Year-round (Best thermal soaring: May to November)
Meals Included
Wholesome picnic lunch and artisan trail snacks with warm coca tea
Physical Level
Moderate
Jungle Lodge
Day excursion returning to Cusco in the evening
Altitude / Zone
2,800 m – 3,400 m
Expedition Summary
Plunging more than 1,500 meters down to the thundering Apurimac River, the Apurimac Canyon is one of the deepest gorges on the South American continent. Perched high above this chasm lies the traditional farming community of Chonta, home to natural cliff roosts used by wild Andean Condors (Vultur gryphus).
This full-day expedition escapes the crowded tourist circuits to combine an impressive visit to the polygonal Inca masonry of Tarawasi with a panoramic 2-hour rim trail hike. At the cliff-edge viewpoints, travelers enjoy front-row observation as juvenile and adult condors lift off on rising afternoon thermals, gliding just meters past the canyon edge with wingspans exceeding three meters (ten feet).
Discover what makes this Amazon rainforest expedition unique
Why You'll Love This Tour
Guaranteed Wild Condor Sightings: Consistently high sighting success rate (over 95% in dry season) with multiple individuals soaring at close proximity.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experience: Quiet, uncrowded trail far removed from standard tourist buses, allowing true wilderness immersion.
Fascinating Inca Archaeology: Guided walk through Tarawasi, famous for its flower-shaped polygonal stone masonry and ceremonial agricultural platforms.
Epic Canyon Scenery: Dramatic vistas over the Apurimac River gorge, surrounded by jagged granite peaks and soaring Andean raptors.
Excellent Acclimatization Hike: Moderate walking pace at 3,300m elevation—ideal training for longer treks like the Inca Trail or Salkantay.
The Andean Condor was venerated by the Incas as the spiritual ruler of Hanaq Pacha—the celestial realm connecting humanity with the cosmos. Experiencing this sacred creature in its wild, natural sanctuary rather than an enclosure is one of the most profound wildlife encounters in Peru.
Leaving Cusco after breakfast, our route winds west past the Anta farming plains and drops into the warm valley of Limatambo. After exploring the ceremonial Inca temple of Tarawasi, we ascend by private vehicle along a scenic mountain dirt road to the rural hamlet of Chonta.
From here, a scenic, gently undulating trail hugs the canyon rim, offering expansive views of snowcapped peaks across the horizon. By 1:00 PM, warm thermal winds begin rushing up the canyon walls, signaling the moment condors leave their rocky perches to circle effortlessly on the updrafts.
Expedition Highlights
Starting Point: Hotel pickup in Cusco at 07:00 AM
Ending Point: Hotel drop-off in Cusco by 07:30 PM
Driving Distance: 95 km / 59 miles each way (approx. 2.5 hours driving)
Trekking Distance: 6 km / 3.7 miles round-trip on well-marked dirt trail
Difficulty Level: Moderate (undulating trail at 3,300m altitude)
Wildlife & Scenery Summary
07:00 AM: Cusco pickup and drive west toward Limatambo.
08:30 AM: Guided tour of the Tarawasi Inca archaeological complex.
10:30 AM: Arrive in Chonta community; begin scenic trail hike along canyon edge.
12:30 PM: Reach the Mirador del Cóndor; picnic lunch with panoramic canyon views.
01:00 – 03:30 PM: Prime condor observation window as birds soar on thermal updrafts.
04:00 PM: Hike back to Chonta community.
05:00 PM: Private vehicle transfer back to Cusco.
07:30 PM: Drop-off at your Cusco hotel.
Detailed Day-by-Day Itinerary
A step-by-step breakdown of your journey through the Peruvian Amazon
We pick you up from your Cusco accommodation at 07:00 AM in private transport, setting out westward across the fertile Anta plateau. Along the route, we enjoy sweeping views of the snow-capped Salkantay and Humantay massifs.
Our first stop is Tarawasi in the Limatambo Valley. This ceremonial Inca complex served as an administrative center and resting point (tambo) on the road to Chinchaysuyo. We admire the intricate polygonal masonry featuring distinctive carved cell-like stone patterns unmatched elsewhere in the Cusco region.
Continuing our drive, we ascend a scenic unpaved road to the rural Andean hamlet of Chonta (3,400m). Here, we register at the local community office and begin our 3-kilometer hike along a panoramic trail skirting the edge of the canyon. Along the way, we watch for highland birds such as Black-chested Buzzard-Eagle, Aplomado Falcon, Variable Hawk, and Highland Parakeet.
Around midday, we reach the third and most dramatic viewpoint: a natural rock promontory suspended hundreds of meters above the Apurimac River. Here, we unpack our nutritious lunch and set up high-powered spotting scopes.
Between 01:00 PM and 03:30 PM, as the canyon warms, thermal air currents surge up the sheer vertical cliffs. Adult condors with white neck ruffs and juveniles with dusky plumage lift from their cliff cavities. They frequently bank within 20 to 50 meters of the viewpoint, offering breathtaking photo opportunities.
At 03:45 PM, we begin our gentle return walk to Chonta, where our private transport is waiting. We drive back to Cusco, arriving at your hotel door by 07:30 PM.
What's Included & Excluded
Transparency is our core commitment. No hidden fees or surprises.
— Included in Price
Expert Naturalist Guide: Professional English-Spanish speaking guide equipped with birding binoculars and spotting scope.
Private Round-Trip Transportation: Dedicated vehicle with licensed professional driver.
All Entrance Tickets: Admission to Tarawasi Inca complex and Chonta Community Condor Reserve.
Field Meals: Wholesome picnic lunch, fresh fruit, energy snacks, and hot coca tea.
Safety Gear: First aid kit with emergency oxygen cylinder.
Trekking Poles: Pair of trekking poles provided upon advance request.
— Not Included
Breakfast on Day 1 and dinner upon return to Cusco.
Personal optics and camera equipment.
Personal expenses, sodas, and tips for guide and driver.
Personal medical and travel insurance.
Pricing, Tiers & Policies
Per person rates based on group size and cabin options
Day Tour Pricing (USD per person):
Group Service (2 – 10 travelers): $95 USD per person
Private Service (2 travelers): $155 USD per person
Private Service (3 – 4 travelers): $120 USD per person
Private Service (5+ travelers): $95 USD per person
Weather & Soaring Dynamics: Thermal air currents require temperature differential between canyon floor and cliff tops. Therefore, condor activity peaks between 1:00 PM and 3:30 PM. In the rare event of overcast weather, sightings still occur, though birds may fly slightly lower.
Traveler Guide & FAQs
Important advice on vaccines, currency, flights, and weather
Altitude: The hike takes place between 3,200m and 3,400m above sea level. Acclimatization of at least 1-2 days in Cusco is recommended.
Trail Conditions: Packed dirt trail with gentle undulations; brief rocky sections near viewpoints. Safe for all active travelers with reasonable fitness.
Conservation: The Chonta community manages this sanctuary directly. Your visit provides sustainable tourism revenue that supports condor habitat preservation and rural school education.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How close do the condors actually get? A: Depending on wind speed and thermal currents, condors frequently cruise within 20 to 50 meters of the primary viewpoint, sometimes passing directly overhead.
Q: Is the hike difficult? A: It is classified as moderate. The trail is well-defined with gradual ups and downs, taking approximately 1.5 hours in each direction.
Q: Can children participate? A: Yes, active children aged 8 and above accustomed to walking can comfortably complete this day tour.
What to Bring into the Amazon
Recommended gear, clothing, and repellent to make your trip comfortable
Footwear: Sturdy hiking boots or trail shoes with reliable tread.
Rescheduling of tours is possible, as long as they are requested well in advance, except for specific third-party attractions or services which have specific policies.
Failure of the passenger to show up at the indicated place and time will result in the total loss of the service, with no right to reimbursement.
Cancellations or withdrawals of contracted services are not refundable.
INKAMAZONIA TOUR OPERATOR E.I.R.L. reserves the right to modify or change these policies according to Peruvian tourism law and safety standards.
Weather & Remote Location Conditions
Weather conditions and remote locations are combined physical factors that can make this activity a bit more challenging than it normally would be. On certain days, we will have to do our walks with tropical rain.
Be prepared to face large rivers in small motorboats and taste unique traditional food from the Amazonian region.
Usually, you do not need to be a tourist with extensive hiking experience, as the attraction elevation is approximately 500 meters above sea level and the terrain is not very steep.
Wildlife Sightings & Natural Habitat
The probability of seeing wildlife is varied since there are days when we have more opportunities than others.
Remember that this expedition enters a completely wild place where animals are not confined and are not always in the same location.
The best recommendation is to have plenty of patience and maintain teamwork with your route guide and boat crew.
Travel Advice & Insurance
All passengers are advised to purchase travel insurance covering remote Amazon areas, emergency medical assistance, delays, and evacuation.
Original passport is mandatory for control checkpoints at National Parks and Biosphere Reserves.
Please report any dietary requirements, allergies, or physical restrictions to your trip coordinator prior to departure.
Have specific questions regarding dates or flexible booking policies? We are available 24/7.
Important Reservation Notes: Prices are in US Dollars per person based on shared double/twin room accommodation. A deposit of 30% is required to guarantee your departure date. Please ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months from entry to Peru.
Verified Travelers
TripAdvisor Traveler Reviews
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Müller
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Una experiencia única en la naturaleza Participamos en una gira de 7 días por el Parque Nacional Manu. Esta fue una gran experiencia para nosotros. Nuestro guía Lincol nos explicó todo muy bien y pudimos admirar y conocer muchos animales y plantas. Recomendamos este tour a todos los que les gusta descubrir nuevos lugares en la naturaleza.
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Victor N
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Excursion au Parc National de Manu J'ai fait une excursion de 3 jours au parc national de Manu avec Lincol et ses aides de camp, super expérience ! Nous avons pu voir plein d'oiseaux, colorés ou non, et même un capybara. La jungle est vraiment magnifique. Je recommande :)
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Arianna C
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Relax e natura! Esperienza di relax e immersione nella natura! Il parco del Manu è una zona molto bella e poco frequentata dell’Amazzonia Peruviana che offre la possibilità di esplorare in tranquillità la flora e la fauna del posto. Lincol guida top!
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Clara J
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Inolvidable Desde el principio el viaje a la selva fue interesantísimo. Lincoln es un guía profesional que tiene un conocimiento abrumador de la naturaleza, siempre había alrededor algo nuevo que aprender. La observación de los animales en su hábitat es imprevisible y emocionante, tanto el guía como el resto del equipo están atentos para intentar no perder nada. Especial atención al gran conductor Percy y al excelente cocinero Wilfredo, que nos tenía comidas deliciosas preparadas cuando volvíamos de las observaciones. Los paisajes, la vida de la selva, los colores y los sonidos… inolvidable.
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Mar A
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Insuperable, la mejor experiencia Quiero recordar este viaje no solo por todo lo que vimos, sino por cómo nos hicieron vivirlo. El Manu es un lugar impresionante por sí solo, pero Lincoln consiguió que lo entendiéramos de otra manera: no se limitaba a señalar animales o plantas, sino que nos explicaba cómo encajaba todo, por qué era importante y qué historias había detrás. Su entusiasmo es de esos que se contagian. Percy, nuestro conductor, también hizo el viaje mucho más especial. Siempre estaba de buen humor, era muy amable y tenía una capacidad increíble para detectar aves a lo lejos antes que nadie. Y Wilfredo nos cuidó muchísimo con la comida: todo estaba buenísimo y agradecí especialmente que tuviera siempre en cuenta que soy vegetariana. Más allá de la organización y de todo lo que aprendimos, me quedo con la sensación de haber compartido unos días con personas que realmente aman ese lugar y disfrutan enseñándoselo a los demás. Nos trataron con una cercanía y una generosidad enormes. Volví con muchísimas imágenes en la cabeza, pero sobre todo con muchas más ganas de proteger y entender la naturaleza
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María F
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Una experiencia inolvidable!!! Nos adentramos al Manu en una excursión con Lincoln y se convirtió en una experiencia inolvidable. Observamos muchísimas aves, flora y otros animales como serpientes, tarántulas y monos. El paseo por el río y la caminata nocturna fueron increíbles. Nos quedamos con un recuerdo increíble del guía porque nos explicó todo con muchísimo detalle y amabilidad y nos permitió tener un acercamiento a la selva respetuoso y emocionante. También me gustaría dejar una mención especial a nuestro estupendo conductor, Persy, y cocinero, Wilfredo, que hicieron que la experiencia fuese todavía mejor. Muchísimas gracias a Lincol y a todo el equipo. Lo recomiendo al 100.
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Jet41730913153
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Stunning Hummingbirds Beautiful place, so many different Hummingbirds- the very special and beautiful tiny Rufous-crested Coquette, the Reddish Hermit, White-necked Jacobin, and the Sword-billed Hummingbird, as well as Tanagers, you see them close up and flying around you! We were also lucky enough to see monkeys climbing and eating whilst we were there and a gorgeous Emerald Tree Boa. The people here have changed from farming, to conserving the wildlife in this wonderful cloud forest. They are educating visitors about the birdlife here. Lincol was our guide here and in Manu where we saw a Leopard, an Anaconda, Tarantulas, Bush master snakes, Black and White Cayman, numerous birds, and cute Capybara, and turtles.
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Kiara G
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Un viaje increíble al Manu Pasamos 4 días increíbles en el Manu. Las actividades estuvieron muy bien organizadas, la comida fue variada y deliciosa, y los lodges fueron cómodos. Todo el equipo fue muy amable e hizo que la experiencia fuera muy agradable. Disfrutamos muchísimo del viaje y sin duda volveríamos. ¡Muy recomendado!
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Teri A
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Amazing Inkamazonia 7-day Manu Bioreserve Tour! A friend and I recently enjoyed the 7-day tour of Manu Biosphere Reserve with Inkamazonia. Roger Huaman Guipia was our guide. What an extraordinary journey into the amazing diversity of life and native culture in Manu National Park. Inkamazonia delivers 100% on their promises. The tour was well organized by Lincol Huamantupa Chuquimaco with excellent transportation and accommodations. The meals, prepared by our chef/cook Alex were delicious, healthy, plentiful, and accommodated our food restrictions. Roger is a skilled and knowledgeable guide; excellent at spotting, identifying, and teaching us about the multitude of birds, monkeys, caimans, otters, tapirs, capybaras, trees, flowers and other species. He is a wealth of knowledge about the Manu ecosystem and native culture and is a true educator. Roger is also multilingual fluent in Spanish, English, and native languages. We saw and learned so much! The whole team of Roger, Alex, Juan and Remy (boat operators) were all excellent at spotting wildlife. Some highlights of the tour included Lincol’s family Inkamazonia Orchid and Hummingbird Ecological Center, two trips to see the Giant Otters at the oxbow lake, the beautiful grounds and trails at Hummingbird Lodge, and the last night stay at the Tapir lick platform - an amazing night in the rainforest, and we were lucky to see and hear tapirs as well as monkeys and birds. Jenny and her family provided very comfortable accommodations. I felt safe and comfortable the entire trip. I greatly appreciate Inkamazonia’s focus on traveling lightly on the earth, protecting the bioreserve, and supporting local native communities through responsible tourism. I highly recommend Inkamazonia!
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walburga23
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Una experiencia excellente! Estoy muy contenta y agradecida! Just amazing and highly recommended to who wants to immerse in the selva! The 7 day trip to Manu with Inkamazonia has been one of the best experiences ever. The organization of Lincol was perfect, our guide Roger was very knowledgable, attentive and caring, the cooking of Alex (with the support of the experienced boatsmen Juan and Remy) was undescribably good and adjusted to special needs. We saw a lot of wildlife, more than we expected! All the chosen lodges and the tapir observation platform were great places to spend the nights, especially as they supported the local people and economy. Thanks to the whole staff!!!
