Cusco: Cochahuasi Sanctuary Private Wildlife Tour & Pickup

Summary

Rescued animals up close at Cochahuasi Sanctuary Cusco

You’ll meet rescued Andean wildlife just outside Cusco with a private guide who shares stories behind each animal. Feed llamas and alpacas, pause for photos at Sacsayhuamán’s ancient walls, and watch condors soar overhead. Expect quiet moments and real connections — plus hotel pickup and comfy transport both ways.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — VIP wildlife tour and scenic stop

• Pickup from Cusco hotel
• Drive 40 minutes to Cochahuasi Sanctuary
• Stop at Sacsayhuamán for photos
• Explore Cochahuasi Animal Sanctuary
• Meet and feed rescued animals
• Learn rescue stories from guide
• Optional visit to sanctuary workshop
• Return to Cusco city center

Top questions

How far is Cochahuasi Animal Sanctuary from Cusco?

It’s about a 30-40 minute drive from central Cusco by private vehicle.

Is hotel pickup included in this wildlife tour?

Yes, door-to-door pickup from your hotel or Airbnb in Cusco is included.

Can I feed the animals at Cochahuasi Sanctuary?

Yes, you can feed llamas, alpacas, macaws, turtles and more during your visit.

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes, all areas and surfaces at the sanctuary are wheelchair accessible.

Will we stop at Sacsayhuamán during the tour?

You’ll pause for panoramic views of Sacsayhuamán’s Inca walls on the way to the sanctuary.

How long does the entire tour last?

The experience lasts about three hours at the sanctuary plus travel time.

Is this suitable for kids or older travelers?

Yes, it’s suitable for all fitness levels and ages.

Are large groups part of this tour?

No, it’s a private tour designed for your group only — no crowds.

What’s included

Your day includes private hotel pickup in Cusco, comfortable transport out to Cochahuasi Animal Sanctuary with flexible stops along the way (including views over Sacsayhuamán), entry fees to see rescued wildlife up close with a knowledgeable local guide who’ll share stories as you go; feeding sessions with llamas and alpacas are part of it too before heading back into town in your own vehicle.

What’s the experience like?

We rolled out of Cusco just after breakfast, windows cracked open to let in that chilly mountain air. Our driver was cheerful, pointing out how the city thins into farmland so quickly — I almost missed the first glimpse of those massive Inca stones at Sacsayhuamán. We pulled over for a bit, no crowds, just us and the view. The guide (Luis) explained how these walls have stood for centuries; I tried to imagine building anything that solid with my own hands. Didn’t expect to feel so small next to them.

The drive to Cochahuasi Animal Sanctuary was only about half an hour, but it felt like we’d left the city behind completely. At the entrance, you could hear parrots before you saw them — all squawking over each other like siblings fighting for attention. Luis started telling us about the condors right away. When one spread its wings (honestly huge), I got goosebumps — you don’t really get how big they are until you’re standing there. The air smelled a little sweet from the hay, mixed with something earthy I couldn’t place.

I fed an alpaca who stared straight through me while chewing, then another one nudged my jacket pocket (probably hoping for more snacks). The sanctuary staff moved quietly around us, sometimes stopping to chat or laugh when a llama got too curious about someone’s camera bag. Luis shared stories of how some animals ended up here — not all happy tales, but he had this gentle way of explaining things that made it feel hopeful somehow. We even peeked into their workshop where a woman showed us weaving on a backstrap loom; her hands moved so fast I couldn’t keep up.

On the ride back to Cusco, I kept thinking about those condors and how calm everything felt out there compared to the city noise. If you’re looking for something quieter than Machu Picchu day trips but still want real wildlife close to Cusco, this private tour is worth it — even if you leave with alpaca spit on your sleeve (I did).