Cock-of-the-Rock in the dense canopy of the cloud forest. Just back from an unforgettable 21 days in Peru. Most of that time was spent with Summit Workshops and a small group of fellow photographers for an amazing journey over the Andes Mountain range and into the heart of the Peruvian Amazon basin. Lima to Cusco by plane, then by van over the Andes into the Cosñipata Valley, then by motorized canoes to Madre de Dios and Manu National Park, Peru’s Amazon Basin. This area is considered one of the most biodiverse environments on earth. Cock-of-the-Rock in the dense canopy of the cloud forest. Looking for the lady! Thousands of species, fauna and flora in a very concentrated area. Wherever we turned there was an unbelievable sight to absorb and experience. Being within the main ‘lungs’ of our planet and breathing the rainforest air was very special. The vegetation of the rainforests, the wildlife, the terrain, the small villages, the people, all new and exciting. Cock-of-the-Rock in the dense canopy of the cloud forest. Checking out the competition. Summit Workshops and our guide, Ian Segebarth of Rainshadow Expeditions put together an awesome itinerary. Every day was special. There are so many things to share from this amazing journey. Cock-of-the-Rock in the dense canopy of the cloud forest. Preening time so to look sharp for the lady! If I had to pick one, it would be witnessing the courtship ritual of the Andean Cock-of-the-rock, the national bird of Peru. The unmistakable bright red and orange plumage of the males and the fan-shaped crests make them super special. And very hard to find and see in the rainforest canopy. So many other highlights. After the Summit Workshop, I had to go back to Cusco and spend two days visiting the archeological sight and citadel of Machu Picchu. What a way to end this very special journey to Peru. 

To see the Peru Amazon rainforest gallery click here. Cock-of-the-Rock in the dense canopy of the cloud forest. Realizing he is not the only one interested! Cock-of-the-Rock in the dense canopy of the cloud forest. Looking his best!