About Us
Experts in Peru’s Birding Tours
Birds aren’t the only ones migrating to the tropics—Join Us!
Manakin Expeditions is a family-owned tour agency specializing in unforgettable, tailor-made tours and daily group excursions throughout Peru—a country where nature and culture converge in remarkable ways. As one of the top birding tour companies in Peru, we provide access to over 1,875 bird species, including 117 endemics, within a land rich in more than 1,400 years of heritage and archaeological marvels. Peru is a top destination for bird watching, nature expeditions, and cultural exploration. Our offerings include bird watching trips, bird photography tours, Amazon nature tours, and immersive wildlife experiences that capture the essence of Peru’s ancient heritage.
One of The Best Bird Watching Tour Companies in Peru?
Embark on an unparalleled birdwatching journey and experience Peru’s birdlife like never before. Our immersive tours are crafted for both nature enthusiasts and serious birders, taking you through Peru’s most breathtaking birding sites. Led by certified guides deeply committed to quality, conservation, and personalized travel, we offer unique access to Peru’s vast biodiversity. Explore pristine habitats—from the Amazon’s lush rainforests to the misty Andean cloud forests—with seasoned experts who bring both local knowledge and a profound respect for nature.
Our tours are more than just birdwatching; they are journeys into nature’s heart, designed for those who crave both adventure and authenticity. With safety and expertise as our priorities, each tour is tailored to provide unforgettable experiences that respect and preserve the environments we visit. Whether you’re seeking rare sightings, breathtaking landscapes, or a deeper connection with nature, our tours promise an unmatched adventure through Peru’s most spectacular birding destinations.
Why Choose Us?
- 15 Years of Experience
With a deep commitment to quality and authenticity, we have been creating unique and memorable experiences for travelers, providing an in-depth perspective on Peru’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.
- Access to Diverse Habitats
From the rich Amazon rainforests to the misty Andean cloud forests, our tours explore some of Peru’s most stunning natural habitats.
- Experienced, Certified Guides
Our team is Wilderness First Responder-certified, ensuring your safety and offering expert insights into Peru’s ecosystems. With specialized training, our guides make your journey secure and deeply enriching.
- Sustainable Tourism
Dedicated to eco-friendly practices and supporting local communities, our tours respect and preserve the environment and culture.
- Competitive Pricing
As local operators, we offer affordable rates and the flexibility to cater to everyone—whether you’re a professional birder, photographer, casual enthusiast, or even a student.
- Custom Birding Tours
Tailor-made itineraries that cater to each traveler’s unique interests, ensuring a personalized and unforgettable experience.
oUR TEAM
Danny Vargas
CEO & Birding Guide
Danny Vargas, a native of Cusco, is a skilled birding guide and nature expert celebrated for his profound knowledge of Peru’s ecosystems and biodiversity. Leading tours in iconic destinations like Manu National Park, Northern Peru, and the Sacred Valley, Danny is known for crafting tailored experiences that combine birdwatching, adventure, and cultural immersion. As the leader of Manakin Expeditions, he is dedicated to conservation and sustainable tourism, ensuring every tour is enriching and memorable.
Silverio Duri
Birding Guide
Silverio Duri, from the native Ese’Eja community of Infierno in Tambopata, Peru, is one of the most experienced bird guides in the country, with over 15 years of expertise. Renowned for his skill in identifying species by sight and sound, he has guided some of the world’s top birders and bird guides visiting Peru. Fluent in English, Silverio offers expeditions that showcase the Amazon’s exceptional biodiversity while sharing the cultural heritage of his community, creating an authentic and memorable experience.
Juan José Salas
Birding Guide
Licensed Tour Guide with over 10 years of experience in the Peruvian Amazon, especially in Manu National Park and Tambopata Reserve, where he worked as a resident guide. Specialist in birdwatching and nature photography, he is widely recognized for his ability to identify birds by their songs and calls. For the past 5 years, he has been part of the Manakin Expeditions team, establishing himself as one of our key guides and combining professionalism, passion, and charisma to deliver unique, enriching experiences in the world of birds and Peru’s natural wonders.
Alex Durand
Birding Guide
Alex Durand, a native of Puerto Maldonado in the Peruvian Amazon, is a renowned birding guide with over 18 years of experience. Celebrated for his sharp eye and ability to identify bird species by sight and sound, Alex has guided tours in iconic destinations like the Manu Road, Northern Peru, and Machu Picchu. With a personal bird list of 1,748 species and multiple recognitions, including being named Peru’s best bird guide in 2019 and 2020, Alex offers inspiring tours that showcase Peru’s incredible bird diversity.
Miguel Vargas
Co-founder & Guide
Miguel Vargas, an exceptional birding and cultural tour leader from Peru, is celebrated for his deep expertise and passion for sharing his country’s natural and historical treasures. Guiding tours across diverse regions like the Amazon rainforest and Andean highlands, Miguel is renowned for his ability to locate rare bird species and provide rich insights into avian behavior. In addition, he seamlessly weaves Peru’s cultural heritage into his tours, offering travelers an immersive experience that blends birdwatching with history and tradition.
William Huaman
Birding Tour Guide
William Huamán, a seasoned birding guide from Cusco, is renowned for his expertise in Peru’s biodiversity and ecosystems. Leading tours in iconic regions like Manu, Machu Picchu, and Northern Peru, he excels in spotting rare species and sharing insights into their behaviors and habitats. William blends birdwatching with Peru’s cultural heritage, offering personalized, conservation-focused experiences that inspire and support sustainable tourism.
Ramiro Tapia
Cultural Tourleader
Ramiro Tapia, an expert cultural tour leader in Cusco, is widely known for his deep knowledge of Inca history and Peru’s traditions. With years of experience guiding visitors through iconic sites like Machu Picchu, the Sacred Valley, and Cusco’s historic center, Ramiro combines expertise and storytelling to create immersive experiences. His dedication to preserving and sharing Peru’s heritage ensures each tour is both informative and inspiring, offering travelers a meaningful connection to the country’s rich history.