Puerto Maldonado 3-Day Manu Cultural Zone Tour
This three-day adventure takes place in the cultural or buffer zone of Manu National Park. Embarking on a journey through Paucartambo, we immerse ourselves in the diverse native flora and fauna of the area. Continuing into the jungle, we arrive at Pilcopata, a quaint lodge located outside the community, offering comfortable accommodations. On the second day, after a delicious breakfast, we embark on a bus journey to Atalaya, followed by a boat ride to another jungle lodge with extensive facilities. Resting here overnight, the third day includes a visit to the parrot clay lick before returning to Pillcopata by boat. The tour concludes with a return to Cusco, marking the end of this captivating three-day tour in the heart of Manu.
Itinerary
Day 1: Cusco – Paucartambo – San Pedro or Pillcopata Cloud Forest
Beginning the 3-day tour in Manu, we pick you up from your hotel between 5:00 a.m. and 6:00 a.m. aboard our comfortable private bus. Throughout the trip, we explore the funerary chullpas of Ninamarca at 3,750 meters above sea level and make a brief visit to the folklore-rich village of Paucartambo, including the colonial Carlos Tercero Bridge. Ascending to the highlands of From Paucartambo in Acjanaco (3,600 meters above sea level), the entry point to Manu National Park, we descend through the mysterious cloud forest, teeming with diverse flora and fauna and adorned with beautiful orchids, heliconias, and primitive ferns. A hike offers the opportunity to witness the courtship ritual of the Cock-of-the-Rock (Rupícola peruvian), with the possibility of spotting Trojans (Trogon sp.), Resplendent Quetzals (Pharomachrus sp.), and, if we are lucky, the Spectacled Bear (Tremarctos ornatus). At night, we arrive at the village of Pillcopata at 550 meters above sea level, where our typical lodge, located away from the town and equipped with private bathrooms and showers, awaits us for the night.
Included in the day:
- Transportation: Private bus from Cusco.
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included.
- Accommodation: Lodge in Pillcopata with private bathrooms and showers.
- Snacks: Fresh fruit, cookies, and soft drinks.
- Mineral water: Provided throughout the day.
- Entrance fees: Included to the Ninamarca funeral chullpas and other attractions.
Statistics of the day:
- Distance: Approximately 50 km.
- Difficulty: Moderate.
Day 2: San Pedro – Atalaya – Machuwasi
After a delicious breakfast, our journey continues by bus to Atalaya, a 45-minute drive away at an altitude of 590 meters above sea level. The boat ride from Atalaya offers sightings of various mammals and birds. After a delicious lunch, we venture to Cocha Machuwasi on a typical catamaran, observing a variety of birds such as the Hoatzin (Ophisthocomus hoatzin), monkeys, reptiles, dwarf caimans, insects, and perhaps some capybaras (Hydrochaerus hydrochaeris). The evening includes an optional night walk. We will spend the night at the lodge with private bathrooms and showers available, along with a pleasant dinner and drinks (optional).
Included in the day:
- Transportation: Bus to Atalaya and boat ride.
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included.
- Accommodation: Lodge with private bathrooms and showers.
- Snacks: Fruit Fresh fruit, cookies, and soft drinks.
- Mineral water: Provided throughout the day.
- Admission fees: Included for Cocha Machuwasi and other attractions.
Statistics of the day:
- Distance: Approximately 50 km.
- Difficulty: Moderate.
Day 3: Parrot Clay Lick – Wayquecha Canopy
Early in the morning, a 45-minute boat ride takes us to the Parrot Clay Lick (a mineral-filled mud wall) to witness three to four species of green parrots gathering to feed. natural mineral salts. After a delicious breakfast, we leave the boat in Atalaya and continue our bus journey, passing through Pillcopata (550 meters above sea level), Patria, and Chonta Chaca, once again passing through the mysterious cloud forest en route to the Imperial City. We will visit the cloud forest again. Arrival in Cusco is approximately at 7:00 p.m.
Included in the day:
- Transportation: Boat ride to the Parrot Clay Lick and bus ride back to Cusco.
- Meals: Breakfast and lunch included.
- Accommodation: Not included (return to Cusco).
- Snacks: Fresh fruit, cookies, and soft drinks.
- Mineral water: Provided throughout the day.
- Admission fees: Included for the Parrot Clay Lick and other attractions.
Statistics of the day:
- Distance: Approximately 50 km.
- Difficulty: Moderate.
Places to Visit
Not included
First Breakfast
Last Supper.
Recommendations
Passport
Visa (if necessary)
Credit card
Cash
Travel insurance
Comfortable and breathable clothing
Appropriate walking shoes
Swimwear
Warm clothing for at night (if you're traveling to the Amazon rainforest)
Toothbrush
Toothpaste
Soap
Shampoo
Sunscreen
Insect repellent
Medication (if you have a medical condition)