Complete Manu Tour from Cusco (7 Days)

Very early in the morning, we will embark from the city of Cusco in a private bus. Our journey will take us through the beautiful valleys of the Andes and the picturesque countryside communities.

We will explore intriguing sites like the Chullpas of Ninamarca (a pre-Inca cemetery) and Paucartambo, a traditional colonial town, where a visit to a museum will provide insights into the local culture.

Lunch will be enjoyed along the route in the cloud forest. Subsequently, our descent through the cloud forest, known for its rich endemic species like the spectacled bear and the cock of the rock (the Peruvian national bird), will continue. Along the way, we’ll encounter fascinating plant species, including orchids, bromeliads, ferns, and more. In the afternoon, we will reach Pilcopata, where we will spend the night in our lodge.

In the early morning, we will have breakfast and commence our hike in the forest, where we’ll have the opportunity to observe the diverse fauna, including monkeys and birds. Following the hike, we’ll visit a coca plantation and an animal rescue center.

Subsequently, our journey will continue by bus to Port Atalaya, situated along the riverbank of the Alto Madre de Dios River at 500 meters above sea level. We will initiate our descent by boat, observing the vast diversity of bird species such as herons, vultures, and cormorants. A stop will be made to relax in hot springs, surrounded by the beautiful jungle. After lunch, we’ll resume our journey until we reach Boca Manu, where we will spend the night in our lodge.

The resonant cry of the howler monkey is likely to rouse us from our slumber. In the early morning, following breakfast, we will embark on a hike, taking advantage of the agreeable temperature at this hour when animals are often active.

Our exploration will lead us to the impressive Lake Salvador, where we will seek out the endangered giant river otters (Pteronura brasiliensis).

We will also be on the lookout for black caimans, the various monkey species inhabiting Manu (13 in total), the prehistoric bird Hoatzin, Kingfishers, and numerous other magnificent species.

After returning for lunch, the afternoon will feature a 3-hour hike to appreciate the diversity of flora and fauna. For those interested, there is also the option of a night walk to observe species of frogs, snakes, and insects.

Today, we will once again rise very early to enjoy breakfast and embark on walks around our lodge and Lake Otorongo. Positioned 15 meters from the lake, there is an observation tower designed to allow us to appreciate the landscape of the surrounding primary forest and enhance our chances of spotting the family of otters residing in the lake.

Our observations will also extend to the birds inhabiting the forest canopy, with the likelihood of encountering surprising species like giant Ceiba trees, colorful butterflies, and various monkey species.

Following our explorations, we will board our boat for a downstream journey, continuing our quest to spot animals such as caimans, turtles, and birds. Upon reaching Limonal, we will embark on a walk to a platform renowned for its excellent views of flora and fauna. Subsequently, we will travel to Boca Manu, where we will spend the night.

Today, we will embark on our boat journey along the Alto Madre de Dios River, navigating against the current.

Along the way, we will marvel at the beautiful landscape of the Amazon Jungle and witness the enormous diversity of bird species.

There will be an option to make a stop at the hot springs, and in the afternoon, we will proceed to reach Amazon Manu Lodge.

Here, we will enjoy comfortable accommodations, spending our final night surrounded by the magical sounds of the jungle. An optional night walk is available for those interested.

Early in the morning, we will commence the return journey towards Port Atalaya. Upon reaching there, our awaiting car will transport us back to Cusco, with an expected arrival in the evening.

Important Notes: Please be aware that the program may undergo slight variations to optimize wildlife sightings, contingent upon the reports from our researchers and experienced naturalist guides stationed at the lodge.