Prior to joining Naturetrek I spent a year working in Peru in the mid-90's. I've been heavily involved in Naturetrek's Peru product since, being fortunate to return several times with groups. I'd never explored the north though, and was delighted to take up an invitation from Promperu to join a first promotional Peruvian Bird Fair near the northern town of Tarapoto, and a short pre-fair field trip. Journalists, tour guides and conservationists, mainly from the UK and USA, brought their own unique perspectives to the fair. The birding during my 6 days in the field lived up fully to expectations. We passed through zones of startling endemism, threatened habitats and witnessed wonderful ancient pre-Inca treasures, barely visited by tourist and archaeologist alike.
One of the highlights of my visit was a stay Chaparri Lodge, a wonderful base which also hosts our Northern Peru tour party each year. In the early morning guests at the lodge gather around a small waterfall to watch the spectacle of dozens of hummingbirds (mainly Purple-collared Woodstars) coming down to drink.
Currently for our 2nd October trip this year, we have four bookings which guarantees departure. Email Andy Tucker should you wish to register interest, or ask any further questions regarding wildlife travel to Peru.
Yellow-scarfed Tanager by Heinz Plenge