Huembo Lodge: The Heart of Marvelous Spatuletail Country
Near the the cloud forests of northern Peru, Huembo Lodge is a dream destination for birdwatchers seeking close encounters with one of the world’s most spectacular hummingbirds: the Marvelous Spatuletail (Loddigesia mirabilis). Located within the Abra Patricia and Alto Mayo birding corridor, this conservation-focused reserve offers unparalleled access to a variety of Andean and Amazonian bird species, making it a must-visit for birders exploring northern Peru.
A Prime Location for Highland Birding
Huembo Lodge sits at an elevation of 2,300 meters (7,545 feet) above sea level in the foothills of the eastern Andes. Managed by ECOAN (Asociación Ecosistemas Andinos), this 34-hectare private reserve plays a critical role in protecting the habitat of the endangered Marvelous Spatuletail, one of the most sought-after hummingbirds in the world.
Getting to Huembo Lodge
Huembo is strategically located about 5 hours from Tarapoto and 3 hours from Jaén, making it a convenient stop along northern Peru’s birding circuit. Most visitors arrive after birding at Abra Patricia, Moyobamba, or Río Marañón. The journey offers breathtaking views of the Andean cloud forest and rolling valleys, setting the stage for an incredible birding experience.
Birding Highlights at Huembo Lodge
Marvelous Spatuletail: The Crown Jewel of Huembo
Without a doubt, the main attraction of Huembo Lodge is the Marvelous Spatuletail, an endemic and highly localized hummingbird found only in a small region of northern Peru. Males of this species put on a breathtaking display, showcasing their iridescent plumage and extravagant tail streamers, which they flick dramatically during courtship.
Huembo’s carefully maintained feeders and native flowering plants attract these hummingbirds daily, providing some of the best photographic opportunities in the world for this species.
Other Hummingbirds at Huembo
While the Marvelous Spatuletail steals the spotlight, the lodge’s gardens and feeders attract a dazzling array of Andean hummingbirds, including:
- Little Woodstar (Chaetocercus bombus) – A tiny, fast-moving species often seen near flowering shrubs.
- White-bellied Woodstar (Chaetocercus mulsant) – Another miniature hummingbird that hovers like a bumblebee.
- Andean Emerald (Uranomitra franciae) – One of the more common species at the lodge’s feeders.
- Violet-fronted Brilliant (Heliodoxa leadbeateri) – A striking hummingbird that dominates the feeder hierarchy.
- Sparkling Violetear (Colibri coruscans) – Aggressive and noisy, often seen defending feeding stations.
Tanager Flocks and Mid-Elevation Specialties
Huembo’s trails and surrounding forest patches offer much more than just hummingbirds. Mixed-species foraging flocks frequently move through the trees, featuring high-altitude tanagers and mid-story canopy species such as:
- Blue-capped Tanager (Sporathraupis cyanocephala) – Often part of tanager waves.
- Blue-and-black Tanager (Tangara vassorii) – A strikingly patterned species commonly seen.
- Saffron-crowned Tanager (Tangara xanthocephala) – A colorful favorite among birders.
- Russet-crowned Warbler (Myiothlypis coronata) – A small but vocal species in dense vegetation.
- Barred Becard (Pachyramphus versicolor) – Often found in mixed flocks.
- Masked Flowerpiercer (Diglossa cyanea) – A bright blue species often spotted at eye level.
Beyond Birds: A Conservation Success Story
Huembo is more than just a birding destination—it is a model for conservation and community engagement. The lodge and reserve are part of ECOAN’s efforts to protect the cloud forests of northern Peru, ensuring the survival of the Marvelous Spatuletail and other threatened species.
Visitors directly support these initiatives, helping fund habitat restoration, environmental education, and sustainable tourism projects that benefit local communities.
Accommodations and Amenities at Huembo Lodge
Huembo Lodge offers comfortable yet rustic accommodations, designed for birders who want to stay close to the action. The lodge features:
- Private cabins with comfortable beds and hot water.
- A dining area with local and international cuisine to keep birders energized.
- Observation decks providing excellent views of the gardens and hummingbird feeders.
- Knowledgeable local guides who can assist with bird identification and regional ecology.
Best Time to Visit Huembo Lodge
Birding is excellent year-round, but the dry season (May–October) offers the best conditions for photography and comfortable hiking. During the wet season (November–April), bird activity remains high, and some species may be easier to find as they breed and vocalize more frequently.
How to Include Huembo in Your Birding Itinerary
Huembo Lodge don´t provide just lodging and birdiers often include a full day visit to the feeders for Marvelous Spatuletail on their northern Peru birding route, often combined with:
- Abra Patricia – A cloud forest hotspot home to the Long-whiskered Owlet and Royal Sunangel.
- Moyobamba & Waqanki Lodge – A prime site for lowland and foothill hummingbirds.
- Pomacochas & Río Marañón – Excellent for regional endemics and arid-zone specialties.
You would be able to visit Huembo in the fllowing tours:
BIRDING IN NORTHERN PERU: The Classic Tour (12days)
BIRD PHOTOGRAPHY IN NORTHERN PERU (13 days)
BIRDING IN NORTHERN PERU: The Grand Tour (17 days)
BIRDING AND CULTURE AT NORTHERN PERU (10 days)
Final Thoughts
For birdwatchers, Huembo Lodge offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness one of the world’s most spectacular hummingbirds while supporting crucial conservation efforts. Huembo then is a must-visit stop on any northern Peru birding itinerary.
