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Nature isn’t slow to fill in any spaces left behind by humans. Machu Picchu is no exception. Not that Machu Picchu was ever in conflict with the natural world.
Today, the majesty of the Inca kingdom is complemented by the animal kingdom. Whether you love birds, bugs, or others, you will have plenty to see when you pay the citadel a visit.
Birds
The Andean altitude is no hindrance to any bird that wants to visit Machu Picchu. (When you book a trip with TOUR IN PERU, you are just as unhindered. But anyway…)
The Andean Cock of the Rock is a sight like no other, and we’re not just saying that because it’s Peru’s national bird. The male has black and white wings and brilliant red-orange plumage that includes a crest on its head that nearly obscures its entire bill.
True to its name, it prefers to make its home in remote, inaccessible places on high cliffs. So you’re more likely to hear the bird than see it. But keep your ears open anyway!
The Andean Condor’s claim to fame is its humongous size. Even more amazing is its ability to fly despite being huge. These massive birds can weigh up to 33 lbs. They have the benefit of a 10-ft. Wingspan, but sometimes even that isn’t enough. They prefer to live in places with a lot of wind so that they can glide on air currents without using much energy. The heights of the Andean mountains provide plenty of such “airway assistance.” But the birds also make their homes near coasts so that they can surf ocean breezes. You will also find them riding thermal air currents in deserts.
Besides their size, you’ll recognize them by their black plumage and their signature white collar. Oh, and they’re bald.
If you’re willing to take a detour south of Lima, you stand a chance of seeing Humboldt Penguins. It would be nice if the penguins called Machu Picchu their home, but instead, they hang out at the Ballestas Islands. This is the only location outside of the Antarctic that you can see these adorable characters.
Land Animals
The Spectacled Bear is a treat for the eyes. The animal is regrettably endangered, so you’re not as likely to see them as you could be if the species were faring better. It’s the last short-faced bear in the world and it’s also the only bear in all of South America. They’re quite bashful and they don’t seek out human company.
They don’t exactly come out for a scratch behind the ears, but the Ocelot might drop its guard long enough for you to see it. It looks like a housecat with much more exotic markings. It is essentially a small leopard, but they’re shy. They don’t get seen on purpose.
The Puma or South American Cougar is also shy, but significantly bigger. They are also the rarest species of wildlife in Peru, so don’t worry. It’s very unlikely you’ll meet this large cat. They’re often busy hunting their favorite treat, guanacos.
You’ll get your fill of cuteness if you catch sight of the Vizcacha. It’s a species of chinchilla that looks like a mix of a squirrel and a rabbit. They are right at home in the Andean terrain and, delightfully, are a common sight in and around Machu Picchu.
Bugs
There’s always someone that appreciates bugs and insects. Once you get past the mosquitoes, you’ll see a vast array of different butterflies and moths. You don’t have to leave your encounters to chance. You can visit the Mariposario, or Butterfly House that resides within the National Park of Machu Picchu. You just might get to see a butterfly emerging from its cocoon.
Machu Picchu may no longer be the throne of the Incas, but there are plenty of animals that have made a thriving kingdom out of it. Book a trip with TOUR IN PERU to come see the empire they’ve built!
