Manu National Park is one of the most extraordinary and pristine protected areas in the Peruvian Amazon and the greater Amazon rainforest. Recognized by UNESCO as a World Biosphere Reserve, this vast region stretches from the high Andes to the lowland jungle, creating one of the most biologically diverse ecosystems on Earth. The park shelters an astonishing variety of wildlife, including over 1,000 species of…
Manu National Park is one of the most extraordinary and pristine protected areas in the Peruvian Amazon and the greater Amazon rainforest. Recognized by UNESCO as a World Biosphere Reserve, this vast region stretches from the high Andes to the lowland jungle, creating one of the most biologically diverse ecosystems on Earth. The park shelters an astonishing variety of wildlife, including over 1,000 species of birds, hundreds of mammals, reptiles, and thousands of plant species. Among its most iconic inhabitants is the legendary Cock of the Rock, Peru?s national bird, thriving in the Andean cloud forest.
Discover the Amazon Rainforest in the most immersive way. This 5-day Manu expedition takes you deep into the Peruvian Amazon, following the spectacular Alto Madre de Dios River into untouched jungle landscapes. Along the journey, you will explore the Andean cloud forest, navigate remote waterways, visit a fascinating clay lick where wildlife gathers, and experience the magic of the rainforest both by day and night. A guided night walk reveals the mysterious nocturnal world of the jungle, offering encounters with creatures rarely seen during daylight hours.
Designed for comfort, safety, and authentic adventure, every detail of your experience is carefully arranged. Southern Peru Explorers, a certified local operator based in Cusco with more than 12 years of expertise, specializes in creating unforgettable journeys into Manu National Park. Our expeditions combine nature, wildlife, and cultural discovery, delivering a truly unique Amazon experience.
This 5-day expedition is the ultimate adventure for those seeking total disconnection and a deep immersion into the heart of the Amazon. Throughout the journey, you will enjoy a spectacular route that begins in the Andean mountains and descends through…
This 5-day expedition is the ultimate adventure for those seeking total disconnection and a deep immersion into the heart of the Amazon. Throughout the journey, you will enjoy a spectacular route that begins in the Andean mountains and descends through the legendary cloud forest to the lowland jungle, allowing you to witness landscapes that transform right before your eyes.
You will have the chance to observe the most iconic wildlife in its purest state, from the majestic cock-of-the-rock and playful monkeys to caimans and giant otters in hidden lakes. It is an experience designed to enjoy nature at an unhurried pace, featuring guided hikes, boat rides along winding rivers, and relaxing moments in natural hot springs, all while staying in strategic lodges that let you feel the magic and sounds of the rainforest at every moment.
Daily trail breakdown, key milestones, altitudes, and campsites.
Itinerary to be confirmed
Please contact us for the itinerary and logistics of this tour.
Complete transparency for all equipment, meals, transport, and admissions.
A bilingual, professionally trained guide who knows everything about the wildlife of Manu National Park is provided as part of the program.
Private ground transportation from Cusco via the Manu Road is provided in vehicles suited for jungle terrain. River transportation is likewise included, carried out in motorized boats operated by an experienced crew equipped with full safety gear.
The package will give you one night stay in Pilcopata with personal amenities, two nights at an eco-lodge located deep in the midst of the rainforest, and one night at the campsite area of Otorongo
Full meals package is included in the program including four breakfasts, five lunches, and four dinners. If you have special dietary requirements, we can make arrangements accordingly.
Admission to the Manu Cultural Zone, visits to the Ninamarca funerary towers, access to local coca plantations, entry to the natural hot springs, and guided exploration of the Otorongo observation tower along with Machu Wasy Lake are all included.
The expedition team carries a full first-aid kit along with established safety protocols suited for remote areas. Rubber boots are also provided for navigating the humid terrain of the primary rainforest.
The first breakfast on the day of departure and dinner on the final day after arriving back in Cusco are not included.
The meals are covered through the entire excursion, but there are some personal drinks and additional consumptions which are not covered in the package. Soft drinks, bottled juices, alcohol drinks, and other additional drinks besides the provided meals should be paid separately during the trip.
It would be wise to have some local money, since there might be some places on the route where you can buy snacks or drinks, especially those close to riversides or other local communities.
Manu is a distant place, where nature is the key element of the tour. In such manner, it is necessary for each passenger to have travel insurance covering international activities, assistance, and even cancellations of the trip.
While our professional team carefully plans all aspects of your trip, it will be additional peace of mind knowing that you are insured while visiting such a distant and amazing region of Peru.
The expedition includes the services described in the itinerary, but personal purchases and additional services are not included.
Extra expenses may include personal snacks, additional beverages, souvenirs, or any activity that is not specifically mentioned in the program.
Recommended gear and apparel checklist from our mountain guides.
Preparing for Manu requires you to pack for one of the most varied experiences in Peru. In a matter of days, you will move from the cold heights of the Andes to the humid rainforest of the Amazon, traversing the cloud forest and mountain valleys in between.
As you will face so much change in the weather during your trip, it is essential to pack clothes that you can layer and equipment that is appropriate for mountain terrain and rainforest exploration. Rain is possible at any time of the year, humidity is constant in the rainforest, and there are boat trips and nature hikes involved each day.
Packing smart will keep you comfortable and enable you to enjoy the wonderful scenery and wildlife at Manu.
Passport (Original)
The original passport is necessary for park registration and checkpoints on the way. It should be stored inside a waterproof pouch or dry bag to protect from moisture.
Cash (Peruvian Soles)
It is always good to bring some cash just in case you need it for personal expenses like snacks, drinks, or gifts. There are no possibilities to pay by cards in distant places.
Travel Insurance
Print out or save on your device information about your travel insurance. As you'll visit a distant area, it is better to have all the information with you.
Personal Medication
In case if you use medications, it is advisable to bring a supply for the whole trip, as well as the essentials that you might need. The medical help and pharmacies are practically absent in the Manu region.
Warm Jacket or Fleece
You start the adventure in the Andes, and mornings there are cold. So you'll need a jacket or a fleece to feel comfortable until you get into the tropics.
Long-Sleeved T-shirts (4?5 pieces)
Lightweight breathable long-sleeved t-shirts are perfect for the rainforest, because they will save you from sunburns and reduce the number of insect bites. Light-colored clothes is preferable, because they are cooler and less attracting for insects.
Lightweight Trekking Pants (3 pieces)
Quick-drying hiking pants are more comfortable than jeans in the jungle climate. They dry quickly, breathe and are great for walking.
Rain Jacket or Waterproof Poncho
Rain is possible any time of the year, including the dry season. Therefore, the waterproof layer is needed for trips by boat and jungle walks.
Swimsuit
It would be nice to bring a swimsuit to make a bath in one of the hot springs or do other water activities planned in your program.
Extra Socks
Hiking socks, which can absorb sweat and will keep your feet dry, will make walking easier and more comfortable for you.
Waterproof Hiking Boots
Comfy hiking boots that have a good grip on slippery surfaces are among the most vital things that you will pack.
Sandals or Lightweight Shoes
It's convenient to put on something more lightweight and comfy around the lodge when hiking boots are drying up after a long day of exploration.
Rubber Boots
Rubber boots are usually easy to get locally if the weather on the trails becomes really muddy. Anyway, we strongly recommend taking your own hiking boots for additional comfort.
Binoculars (Highly Recommended)
Manu wildlife tends to stay up high in the trees. Having binoculars will significantly increase your chances to see monkeys, macaws, toucans, parrots, and amazing Andean Cock-of-the-Rock.
Headlamp or Flashlight
There is a lot happening in the rainforest after dark time. Headlamp will be very useful for exploring at night, walking around the lodge, and observing nocturnal wildlife.
Daypack (25-30L)
This backpack will be very comfortable for carrying all your necessary items such as water, camera, rain protection, sunscreen, and other items on your daily excursions.
Dry Bags
It will protect all your electronics, passport, camera, and other valuable things from getting wet while riding boats.
Power Bank
There might be no electricity available in some rainforest lodges during limited hours. Power bank will be very helpful for charging your smartphone and camera.
Insect Repellent (30-50% DEET)
Insects are endemic to the Amazon forest habitat.
The use of insect repellent before walking and boat trips will keep you comfortable.
Sunscreen (SPF 50+), Lip balm
The tropical sun is quite harsh on many visitors, particularly during boat tours where little or no shade is provided.
Personal Hygiene
Items that can be packed in travel sizes include:
Small First Aid Kit
A basic kit that includes adhesive bandages, blister kits, antihistamines, painkillers, and oral rehydration salts is always advisable.
Yellow Fever Vaccination
Although not always required, the Yellow Fever vaccine is highly recommended for visiting the Amazon region of Peru. Contact your doctor or travel health clinic for further information regarding required vaccinations prior to your visit.
In preparation for this tour, we suggest bringing your clothes packed in a mid-size duffel bag that is waterproof.
The space is limited during the river transfers and therefore softer luggage is much easier to move around during the whole tour. All extra luggage that you do not need in the rainforest can be kept safe at our office in Cusco until your return.
Last but not least, do not forget that you will finish your tour in the Andes, where it is much colder than in the jungle. Therefore, having a sweater or a light jacket at hand would definitely help you to have the last day of your tour pleasant and warm.
With the right equipment and an adventurous spirit, you will be ready to explore one of the most amazing wilderness destinations on Earth. Have fun exploring the unique nature and wildlife of the Manu National Park!
5 photos from this tour.
On the final day, the day starts early as you bid farewell to the serene environment of Amazon Manu Lodge and start the journey to Cusco.
Certainly. We can provide you with all kinds of dietary restrictions including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, lactose-free meals, and more.
Manu can be visited at any time of the year since each season has its own advantages.
The dry season, which falls from May to October, brings mostly sunny weather with less precipitation and, therefore, better travel conditions. It is one of the favorite times to visit.
In case you prefer rainier and cooler weather, you can visit during the wet season when the rainforest turns into a more green place with flooded rivers. Showers become more common, but many tourists like visiting at that time too.
Booking information for this tour.
Since this tour belongs to easy to moderate tours, then it will be great for all tourists with good physical condition.
Have fun walking in the comfortable forest, taking an enjoyable boat ride, and relaxing with fantastic views from your windows.
This adventure falls in the category of easy to moderate tours, which means it will be perfect for any tourist with decent fitness level. Enjoy pleasant jungle walks, comfortable boat trips, and time to relax with amazing views around.
There is no rush and enough time for enjoying wildlife and scenery without getting tired.
We provide every tour with difficulty rating to help our guests choose the adventure according to their preferences and level of fitness.
Difficulty rating includes such parameters as hiking distances, trail conditions, elevation changes, and speed of the itinerary.
Difficulty Levels:
Yes. Even though most services are covered by your tour, it would be wise to take some Peruvian soles with you to use for any personal expenses that you might want to cover during your journey, like drinks, snacks, souvenirs, etc.
As you will be travelling to quite remote places, paying cash might be the most convenient payment option.
Manu can be visited at any time of the year since each season has its own advantages.
The dry season, which falls from May to October, brings mostly sunny weather with less precipitation and, therefore, better travel conditions. It is one of the favorite times to visit.
In case you prefer rainier and cooler weather, you can visit during the wet season when the rainforest turns into a more green place with flooded rivers. Showers become more common, but many tourists like visiting at that time too.
In case you suffer from a certain disease, allergy or have any other medical concerns, please inform us about it before your trip. That will help us to give you the best recommendations concerning your health.
Moreover, we strongly recommend consulting your doctor before your trip, especially if you have some pre-existing conditions and are concerned about visiting the Amazon.
Certainly. We can provide you with all kinds of dietary restrictions including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, lactose-free meals, and more.
One of the advantages of traveling to Manu is its high variety of animals.
In accordance with the season, climate, and, of course, your luck, you might meet different colorful parrots and macaws, monkeys, caimans, giant otters, butterflies, frogs, numerous types of birds, and other amazing animals who live in the rainforest.
It is impossible to guarantee any animal sighting because the territory of Manu is a natural habitat, but this is what makes each journey unique.
Over the course of the adventure, you will stay in convenient jungle lodges which integrate into the environment around them while providing a cozy shelter for rest.
These lodges provide clean accommodations, comfortable beds, and basic amenities that would ensure you have a great experience in the rainforest.
Both Internet and mobile phone coverage are limited in most parts of the Manu region, while some places have none because of their remoteness.
For many tourists, this becomes one of the most valuable things about this experience as you get an opportunity to really get away from it all.
Don?t forget your camera or make sure your phone has plenty of memory space since you will not want to miss capturing your amazing experiences.
Answers to the most common questions regarding trail preparation and logistics.
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