Expanding across nearly 1.5 million hectares, Manu National Park showcases an unparalleled array of ecosystems and habitats. Starting from its lowest points, the park is enveloped in dense tropical rainforest, brimming with diverse flora and fauna. With increasing altitude, the terrain transitions through montane forests, cloud forests, and ultimately ascends to the rugged peaks of the Andes mountains. This remarkable spectrum of altitude and climate creates an exceptional diversity of life, establishing Manu National Park as one of the planet’s most biologically rich areas. From elusive jaguars and giant otters to vibrant macaws and rare orchids, the park offers a sanctuary for wildlife enthusiasts and nature admirers alike.
Details about Manu:
Biodiversity: Spanning 1.5 million hectares, Manu hosts diverse ecosystems, fostering an array of flora and fauna.
Remote Wilderness: Inaccessible to many, Manu remains largely untouched by human activity, preserving its natural beauty.
Wildlife Watching: Encounter iconic species like jaguars, giant otters, and macaws with expert guides.
Cultural Encounters: Learn about indigenous communities and their traditional lifestyles.
Birdwatching: Spot over 1,000 bird species, including rare finds like the Andean cock-of-the-rock.
Scenic Landscapes: From cloud forests to cascading waterfalls, Manu offers breathtaking vistas.
Research Opportunities: Explore ongoing conservation projects in this UNESCO World Heritage Site and Biosphere Reserve.
Discover the wonders of Manu National Park for an unforgettable Amazonian adventure.
Our journey from the Andes to the Amazon begins with an early morning hotel pickup. Traveling in a private minivan, we ascend to the high mountain area at 4000 meters above sea level (13,000 feet).
Our first stop is Ninamarca, where you can explore a pre-Inca cemetery and capture some memorable photographs. Continuing on, we reach the charming town of Paucartambo, celebrated by the World Tourism Organization as one of the world’s best tourist towns.
As we drive, soak in the breathtaking views of Manu’s biodiversity. Descending through the eastern slope of the Andes, we enter the cloud forest, adorned with lush vegetation including ferns, orchids, and bromeliads.
Keep your eyes peeled for a variety of bird species such as tanagers, quetzals, toucans, and colorful hummingbirds, as well as hawks and monkeys.
Our highlight of the day is searching for Peru’s national bird, the Andean cock-of-the-rock (Rupicola peruviana), known for its vibrant plumage and captivating mating dance.
In the afternoon, we arrive at Bambu Lodge (700 meters above sea level), our accommodation for the night. Enjoy dinner before your guide briefs you on the exciting activities planned for the next day.
In the morning, after enjoying a delicious breakfast, we’ll resume our journey in the minivan. Our first stop will be at the hummingbird garden, where you can witness the vibrant colors of various bird species and orchids.
Then, we’ll proceed to the town of Salvación, where we’ll explore Machuwasi Lagoon. Here, we’ll navigate the tranquil waters on a rowing raft, observing diverse wildlife including birds, insects, and monkeys in their natural habitat.
Following lunch, we’ll hop aboard 4×4 vehicles for a scenic drive lasting approximately 2 hours. Along the way, we’ll encounter a rich array of flora and fauna, crossing rivers and streams that intersect the route, and passing through indigenous villages.
Our journey will culminate at Dorado Lodge, situated at 300 meters above sea level. Here, you’ll be accommodated in double rooms with private bathrooms.
Before or after dinner, we’ll venture on a night hike along the lodge’s trails, offering opportunities for nocturnal wildlife sightings. Enjoy an overnight stay at the lodge, immersed in the sights and sounds of the Amazon rainforest.
Early in the morning, we’ll embark on our motorboat and set off along the upper Madre de Dios River. As we cruise downstream, we’ll enjoy breakfast onboard while making our way to the Limonal control station. Here, park rangers will greet us and provide a briefing about Manu National Park.
Continuing our journey down the Manu River, weather permitting, we’ll have the opportunity to spot various bird species, including macaws, eagles, and more. Keep an eye out for mammals like jaguars, capybaras, tapirs, monkeys, as well as reptiles such as black caimans, white caimans, anacondas, and river turtles.
Upon arriving at the port, we’ll disembark and venture into the jungle, walking along trails while immersing ourselves in the sights and sounds of the forest. Our trek will lead us to Cocha Brashco, where we’ll board a catamaran to observe families of giant otters in their natural habitat.
Following this activity, we’ll return to our boat and enjoy a typical jungle lunch while continuing our journey along the river.
During our boat ride, we’ll make a brief stop at the native community of Diamante to support them by purchasing crafts and local products. Afterward, we’ll proceed to our lodge.
Later in the evening, either before or after dinner, we’ll embark on a night hike through the jungle, offering opportunities to encounter tarantulas, snakes, spiders, frogs, nocturnal birds, and more. Rest for the night at the lodge.
Very early in the morning, we’ll head to the clay lick for parrots and macaws. It’s a special place where we witness the natural spectacle of these birds coming down to eat clay, which aids in their digestion.
Among the species, you can appreciate macaws, parakeets, parrots, the military macaw, blue-headed macaw, chestnut-fronted macaw, etc. You’ll see Bolivian macaws and red macaws perched in the trees.
After the activity, we’ll return to the lodge, have our breakfast, and pack our belongings to head back. We’ll board the 4×4 vehicles for a 2-hour journey, spotting flora and fauna as we cross rivers and streams that are part of the road, passing indigenous villages until we reach the town of Salvación.
Here, we’ll switch from our vehicle to the minivan. Continuing our journey in the van, we’ll make a brief stop in the town of Pilcopata where we’ll support the local community by purchasing fruit juices and fruit ice creams of each season (copazo, aguaje, pineapple, cocona, etc.).
We’ll then board our van to return to Cusco, concluding our adventure, tired but happy and content after visiting the “Lung of the World,” and leaving you at your respective hotels.
The Manu Park Adventure Experience offers an exhilarating journey from the majestic Andes to the lush Amazon rainforest. As a tourist, you’ll be captivated by the stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife while immersing yourself in the heart of nature. From exploring ancient Inca sites to navigating tranquil rivers and spotting vibrant bird species, every moment promises an unforgettable adventure filled with awe and wonder.
With expert guides leading the way, you’ll embark on exhilarating activities such as birdwatching, jungle treks, and nocturnal wildlife sightings. Whether marveling at the vibrant plumage of Peru’s national bird or observing giant otters in their natural habitat, each experience brings you closer to the natural wonders of Manu National Park. As you journey back to Cusco, you’ll carry with you cherished memories of an authentic Amazonian adventure, leaving you longing to return to this pristine wilderness once again.
