Tour Details:
Immerse yourself in one of the most pristine and biodiverse places on Earth.
This 6-day expedition takes you deep into the Manu Reserved Zone, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a true sanctuary of untouched nature in the Peruvian Amazon.
From cloud forests to dense lowland jungle, you’ll witness dramatic ecological transitions and encounter incredible wildlife, guided by expert naturalists. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, photographer, or traveler seeking meaningful adventure, this journey offers a rare and transformative experience in the heart of the rainforest.
Highlights:
- Explore the Manu Reserved Zone, one of the most strictly protected areas in the Amazon
- Observe diverse wildlife: monkeys, macaws, giant river otters, caimans, tapirs, and more
- Visit iconic clay licks, where parrots and macaws gather in colorful spectacle
- Canoe across oxbow lakes to spot aquatic life and bird species in tranquil surroundings
- Hike through primary rainforest with professional guides and indigenous knowledge
- Travel from the Andes to the Amazon, experiencing rich biodiversity at every altitude
- Experience early morning and night walks, the best times for wildlife activity
- Stay in remote jungle eco-lodges, designed for comfort and environmental responsibility
- Perfect for birdwatching and nature photography, with expert interpretation throughout
- Support conservation and local communities through sustainable tourism practices
Gallery
Itinerary
DAY 1: Cusco (3,300 m) – Cloud Forest (1,700 m) – Pilcopata Inn Lodge (600 m)
We begin our journey early in the morning (between 5:30 and 6:00 a.m.) with hotel pickup in Cusco. Our first stop is the funerary towers of Ninamarca, pre-Inca ruins located at 3,750 meters above sea level. We then continue to Paucartambo, a charming folkloric town with a colonial bridge and strong Andean traditions.
From there, we ascend to Acjanaco Pass, the gateway to the Manu Biosphere Reserve at 4,000 meters, before descending into the mysterious cloud forest, home to an abundance of orchids, heliconias, tree ferns, and wildlife. We’ll take a short walk to spot the Andean cock-of-the-rock performing its courtship ritual. With luck, we may also observe quetzals, trogons, monkeys, and the elusive spectacled bear, the only bear species native to South America.
In the afternoon, we arrive at Pilcopata Inn Lodge (550 m), a comfortable local lodge with hot showers and private bathrooms.
DAY 2: Pilcopata – Atalaya – Boca Manu – Cocha Otorongo (250 m)
After breakfast, we travel by bus for 45 minutes to the port of Atalaya, passing coca plantations, tropical fruit farms, and orchids. There, we board a motorized canoe and begin our river adventure along the Alto Madre de Dios River.
During the boat ride, we may spot herons, kingfishers, vultures, and with some luck, even the rare king vulture (Sarcoramphus papa) or the jaguar (Panthera onca). We make a brief stop at Boca Manu, and then at the Limonal Ranger Station, the official entrance to the Manu Reserved Zone.
As we continue deeper into the rainforest, wildlife becomes more frequent. Look out for white caimans, turtles, and capybaras along the riverbanks. In the afternoon, we arrive at our safari-style camp at Cocha Otorongo, equipped with double beds, mosquito nets, and raised wooden platforms. After settling in, we visit the lake and ascend a 30-meter observation tower, ideal for spotting giant otters, turtles, and a wide variety of birds.
Overnight in jungle camp with shared showers and bathrooms.
DAY 3: Cocha Otorongo – Cocha Salvador – Manu Reserved Area
Today, we head to Cocha Salvador, about 30 minutes away by boat. We explore the pristine primary forest on foot, before navigating silently by catamaran across the lake. This is an excellent opportunity to see the giant river otter, sultana birds, Agami herons, and multiple species of monkeys—up to nine different species are commonly observed here.
Later, we walk the lodge’s extensive trail system, where your guide will reveal the ecological secrets of the Amazon. In the afternoon, we return to Cocha Otorongo.
Optional: night walk to observe amphibians, insects, and nocturnal sounds.
DAY 4: Reserved Zone – Salvadorcillo Creek – Boca Manu
We begin before sunrise with a visit to the macaw clay lick in Salvadorcillo Creek, where parrots and macaws gather in colorful flocks to consume mineral-rich clay that aids in digestion.
After breakfast, we continue down the Manu River, enjoying the biodiversity along the way. We’ll make a stop at Cocha Brasco, another hidden oxbow lake, to try and spot more giant otters.
Overnight in Boca Manu in a comfortable lodge with private bathrooms and showers.
DAY 5: Boca Manu – Paititi Lodge
After breakfast, we begin our return journey by boat along the Alto Madre de Dios River. The route offers another chance to observe wildlife such as monkeys, river birds, and possibly caimans basking in the sun. In the afternoon, we arrive at Paititi Lodge, where we enjoy a well-deserved rest.
Private rooms with hot showers and bathrooms are available.
DAY 6: Amazon Manu Lodge – Atalaya – Cusco
Our final day begins with a last look at the rainforest’s rich flora and fauna. We navigate back by boat to Port Atalaya, then take our private bus up through the cloud forest, giving us one final glimpse of this breathtaking ecosystem.
We arrive in Cusco between 6:00 and 6:30 p.m., concluding a truly unforgettable Amazon experience.
Included / Excluded
- Private ground and river transport (bus and motorized canoe)
- 5 nights accommodation (2 nights lodge, 3 nights safari-style camp)
- All meals (vegetarian options available) + daily snacks
- Professional bilingual (English/Spanish) naturalist guide
- All entrance fees (including Manu Reserved Zone)
- Rubber boots, first-aid kit, and field equipment
- Drinking water throughout the trip
- 24/7 support from local staff
- Breakfast on Day 1 / Dinner on Day 6
- Alcoholic beverages and soft drinks
- Tips for staff and guides
- Personal expenses
- Travel insurance (strongly recommended)
What to Bring:
- Valid ID or passport
- Personal medications
- Toiletries
- Comfortable walking shoes and sandals
- Flashlight and extra batteries
- Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen
- Insect repellent (recommended 40% DEET or more)
- Lightweight raincoat or poncho
- Long-sleeved shirts and cotton pants
- Swimwear
- Warm clothes (especially for early mornings and evenings)
- Binoculars and camera
Additional Information
IMPORTANT:
To issue your Machu Picchu entry ticket, the Peruvian authorities require the following information exactly as it appears on your passport:
- Full name
- Passport number
- Date of birth
- Nationality
Please ensure all details are accurate when making your reservation.
Pre-Trip Briefing:
A representative from Sungate Peru Travel will contact you one day before your departure to arrange a pre-trip briefing. This meeting will take place in your hotel lobby or at our office, as agreed in advance, around 6:00 PM.
During the briefing, we will provide a detailed step-by-step itinerary map and deliver all relevant tickets and documents for your journey.
Tour Map
This comprehensive map is designed to guide you through an exciting journey filled with remarkable destinations and captivating experiences.
