never manage to perceive.
Best time for bird watching
Activity in the jungle starts very early, even before the sun illuminates the bottom of the valley. The best time for bird watching is between six and nine in the morning. During this interval, birds come out to feed and are much easier to identify by their songs.
Migration of local birds
Depending on the season, you will notice the presence of species that come down from the highest mountains. The migration of local birds occurs mainly during the transition between the dry season and the rainy season. This phenomenon increases your chances of seeing birds that do not permanently reside in the Vilcanota valley.
Preparations for walking along the train tracks
You must be attentive to the environment as you move forward, as the train continues to operate on regular schedules. To walk along the tracks safely, we suggest you always walk on the enabled side paths. This way you can focus on looking for birds without neglecting your personal safety during the journey.
Equipment for walking on foot
Carrying the right equipment for walking on foot will make a difference in your comfort during the three-hour march. We recommend you include the following items in your backpack:
- Short-range binoculars to see details in the plumage.
- Neutral-colored clothing so as not to scare the animals.
- Camera with a good zoom to capture sharp images.
- A light raincoat in case sudden rains appear.
Climate of Machu Picchu Pueblo
The climate of Machu Picchu Pueblo is subtropical, which means that heat and humidity are constant. Therefore, we advise you to use repellent and sunscreen before starting your walk. If the sky clouds over, do not worry, as many birds become more visible under that soft light.
Nature and flora of the Hidroeléctrica route
The vegetation surrounding the path is the fundamental support for all the fauna you will observe. The flora of the Hidroeléctrica route is so varied that you could spend hours just studying the plants. According to studies by UNSAAC (2023), this area is home to orchids that do not grow anywhere else in the world.
To better take advantage of your walk, we suggest you follow these steps:
- Carry enough drinking water before leaving Hidroeléctrica.
- Maintain a constant but calm pace so as not to get too winded.
- Keep quiet when you hear an unknown song near the path.
- Bring light snacks to maintain your energy during the tour.
Once you reach the iron bridge, you will be very close to your final destination. We at Trails to Machu Picchu accompany you in the organization of this experience so that it is perfect. Enjoying the landscapes of the Cusco jungle is, without a doubt, the best prelude to visiting the Inca citadel, contact us.
