4 Days
Daily Tour
9 people
English, Espanol, Francais
Manu National Park, located in southeastern Peru, is renowned for its rich cultural and natural heritage. This park is one of the most biodiverse areas in the world, home to an incredible variety of flora and fauna. Within this natural wonderland, several indigenous communities live in and around the park, preserving their cultural traditions and maintaining a close relationship with the rainforest. The indigenous peoples in the Manu region possess a deep understanding of the rainforest ecosystem, utilizing traditional knowledge to live in harmony with nature. They rely on the resources provided by the forest for their livelihood, practicing sustainable methods of hunting, fishing, and gathering.
Early Morning Pick-Up: Begin your adventure with a private transportation pick-up from your hotel in Cusco. Scenic Drive: Embark on a 7-hour journey covering over 200 km through the stunning Peruvian Andes. Enjoy scenic stops at Lake Huacapay, the archaeological site of Ninamarca, and the historic colonial bridges of Paucartambo. Mountain Passes: Travel over the Huachuqasa Pass at 4,100 m / 13,451 ft and the Acjanaco Pass at 3,550 m / 11,647 ft. As you descend into the cloud forest of Manu National Park, witness the dramatic shift from dry mountain landscapes to lush jungle valleys. Wildlife and Flora: Experience the rich biodiversity of the park, including the national bird of Peru, the Gallito de las Rocas, and the native South American spectacled bear. Discover vibrant waterfalls, unique flora such as giant ferns and orchids, and observe butterflies, monkeys, and a variety of tropical birds like toucans, quetzales, and parrots. Arrival at Guadalupe Lodge: After your scenic journey, arrive at the Guadalupe Lodge, situated at an altitude of 560 m / 1,837 ft. Enjoy a warm Amazonian welcome and settle into your private room. Exploration and Relaxation: Spend the rest of the day exploring the loop trail around the lodge, looking out for capuchin monkeys, blue and yellow macaws, woodpeckers, and oropendolas. Evening: Conclude your day with a delicious dinner at the lodge and unwind in your room, surrounded by the soothing sounds of the jungle.
Early Morning Wake-Up: Begin your day with an early wake-up call and a delightful breakfast as the sun rises over the Guadalupe Lodge.
Bird Watching: After breakfast, set out for a bird watching activity in the lush palm forest. Seek out the elusive South American Ghost Bird (Great Potoo or Nyctibius Grandis), and marvel at the vibrant blue and yellow macaws and a variety of colorful parakeets.
Tropical Breakfast: Return to the lodge for a hearty breakfast featuring fresh tropical fruits, set against the backdrop of the jungle. During breakfast, learn about the medicinal properties of native plants like coca leaf, bamboo water, cacao, and annatto.
River Swimming: After breakfast, take advantage of the opportunity to swim in the Guadalupe River, which flows alongside the lodge. Enjoy a refreshing dip before heading back to the lodge for a well-deserved lunch.
Canyon and Cave Exploration: Spend the afternoon exploring the intriguing canyons and caves near the lodge. Observe cave-dwelling animals such as spiders, centipedes, spider-scorpions, and various species of bats. Equip yourself with a flashlight and waterproof boots to navigate the intricate network of tunnels.
Bamboo Forest Walk: After your caving adventure, join your guide for a leisurely walk through the bamboo forest and meet the local monkeys that inhabit the area.
Evening Activities: As night falls, enjoy an authentic Amazonian dinner at the lodge. Afterwards, embark on a nocturnal caiman hunt, where you can spot the glowing eyes of caimans along the river.
Early Morning Start: Begin your day with an early wake-up call and a delicious breakfast as the sun rises over Guadalupe Lodge.
Journey to Atalaya Port: At 6 a.m., board a land vehicle and travel to the Atalaya river port, passing through lush tropical plantations of papaya, banana, cacao, and coca.
River Exploration: Arrive at the port where a motorboat will be ready to take you on an exhilarating journey down the Madre de Dios River. Enjoy 1 hour of navigating the stunning waters and exotic landscape.
Machuhuasi Lagoon: Reach the entrance to the Machuhuasi Lagoon, a serene lake enveloped in dense vegetation and exceptional biodiversity. Walk the trails along the lagoon's shores and observe local wildlife such as hoatzins, horned screamers, hawks, herons, capybaras, kingfishers, and monkeys. Your guide will provide insights into the medicinal importance of native plants to the indigenous people.
Lunch by the Lake: Enjoy a freshly prepared lunch on the shores of the lagoon, soaking in the tranquil surroundings before returning to the Atalaya river port and then heading back to the Guadalupe Lodge.
Early Morning Wake-Up: Start your day with an early wake-up call at Guadalupe Lodge.
Parrot Clay Lick Excursion: As the sun rises and the rainforest comes alive, take a motorboat to the Parrot Clay Lick. Witness one of the most spectacular wildlife displays in Manu National Park. Weather permitting, observe over 15 species of parrots and macaws as they gather on the 50-meter-high riverbank to consume clay and gravel, which aids their digestion.
Return to the Lodge: After this unforgettable bird-watching experience, return to the Guadalupe Lodge for a hearty breakfast. Pack your belongings and prepare for the next part of your journey.
Visit Wildlife Rescue Center: Next, visit a Wildlife Rescue Center managed by a local Amazonian family within the heart of the Manu Biosphere Reserve. Learn about their conservation efforts and the diverse wildlife they help protect.
Journey Back to Cusco: Begin the 7-hour drive back to Cusco, traveling through breathtaking cloud forests and over scenic mountain passes. You are expected to arrive in Cusco around 5 p.m..
Essentials: Lightweight, moisture-wicking clothing, a rain jacket, and waterproof boots. Gear: A camera with a zoom lens, binoculars for bird watching, and a flashlight for exploring caves. Health and Comfort: Sunscreen, insect repellent, a hat, and personal medications. Don’t forget a reusable water bottle and snacks for the journey.
It’s recommended to consult with a healthcare provider before travel. Common recommendations include vaccinations for hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and tetanus. Malaria prophylaxis may be advised depending on the season.
The rainforest can be hot and humid with frequent rain. Dress in lightweight, quick-drying layers and bring a waterproof poncho. Be prepared for sudden weather changes and keep your belongings in waterproof bags.
You will stay at Guadalupe Lodge, which offers private rooms with private toilets, hot showers, Wi-Fi, a balcony, and a garden view. The lodge is designed to provide comfort while immersing you in the natural surroundings.
The tour involves some physical activity, including hiking, walking, and boat rides. Ensure you are in good health and prepared for moderate exertion. If you have any health concerns, consult with your guide before the trip.
Manu National Park is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including parrots, macaws, monkeys, capybaras, caymans, and various species of butterflies and birds. The park is renowned for its high biodiversity and unique species.
Respect local customs and traditions, especially when interacting with indigenous communities. Dress modestly and ask for permission before taking photos of people. Learn about and respect the cultural significance of the places you visit, including any local conservation practices.
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