Description
Venture into one of the most untouched and biodiverse regions of the Amazon on this 6-day, 5-night journey through the Manu Reserved Area. Every step reveals stunning landscapes, exotic wildlife, and a world that feels timeless and alive.
Over six days, you will navigate remote jungle trails, paddle along tranquil rivers, and visit hidden lagoons teeming with life. From colorful parrots and macaws to playful monkeys and elusive jaguars, the Manu Reserved Area is a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers alike.
In addition to its natural wonders, this expedition provides a meaningful cultural experience, with visits to indigenous communities where traditions, crafts, and sustainable ways of living have been preserved for generations. Evening walks in the rainforest reveal the nocturnal world of the Amazon, offering an unforgettable glimpse into this magical environment.
This extended tour is ideal for travelers seeking a deep and authentic Amazon experience, combining adventure, wildlife observation, and cultural immersion in one of the most extraordinary places on Earth.
Itinerary
Día
1
Day 1: Cusco – Cloud Forest – Manu Lodge
- Arrival and initial orientation in Cusco, followed by a journey into the cloud forest.
- We depart at 4:00 AM in our private minivan, traveling southeast toward Manu, a natural paradise. Crossing captivating mountains and valleys, we will arrive at the colonial town of Paucartambo, known as the folkloric capital of Cusco, where we will stop for coffee. Continuing our journey, we will ascend to the highest point, Acjanaco Pass at 4,000 m (13,123 ft), entering the Manu Biosphere.
- After marveling at the panoramic view, we descend through the cloud forest, a lush expanse of shrubs, trees, and flowering plants nourished by the rising valley mist. The mountainside is adorned with primitive ferns, epiphytes, lichens, and orchids.
- The area is teeming with birds, including hummingbirds, quetzals, trogons, toucans, parrots, and tanagers, all of which are likely to be seen. The country’s national bird, the magnificent Cock-of-the-rock (Rupicola peruviana), resides here. Amid the flowing waterfalls, we might also encounter the woolly monkey, a unique inhabitant of the cloud forest.
- Overnight stay at a local lodge.
Día
2
Day 2: Manu Rainforest Lodge– Casa Machiguenga
- Exploration of the cloud forest, observing rare birds and flora. We will depart at sunrise, enjoying breakfast on the boat to maximize our time on the river and increase wildlife spotting opportunities during the ideal early morning hours. The sunrise over the Upper Madre de Dios River promises an unforgettable spectacle.
- As we transition to the Manu River, we will spend the next four hours in the world’s most biodiverse area, offering breathtaking views. Be alert for encounters with the elusive jaguar (Panthera onca), the formidable black caiman (up to 7 m / 23 ft long), or the white caiman. Observe turtles balancing on logs and marvel at the exceptional birdlife perched on branches or soaring through the air.
- In the afternoon, we will venture into the jungle to search for frogs, spiders, snakes, and other nocturnal creatures.
- Our overnight stay will be at Casa Machiguenga, a lodge owned by the local indigenous communities and built with local materials. With a capacity for 16 guests, it is centrally located within the reserved area of the Manu River.
Día
3
Day 3: Cocha Salvador – Cocha Otorongo (Meander-Shaped Lakes)
- Descent into the tropical rainforest, with opportunities for wildlife sightings. Today we anticipate entering the park at the ranger station, patiently waiting our turn. Our initial goal is to navigate Cocha Salvador on a catamaran. The focus of the day includes searching for the elusive giant otters (Pteronura brasiliensis), observing groups of howler monkeys (Alouatta sara), spider monkeys, and the Agami heron. We will also explore the forest in search of significant trees such as ficus and ceiba, which are sadly disappearing rapidly due to logging in other parts of the world.
- After a delicious lunch, our exploration continues with a visit to Cocha Otorongo, one of the largest meander-shaped lakes in Manu. We will ascend a 20 m (60 ft) tower, offering panoramic views of the aquatic habitat and unparalleled perspectives of the wildlife that visits (don’t forget your zoom lens!). It is a spectacular experience to watch the giant otters playing and fishing.
- Your guide will also point out enormous black caimans, white caimans, birdlife, medicinal plants, and surrounding trees.
- Overnight stay at Casa Machiguenga.
Día
4
Day 4: Manu Lodge
- Boat trip along the Manu River, visiting indigenous communities and learning about their sustainable practices. We will serve a typical Amazonian breakfast, then spend the rest of the morning at Cocha Salvador. We will paddle in a canoe on the lake, and from the floating platform you can observe the wildlife in the meander-shaped lake.
- Here, we will also see the Agami heron and brown capuchin monkeys, among others. Specially constructed rocks protrude from the lake. From this vantage point, you may spot families of giant otters that inhabit the area.
- These are the largest freshwater carnivores remaining in Manu, each consuming 4–5 kg of fish per day. You will often see them feeding along the lake’s edge.
- We will spend the rest of the day hiking the trails in search of the thirteen iconic monkey species. The region also hosts many medicinal plants, and our guide will explain their uses in detail.
- Along this trail, we may also observe groups of peccaries, a species of New World pigs. In the evening, we will watch the sunset and return to the lodge for dinner.
Día
5
Day 5: Matsiguenka Community – Palotoa Ecological Reserve
- Excursions into the deep jungle, observing nocturnal wildlife.
- After breakfast, we will complete check-out at our lodge and begin a four-hour journey downstream along the Boca Manu River. Along the riverbanks, you will frequently spot various distinctive animals.
- Next, we will continue along the Madre de Dios River for an additional five hours until reaching our lodge.
- Located in the heart of the tropical rainforest, the lodge provides an ideal base for local conservation groups and birdwatchers to explore the rich biodiversity of the jungle.
- After dinner, we will embark on a night tour to observe nocturnal creatures in the area.
Día
6
Day 6: Manu Reserve – Cusco
- After breakfast, we will board a boat to reach the port of Atalaya.
- Upon arrival, our private transportation will be waiting, and we will begin the journey back to Cusco. We anticipate arriving in Cusco at approximately 7:30 PM.
Includes
- Private transportation from Cusco to the Manu cultural zone and back.
- Professional guide equipped with telescope and binoculars.
- Professional cook.
- Water for 6 days. Please bring an empty 1–2 liter bottle to be refilled.
- Meals for 6 days: 6 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 5 dinners (vegetarian alternative available at no extra cost).
- Entrance to the LEK to see the Andean Cock-of-the-rock.
- Entrance to Manu National Park.
- Entrance to Cocha Machuwasi.
- Entrance to Ceiba – Giant Tree Forest.
- Lodge accommodation (5 nights in a double or triple room, each with private bathroom and mosquito net on every bed).
- Rubber boots for muddy jungle trails.
- First aid kit with venom extraction pump.
Does not Include
- Additional drinks such as sodas or beer
- Binoculars
- Dinner on the sixth day
What to bring
- Wear lightweight, quick-dry clothing and long sleeves to protect against insects and sun exposure.
- Bring a waterproof jacket or poncho, as rain is common in the rainforest.
- Use comfortable hiking shoes and carry rubber boots for muddy trails.
- Bring insect repellent, sunscreen, and a hat.
- Carry a flashlight or headlamp with extra batteries for night excursions.
- Pack a small backpack with water, snacks, and personal items for daily excursions.
- Bring binoculars and a camera to observe wildlife and capture photos.
- Take personal medications, including altitude sickness pills if needed.
- Respect wildlife and local communities; do not leave trash behind.
- Stay hydrated and drink bottled water provided during the tour.
- Be prepared for early mornings to maximize wildlife spotting.
- Listen carefully to the guide’s instructions for safety and best wildlife experiences.
Book Now
Booking in advance is recommended.
Manu Reserved Area 6D/5N
6D/5N
