Tucked away in the heart of South America, Peru is a treasure trove of natural wonders and cultural gems. Тhe territory of Peru is inhabited by 1879 bird species, with 139 being endemic and 91 facing the threat of extinction. But what makes Peru absolutely special are the hummingbirds—tiny, colorful wonders that light up the skies with their dazzling displays.
Peru is home to an amazing variety of hummingbirds— 135 different types, with 14 of them being total Peruvian rockstars. This beats North America by a long shot, making Peru the go-to spot for hummingbird diversity. From the high Andean peaks to the wild Amazon jungles, Peru offers a comfy home for these little showstoppers, from big shots like the giant hummingbird to the pint-sized but flashy marvelous spatuletail, a true Peruvian VIP. They range in size from 5 to 21 cm, and their weight varies from 1.6 g to 20 g. They possess the remarkable ability to hover in the air due to the incredibly rapid movement of their wings: up to 80-100 beats per second. The flight speed of hummingbirds can reach up to 80 km/h. Hummingbirds are the only birds capable of flying backward.
In the hearts of the Peruvian people, hummingbirds hold a sacred place, embodying freedom, transformation, and the sheer delight of existence. In the Andean worldview, these avian messengers bridge the earthly and divine realms, symbolizing a connection that transcends the ordinary. The Inka religion, deeply rooted in nature, venerates the hummingbird as a carrier of light energy or nectar, representing the soul's journey toward heightened consciousness. This reverence permeates local art, folklore, and traditions, echoing the resilience and thriving spirit embodied by these agile birds.
Peru unfolds a myriad of locations where one can witness the enchanting beauty of hummingbirds in their natural habitats. The Tambopata National Reserve, with its unparalleled biodiversity, offers a front-row seat to a diverse hummingbird spectacle amidst the verdant canvas of the Amazon rainforest. The Andean cloud forests and paramo habitats stand as hummingbird havens, hosting species like the Andean hillstar and the magnificent great sapphirewing. For those seeking rare encounters with endemic species, the Utcubamba valley in northern Peru cradles the marvelous spatuletail, a marvel with its distinctive tail feathers and vibrant plumage.
Beyond being a natural wonder, Peru's hummingbirds embody a vibrant chapter in the country's cultural legacy, testifying to the extraordinary biodiversity that graces our planet. For wanderers and bird enthusiasts alike, Peru invites a unique communion with nature, offering a chance to witness the extraordinary magic of these winged wonders. Whether you find yourself immersed in the Amazon's embrace or soaring amid the Andes' peaks, Peru's hummingbirds promise to etch memories that linger in the heart forever.
Get in touch, and we’ll help you plan the adventure of a lifetime!
