This journey to the Manu National Reserve or Tambopata with Peru Jungle Trips commences in Cusco, the Inca capital, passing through agricultural fields where local farmers continue to cultivate and plow using traditional hand tools.
Our route leads us to the cultural hub of Paucartambo, and as we ascend further into the mountains, we eventually reach Acjanaco.
The descent begins, and the scenery undergoes a swift transformation, signaling our entry into the cloud forest of Manu. Here, the mountain streams support a diverse array of plants and flowers. Upon arrival, we are warmly greeted by the local host, particularly the majestic “Imperial Quetzal.” Although the dominant figure in this cloud forest is the Cock of the Rock, Peru’s national bird, whose captivating mating dance we can witness from the LEK viewing platform.
Cusco Hotel Transfer
05:30 AM
We will depart from the cloud forest to delve deeper into the Manu rainforest, reaching the port of Atalaya, where we will transition from our van to a motorized boat. Traveling downstream along the Madre de Dios, we enter the Biosphere Zone of the Manu rainforest, providing ample opportunities for wildlife observation.
Upon reaching Maquisapayoj, we will settle into our Lodge. Here, we can explore the significant macaw salt lick known as “Blanquillo,” the tapir salt lick, and two lakes named “Blanco and Camungo,” which serve as the habitat for a family of giant otters. Additionally, the lakes offer a vantage point to observe over 600 different bird species, and there is the highest viewing tower in the Peruvian Amazon, constructed next to a 350-year-old Ceiba tree. From this elevated position, one may have the chance to see eight species of monkeys, red deer, and possibly even a jaguar. Our return journey takes us through the towns of Puerto Colorado and Mazuco, back to Cusco or Puerto Maldonado.
It is crucial to note that the macaw and tapir salt licks, along with the lakes, are protected areas within the Biosphere Zone of the Manu.
Very early in the morning, at 5:00 AM, our private transport will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco to go to Manu National Park. Our trip will take us through the beautiful valleys of the Andes and the picturesque countryside communities.
We will explore the pre-Columbian funeral towers at the archaeological site of Ninamarca, also known as the Chullpas of Ninamarca (a pre-Inca burial tower) located in Paucartambo, a traditional colonial small town. A visit to a museum will provide insights into the local culture. We will have breakfast at a local house in that small town.
As soon as we finish breakfast, we will continue to Ajanaco, approximately 40 minutes away. This is the highest point of the entire trip. We will stop for 15 minutes at the viewpoint and then continue on the Manu road, observing various changes in the ecosystems until we find a good place for our delicious lunch.
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. As we descend, we’ll encounter fascinating plant species, including orchids, bromeliads, ferns, and more.
In the afternoon, we will reach our first lodge, “Bambu Lodge,” where we will spend the night. An optional night walk will be available if the weather permits.
In the early morning, we will have breakfast and continue our trip to the Pico’s de Oz Birds Center, where we’ll have the opportunity to observe the diversity of hummingbirds and fauna, including monkeys and other exotic birds.
Following the hike, we’ll visit a coca plantation and a lagoon, and then continue to the Atalaya River dock.
We will go by boat, and during the boat ride, you will spot distinct species of birds and animals along the shores of the Manu River. As soon as we arrive at our lodge, we will settle into our accommodation, followed by lunch at 1:30 PM.
At night, we will do a short night walk to search for nocturnal creatures.
After our delicious breakfast, we will involve further exploration of the tropical Manu rainforest, with an emphasis on spotting monkeys and other types of mammals.
We’ll return for our lunch.
We’ll embark on a boat journey to reach the natural hot springs, located at Shyntuya Native Community, to enjoy a comfortable bath in the hot springs. We will stay for a few hours.
On our way back, we’ll have the chance to witness the breathtaking view of the best sunset along the riverbanks.
We’ll encounter the world’s largest rodent, the capybara (Hydrochoerus). An evening walk is planned for observing frogs, toads, insects, bats, and snakes.
After breakfast in the early morning, we’ll embark on a boat trip upstream to reach our last ecolodge, Soga de Oro, in 2 hours, always searching for creatures along the river. We will arrive for our lunch.
After lunch, we will visit a small lake called Machu Huasi, where we will have chances to see beautiful landscapes and a lot of species of birds, including the most peculiar bird known as the hoatzin (the prehistoric bird).
Later, we will return to our ecolodge, have a bonfire, and time for jungle history telling.”
Early morning, we will go to witness the most spectacular show by parrots and macaws at the clay licks. Later, we will return for our breakfast, pack up our belongings, and take our boat to the Atalaya River dock.
Our car driver will be waiting here with the minivan for our drive back to Cusco City.
Along the way, we will stop in Ajanacu for our lunch. We will reach Cusco City later in the evening.
Q: What should I pack for the tour?
A: Recommended items include comfortable clothing, sturdy shoes for hiking, insect repellent, sunscreen, a hat, binoculars for bird watching, a camera, and any personal medication.
Q: Are there any health considerations or physical requirements for the tour?
A: Participants should be in good health and able to comfortably participate in outdoor activities such as hiking and walking. Please consult with your healthcare provider if you have any specific health concerns.
Q: Are there any optional activities available during the tour?
Yes, depending on the itinerary and location, there may be optional activities such as canopy walks, river rafting, or additional guided hikes. Please check with the tour operator for available options.
Q: What is the weather like in Manu National Park?
The weather in Manu National Park can vary, but generally, it is warm during the day and cooler at night. It’s advisable to pack layers as temperatures can fluctuate, and rain is common, especially during the wet season.
Q: Are there opportunities for cultural interactions with local communities during the tour?
Yes, the Shyntuya Native Community. Please check the itinerary for specific cultural experiences.
Thanks a lot, it was a wonderful trip to the Amazon.
