Humedal Lucre-Huacarpay
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Huacarpay Lake

4.5
·28 reviews·, Peru

A vibrant wetland near Cusco, Huacarpay Lake is a haven for birdwatchers and photographers, offering stunning reflections and diverse wildlife.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Best for birding & reflections

CrowdLow
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Humedal Lucre-Huacarpay

Huacarpay Lake

Best Time

Early mornings

Best for birding & reflections

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A vibrant wetland near Cusco, Huacarpay Lake is a haven for birdwatchers and photographers, offering stunning reflections and diverse wildlife.

4.5
(28 reviews)

"Beautiful wetland-lagoon to walk and breathe fresh air, nearby there are archaeological remains."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Early Bird Catches Wildlife

Visit at dawn for optimal birdwatching and serene landscape photos with sky reflections. :camerawithflash:

📸 Capture the Scenery

Take advantage of viewpoints for spectacular photos, especially of the lake's reflections. :iphone:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Birdwatching Paradise

Birdwatching Paradise

Spot endemic species like the Bearded Mountaineer and Giant Hummingbird. A must-visit for avid birders and nature lovers.

Stunning Wetland Landscapes

Stunning Wetland Landscapes

Capture breathtaking reflections of the sky on the calm waters, especially during early morning visits. Perfect for landscape photography.

Wildlife Encounters

Wildlife Encounters

Observe a rich variety of regional flora and fauna, including wild guinea pigs and migratory birds. A true immersion in nature.

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Planning Your Visit

Best Time for Birdwatching

Visit Huacarpay Lake during the early morning hours for the best chances to spot a variety of bird species and capture stunning landscape reflections. This wetland is a haven for migratory birds, so timing can enhance your wildlife encounters.

Photography & Exploration

Huacarpay Lake is a photographer's paradise, especially for birding and landscape shots. Explore the surrounding areas for archaeological remains and enjoy the fresh air. Consider visiting on a weekend for a family outing.

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Best for birding & reflections
Crowd
Low
When
Weekends
Why
Ideal for family outings
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

#stitch with @lakecomoboat We rented our own boat and it was an incredible experience!! #lakecomo #travelinspo #bucketlisttravel #traveltips #airbnbfinds #fyp #vacationmode #lakecomoitaly
@destinationinspiration
223.7K likes • 1.3M views

🎯 Early Bird Catches Wildlife

Visit at dawn for optimal birdwatching and serene landscape photos with sky reflections. :camerawithflash: Reddit

📸 Capture the Scenery

Take advantage of viewpoints for spectacular photos, especially of the lake's reflections. :iphone: Reddit

Replying to @Fadi Alqwail this is how much I’ve spent in 2 days at Lake Como, Italy💸 #italybudget #lakecomo #lakecomotravel #lakecomotraveltips #lakecomotrip #travelbudget
@butlarii
73.6K likes • 1.5M views
🌿 Calling all nature enthusiasts! Experience the wonders of birding in Cusco's Huacarpay Lake. Witness fascinating avian species and adorable wild guinea pigs up close! 📸 Don't miss this captivating adventure! 🎥✨ #BirdingInCusco #WildlifeEncounters #naturelovers
wildwatchperu
5 likes • 169 views

🌿 Explore Nearby History

Discover archaeological remains like Cañaracay and Pikillacta near the lagoon. :world_map: Reddit

🐾 Spot Adorable Critters

Keep an eye out for wild guinea pigs and other fascinating local wildlife. :chipmunk: Instagram

📌El Humedal Lucre-Huacarpay es un humedal peruano ubicado en la provincia de Quispicanchi, en el departamento del Cusco.​​​​ ____ ⭐️Viaja con Nosotros. 👉Contáctanos al +51 902470919 ☎️+51 084626692 🌐https://peruencantostravel.com ✉reperuencantos@gmail.com ____ 📸@soyviajero.pe ____ #huacarpay #huacarpaylake #huacarpaylgoon #huacarpaycusco #huacarpaylagoon #humedal #humedalcusco #Cusco #cuscoperu #c...
peruetra
0 likes • 35 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Early Bird Catches Wildlife

Visit at dawn for optimal birdwatching and serene landscape photos with sky reflections. :camerawithflash: Reddit

📸 Capture the Scenery

Take advantage of viewpoints for spectacular photos, especially of the lake's reflections. :iphone: Reddit

🌿 Explore Nearby History

Discover archaeological remains like Cañaracay and Pikillacta near the lagoon. :world_map: Reddit

🐾 Spot Adorable Critters

Keep an eye out for wild guinea pigs and other fascinating local wildlife. :chipmunk: Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.5
(28 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Huacarpay Lake is highly praised by visitors, particularly birdwatchers and photographers, for its rich wildlife and beautiful wetland scenery. Many appreciate the opportunity to capture stunning reflections and observe endemic species. While generally well-maintained, some visitors note a lack of clear information regarding entrance fees.

"This is a great place to visit for birders and those interested in capturing images of birds plus landscapes. We traveled the road around the lake looking for the endemic Bearded Mountaineer, which frequents the tobacco trees. We also looked for the Giant Hummingbird; Green- tailed Trainbearer; Speckled, Cinnamon, and Puna Teals; Andean Ruddy Duck; and White-tufted Grebe."

Jon Sund

"Lagoon in good condition. Clean and with plenty of wildlife, as well as regional flora. Ecosystem for some species of passage or migration. Good place to walk and take photos."

Mario Jesús Martínez Camacho

"Beautiful wetland-lagoon to walk and breathe fresh air, nearby there are archaeological remains, those of cañaracay near in the same lagoon and pikillacta above the via cusco-sicuani."

Diego Pérez

What People Like

Abundant birdlife
Beautiful reflections
Scenic landscapes

What People Dislike

Unclear fees

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Huacarpay Lake is located in the Quispicanchi province, a short distance from Cusco. You can reach it by taxi or by taking a bus towards Sicuani and asking to be dropped off near the lake. The journey offers scenic views of the Andean landscape. Instagram

Yes, buses traveling the Cusco-Sicuani route often pass near Huacarpay Lake. It's advisable to inform the driver of your destination. Taxis are also readily available in Cusco for a more direct route. Reddit

Walking around the lake is a great way to experience its natural beauty and spot wildlife. For exploring further afield, consider hiring a local guide or using a taxi to visit nearby archaeological sites. Reddit

Information regarding specific entrance fees can be inconsistent. Some visitors have noted not having to pay, while others suggest checking locally upon arrival. It's always good to have some small local currency on hand. Reddit

The roads leading to Huacarpay Lake are generally in good condition, especially the main routes. However, some smaller paths around the wetland might be unpaved, so a vehicle with decent clearance is recommended if driving yourself. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

There isn't a consistently reported ticketing system for Huacarpay Lake itself. While some natural areas might have small conservation fees, many visitors report no payment required for general access. It's best to inquire locally if unsure. Reddit

Huacarpay Lake is a natural wetland and typically does not have set opening or closing hours. It's accessible during daylight. For the best wildlife viewing and photography, early morning is highly recommended. Reddit

Yes, guided tours are available for Huacarpay Lake, especially focusing on birdwatching and photography. Local tour operators in Cusco can arrange these, often combining the visit with nearby historical sites. Instagram

Absolutely! Huacarpay Lake makes for an excellent day trip from Cusco. You can easily spend a few hours birdwatching, taking photos, and enjoying the natural surroundings before returning to the city. Reddit

Bring binoculars for birdwatching, a good camera for photography, comfortable walking shoes, water, snacks, and sun protection. Layers of clothing are also advisable as temperatures can change. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The viewpoints offering elevated perspectives provide stunning panoramic shots of the wetland and its reflections. Early mornings are ideal for capturing the serene atmosphere and the best light. Reddit

Huacarpay Lake is renowned for its diverse birdlife, including endemic species. You might also spot wild guinea pigs and other small mammals. It's a fantastic location for both bird photography and general wildlife shots. Instagram+1

Yes, the wetland offers beautiful landscape photography opportunities, especially with the reflections of the sky on the water during calm mornings. The surrounding Andean scenery also adds to the photographic appeal. Reddit

A telephoto lens is highly recommended for capturing distant birds. A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes. A tripod can be useful for low-light conditions and sharp landscape shots. Instagram

The golden hours, shortly after sunrise and before sunset, offer the most beautiful light for photography. Early mornings are particularly good for capturing reflections and active birdlife. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Huacarpay Lake is a wonderful destination for families looking for an educational and engaging outing. The opportunity to see a variety of birds and potentially wild guinea pigs can be incredibly exciting for children. The relatively flat terrain around the lake makes it suitable for leisurely walks, and the viewpoints offer a chance for everyone to enjoy the scenery. Instagram+1

Consider visiting on a weekend when families often gather here. It's a great chance for kids to connect with nature and learn about local ecosystems. Pack some snacks and water, and make it a fun day trip from Cusco, perhaps combining it with a visit to the nearby archaeological sites for a broader cultural experience. Reddit

📸 Photographers

For photographers, Huacarpay Lake is a dream location. The early morning light is unparalleled for capturing the stunning reflections on the water's surface, creating ethereal landscape shots. The abundance of birdlife provides ample opportunities for wildlife photography, with endemic species like the Bearded Mountaineer being a particular draw. InstagramReddit

Bring your telephoto lenses for birds and wide-angle lenses for sweeping landscapes. A tripod will be invaluable for low-light conditions and sharp, detailed shots. The surrounding hills also offer elevated viewpoints for capturing the entire wetland in one frame. Reddit

🌿 Nature Enthusiasts & Birders

Huacarpay Lake is a designated wetland and a significant habitat for numerous bird species, making it a top destination for birdwatchers. The presence of endemic species and migratory birds offers a rich experience for ornithologists and nature lovers alike. InstagramReddit

Beyond birds, the area boasts diverse regional flora and fauna, including the charming wild guinea pigs. The clean environment and abundant wildlife make it an ideal spot for immersing yourself in nature, enjoying fresh air, and observing the delicate balance of the ecosystem. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Birdwatching at Huacarpay Lake

Huacarpay Lake is a celebrated destination for birdwatching in the Cusco region, attracting both local and migratory species. Birders often seek out the endemic Bearded Mountaineer, which is known to frequent the area's tobacco trees. Other sought-after species include the Giant Hummingbird, Green-tailed Trainbearer, and various types of teals like the Speckled Teal, Cinnamon Teal, and Puna Teal. The Andean Ruddy Duck and White-tufted Grebe are also commonly sighted. Visiting during the early morning hours significantly increases your chances of observing a wider variety of avian life as they are most active then. InstagramReddit+1

To enhance your birdwatching experience, bringing a good pair of binoculars is essential. Many visitors also find success by hiring local guides who possess intimate knowledge of the birds' habitats and behaviors. The wetland ecosystem provides crucial feeding and resting grounds for these species, making it a vital area for conservation efforts. Remember to tread lightly and maintain a respectful distance to avoid disturbing the wildlife. Instagram

Photography Opportunities

The natural beauty of Huacarpay Lake makes it a prime spot for photography, catering to both wildlife and landscape enthusiasts. The calm waters of the lagoon often create stunning reflections of the sky, especially during the tranquil early morning hours. This phenomenon provides a unique opportunity for photographers to capture serene and picturesque scenes. Reddit

Beyond the reflections, the diverse avian population offers endless subjects for wildlife photographers. With the right equipment, such as a telephoto lens, capturing detailed shots of various bird species in their natural habitat is very rewarding. The surrounding Andean landscape also provides a dramatic backdrop, perfect for panoramic shots. Visiting during the 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset will yield the most dramatic and beautiful lighting conditions for your photographs. Instagram+1

Exploring the Surroundings

Huacarpay Lake is situated in an area rich with archaeological significance. Visitors can explore ancient remains such as those of Cañaracay, located close to the lagoon itself. A short distance away, atop the via Cusco-Sicuani, lie the ruins of Pikillacta, offering a glimpse into the region's pre-Inca history. Reddit

These historical sites, combined with the natural allure of the wetland, make Huacarpay Lake a destination that offers a blend of nature and culture. The area is perfect for those who enjoy leisurely walks, breathing in the fresh mountain air, and immersing themselves in both the natural environment and the historical context of the Cusco region. Reddit

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