Nestled in the misty cloud forests of northern Peru, Owlet Lodge offers a unique retreat for bird enthusiasts and nature lovers. Situated within the Abra Patricia Reserve, this eco-lodge is not just a destination but a gateway to one of the most biodiverse and enchanting regions in the Andes. With its rich array of bird species, comfortable accommodations, and commitment to conservation, Owlet Lodge stands out as a must-visit for anyone seeking an immersive experience in Peru’s natural wonders.
A World-Class Birding Destination
Owlet Lodge is a birdwatcher’s paradise, renowned for its proximity to the habitat of the Long-whiskered Owlet (Xenoglaux loweryi), a species so rare and elusive that it has become the holy grail for birders. Guided night walks at the lodge offer one of the best opportunities to spot this tiny owl with its distinctive facial bristles and haunting calls.
Beyond the owlet, the lodge is home to over 300 bird species, including the Chestnut Antpitta, Rusty-tinged Antpitta, Royal Sunangel, Johnson’s Tody-Flycatcher, Peruvian Tyrannulet, White capped Tanager and the nocturnal Lyre-tailed Nightjar among many others. Mixed-species flocks, a hallmark of the cloud forest, bring a dynamic and colorful spectacle as Tanagers, Fruiteaters, and flycatchers move through the canopy together.
The lodge’s trail system provides easy access to these avian wonders, with paths leading through dense vegetation, past viewpoints, and into the heart of the cloud forest with species like White-faced Nunbird, Yellow-scarfed Tanager, Ochre-fronted Antpitta, Rufous-vented Tapaculo, Inca Flycatcher. Each trail offers the chance to encounter both iconic species and unexpected surprises, making every birding outing an adventure.
You can see the bird opportunities here.
How to get to Owlet Lodge
Owlet is found in the nothern Peru, right near the beautiful and well paved Fernando Belaunde Terry in the kilometer 365 from Chiclayo. The nearest Airport is in Tarapoto, 6 hours by cay.
These following tours go to visit this places:
- Birding in Northern Peru: The Grand Tour
- Birding in Northern Peru: The Classic Tour
The Owlet Lodge Experience: Comfort in the Clouds
Owlet Lodge is designed to blend comfort and sustainability, ensuring that visitors enjoy their stay without compromising the natural environment. The lodge’s rustic yet cozy accommodations include private cabins with en-suite bathrooms, hot water, and stunning views of the surrounding forest with hummigbird feeders with species like Long-tailed Sylph, Emerald-bellied Puffleg, Bronzy Inca, etc. A communal dining area serves local cuisine, providing also a space to share stories and sightings with fellow birders at the end of the day.
The atmosphere at the lodge is warm and inviting, with knowledgeable staff and guides who are passionate about the region’s biodiversity. Whether you’re a seasoned birder or a curious first-timer, their expertise ensures that you make the most of your time in this remarkable setting.
Conservation in Owlet Lodge
Owlet Lodge is not just a place to see birds; it’s a hub for conservation. Managed by Asociación Ecosistemas Andinos (ECOAN), the lodge is part of the Abra Patricia-Alto Nieva Private Conservation Area, which spans over 25,000 acres of protected cloud forest. Revenue from tourism directly supports habitat protection, reforestation efforts, and community engagement programs.
Through its conservation projects, ECOAN has expanded the reserve, planted native trees to restore degraded areas, and worked closely with local communities to promote sustainable practices. Visitors to Owlet Lodge contribute to these initiatives, making their trip not only an enjoyable experience but also a meaningful one.
Other attractions
Nearby AttractionsFor a truly immersive experience, visitors to Owlet Lodge can combine their stay with trips to nearby birding hotspots like Huembo Lodge and Cocachimba.
Huembo Lodge, located near Pomacochas, is famous for its hummingbird feeders, which attract the dazzling Marvelous Spatuletail (Loddigesia mirabilis). This endemic hummingbird, with its extraordinary tail feathers, is one of the most sought-after species in Peru. Huembo also supports conservation efforts to protect the Spatuletail and its habitat.
Meanwhile, Cocachimba, the gateway to Gocta Waterfall, offers a mix of birding and stunning scenery. The hike to the waterfall passes through lush vegetation alive with birds like the Golden-headed Quetzal and White-capped Tanager, providing a perfect complement to the forest trails of Owlet Lodge.
What sets Owlet Lodge apart is its combination of incredible biodiversity, thoughtful amenities, and a genuine commitment to conservation. The lodge offers an intimate connection with nature without sacrificing comfort, making it an ideal destination for birders and nature enthusiasts alike.
Whether you’re scanning the canopy for a flash of feathers or relaxing on the lodge’s veranda with a cup of Peruvian coffee, every moment at Owlet Lodge feels like a step closer to the heart of the natural world. It’s a place where the wonders of the cloud forest come alive, offering memories that last a lifetime.
For those seeking an extraordinary experience in northern Peru, Owlet Lodge is a destination that truly delivers on its promise of beauty, biodiversity, and conservation.
