Manu National Park spans 1,716,295.22 hectares, protecting a vast range of ecosystems from the high-altitude Puna grasslands to the tropical rainforest in the lowlands, with elfin forests, cloud forests, and diverse microhabitats in between, making it one of the most biodiverse places on Earth. It is also home to indigenous communities such as the Yora, Mashco-Piro, Matsiguenka, Harakmbut, Wachipaeri, and Yine, who have lived in harmony with these lands for centuries. Within the park, the Matsiguenka communities of Tayakome and Yomibato are officially recognized and reside along the Upper Manu River. As part of our tour, we will visit a lodge managed by local Matsiguenka people, offering an authentic ecotourism experience that directly supports their economy and way of life. Additionally, Manu remains one of the few places on Earth where indigenous populations live in voluntary isolation, preserving their ancestral knowledge and traditions in deep connection with nature.
Day 1: Huacarpay – Paucartambo – Upper Manu Road
We will pick you up in the morning from your hotel to begin our journey. Heading south of Cusco, we will pass through charming villages known for their local economic activities, such as traditional bakeries and authentic Peruvian cuisine. Our first stop will be Huacarpay Lake, a protected wetland under the Ramsar Convention. This lake is home to more than 118 bird species, including several migratory and endemic species.
After birdwatching at Huacarpay, we will continue our journey across the Andes Mountains, reaching the colonial town of Paucartambo, once a key trade center during the colonial era. Following a delicious lunch, we will explore the town and its traditional market, which still operates today.
Our adventure then takes us to Ajanaco Pass (3,500 m / 11,480 ft), the official entrance to Manu National Park. From here, we will begin our descent into the breathtaking cloud forest, where the landscape transforms dramatically. Lush vegetation, orchids, and towering trees create a pristine environment teeming with biodiversity. As we approach our lodge, we will be welcomed by a hummingbird spectacle at the feeders.
Overnight: Upper Manu Road Lodge (L:D)
Day 2: Manu Road – Andean Cock-of-the-Rock Lek
Wake up above the clouds and enjoy a stunning sunrise from our privileged location. After breakfast, we will visit an orchid garden, a prime habitat for these beautiful flowers.
Continuing our journey down the renowned Manu Road, we will take short nature walks to observe the diverse wildlife. As we descend, the landscape transforms once again, immersing us deeper into the rainforest.
In the afternoon, we will visit a lek of the Andean Cock-of-the-Rock, Peru’s national bird. From a hidden observation point, we will witness an extraordinary natural spectacle as male birds perform elaborate courtship displays—dancing and calling loudly to attract females.
Overnight: San Pedro – Cloud Forest Lodge (B:L:D)
Day 3: Tropical Rainforest – Alto Madre de Dios River
Our journey into the tropical rainforest continues as we drive further down the Manu Road. Along the way, we will stop at a local village, where you can taste fresh exotic fruits.
Upon reaching Atalaya, we will switch from land to river transport. Here, we will meet our new crew—our boat captain and assistant—who will guide us down the Alto Madre de Dios River. As we cruise along, we will be surrounded by an abundance of wildlife and breathtaking scenery.
Later in the evening, we will embark on a night walk, offering a completely different perspective of the jungle. We will visit a Tapir Clay Lick, where we will wait in a hidden shelter to observe these elusive nocturnal creatures. On our way back, we might spot fascinating insects, frogs, snakes, and the rare nocturnal night monkey.
Overnight: Amazonian Lodge (B:L:D)
Day 4: Macaw Clay Lick
Our lodge is strategically located near a Macaw Clay Lick, where parrots, parakeets, and macaws gather daily to consume mineral-rich clay, which is essential for their digestion. This incredible event attracts hundreds of vibrant birds and offers a fantastic photography opportunity.
Later in the day, we will explore the surrounding trail system, where we may encounter monkeys, reptiles, amphibians, insects, exotic plants, and more. This immersive experience highlights the delicate balance of biodiversity and conservation in the rainforest.
Overnight: Amazonian Lodge (B:L:D)
Days 5–6: Manu National Park – Salvador Oxbow Lake
On these days, we will venture deeper into Manu National Park’s Reserved Zone, an area dedicated exclusively to wildlife conservation and sustainable tourism.
We will navigate along the Alto Madre de Dios River to the confluence with the Manu River, where the scenery changes dramatically. Unlike the previous fast-flowing rivers, the Manu River is slow-moving, meandering through sandy beaches and oxbow lakes.
Along the way, we will have exceptional wildlife encounters, including:
- Black and White Caimans
- Capybaras (the world’s largest rodent)
- Jaguars (if we are lucky!)
- Skimmers nesting on riverbanks
- Cocoi Herons, monkeys, and more
Our lodge, Casa Matsiguenka, is managed by a local Indigenous community, offering an authentic experience in the heart of the Amazon.
The next day, we will explore Salvador Oxbow Lake, home to the endangered Giant Otters, one of the Amazon’s most charismatic species. We will also visit Otorongo Lake, where we can observe different monkey species and pristine rainforest landscapes.
Overnight: Casa Matsiguenka Lodge (B:L:D)
Day 7: Returning from Manu
After several days immersed in nature, we will begin our journey back, cruising downstream along the Madre de Dios River. As we navigate, we might still spot some elusive creatures like jaguars, tapirs, Orinoco geese, and caimans.
Overnight: Amazonian Lodge (B:L:D)
Day 8: Blanquillo Macaw Clay Lick – Blanco Lake
One of the highlights of our tour is a visit to the largest Macaw Clay Lick in the region. This remarkable site attracts not only parrots and macaws but also mammals, including tapirs and peccaries.
In the afternoon, we will visit Blanco Lake, where we have another opportunity to observe Hoatzins, kingfishers, horned screamers, giant otters, caimans, monkeys, and more.
Overnight: Amazonian Lodge (B:L:D)
Day 9: Journey Back to Cusco
On our final morning, we will take one last chance to spot any remaining wildlife before embarking on our journey back.
We will travel downstream to Boca Colorado, where we will say farewell to our boat crew. From there, we will take a taxi to Puerto Carlos, cross the Inambari River by boat, and continue by land back to Cusco.
If you have a flight to Lima, we can drop you off directly at the airport. Alternatively, we can arrange connections to Puerto Maldonado or other tours in the Tambopata Reserve.
End of Tour – Thank you for exploring Manu with us!
To ensure a comfortable and enjoyable trip, please pack light. For domestic flights, the baggage allowance is 23 kg (50.7 lbs.) for checked luggage and 8 kg (17.6 lbs.) for carry-on baggage. Any additional weight may incur extra costs at your own expense.
Clothing & Essentials
- Lightweight, comfortable clothing is recommended, such as standard field pants and breathable shirts for the entire trip.
- A jacket and gloves are advisable for cooler areas, especially in Cusco.
- A day backpack is essential for carrying daily necessities during walks and excursions.
- Sunblock, a hat, or a cap to protect yourself from sun exposure.
- Mosquito or insect repellent to prevent bites.
- A rain poncho or umbrella—even if the forecast predicts good weather, conditions can change unexpectedly.
- Camouflaged clothing is acceptable, but please avoid any military-style attire.
- A dry bag or waterproof backpack is highly recommended, especially for river trips.
- Rubber flip-flops or shower sandals will be useful for lodge stays and river activities.
Recommended Gear
- Camera to capture the stunning landscapes and wildlife.
- Binoculars for a closer view of birds and other wildlife.
- Extra batteries to ensure your devices remain charged throughout the journey.
- Telescope (optional) for enhanced wildlife observation.
By packing wisely, you’ll maximize your comfort and experience throughout the trip. If you have any questions about specific items, feel free to reach out!
General:
During our tour, we will explore a protected national park, primarily traveling on forested roads and easy-level trails. The experience is designed to be comfortable and accessible for all participants.
- Altitude Range: We will be moving between 3,400 meters (11,155 ft) and 500 meters (1,969 ft) above sea level, with most activities taking place between 500 and 1,500 meters.
- Weather Conditions: Expect a variety of weather conditions, but no specialized clothing is required. However, we recommend dressing in layers for comfort.
- Electricity Access: All lodges provide electricity. Two lodges operate on a generator system (available from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM), while others have 24-hour electricity. Each room is equipped with 220V power sockets.
- Wi-Fi Access: Limited—available only in one lodge.
- Device Charging & Memory Storage: We strongly recommend bringing extra batteries, as one may not be sufficient for a full day of exploration. Additionally, an extra memory card is advisable to ensure you don’t run out of storage for your photos. Make sure to download and back up your images daily.
Medical and Health Information:
If you have already spent time in Cusco, adjusting to altitude will likely not be an issue. However, if you have just arrived, don’t worry—our nature-focused itinerary is designed to be relaxing, with minimal physical exertion. Most of our travel will be by vehicle, with short, comfortable walks.
Altitude effects vary by individual:
- Some people feel no effects at all.
- Others may experience mild symptoms such as shortness of breath, mild nausea, fatigue, or headaches.
- In rare cases, altitude sickness can be more pronounced.
Your body naturally adjusts by producing more red blood cells. To ease acclimatization, we recommend:
- Staying well-hydrated – drink plenty of water.
- Avoiding alcohol and caffeine, as they contribute to dehydration.
- Drinking coca tea, which is known to help with altitude adaptation.
- Eating light meals on your first day to aid digestion.
Your safety and well-being are our top priorities. Throughout the tour, we will frequently check on everyone’s condition. If you feel unwell, we can quickly visit a nearby medical center or consult a local pharmacy under a doctor’s guidance.
Medications for Altitude Sickness
If you are concerned about altitude sickness, consult your doctor before the trip. Some medications, such as acetazolamide (Diamox), can help with prevention and recovery. For minor symptoms like headaches, you may take over-the-counter pain relievers such as:
- Acetaminophen (Tylenol)
- Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin)
- Naproxen (Aleve)
By taking these precautions, you can fully enjoy this incredible nature adventure while staying safe and comfortable.
Travel insurance
Our suggestion is that you use travel insurance service. The normal price of this tour not cover travel insurance.
Books:
Birds of Peru is the best field Guide.
If you consider you can bring some other field guide are welcome.
Prices Include:
- Private transportation throughout the entire journey.
- Accommodation for the full duration of the tour (Cusco to Cusco).
- Breakfast, lunch (picnic or box lunch, depending on location), and dinner.
- Snacks and unlimited access to fresh drinking water.
- Expert Naturalist Guide specializing in the region’s wildlife and ecosystems.
- River transportation for exploring key locations.
- Entrance fees for all archaeological sites and birdwatching locations, including:
- Manu National Park entry fee.
- Blanquillo Macaw Clay Lick entry fee.
- Blanco Lake entry fee.
- All necessary transfers in Cusco.
- Full-board private tour experience, ensuring a comfortable and seamless journey.
- Oxygen bottle available for high-altitude comfort.
Not included:
- Laundry services.
- Phone calls.
Medical expenses, hospitalization, or travel insurance. - Excess baggage charges.
- Any other personal expenses not explicitly mentioned in the inclusions.
What I (guide) will have with me
- Recording stuff Roland R-05/Microphone SENNHEISER ME66/K6.
- Two iPods- speakers.
- A Swarovski ATX 80 scope 20-60 zoom
- Green laser pointerOwling light.
- GPS.
- Personal Swarovski Binoculars.
- I will be carrying the new field guide Birds of Peru this can be found on www.amazon.com.
