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 is the CEO of Manakin Expeditions and a highly respected Peruvian birding guide with extensive knowledge of the country’s birds, ecosystems, and cultural heritage. As the company’s leader, he oversees its strategic direction and plays a central role in designing and developing unique birding and nature experiences across Peru, combining his field expertise with a deep understanding of the country’s travel logistics and destinations.
Beyond his leadership role, Danny remains actively involved in the field as Manakin Expeditions’ senior birding guide, frequently leading tours throughout Peru, from the Amazon rainforest to the Andean highlands and Northern Peru. His passion for birds, commitment to conservation, and dedication to exceptional guiding help shape the quality and authenticity of every Manakin experience.
Miguel Vargas
Administrator & Guide
Miguel Vargas plays a key role in the management and daily operations of Manakin Expeditions, overseeing administrative processes, human resources, and tour coordination. His focus on organization, efficiency, and attention to detail helps ensure the smooth planning and execution of every tour.
With a background as an experienced birding and cultural guide, Miguel brings valuable firsthand field knowledge to his management role. Having guided across Peru’s diverse landscapes, from the Amazon rainforest to the Andean highlands, he combines operational expertise with a deep understanding of travelers’ expectations, contributing to the quality and personalized service that define Manakin Expeditions.
Alicia Aguayo
Operations Manager
Alicia Aguayo plays an essential role in the daily operations of Manakin Expeditions, coordinating the logistics that make each birding and nature tour run smoothly. She oversees accommodations, transportation, local services, and supplier coordination, ensuring that every detail is carefully arranged before and throughout each journey.
With a strong commitment to organization, efficiency, and teamwork, Alicia works closely with guides, local partners, and the rest of the team to deliver seamless travel experiences. Her attention to detail and dedication to guest satisfaction help maintain the high standards of quality and personalized service that define Manakin Expeditions.
Gladys Tapia
CEO & Birding Guide
Gladys supports the daily operations and accounting processes at Manakin Expeditions, assisting with financial records, payments, administrative tasks, and tour logistics. Her organization, attention to detail, and dedication help ensure efficient operations and smooth coordination across the team.
Celia Rimachi
Accounting
Celia Rimachi is responsible for accounting and financial record management at Manakin Expeditions, ensuring accuracy, organization, and compliance with financial and tax regulations. Her attention to detail and expertise contribute to the company’s financial stability and efficient administration.
Gracia Negron
Marketing
Gracia plays an important role in the marketing and digital presence of Manakin Expeditions, helping showcase the company’s birding and nature experiences to travelers worldwide. Through content creation, social media management, and digital marketing strategies, she helps strengthen the connection with nature enthusiasts, and inspire travelers to discover Peru’s extraordinary biodiversity.
OUR GUIDES
William Huaman
Birding tour guide
William “Gury” Huamán is an experienced Peruvian birding guide and naturalist from Cusco, with extensive knowledge of Peru’s birds, wildlife, and diverse ecosystems. His guiding experience spans the Amazon rainforest, Manu National Park, Machu Picchu, and Northern Peru, complemented by his involvement in nature conservation initiatives.
Known for his sharp birding skills, deep field knowledge, and passion for wildlife, Gury specializes in finding sought-after species and sharing fascinating insights into their behavior and habitats, offering travelers memorable birdwatching experiences across Peru
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
Official Tour Guide with over 10 years of experience in the Peruvian Amazon, particularly in Manu National Park and Tambopata National Reserve, where he has worked as a resident guide. Specializing in birdwatching and nature photography, he is widely recognized for his ability to identify birds by their songs and calls. For the past five years, he has been part of the Manakin Expeditions team, combining professionalism, passion, and charisma to deliver unique and enriching experiences while exploring Peru’s remarkable birdlife and natural wonders.
Alex Durand
Birding Guide
Alex Durand, a native of Puerto Maldonado in the Peruvian Amazon, is a renowned birding guide with over 15 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 & Central Peru. With a personal bird list of 1,748 species in Peru 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.
Alejandro Tello
Birding Guide
Alejandro Tello is an experienced Peruvian birding guide, naturalist, wildlife photographer, and published author with extensive knowledge of Peru’s birds and ecosystems. He has contributed to ornithological research and authored several publications, including Birds of Lima: A Photographic Guide.
With expertise in coastal wetlands, Andean habitats, and bird photography, Alejandro combines his field experience with a passion for conservation, offering travelers enriching birdwatching experiences and a deeper appreciation of Peru’s biodiversity.
Ramiro Tapia
Culture 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.
OUR BIRDING DRIVERS
Omar Candia
Birding Driver
A skilled birding driver with years of experience navigating Peru’s most remarkable birdwatching destinations. With strong field knowledge, a keen eye for birds, and practical mechanical skills, Omar combines safety, reliability, and a passion for nature to deliver smooth and rewarding birding adventures.
If you’re looking to explore Peru’s birdlife with the confidence of an experienced field expert, but prefer to travel without a dedicated birding guide, Omar is your man!
Horacio Ojeda
Birding Driver
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.
Hilmar Medina
Birding Driver
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.
OUR TRANSPORT
At Manakin Expeditions, we provide modern, well-maintained vans with official tourism transportation permits, ensuring safe, comfortable, and reliable journeys throughout Peru. Our vehicles are ideal for birdwatching expeditions, offering ample space for passengers, luggage, and photography equipment. Combined with our experienced drivers, we ensure smooth and enjoyable travel, even along remote and challenging routes.
