8-Day Manu Reserved Zone Itinerary

The Manu Reserved Zone is one of the most biodiverse places on Earth, and this 8-day tour is the perfect way to experience its natural wonders. From the cloud forest to the Amazon rainforest, you’ll see a wide variety of plants and animals, including jaguars, macaws, and even giant anteaters. You’ll also learn about the rich culture of the indigenous people who live in the region.

 Day 1: Exploring Traces of the Past

Early departure from Cusco in our specialized vehicles. In the mid-morning, we will visit the intriguing pre-Incan tombs of Ninamarca, commonly known as “Chullpas”. We continue to Paucartambo, a picturesque colonial town, and then to the Acjanacu Pass, marking the beginning of the Cultural Zone of the Manu Biosphere Reserve. This day immerses us in a varied and fascinating world, home to the Andean Cock-of-the-Rock, the Spectacled Bear and a wealth of unique flora. We will spend the night at the Orquídeas de San Pedro Lodge.

 Day 2: Morning Dance of Emblematic Birds

We rise early to witness the mating ritual of the Andean Cock-of-the-Rock, the national bird of Peru. After breakfast, we embark on a journey by land to Pilcopata and then by bus to the port of Atalaya. From there, we head by motorboat up the Alto Madre de Dios River to our private lodge, with exciting options along the way, either spotting peccaries or enjoying river rafting.

 Day 3: Colorful Encounter with Parrots

We explore a parrot “collpa” in the morning and continue our journey up the Manu River to the heart of the reserve. We arrive at Lago Salvador, our safari base, for an afternoon of jungle hiking, focusing on the rich ecology of the rainforest.

 Day 4: Waking up in the Jungle

We wake up to the sound of the Red Howler Monkey and explore Lake Salvador by catamaran, providing unique opportunities to spot birds, monkeys and the elusive Giant Otter. A day dedicated to nature at its best.

 Day 5: Among Ancient Trees and Observation Tower

We cross the river to enter an ancient forest, home to giant trees and diverse species. We reach a strategically located observation tower for spectacular views from the canopy. More opportunities to spot wildlife, including the majestic Giant Otter.

 Day 6: Gentle Descent of the Manu River

One last sunrise in the jungle around Lake Salvador before slowly descending the Manu River. We arrive around 3 pm at Isla Valle, owned by a native family, with a short walk through the forest to observe American Bullfrogs or Catesbeian frogs, horned frogs, tree frogs and a remarkable variety of colorful insects. We continue to the town of Boca Manu, located a short distance from the confluence of the Manu and Alto Madre de Dios rivers. From here, we descend the Madre de Dios River, reaching the Juan de Dios Reserve, and spend one more night at the Lodge in this magical Amazon rainforest. There is an option for a short night walk.

 Day 7: Last Night in the Cultural Zone

At mid-morning or earlier, we continue downriver along the Alto Madre de Dios to camp on a suitable beach in the Cultural Zone, enjoying the sights and sounds of the jungle.

Included:

 Specialized bilingual jungle guide

1 night at the San Pedro Orquídeas Lodge

1 night at Lodge Erika

1 night at the Boca Manu Lodge

2 nights at Sajino Safari Camp

 1 night at Yanayacu Lodge

 Meals (vegetarian option also available)

 Water from day 2

 First aid kit including snake bite vaccinations

 All land and river transportation, including transfers to and from the hotel in Cusco

 National Park permit procedures and payment Manu

 Optional rafting equipment

 Special guide and equipment for the canoe tour

 Safety box for valuables

 Luggage storage at the main office in Cusco

Not included:

 Breakfast on day 1; Dinner on day 8.

 Additional snacks and water.

 Water on day 1

 Entrance fee to Manu National Park

 Tip for the guide.

Full Name *

Phone/WhatsApp

Email address *

Estimated travel date

Number of adults

Number of children (if applicable)

Message0 / 180

Send

Essentials for the 8-day Manu Reserved Area:

 Warm clothing (in case of cold weather), long-sleeved shirts and long pants (cotton)  100% waterproof raincoat (long poncho or rain suit)  Insect repellent (with at least 50% DEET) and sunscreen  A pair of lightweight ankle-high boots and sandals  Flashlight  Wide-brimmed hat (for sunny days) and sunglasses  Towel, swimsuit, personal medications and/or first aid kit, and one backpack or luggage bag per person.  A bottle of water for the first day  Plastic bags.