Manu Cultural Zone - 4-Day Tour
Overview
The Manu is a fascinating destination in the Peruvian Amazon rainforest, known for its rich biodiversity and impressive landscapes. During a 4-day tour of the Manu National Park, visitors can explore extensive forests, spot various species of animals and plants, and immerse themselves in local culture. It is recommended to bring light clothing and sunscreen, as well as be prepared for temperature changes during the trip, which can vary from cloud forests to lowlands. Accommodations in the jungle range from rustic to more comfortable, offering different levels of comfort. It is essential to be equipped with mosquito repellent, flashlight, sunscreen, and extra money to fully enjoy this jungle experience. Get ready for an unforgettable adventure in the Manu!
Itinerary
We depart early from Cusco, traveling along the Manu road, passing through valleys and small towns where locals wear colorful attire. We make a quick stop at Ninamarca, an archaeological site with pre-Inca tombs, and later visit the colonial arched bridge in Paucartambo. Afterward, we ascend to Acjanaco Pass, the entrance to Manu National Park.As we cross Acjanaco Pass (3550 m/11,647 ft), the landscape changes dramatically, transitioning from dry to humid valleys, with stunning views of the lowlands. The lush cloud forest and its wildlife, including the Peruvian national bird, the brilliantly red Cock-of-the-Rock, are our main objectives. We descend to the Guadalupe Natural Reserve (560 m/1,837 ft) for the night.
In the morning, we visit a clay lick for parrots and other birds like the Blue-and-yellow Macaw, and various parakeets. Afterward, we return to our lodge to enjoy tropical fruit bread and learn about medicinal and traditional plants such as coca leaves, chocolate trees, bamboo water, and achiote. We can swim in the Guadalupe River, which has clear, uncontaminated water.In the afternoon, depending on the group, we explore a fascinating canyon and caves to discover rare creatures of the dark, like bats, scorpions, and spiders. We then walk through a bamboo forest, where monkeys are often spotted, and end the day searching for caimans along streams.
We wake up early to the sound of Amazonian birds and take a walk in our garden. After breakfast, we travel to the Atalaya Port, where we board a motorboat with a safety team and navigate the Madre de Dios River. We then visit Machuhuassy Oxbow Lake, known for its beautiful wetlands and diverse birdlife, such as Hoatzins, horned screamers, hawks, herons, and monkeys. After exploring, we enjoy a traditional lunch prepared by our professional chef while floating in a wooden canoe on the Madre de Dios River.In the late afternoon, we hike through primary forest, looking for monkey families, peccaries, and giant ceibo trees. Our expert guide will explain the medicinal plants, reptiles, and mammals we encounter. We then return to our lodge by motorboat.
We visit the Parrot Clay Lick, a great activity during our jungle trip, and then prepare to visit a local wildlife rescue center. Afterward, we return to Cusco, where we can see colorful birds again and enjoy the exuberant cloud forest views one last time before crossing the streams that originate in the mountain peaks.We'll arrive in Cusco around 5:00 p.m.
Included
- Naturalist guide with telescope.
- Tourist transportation (van & boat).
- Entrance fees.
- 3 meals a day.
- 3 nights of accommodation in a Lodge (private bathrooms, hot showers, electricity, rocking chair overlooking the garden).
- Mineral water + Snacks.
- Rubber boots + canvas bags.
Not Included
- Binoculars.
- Extra drinks.
- First breakfast/dinner on the last day.
- Packing list.
Recommendations
- Sunscreen and insect repellent.
- Personal hygiene items.
- Sunglasses and camera.
- Binoculars and flashlight.
- Alarm clock and backpack.
- Clothing: bring extra socks and underwear.
- Swimwear, nylon shorts, and T-shirts.
- Lightweight pants, long-sleeve shirt, and rain jacket.
- Hat and comfortable walking shoes or boots.
- Sandals for lodge use.