Hikes to the Condor viewpoint in the Apurimac canyon near Limatambo, Cusco – An amazing experience for nature lovers and birders
Watch condors soaring in their natural habitat in the Apurimac canyon near Cusco. Unforgettable scenery, beautiful nature, great for birders. 4-hour hike. Rest at the cozy Andean Spirit Lodge nearby.
- Fabulous condor sightings at the condor viewing platform of Chonta
- Only five hours from Cusco
- Private tours for individuals, families or small parties
From USD 360.-
Join us on an unforgettable journey off the beaten track to the wild and wonderful Apurimac canyon where you may observe the majestic Andean condor (vultur gryphus) soaring in all his impressive splendor to the backdrop of terrific scenery. The Andean condor is the largest flying land bird with a wingspan of up to over three meters and a body weight of up to 15 kg. He may rise up to more than 8,000 m and become invisible to the naked eye. Although the Andean condor is largely a carrion feeder he may also prey upon newly born livestock or weak and sick animals. In Andean cosmology, the condor is the messenger of the gods who also transports the souls of the departed into the spirit realms. The condor represents the Hanaq Pacha, the outer and upper world, the cosmos as such. The Apus or tutelary spirits may also appear to human beings in the form of a condor. To come in contact with this power animal is a deeply transformative experience that may impact our soul.
US $ 5 per person are donated towards the conservation of the condor and/or local community projects
What we offer:
2 days/1 night at the Andean Spirit Lodge:
Day 1
We leave Cusco by private transport at 8.00 am. and travel through the highlands of Anta towards the Northwest. After passing the pass of Willque we descend into the beautiful Limatambo valley and on most days we may enjoy breathtaking views of Mount Salkantay, the second highest Apu of the region (6,272 m). Near Limatambo town we take a well-preserved dirt road up to the picturesque highland hamlet of Chonta. Time permitting we shall briefly visit the local school that benefits from our tours through the donation of materials, before starting our two-hour trek (moderate difficulty). With a little luck we may spot typical highland birds on the way (sometimes even parrots can be seen), whilst appreciating the pretty flora and the spectacular scenery as we approach the canyon. A short hike downhill will take us to the viewpoint in time for a delicious picnic lunch. We shall stay at this marvelous spot for 2-3 hours in order to wait for the condors to soar upwards, being transported by thermal winds. This is an unforgettable birding experience and a highlight for every nature enthusiast! in the early afternoon we start our hike back to Chonta from where our vehicle will take us down to our Lodge near Limatambo. The accommodation is in comfortable bungalows built in the Andean style with private attached facilities. After a hearty dinner, you may enjoy a soul-warming log fire in the lounge of the cozy Lodge. Boxed lunch & D
Day 2
Wake up early and enjoy the amazing views of the snowy peak of Mount Humantay, walk on a fairy trail on the 2 ha land surrounding the Lodge, watch the local birds or book an optional Yoga class or meditation. After a generous breakfast, we shall set off for our return drive to Cusco. On the way, we shall visit the archaeological Inka complex of Tarawasi and the mysterious ceremonial site of Killarumiyoq where we shall enjoy a picnic lunch before continuing our journey to Cusco where we shall arrive in the afternoon. B & Boxed lunch
Included In Our Packages:
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- Private transport from/to Cusco
- Bilingual licensed guide
- Entry to the community of Chonta and the condor viewpoint
- Boxed lunch
- Accommodation in spacious bungalows and full board at the Andean Spirit Lodge
- Entries to Tarawasi and Killarumiyoq
- Donation of US $ 5 per person for the school in Chonta
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- Prices per person in
US Dollars - 2-days program
- Prices per person in
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- 1
person - 990.-
- 1
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- 2
people - 550.-
- 2
-
- 3
people - 445.-
- 3
-
- 4
people - 375.-
- 4
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- 5+
people - 360.-
- 5+






















