From Cusco: 8-Day Wildlife Journey Through the Manu Reserved Zone
Discover the untouched beauty of the Amazon with the 8-Day Wildlife Journey Through Manu Reserved Zone. A perfect mix of nature and adventure.
From Cusco: 8-Day Wildlife Journey Through the Manu Reserved Zone
Embark on the 8-Day Wildlife Journey Through Manu Reserved Zone, a once-in-a-lifetime expedition into one of the world’s most biodiverse regions. Starting in Cusco, this immersive adventure takes you through the enchanting Cloud Forest and deep into the Manu Reserved Zone, where untouched rainforests and incredible wildlife await.
Spot macaws at the clay lick, paddle on serene lakes like Cocha Salvador, and marvel at giant otters, monkeys, caimans, and exotic birds. Guided hikes through the pristine rainforest reveal the secrets of this tropical ecosystem, while observation towers provide breathtaking views of the Amazon.
Stay in comfortable lodges and camps, enjoy authentic Amazonian hospitality, and explore the mysteries of the jungle by day and night. This 8-day journey is perfect for wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, and adventurers seeking an unforgettable experience in the heart of the Amazon.
| Departure & Return Location | Your Hotel in Cusco |
| Departure Time | 5:30 AM – 6:00 AM |
| Estimated Return Time | 6:00 PM – 6:30 PM (Day 8) |
| Guide Languages Available | Guides fluent in English and Spanish |
| Key Attractions | Cloud Forest, Macaw Clay Lick, Cocha Salvador, Cocha Brasco, Otorongo Cocha |
Cusco – Cloud Forest – Pilcopata Lodge
Your adventure begins early in the morning with a hotel pickup between 5:30 and 6:00 a.m. Journey through the Andes in a comfortable bus, stopping to visit the Funerary Towers of Ninamarca, pre-Incan structures at 3,750 meters above sea level. Continue to Paucartambo, a charming folkloric town known for its colonial bridge and vibrant culture.
Ascend to Acjanaco Pass, the highest point of the journey at 4,000 meters, and the entrance to Manu National Park. Begin your descent into the lush Cloud Forest, home to stunning orchids, heliconias, and ferns. On a guided walk, observe the Cock-of-the-Rock during its mating ritual and spot wildlife like trogons, quetzals, monkeys, and the elusive Spectacled Bear.
Arrive at Pilcopata Lodge in the afternoon, where you’ll enjoy comfortable accommodations with hot showers and private bathrooms.
Accommodation: Pilcopata Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Transport: Approx. 7–8 hours by bus
Pilcopata – Atalaya – Natural Hot Springs – Boca Manu
After breakfast, drive 45 minutes to Atalaya Port (490m), passing through landscapes filled with coca plantations, fruit trees, and vibrant orchids. From Atalaya, board a motorized boat to navigate the Alto Madre de Dios River, spotting birds like herons, kingfishers, and vultures, including the impressive Jungle Condor. With luck, you may even glimpse a Jaguar.
Stop at the Natural Hot Springs for a rejuvenating soak in the medicinal waters. If time permits, visit the Diamante Native Community, where you can learn about their unique architecture and sample local wild fruits.
Arrive at Boca Manu in the late afternoon and settle into a comfortable lodge equipped with showers and bathrooms.
Accommodation: Lodge in Boca Manu
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Transport: Approx. 2 hours by bus; 3 hours by boat
Boca Manu – Otorongo Cocha (Reserved Area) – Matchiguenka House
After breakfast, enter the Manu Reserved Zone, one of the most biodiverse areas on Earth. Stop briefly at the Limonal Surveillance Post for entry formalities before continuing by boat deeper into the reserve. Keep an eye out for turtles, white caimans, capybaras, and possibly other exotic wildlife along the riverbanks.
Arrive at Matchiguenka House, your lodge for the evening, featuring double beds with mosquito nets and shared shower and bathroom facilities. Later, visit the nearby Otorongo Lake and climb a 30-meter observation tower for panoramic views. This is a great opportunity to spot giant otters and other aquatic wildlife.
Accommodation: Matchiguenka House
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Transport: Approx. 4–5 hours by boat
Matchiguenka House – Salvador Cocha
In the morning, travel 30 minutes by boat to Salvador Cocha, where you’ll paddle silently on a catamaran. This tranquil activity allows you to observe river otters, exotic birds like the Sultana Cock and Agami Heron, and multiple species of monkeys (up to 12 of the 15 found in the area).
After lunch, take a guided hike along forest trails to uncover the secrets of the tropical rainforest. Learn about the intricate balance of the ecosystem and the symbiosis between its inhabitants. Return to the Matchiguenka House in the evening for dinner. Optional night walks are available to explore the forest’s nocturnal life.
Accommodation: Matchiguenka House
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Transport: Approx. 30 minutes by boat; 2–3 hours walking
Salvador Cocha – Pakitza – Mammal Clay Lick
Rise early for a visit to the Macaw Clay Lick at Salvadorcillo Creek, where macaws and parrots gather to feed on mineral-rich clay. Witness their vibrant display of colors and learn about the importance of these licks for the birds’ diet.
Continue your journey deeper into the reserve to Pakitza, the last ranger station within Manu National Park. Here, explore the Mammal Clay Lick, a unique site where animals come to ingest minerals to aid digestion. This area offers a prime opportunity to spot mammals and learn about their behavior.
Spend the night at a camp on platforms, equipped with mosquito net-covered beds and shared showers and bathrooms. Optional night walks are available for those who wish to explore the nocturnal wildlife.
Accommodation: Camp on platforms in Pakitza
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Transport: Approx. 3–4 hours by boat
Matchiguenka House – Otorongo Cocha – Boca Manu
Begin the day with a return journey to Otorongo Cocha, where you’ll revisit the 30-meter observation tower. This is another chance to spot giant otters, caimans, and other aquatic creatures in their natural habitat.
After exploring, continue down the Manu River to reach Boca Manu. Along the way, stop at Cocha Brasco, a serene lake offering excellent opportunities for birdwatching and spotting wildlife such as otters and reptiles.
Arrive at your lodge in Boca Manu, where you’ll spend the evening. Shared shower and bathroom facilities are available. Optional night walks are offered for those interested in a final nighttime jungle adventure.
Accommodation: Lodge in Boca Manu
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Transport: Approx. 4–5 hours by boat
Boca Manu – Paititi Lodge
After breakfast, board your motorized boat to continue along the Alto Madre de Dios River. The return journey offers another chance to spot birds such as herons, kingfishers, and vultures, as well as other Amazon wildlife.
In the afternoon, arrive at Paititi Lodge, where you can relax and enjoy your last evening in the Amazon. The lodge is equipped with private showers and bathrooms for your convenience.
Accommodation: Paititi Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Transport: Approx. 5–6 hours by boat
Paititi Lodge – Cloud Forest – Return to Cusco
On your final day, enjoy breakfast before taking a boat ride back to Atalaya Port, where your private bus awaits. Travel through the Cloud Forest once more, soaking in the lush greenery and vibrant wildlife as you ascend back to Cusco.
Arrive in Cusco in the evening, between 6:00 and 6:30 p.m., marking the end of your extraordinary journey through the Manu Reserved Zone.
Accommodation: None included
Meals: Breakfast, Boxed Lunch
Transport: Approx. 3 hours by boat; 6–7 hours by bus
Important Note:
This itinerary serves as a guide and may be adjusted due to weather conditions, safety considerations, lodge availability, or other unforeseen circumstances to ensure the best possible experience. While minor changes may occur, the tour will always start and finish on the scheduled dates, delivering all key activities and highlights as planned.
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Special Discounts
- Group Discount: Automatically applied during online booking.
- Save 5% per person for groups of 5-9 people.
- Save 8% per person for groups of 10-14 people.
- Save 10% per person for groups of 15 or more people.
Payment Terms & Cancellation Policy
Kindly take a moment to read our Payment Terms & Cancellation Policy before booking. Happy adventuring!
Payment Terms
Beginning Your Adventure – Booking Confirmation and Deposit
Your journey starts with a commitment: a 50% deposit of the total tour cost. This initial investment is pivotal in activating the extensive preparatory process, ensuring every aspect of your tour is curated to perfection.
Final Payment: The Last Step Before Your Journey Begins
The remaining 50% of the tour cost is due no later than 30 days before the commencement of your tour. This timely payment is critical to finalize all logistical arrangements, guaranteeing a hassle-free start to your adventure.
Expansive Payment Options for Ease and Flexibility
In line with our commitment to your convenience, Peru Tripper accepts a variety of payment methods, including bank transfers, credit cards, and PayPal. Please be aware that additional fees may apply depending on the payment method selected. Detailed payment procedures and potential fees can be found on our dedicated payment page.
Implications of Late Payments – Protecting Your Reservation
Adherence to the payment schedule is crucial. Late payments can unfortunately lead to the cancellation of your reservation, with the deposit being retained as a non-refundable fee. We urge you to maintain timely payments to safeguard your tour plans.
Policy for Last-Minute Adventurers
For those inspired to join this tour on short notice, namely less than 15 days before departure, full payment is required at the time of booking. This ensures that we can expedite all necessary preparations for your inclusion.
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation Terms for Clients
We recognize that life is ever-changing. However, due to the elaborate planning and expenses involved in preparing for this tour, we maintain a strict no-refund policy after booking confirmation. This underscores the importance of obtaining comprehensive travel insurance, which can offer protection against unforeseen cancellations.
Navigating Unpredictable Circumstances – Force Majeure
In extraordinary situations beyond our control, such as natural disasters or political upheavals, Peru Tripper will strive to offer alternative arrangements. This may include rescheduling your trip or issuing a credit for future travel, based on current availability and discretion.
Navigating Through Force Majeure
In the event of extraordinary and uncontrollable circumstances, such as natural disasters or significant political unrest, Huaynas Expeditions adopts a flexible approach. We prioritize your safety and satisfaction, offering to reschedule your trip or provide a credit for future travel, subject to availability.
Emphasizing the Need for Comprehensive Travel Insurance
To cover unexpected events, including trip disruptions and medical emergencies, we cannot stress enough the importance of securing comprehensive travel insurance. It’s your safety net, ensuring peace of mind throughout your journey. Please note, Peru Tripper does not bear responsibility for costs arising from incidents not covered by your travel insurance.
Inclusions
This package includes the following:
Exclusions:
Additional costs to consider:
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Packing List
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