No visit to Peru is complete without visiting Machu Picchu. This UNESCO World Heritage site is the crown jewel of Inca architecture and one of the seven wonders of the modern world. Not only is it rich with cultural and historical significance, but it’s teeming with diverse wildlife. In fact, the animals of Machu Picchu are so uncommon, you may not have heard of them- until now!
Machu Picchu’s ecosystem, spanning from Andean cloud forests to the Amazon Basin, hosts diverse wildlife. 75 mammal species, 400 birds, 24 reptiles, 14 amphibian species, and countless insects roam the ruins. From majestic condors to spectacled bears, the animals of Machu Picchu are extraordinary.
We recently returned from a thrilling vacation in Peru and had the opportunity to experience Machu Picchu animals up close. Keep reading to find out interesting Machu Picchu animal facts about wildlife in Peru.
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Are You Visiting Machu Picchu Aboard the Hiram Bingham Train? Read more here!
The Unique Habitat of Machu Picchu
Surrounded by lush jungles, cloud forests, and mountainous terrain, Machu Picchu provides an unparalleled habitat for various animals to thrive. The climate and extraordinary geographical location from the high Andes to the Amazon Basin, contribute to the diversity of flora and fauna of Machu Picchu. This region comprises numerous wildlife zones encompassing species from the Urubamba River to the snowy peaks of Salkantay Mountain in the Vilcabamba Mountain Range.
Let’s explore some fascinating features of the Machu Picchu sanctuary that contribute to its diverse wildlife:
- The Historic Sanctuary of Machupicchu/National Archaeological Park of Machu Picchu, or HSM-NAPM, harbors 24 Andean and Amazonian ecosystems.
- The HSM-NAPM area covers 37,302 hectares or 92, 175 acres.
- The ruins of Machu Picchu rest 2,430 meters above sea-level.
- It reaches an altitude of over 7,710 feet at the peak of Huayna Picchu.
Before You Visit Machu Picchu Or Do A Rainbow Mountain Tour, Find Out How To Prevent Altitude Sickness!
Animal Species at Machu Picchu
According to the Peru Ministry of Culture there are numerous animals species at Machu Picchu.
Animals of Machu Picchu include:
- 14 species of amphibians
- 24 reptile species
- 75 species of mammals and 16 species of large mammals
- 444 bird species
- 377 types of butterfly
Before You Visit Peru, Learn These 10 Downfalls of Machu Picchu!
Mammals in Machu Picchu
Once you begin your Machu Picchu tour, it’s easy to see some of the larger mammals. Common animals of Peru such as llamas and alpacas are noticeable grazing among the hillsides. In addition, there are iconic mammal species in the area such as the spectacled bear, and Andean fox. Keep reading to learn about these fascinating mammals of Peru and their adaptations to survive in this environment.
1. South American Coatis (Nasua nasua)
One of the first mammals at Machu Picchu is the coatis. They are a cross between a dog, monkey and racoon. They have dark or rust colored fur with a bushy ringed-tail.
These omnivorous scavengers play a critical role in controlling insect populations and dispersing seeds through their feces. They are truly an unusual looking animal of Machu Picchu.
2. Viscacha (Lagidium peruanum)
The vizcacha, or viscacha, is a large herbivorous rodent. These native Peruvian animals live in high altitudes in South America.
Viscachas are typically gray, brown, and white. It resembles a long-eared rabbit or chinchilla. They grow 12-18 inches long, and weigh up to 6.6 pounds.
It’s common to see viscachas scampering around the ruins as they dwell among rocky outcrops. Their long fluffy tails help them maintain balance while leaping from rock to rock.
3. Andean Agouti (genus Dasyprocta)
The South American agouti is a rodent that resembles a large guinea pig. It has rough brown fur that has a smelly water-repellent coating. Unlike other rodents, the agouti walks on its toes- 5 on the front feet and three on the back feet.
Agoutis play a critical role in the rainforest. They use their strong teeth to pry open nuts, and seeds. In fact, they are crucial for the growth of the Brazil nut tree because they are the only animal that can open the husk for its seeds to sprout. Additionally, they bury seeds for food preservation, which frequently grow into new trees.
4. Machu Picchu Arboreal Chinchilla Rat (Cuscomys oblativa)
Thought to be extinct, the Chinchilla rat reemerged during Covid when crowds left the ruins of Machu Picchu.
Chinchilla rats are distinctive for their large eyes and rounded ears. Their closest relatives are the viscacha and chinchilla. These nocturnal rodents inhabit rocky outcrops around Machu Picchu and display excellent climbing skills thanks to their long claws.
5. Andean Fox (Lycalopex culpaeus)
You can find the Andean Fox, or Culpeo, in high altitudes of the Andes mountains and South America from Ecuador to southern Chile. Although it is called a species of South American fox, is it not a true fox. Rather, it closely resembles a jackal or wolf.
The appearance of culpeos are fox-like, with brown, gray and red fur. They are medium sized, similar to coyotes and males weigh an average of 25 pounds.
The diet of the Andean fox consists of rodents, livestock, lizards, birds, insects and fruit. These omnivorous animals play an important role in the ecosystem, by keeping animal populations under control.
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6. Inca Little Mastiff Bats (Mormopterus phrudus)
Another type of animal you might see at Machu Picchu are bats. Incan Little Mastiff bat Bats are endemic to Peru and live exclusively at Machu Picchu. These small, brown bats are cave dwellers in high elevations. They are a critically endangered species.
7. Spectacled Bears (Tremarctos ornatus)
Known as Andean bears, spectacled bears or South American bears, are shy giants that roam the mountains near Machu Picchu. This is the only native South American bear.
With their distinctive facial markings resembling eyeglasses, spectacled bears occasionally roam near Machu Picchu. Spectacled bears grow 4-6 feet long. Female bears typically weigh 180 pounds, and their male counterparts are considerably larger weighing up to 340 pounds.
Andean bears are omnivores who live and forage among the trees. Unlike North American bears, spectacled bears have food year round and do not hibernate.
While they mainly inhabit cloud forests and wooded areas surrounding Machu Picchu, lucky visitors might catch sight of these elusive creatures during their trek. If you do encounter a spectacled bear, it’s good to know that these are the least aggressive type of bear to humans. In fact, this cute species inspired Paddington Bear! However, they will protect their cubs, so use common sense.
8. South American Cougar (Puma concolor concolor)
These large, dangerous animals in Machu Picchu are known as South American cougar, Andean mountain lion, or puma. Pumas have a broad habitat, from Alaska to Chile. They prey on a variety of species, in particular, vicuna. Without question, they are majestic and powerful predators in Peru.
9. Deer Species at Machu Picchu
Another common animal at Machu Picchu are deer. Andean deer, taruka, white tailed deer, and the smaller pudú live near the ruins. Keep reading for find out more about the deer at Machu Picchu.
Andean deer (Hippocamelus bisulcus)
Throughout higher elevations, you can find endangered Andean deer, also called huemul. Although it is rare to spot one due to its declining population size, huemul deer can occasionally be seen in Machu Picchu’s surroundings.
Andean deer are mid-sized with females weighing between 150-175 pounds and males close to 200 pounds. They are brown and white, have large ears, and males have antlers.
Taruka or North Andean Deer (Hippocamelus antisensis)
Taruka, also known as North Andean deer, stand out with their reddish-brown coat and impressive antlers. Indigenous to high-altitude regions like Machu Picchu, they have adapted to survive extreme weather conditions and limited food resources found at such elevations.
White-Tailed Deer (Odocoileus virginianus)
One commonly sighted deer species at Machu Picchu is the white-tailed deer. It is known for its graceful movements and characteristic white tail when alarmed or fleeing from predators. These agile herbivores graze on vegetation near stone terraces or hidden within dense thickets around the ruins.
Pudu (Pudu mephistophiles)
The world’s smallest deer, or Pudu, can also be found at Machu Picchu. This South American deer is native to the Andes.
Pudu have 2 inch antlers, stand only 13-14 inches tall and weigh a mere 7-13 pounds. They are listed as a “vulnerable” species of Machu Picchu due to human conflict and habitat loss.
10. Common Animals at Machu Picchu: Camelids
Camelids are native animals in Peru that were domesticated over 6,000 years ago! Incas used them for transportation and trade. They considered them to be sacred creatures associated with spirituality and prosperity. Camelids were invaluable Inca animals, providing wool for clothing, dung for kindling, and a stable food source.
Llamas and alpacas remain important in modern Peruvian culture. Today, You can find their wool used in clothing and accessories. Their likeness can be found in every type of souvenir from magnets to stuffed animals. In addition you can take photos with these adorable animals throughout Peru.
Llamas (Lama Glama)
There are numerous camelid species at Machu Picchu. There are about 25 llamas roaming freely at Machu Picchu, so you are sure to spot them when you visit.
Llamas are the largest of the llamoid species at Machu Picchu. They stand about 42-46 inches high. Females llamas weigh approximately 230 pounds and males can weigh up to 350 pounds. They make excellent pack animals because they can carry heavy loads, survive with little water and eat a diverse diet.
They play a vital role at Machu Picchu by eating the grass at the ruins. Although they seem cute and cuddly, they can spit, so keep your distance.
Alpacas (Lama pacos)
Alpacas are another essential member of the camelid family at Machu Picchu. These valuable wool providers helped sustain both livelihoods and traditions for local communities throughout history. Interestingly, there are no wild Alpacas. Believe it or not, they are all domesticated.
Are you wondering how llamas and alpacas compare? Alpacas are smaller than llamas in both height and weight. They stand 34-36 inches and weigh 100 to 175 pounds. Alpacas are also shy herd animals, whereas lamas are solitary and brave.
Seeking Stamps Tip: When we traveled to Machu Picchu, some of the kids in our group had trouble distinguishing llamas from alpacas. One of the teens said, “The alpacas are cuter and fluffier”. So, if you feel confused which is which, this might help.
Guanacos (Lama guanicoe)
Unlike llamas and alpacas which have been domesticated over time, guanacos remain wild relatives within the region surrounding Machu Picchu today.
Guanacos are wide-eyed mammals that resemble small camels without the hump. They have grayish-brown fur, white fur on their bellies, and with red fur on their backs. They are lighter than a camel but larger than the vicuna, often weighing up to 265 pounds.
These critically endangered animals of Machu Picchu are the scarcest of the camelids in the region.
vicuñas (Lama vicugna)
During the Inca civilization, vicuñas were held in high esteem. In ancient times, they were revered for their fine wool and protected by strict laws. In fact, their fur was used to clothe Inca nobility. Even today, Vicuñas are highly regarded and are the national animal of Peru!
Vicuñas are the smallest and most graceful of the camelids, weighing about 50 pounds.They have silky-soft light brown and white fur. They graze on grass in the region.
Birds at Machu Picchu
With over 400 bird species at Machu Picchu, you are sure to witness a variety of these colorful animals when you visit the ruins. From the endangered condor, parrots, hummingbirds, tanagers and more- keep reading to learn Peru animal facts about birds that soar high above the Andes.
11. Andean Cock-of-the-Rock (Rupicola peruvianus)
One cannot miss witnessing Peru’s national bird, the vibrant Andean Cock-of-the-Rock. Its genus, Rupicola, is derived from Latin meaning “cliff-dweller”.
Without question, the male Andean cock-of-the-rock boasts magnificent orange plumage that will capture your attention instantly. In addition, you might notice their elaborate courtship displays involve leaping and vocalization rituals designed to attract females. It’s easy to spot this brilliantly colored bird at Machu Picchu.
12. Giant Hummingbirds (Patagona gigas)
Another common bird at Machu Picchu is the giant hummingbird. It is the largest hummingbird in the world. Despite its name, the giant hummingbird is typically only 8 inches long.
The giant hummingbird has a long beak and is often noticed because of the sound of its wings and loud calls. Unlike the cock-of-the-rock, its plumage is nondescript, with shades of brown, gray and white.
13. Torrent Duck (Merganetta armata)
Living near fast-flowing rivers and streams near Machu Picchu is the torrent duck. This small waterfowl is renowned for its exceptional ability to navigate turbulent waters with ease. The torrent duck is an expert swimmer and diver. With its specialized webbed feet and streamlined body, it can navigate fast-flowing waters effortlessly in search of small fish and insects.
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14. Andean Condor (Vultur gryphus)
With its massive wingspan and commanding appearance, the Andean condor is a sacred animal in Inca culture. It is symbol of power and freedom in the Andes region.
As one of the largest flying birds, the Andean condor is an impressive sight to behold at Machu Picchu. With wingspans reaching up to 10 feet (3 meters), they soar above the ruins effortlessly.
These scavengers play an essential role in maintaining ecological balance by feeding on carrion, such as the remains for deer, cattle and sheep.
Sadly, these endangered birds are elusive. Yet, if you are fortunate enough to see one, they are a breathtaking sight.
Seeking Stamps Tip: One of the best places to see condors is on a Colca Canyon trek!
15. Blue and Yellow Tanager (Thraupis bonariensis)
The chirpy blue and yellow tanager is a common animal in Machu Picchu. This species is found throughout South America.
Male birds are easily identified by their brightly colored feathers. Female tanagers are muted and less noticeable than their male counterparts. They live in groups high in the trees of the Andes.
Reptiles and Amphibians at Machu Picchu
16. Optimus Prime Lizard (Proctoporus optimus)
A newly discovered lizard was found in Machu Picchu. In homage to the Transformers movie that was filmed in Machu Picchu and Peru, this new lizard is named the Optimus Prime lizard.
The small, dark lizard with a red underbelly grows 1-3 inches in length. Sadly, it is endangered due to climate change and habitat loss. As a result, the Optimus Prime lizard is one of the extremely rare animals in Peru.
17. Glass Frogs (Centrolenidae family)
Glass frogs are a fascinating group of amphibians that inhabit the cloud forests of Machu Picchu.
Named for their translucent skin, these small and delicate creatures allow you to see their internal organs through their bellies! With adaptations like sticky toe pads and bright green coloration, they blend perfectly with the surrounding foliage.
18. Whortail Iguanas (Stenocercus crassicaudatus & ochoai)
Whortail Iguanas are found throughout Cusco and Machu Picchu, Peru. These are plentiful and commonly seen by tourists.
As their name suggests, they are distinctive because of their thick tail. Similar to other lizards, whortail lizards eat small insects, such as flies and ants. When they are not warming themselves, they commonly hide under rocks and branches. We spotted numerous whortail iguanas on climbing the ruins of Machu Picchu and basking in the sun.
19. Andean Lancehead Snake (Bothrops andeanus)
The Andean lancehead is a venomous snake found near Machu Picchu. It is also called the Fer-de-lance, Terciopelo, and Andean Jergon.
This South American pit viper is responsible for most snake bites in the Amazon. Although sightings of the lancehead snake are common, bites are rare. However, you always want to keep your distance from any snakes in the area.
20. South American Bushmaster (Lachesis muta)
Another venomous snake in Machu Picchu is the Bushmaster. These snakes are the longest venomous snakes in the Americas, growing over 3.5 meters or almost 11.5 feet! Their coloring includes shades of yellow, brown and black in a distinctive pattern.
Bushmasters, like all Machu Picchu snakes, help control the animal population by eating frogs, and rodents such as rats and agoutis.
21. Annellated Coral Snake (Micrurus annellatus)
Coral snakes are venomous snakes that can grow up to 28 inches in length. They are recognizable because of their banded appearance. The three species of coral snakes range in color including red, blue or black rings.
22. Green Anaconda (Eunectes murinus)
Known as one of the largest snakes on Earth, the green anaconda is an impressive sight that occasionally inhabits the dense jungles near Machu Picchu.
These non-venomous constrictors can grow up to 30 feet long! Although sightings are rare due to their elusive nature, they inhabit the swamps and rivers in Peru. Encountering one of Machu Picchu’s snakes will undoubtedly leave you with an unforgettable memory.
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Insects and Invertebrates at Machu Picchu
23. Owl Butterflies (Genus Caligo)
There are a variety of butterfly species at Machu Picchu. One of the stunning butterflies we saw at Machu Picchu was the Owl butterfly.
This interesting animal of Machu Picchu can have a wingspan up to 20 inches wide and is one the largest butterfly in the Americas. Its coloring mimics that of an owl and its large spots that look like eyes, trick predators. Not only are these butterflies beautiful, but they play an essential role in pollination and decomposition in the ecosystem.
Seeking Stamps Tip: Learn more about the butterflies of Peru at the Mariposario de Machu Picchu butterfly center in Aguas Calientes.
24. Red-legged Millipede (Epibolus pulchripes)
Machu Picchu has lots of small critters you might miss if you aren’t keeping an eye out for them. One of the common ones is the red-legged millipede. Interestingly, fossil records show millipedes have existed on Earth for over 400 million years!
The red-legged millipede is easy to spot because of its black segmented body and pairs of brightly colored red legs. Despite its name, the millipede averages 10-100 pairs of legs, up to 750 total legs. These arthropods are active during the day, and are commonly found in Machu Picchu. They help the ecosystem by eating dead leaves and decaying plant matter.
Although they appear ominous, millipedes are not harmful to humans. If you pick one up, they might secrete a stinky substance in an attempt to defend itself. This can cause minor skin irritation.
25. Biting Insects
There are plenty of biting insects at Machu Picchu. Most are innocuous, however, you want to avoid biting sand flies & mosquitoes. Both of these insects can spread infectious diseases in Peru, such as Leishmaniasis from parasites. Wear long sleeves and pants, plus DEET repellent to prevent bites.
As you can see in the image below, I suffered from sand fly bites in Machu Picchu. Locals also call these biting insects “midges”. Despite using DEET repellant and leggings, I had numerous bites on my lower legs.
It wasn’t until a day or two later than my ankles began to swell, doubling in size. I suffered for a few days with pain and itching from the sand fly bites, and almost couldn’t walk.
Seeking Stamps Tip: If you are prone to insect bites, I highly suggest wearing long socks and pants that cover your ankles.
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What Is the Best Way To Spot Wildlife Near Machu Picchu
Since Machu Picchu can get crowded, you are more likely to spot wildlife on the Inca Trail. You can choose from a variety of options such as the Short Inca Trail, Choquequirao Trek, Lares Trek, Salkantay Trek, or Huchuy Qosqo Trek package.
However, even if you choose to take the train, like we did, you can still experience plenty of animals at the Inca Ruins. During our visit, we have the chance to see llamas, alpacas, lizards, birds, butterflies, and viscachas.
For the best animal encounters, try to visit near Machu Picchu in the morning away from crowds. I also recommend bringing a pair of binoculars for animal spotting at a distance.
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Animals at Machu Picchu: FAQ’s
1. How Many Mammal Species Are at Machu Picchu?
According to the Peru Ministry of Culture, there are 75 mammal species in the historic sanctuary of Machu Picchu/National Archaeological Park of Machupicchu. Some of these mammals include camelids, deer, coatis, agouti, cougars, spectacled bears, viscachas, chinchilla rats and more.
2. Are There Monkeys at Machu Picchu?
Capuchin monkeys lived near Machu Picchu in the 1970’s. However, they are not commonly seen there today. In 2019, monkeys were spotted near the ruins, but scientists are unclear whether they will return permanently. To see monkeys in Peru, visit the Peruvian Amazon near Puerto Maldonado or Iquitos.
3. What Animals Live in Machu Picchu?
Camelids such as llamas and alpacas are common animals living in the ruins. Elusive species such as bears, pumas, condors, and the nearly extinct chinchilla rat are also there. From birds, invertebrates, amphibians, reptiles and insects, there are countless species living in Machu Picchu.
4. Can Vicuñas Only Be Found in Peru?
Vicunas are a native animal to the Andes mountains. These small members of the camel family live in Peru and neighboring countries including Ecuador, Argentina, Bolivia and Chile.
5. Does Machu Picchu Have Llamas or Alpacas Living There?
You can find llamas and alpacas living at Machu Picchu. They are commonly seen grazing along grassy areas of the ruins. Additionally, you can find wild camelids such as vicuñas and guanacos in the region.
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Animals of Machu Picchu: Final Thoughts
As you can see there is rich biodiversity of plants and animals in Machu Picchu. From the peaks of the Andes to the Amazon Basin, the location of Machu Picchu amid a tropical mountain forest creates a distinct ecosystem. Whether you choose to do an Inca Trail tour, or take the train to the ancient citadel, you are sure to spot wild animals of Peru. I hope these facts about Machu Picchu animals help educate and encourage responsible tourism to preserve valuable Machu Picchu wildlife.
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