Puerto Maldonado 8-Day Excursion to the Manu Reserve Area
Manu National Park, located in southeastern Peru, is one of the largest parks in South America, protecting more than 2 million hectares with a wide diversity of flora and fauna in different habitats. Recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site and Biosphere Reserve, Manu stands out for its unique biodiversity. Untouched and free of human influence, the park offers the opportunity to observe diverse species, from jaguars and spectacled bears to an impressive variety of birds. Additionally, it is home to 10% of the world's vascular plant species, making Manu one of the most biologically diverse parks on the planet.
Itinerary
Day 1: Exploring Traces of the Past
Early departure from Cusco in our specialized vehicles. 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.
Included in the day:
- Transportation: Specialized vehicles from Cusco.
- Guide: Specialized bilingual jungle guide.
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included, with vegetarian options available.
- Accommodation: 1 night at the Orquídeas de San Pedro Lodge.
- Water: Provided starting on day 2.
- Entrance fees: Included to the pre-Incan tombs of Ninamarca and other attractions.
Statistics of the day:
- Difficulty: Moderate.
Day 2: Morning Dance of Emblematic Birds
We wake up early to witness the ritual of Mating of the Andean Cock-of-the-Rock, Peru's national bird. After breakfast, we embark on an overland journey to Pilcopata and then by bus to the port of Atalaya. From there, we head by motorboat upriver through the Upper Madre de Dios to our private lodge, with exciting options along the way, whether spotting peccaries or enjoying river rafting.
Included in the day:
- Transportation: Bus to Pilcopata and motorboat on the Upper Madre de Dios River.
- Guide: Specialized bilingual jungle guide.
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included, with a vegetarian option available.
- Accommodation: 1 night at the Erika Lodge.
- Water: Provided starting on day 2.
- First aid kit: First aid kit including snake bite vaccinations.
- Options: River rafting (optional).
Statistics of the day:
- Difficulty: Moderate.
Day 3: Colorful Parrot Encounter
We explore a parrot clay lick in the morning and continue our journey down the Manu River to the heart of the reserve. We arrive at Lake Salvador, our safari base, for an afternoon of jungle trekking, focusing on the rich ecology of the rainforest.
Included in the day:
- Transportation: Boat ride on the Manu River.
- Guide: Specialized bilingual jungle guide.
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included, with a vegetarian option available.
- Accommodation: 2 nights at Sajino Safari Camp.
- Water: Provided starting on day 2. Day 2.
- Tickets: Included for the Parrot Clay Lick and other attractions.
Statistics of the day:
- Difficulty: Moderate.
Day 4: Awakening in the Jungle
We wake up to the sound of the Red Howler Monkey and explore Lake Salvador by catamaran, offering unique opportunities to observe birds, monkeys, and the elusive Giant Otter. A day dedicated to nature at its finest.
Included in the day:
- Transportation: Catamaran on Lake Salvador.
- Guide: Specialized bilingual jungle guide.
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included, with a vegetarian option available.
- Accommodation: 2 nights at Sajino Safari Camp.
- Water: Provided starting on day 2.
Statistics of the day:
- Difficulty: Moderate.
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 canopy views. More opportunities to spot wildlife, including the majestic Giant Otter.
Included in the day:
- Transportation: Boat and jungle hikes.
- Guide: Specialized bilingual jungle guide.
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included, with a vegetarian option available.
- Accommodation: 1 night at the Boca Manu Lodge.
- Water: Provided starting on day 2.
Statistics of the day:
- Difficulty: Moderate.
Day 6: Gentle Descent of the Manu River
One last sunrise in the jungle around Lake Salvador before descending slowly down the Manu River. We arrive around 3 p.m. at Valle Island, owned by a native family, with a short hike 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 village 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. A short overnight hike is available.
Included in the day:
- Transportation: Boat ride on the Manu and Madre de Dios Rivers.
- Guide: Specialized bilingual jungle guide.
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included, with a vegetarian option available.
- Accommodation: 1 night at the Boca Manu Lodge.
- Water: Provided starting on day 2.
- Options: Night hike (optional).
Statistics of the day:
- Difficulty: Moderate.
Day 7: Last Night in the Cultural Zone
At mid-morning or earlier, we continue down the Alto Madre de Dios River to camp on a suitable beach in the Cultural Zone, enjoying the sights and sounds of the jungle.
Included in the day:
- Transportation: Boat ride on the Upper Madre de Dios River.
- Guide: Specialized bilingual jungle guide. the jungle.
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included, with a vegetarian option available.
- Accommodation: 1 night at the Yanayacu Lodge.
- Water: Provided starting on day 2.
- Safety: Safe for valuables.
- Storage: Luggage storage at the main office in Cusco.
Statistics of the day:
- Difficulty: Moderate.
Places to Visit
Not included
Breakfast on day 1; dinner on day 8.
Additional snacks and water.
Water on day 1.
Manu National Park entrance fee.
Tip for the guide.
Recommendations
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 water bottle for the first day
Plastic bags.