Cultural Zone
Peru Manu Amazon Trip – Atalaya – Boca Manu – Macaw Clay Lick – Colorado – Puerto Maldonado 6 Days / 5 Nights (Bus / Flight)
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Journey Deep into the Peruvian Amazon
Experience one of Peru’s most remarkable wilderness adventures on this Peru Manu Amazon Trip, a six-day expedition that combines breathtaking Andean landscapes with the extraordinary biodiversity of the Amazon rainforest. Beginning in Cusco, the journey crosses the eastern slopes of the Andes before descending into the lush cloud forest and the protected ecosystems of Manu.
Throughout the expedition, you’ll travel by land and river while exploring pristine rainforest, observing colorful birdlife, searching for mammals and reptiles, and visiting one of the Amazon’s famous macaw clay licks. Comfortable jungle lodges, expert naturalist guides, and immersive wildlife excursions make this an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts, photographers, and adventurous travelers seeking one of Peru’s most diverse ecosystems.
Cusco, Paucartambo & Cloud Forest to Pilcopata
Your adventure begins with an early morning pickup from your hotel in Cusco between 5:30 and 6:00 a.m. Traveling in private transportation, you’ll head toward the eastern Andes, making your first stop at the ancient funerary towers of Ninamarca, located at approximately 3,750 meters (12,303 ft) above sea level.
The journey continues to the charming colonial town of Paucartambo before ascending to Acjanaco, the official gateway to Manu National Park at nearly 4,000 meters (13,123 ft). From here, descend into the spectacular cloud forest, where orchids, heliconias, giant ferns, and abundant wildlife flourish.
During guided walks, you’ll have the opportunity to observe the famous Andean cock-of-the-rock displaying its courtship behavior. Other possible sightings include trogons, quetzals, and, with a bit of luck, the elusive spectacled bear. By late afternoon, arrive in Pilcopata and spend the night in a comfortable lodge featuring private bathrooms and hot showers.
Pilcopata, Atalaya & Boat Journey to Boca Manu
After breakfast, continue by road to the Port of Atalaya, where the overland portion of the trip ends and your river expedition begins.
Board a motorized boat for an unforgettable cruise along the Alto Madre de Dios River, surrounded by untouched rainforest scenery. Along the way, enjoy a relaxing stop at natural medicinal hot springs before continuing downstream.
Keep your camera ready as your guide helps spot a variety of wildlife, including herons, kingfishers, vultures, and other rainforest birds. Lucky travelers may even glimpse species such as the jaguar along the riverbanks.
Arrive in Boca Manu during the afternoon and settle into traditional jungle cabins for the night.
Madre de Dios River & Macaw Clay Lick Area
This morning, continue navigating the Madre de Dios River toward your lodge, located close to the renowned macaw clay lick.
After arrival, explore nearby rainforest trails accompanied by your guide while learning about the area’s rich flora and fauna. Later, climb the birdwatching tower for panoramic views of the surrounding forest canopy and excellent wildlife observation opportunities.
In the evening, those interested may join an optional night walk to discover the fascinating nocturnal inhabitants of the Amazon before returning to the lodge.
Macaw Clay Lick & Cocha Blanco
Begin the day with an early excursion by boat to witness one of the Amazon’s most spectacular wildlife events at the macaw clay lick. From an observation point or traditional catamaran, watch colorful macaws and numerous other bird species gather to feed on the mineral-rich clay.
The excursion also offers opportunities to observe monkeys, reptiles, insects, turtles, dwarf caimans, and, if conditions allow, nearby capybaras.
Later, continue to Cocha Blanco (White Lake), where a peaceful catamaran ride provides another chance to encounter wildlife, including giant otters and turtles in their natural habitat.
Puerto Colorado & Puerto Maldonado
Following breakfast, travel approximately three hours by boat to Puerto Colorado.
Upon arrival, continue by vehicle to Puerto Carlo. Travelers returning to Cusco by bus will continue overland, making scenic stops to admire the impressive Ausangate snow-capped mountain before arriving in Cusco at approximately 9:00 p.m., with hotel drop-off included.
Passengers continuing by air will travel onward to Puerto Maldonado, where the tour concludes in time for their onward flight.
Tour Ends
Your Peru Manu Amazon Trip concludes after your arrival in Puerto Maldonado or upon completion of the return journey to Cusco, depending on your selected travel arrangement.
Included
- Private ground transportation.
- Private river transportation.
- Professional specialized naturalist guide.
- Telescope and binoculars for wildlife observation.
- Meals: 4 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 4 dinners, and snacks.
- Safety equipment.
- Accommodation in comfortable lodges with private bathrooms.
- First aid kit.
- Mineral water.
- Professional support staff, including cook, driver, and boat crew.
- Entrance fees to all scheduled attractions.
- Solar-powered battery charging.
- Optional night walks.
- One pair of rubber hiking boots.
Not Included
- Breakfast on Day 1.
- Alcoholic beverages.
- Soft drinks.
- Water on the first day.
- Domestic or international flights.
- Accommodation on the final night after the tour.
What to bring
- Warm clothing for chilly early mornings.
- Rain jacket or waterproof gear.
- Refillable water bottle or canteen.
- Binoculars.
- Sunscreen.
- Flashlight or headlamp with spare batteries.
- Hat or cap.
- Long-sleeved shirts.
- Long pants.
- Insect repellent containing at least 10% DEET.
- Sandals.
- Swimsuit.
- Towel.
- Personal medications.
- Personal toiletries, including toilet paper.
- Extra cash.
Reservations
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