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Cave of the Owls

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Animal habitat

Weather…

The Cueva de las Lechuzas, which translates to 'Cave of the Owls,' is located within the Tingo María National Park at the foot of the Bella Durmiente mountain range in central Peru. Despite its name, the cave is primarily home to a massive colony of oilbirds (guácharos), the only nocturnal fruit-eating birds in the world. This impressive limestone cavern features spectacular stalactites and stalagmites formed over millennia by water erosion. A wooden walkway allows visitors to explore the first large chamber, where they can witness the birds and hear their distinct shrieking as they rest in the darkness during the day. The cave's internal ecosystem is unique, as the bird droppings (guano) provide a nutrient-rich base for insects and fungi, supporting a complex food web. The surrounding National Park, established in 1965, protects the transition zone between the high Andes and the Amazon rainforest. The cave is one of the most famous natural landmarks in the Huánuco region, attracting scientists and tourists alike.

Location: Peru
Top sights: Cueva de las Lechuzas · Aguas Sulfurosas · Mirador Jacintillo
Nearby: Huánuco (30 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jul–Sep.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	15	15	15	14	14	14	14	15	15	16	15	15
Rain mm	139	157	145	84	79	51	46	38	50	98	127	162

📋 Practical info

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Best season

The best months to observe oilbirds in the Cave of the Owls are during the dry season from May to October. During these months, the cave is more accessible and the oilbird colony is consistently active, with younger birds present.

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Best time of day

Oilbirds are nocturnal, so plan your visit for late afternoon to witness their spectacular dusk exodus. Arrive at least one hour before sunset to secure a good vantage point near the cave entrance.

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Etiquette

Always stay on designated paths inside the cave to protect the fragile karst formations and avoid disturbing the birds. Refrain from using flash photography or making loud noises, as this can startle the colony.

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What to bring

A powerful headlamp or torch is essential for navigating the dark cave interior. Sturdy, non-slip footwear is recommended due to damp and uneven surfaces, and a rain jacket is useful for the humid cave entrance area.

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Getting there

The Cave of the Owls is located within Tingo María National Park in northern Peru. The cave entrance is a short hike from the park entrance; a local guide can be hired in the town of Tingo María.

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What to expect

The oilbirds may be deep inside the cave during daytime, so patience is required as they prepare to exit at dusk. Wait quietly near the entrance; the sight of thousands of birds emerging is worth the wait.

Geography

Coordinates

-9.31660, -76.01660

Facts

The cave is situated in Tingo María National Park, established in 1965.
Oilbirds (Steatornis caripensis) use echolocation to navigate in total darkness.
The internal temperature remains stable between 20 and 22 degrees Celsius.
It is one of the most significant limestone formations in the Huánuco region.
The resident birds feed primarily on the oily fruits of tropical palms.
The cave entrance and first chamber rise to over 30 meters in height.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Tingo María Banana Farms2 km · NExplore →

Huánuco30 km · SWExplore →

Cordillera Azul National Park34 km · NEExplore →

Toromocho Mine64 km · WExplore →

Tarma68 km · NWExplore →

Tarapoto85 km · SEExplore →

Yanachaga-Chemillén National Park87 km · NExplore →

Chanchamayo Coffee Farms91 km · NWExplore →

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Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

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Overnight stops

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Sights in the town Cave of the Owls (5)

Cueva de las Lechuzas📍 landmark

The Cave of the Owls is a massive limestone cavern in the jungle, inhabited by thousands of oilbirds (guácharos) and bats.

Aguas Sulfurosas 📍 landmark

These natural sulfurous springs emerge from the tropical forest floor, known locally for their distinct aroma and reputed healing properties.

Mirador Jacintillo 🌿 nature

The Jacintillo Viewpoint features an unparalleled sweeping panorama of the Huallaga River winding through the verdant high jungle.

La Bella Durmiente 🌿 nature

Puma Ringri, famously known as Sleeping Beauty, is a chain of forested mountains that perfectly resembles the silhouette of a resting woman.

Cueva de las Pavas 📍 landmark

The Cave of the Turkeys is actually a scenic, shaded river gorge surrounded by lush vegetation, complete with refreshing natural swimming pools.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Why is the cave called the Cave of the Owls?

The name comes from the numerous birds, especially the oilbirds, that live there.

Is the cave safe for children?

The accessible area is safe, but the ground can be slippery.

Do you need a flashlight for the visit?

Yes, it is dark in the cave, so a flashlight is highly recommended.

Can you enter the cave without a guide?

Entry is usually only permitted when accompanied by a local guide.

How is the climate in the cave?

It is humid and cool, a light jacket is comfortable for many visitors.

Cave of the Owls: where is it located?

Cave of the Owls is located in Peru.

Cave of the Owls: what is there to see?

Highlights include Cueva de las Lechuzas, Aguas Sulfurosas, Mirador Jacintillo.

Cave of the Owls: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.

Cave of the Owls: why is it worth visiting?

The Cueva de las Lechuzas, which translates to 'Cave of the Owls,' is located within the Tingo María National Park at the foot of the Bella Durmiente mountain range in central Peru.

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