Birdsong & Culture in the Andes — 8-Day Private Journey to Machu Picchu
This Birdsong & Culture in the Andes 8 Days is more than a honeymoon — it's a curated celebration of love, soul, and discovery in the Sacred Andes. Walk through ancient cities hand in hand, share quiet moments at hidden lagoons, and experience Machu Picchu at sunrise with your private guide. From candlelit dinners and boutique stays to spiritual hikes and artisan encounters, every detail is designed to deepen your bond. Whether it's a first journey as newlyweds or a well-deserved reconnection, Azonkoy turns each day into a memory worth keeping — timeless, meaningful, and completely yours.
Journeys Highlights
- Birdwatching in IPAL & Calquiña Spot rare species like the Cock of the Rock and Sword-billed Hummingbird in pristine cloud forests.
- Scenic Abra Málaga Crossing Travel across diverse ecosystems from high Andes to Amazonian slopes rich in biodiversity
- Sacred Valley Wonders Explore Pisaq, Moray, Maras, and Ollantaytambo—living Inca heritage and stunning landscapes.
- Train Journey to Machu Picchu Ride a panoramic train to the base of the Lost City, surrounded by majestic scenery.
- Two Days at Machu Picchu Enjoy a guided tour and an optional second visit for Huayna Picchu or Inti Punku.
- Cultural Immersion in Cusco Wander through temples, plazas, and artisan streets in the heart of the Inca capital
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome in Cusco - Sacred Valley & Acclimatization
Arrival at Cusco airport and direct transfer to the Sacred Valley (lower altitude). On the way, we will visit the traditional market and the archaeological terraces of Pisaq. Rest of the afternoon free for rest and acclimatization in a charming hotel surrounded by nature.
Overnight in Sacred Valley
Included meals: None today
Day 2: Abra Málaga - Bird watching at Ipal Ecolodge
Early departure to the Abra Malaga pass (4,230 m), entry point to the cloud forest. En route, we will observe birds such as the Scarlet Tanager, the Tit-tyrant, hummingbirds such as the Sword-billed Hummingbird, and Andean high altitude species. After crossing to the Amazonian slope, we arrive at the Ipal Ecolodge (1,600 m) for lunch and rest. In the afternoon, visit the lodge’s gardens, watering holes and feeding troughs, where species such as the Swallow-tailed Hummingbird, Crested Finch, and Blue Dacnis can be observed. At sunset, hike to the Cock of the Rock lek, where we will witness their courtship dance.
Overnight in lodge IPAL
Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 3: Calquiña Forest - Return to the Sacred Valley
Early in the morning we leave for the Calquiña trail, a high jungle ecosystem with orchids, ferns and mountain trees. We will observe birds such as the Flame-faced Tanager, Tree-Striped Hemispingus, Golden-crowned Flycatcher, Versicolored Barbet, Masked Fruiteater, and even the Cock-of-the-Rock again.
After breakfast in the forest and a morning of exploration, we return to the lodge for lunch and then back to the hotel in the Sacred Valley
Overnight in Sacred Valley
Included meals: Breakfast and lunch.
Day 4: Maras, Moray & Ollantaytambo – Andean Heritage Unveiled
Travel through the heart of the Sacred Valley and discover three of its most iconic sites. Explore the fascinating circular terraces of Moray, believed to be an ancient Inca agricultural laboratory designed to experiment with crops at different altitudes. Continue to the striking salt mines of Maras, where thousands of white salt pools create a surreal landscape that has been harvested by local families for generations.
End the day in the living Inca town of Ollantaytambo, where massive stone terraces and a perfectly preserved layout reflect the brilliance of ancient Andean engineering
Overnight in Sacred Valley
Included meals: Breakfast and Lunch
Day 5: Train ride and first visit to Machu Picchu
In the morning, transfer to the train station in Ollantaytambo to board a scenic journey to Aguas Calientes, the base town of Machu Picchu. Upon arrival, you will enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before starting the ascent to the Sanctuary.
In the afternoon, private guided tour of the main sectors of Machu Picchu, discovering its sacred architecture, panoramic viewpoints and the unique energy that surrounds this sacred place. At the end, return to Aguas Calientes and free time to rest or stroll around town.
Overnight in Aguas Calientes
Included meals: Breakfast and Lunch
Day 6: Second optional visit to Machu Picchu - Return to Cusco
This day is reserved for a second optional visit to Machu Picchu Sanctuary, with different alternatives according to your interest and energy:
1. Ascent to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (subject to availability).
2. Hike to the Inca Bridge or the Sun Gate (Inti Punku).
3. A contemplative return, to reconnect with the majesty of the site at your own pace.
In the afternoon, return by train to Ollantaytambo and private transfer to your hotel in Cusco.
Overnight in Cusco
Included meals: Breakfast and Lunch
Day 7: Free morning - Afternoon City Tour of Cusco
Free morning to relax, explore the historic center or do some last minute shopping. In the afternoon, guided tour of Cusco’s cultural icons: the majestic Cathedral, the sacred Temple of Qorikancha, and the charming alleyways of the artisan neighborhood of San Blas.
Overnight in Cusco
Included meals: Breakfast
Day 8: Transfer to the Airport – Farewell & Departure
After a final breakfast in the heart of the Andes, enjoy a peaceful morning before your private transfer to the Cusco airport. We hope this journey filled you with wonder, connection, and unforgettable memories of nature, culture, and life in the Sacred Valley.
Until we meet again – warm wishes for your next adventure.
Included meals: Breakfast.
