Doris Valencia is a Peruvian birder and naturalist whose lifelong passion for the outdoors began in her childhood. Born in Cusco—the capital of the Inca Empire—she spent her early years in the Madre de Dios region of the southern Amazon, where her parents managed an eco-lodge and introduced her to the wonders of wildlife and conservation.

Today, Doris leads birding trips throughout Peru and Colombia and is expanding her guiding into Ecuador. Her tours reflect both exceptional birding skill and a broad understanding of natural history, bringing together ecology, culture, and local knowledge. She is also a devoted student of Peruvian history, known for her engaging lectures on Machu Picchu that illuminate the country’s deep cultural and natural heritage.

Beyond guiding, Doris directs the Pacha Conservancy Project, an initiative focused on reforestation, outdoor education, research, and community engagement in the fragile cloud forests north of Cusco. A passionate advocate for women in tourism, she works to create opportunities for female guides and naturalists from communities near important birding areas. Through her leadership and dedication, Doris continues to inspire others to protect and celebrate Peru’s extraordinary biodiversity.