Reserved Zone
Manu Reserved Natural Paradise 8D/7N with 2 nights in Blanquillo and Puerto Maldonado Bus/Flight
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Unveil the Pristine Wilderness of the Peruvian Amazon
Embark on an unparalleled 8-day expedition deep into South America’s most celebrated ecological haven with our Manu Reserved Natural Paradise 8D/7N with 2 nights in Blanquillo and Puerto Maldonado Bus/Flight. This masterfully structured tour bridges the dramatic contrasts of Peru, transporting you from the high Andean peaks down through the misty cloud forests and into the untamed lowlands of Manu National Park. Concluding in Puerto Maldonado, this immersive experience provides nature lovers with a rare opportunity to see world-class wildlife thriving completely free from human threat.
Throughout this eco-adventure, you will navigate winding jungle rivers and walk pristine primary rainforest trails. Witness the spectacular courtship dance of the neon-orange Andean cock-of-the-rock, stand before the world-famous Blanquillo macaw clay lick, and glide across mirror-like oxbow lakes on a catamaran to spot giant river otters, caimans, and multiple species of primates. Accompanied by expert naturalist guides and a dedicated professional chef, you will enjoy a perfect blend of rugged exploration and cozy, sustainable lodging.
Secure your space on the Manu Reserved Natural Paradise 8D/7N with 2 nights in Blanquillo and Puerto Maldonado Bus/Flight today. Whether you are seeking a deep connection with ancient ecosystems, unwinding in volcanic hot springs, or observing the incredible avian life from hidden observation towers, this journey delivers an authentic Amazonian safari. Prepare for memories that will reshape how you view the natural world.
From Cusco to the Cloud Forest and Pilcopata
Our journey begins early with a hotel pickup in Cusco between 5:30 and 6:00 a.m. We board our comfortable private bus and journey toward the ancient pre-Inca Funerary Towers, or Chullpas of Ninamarca, standing at an impressive 3,750 meters above sea level. From there, we make a brief stop in Paucartambo, a picturesque, tradition-rich town noted for its historic colonial bridge.
Ascending further, we reach the Acjanacu pass at 4,000 meters above sea level, the official gateway to the vast Manu ecosystem. We then begin our descent into the misty, mysterious cloud forest, characterized by a staggering array of wildlife and plants like wild orchids, giant ferns, and bright heliconias. We stop for a walk to observe the vibrant Andean cock-of-the-rock engaged in its captivating courtship rituals. Keep your eyes open for trogons, quetzals, monkeys, and even the rare South American spectacled bear. In the afternoon, we check into our traditional regional lodge in Pilcopata (550 meters above sea level), featuring private bathrooms and hot showers.
Pilcopata to Atalaya Port, Hot Springs, and Boca Manu
Following a fresh breakfast, a 45-minute bus ride brings us to the river port of Atalaya. Along the way, we admire local coca plantations and tropical fruit orchards. We then board our private motorized boat to cruise down the majestic Alto Madre de Dios River. This scenic waterway offers excellent opportunities to view diverse bird species, such as herons and kingfishers. With a bit of luck, you might spot a jaguar resting on the banks or the imposing king vulture (jungle condor).
During the boat ride, we stop to unwind in therapeutic, natural volcanic hot springs. Afterwards, if time allows, we will visit the native community of Diamante to appreciate their traditional jungle architecture and learn about their locally grown wild fruits. By late afternoon, we arrive at the village of Boca Manu (280 meters above sea level) and check into our lodge, equipped with comfortable bathroom and shower facilities.
Boca Manu to the Protected Reserve and Casa Matchiguenka
Today, we leave the buffer zone behind and enter the strictly protected Manu Reserved Zone. After checking in at the Limonal ranger surveillance post, our river cruise reveals why this region is world-famous for wildlife. Because hunting is forbidden, animals are incredibly calm; rows of side-necked turtles, caimans, and capybaras (ronsocos) are easily seen sunbathing along the riverbanks.
By afternoon, we reach our lodge nestled at 250 meters above sea level. After settling into our rooms, we head out on a guided forest hike toward a beautiful oxbow lake and climb a 30-meter-high observation tower. This hidden vantage point gives us a magnificent opportunity to look for giant river otters. We spend the night at the lodge on sheltered platforms featuring double beds completely enclosed by protective mosquito nets, with shared restroom and shower facilities available.
Catamaran Cruise on Cocha Salvador and Night Walk
Our morning is dedicated to exploring Cocha Salvador, located just 30 minutes away from Cocha Otorongo. We step onto a stable catamaran to silently paddle across the oxbow lake, providing front-row views of giant otters and exotic wetland birds like the agami heron and purple gallinule (sultana cock). The surrounding virgin primary forest canopy is also packed with primates, with a high probability of spotting up to twelve different monkey species.
Later, our expert guide leads us along the main trail system to share the delicate ecological balance and botanical secrets of this tropical jungle. At dusk, we return to our base camp at Cocha Otorongo to rest on our covered platforms equipped with mosquito nets and shared facilities. For those eager to see the jungle after dark, an optional night walk offers a chance to look for nocturnal insects, frogs, and spiders under the moonlight.
Navigation to the Blanquillo Macaw Clay Lick Lodge
After an exceptional breakfast, we board our boat to continue our journey along the powerful currents of the Manu and Madre de Dios rivers. Our destination is a cozy eco-lodge situated a short distance from the world-renowned Blanquillo Macaw Clay Lick.
Upon arrival, we stretch our legs on an exciting walk to explore the trail network surrounding the property, allowing us to further absorb the peace and immense beauty of the primary rainforest. The lodge features comfortable bathroom and shower facilities for your convenience, ensuring a restful night before tomorrow’s avian spectacle.
Blanquillo Macaw Clay Lick Display and Cocha Blanco
We rise early for a nutritious breakfast before heading out to witness the spectacular Colorful Macaw Clay Lick from a hidden observation platform or a traditional catamaran. This natural phenomenon features an array of parrots and macaws, alongside monkeys, reptiles, dwarf caimans, and unique insects. We can also observe groups of side-necked turtles and occasional capybaras along the water’s edge.
Following this memorable experience, we navigate to the pristine waters of Cocha Blanco. Boarding a catamaran, we glide across the lake to look for more giant otters and turtles, completing an adventurous day filled with the finest wildlife viewing the Amazon has to offer. We return to our lodge near Blanquillo for our second night.
Blanquillo to Puerto Colorado and Puerto Maldonado
After breakfast, we board our motorized boat for a final 3-hour journey downriver to the port of Puerto Colorado. From there, we transition to land transport, taking a vehicle to Puerto Carlos, followed by another land transfer that carries us directly into the jungle city of Puerto Maldonado. We check into a local hostel or hotel for our final evening in the rainforest.
Puerto Maldonado to Cusco via Local Bus or Optional Flight
On our last day, following breakfast, we transfer to the bus terminal to begin our journey back to Cusco. The overland trip via standard local bus takes approximately 8 hours and is fully included in your tour program. The exact arrival time back in Cusco depends on the specific bus schedule.
Traveler Note: For a faster journey, you have the option to purchase a direct 45-minute flight from Puerto Maldonado to Cusco, or a 2-hour flight to Lima. Please note that these commercial flight tickets are not included in the standard tour price.
Included
- Private ground transportation for all scheduled overland transfers
- Private motorized river boat transport
- Expert, specialized professional naturalist guide
- High-grade spotting telescope and long-range binoculars
- All meals listed in the itinerary (7 breakfasts, 8 lunches, and 7 dinners) plus daily snacks
- Professional field safety and navigation equipment
- Accommodation in comfortable hostels and lodges featuring private and shared bathroom setups (including Manu Green Lodge, Paititi Lodge, Amarakaeri Lodge, and Casa Matchiguenka)
- Dedicated support staff including a professional chef, professional driver, and boat crew
- Bottled mineral water provided throughout the duration of the trip
- All mandatory entrance fees and tickets to regional tourist attractions
- Full dining houseware (including tables, chairs, and tableware for meal services)
- Solar panel charging stations to replenish electronic and camera batteries
- Optional guided night walks at no additional cost
- Entry permits for the Camouflage House (Mammal Clay Lick)
- Official entrance tickets to Manu National Park (Manu Cultural Zone)
- Official entrance tickets to Manu National Park (Manu Reserved Zone)
- Comprehensive first aid kit for field emergencies
- Admission tickets to the Cock-of-the-Rock observation platform
- Entry fees to the Shintuya natural hot springs
- Full access to the lakeside observation towers
- Access and entry to Cocha Blanco
- Complimentary loan of a pair of rubber hiking boots
Not Included
- First-day breakfast
- Alcoholic beverages, sodas, and personal bottled water on Day 1
- Commercial domestic air tickets (such as optional flights from Puerto Maldonado)
- Lunch and dinner on the final day of the itinerary
What to bring
- Thick, layered clothing to stay warm during cold dawns on the river
- High-quality rain gear or heavy-duty poncho
- Durable canteen or reusable water bottle
- Personal binoculars for optimal wildlife viewing
- High-protection sunblock
- Powerful flashlight or headlamp with a set of extra batteries
- Wide-brimmed sun hat or cap
- Lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and long pants for insect protection
- Mosquito repellent containing a minimum concentration of 25% DEET
- Comfortable sandals, swimwear, and a travel towel
- Personal medications and prescriptions
- Personal hygiene supplies (including an adequate supply of toilet paper)
- Extra cash in local currency for tips, drinks, and personal purchases
Reservations
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