7-Day Manu National Park Wildlife Tour

In by car out by car

Day 1: Cusco – Cloud Forest – Bambu Lodge

We depart early at 6:00 a.m. from Cusco, heading southeast across the Andes and the Sacred Valley. We reach the high mountain pass of Chawaytiri (4,200 m / 13,780 ft) before descending toward the charming colonial town of Paucartambo, a cultural gateway between the Andes and the Amazon.

Continuing to Acjanaco Pass (3,560 m / 11,680 ft)—the official entrance to Manu National Park—we enjoy breathtaking views of the Amazon Basin before descending into the lush cloud forest.

This region is rich in wildlife, offering chances to spot:

• Spectacled Bear (rare)
• Brown Capuchin Monkeys
• Parrots and hummingbirds
• Orchids, bromeliads, and exotic flora
• Cock of the Rock – Lek

We arrive at Bambu Lodge, surrounded by misty forest and incredible biodiversity.

Day 2: Bambu Lodge – Madre de Dios River – Hummingbird Lodge

Today we travel through the famous Kosñipata Valley, known for its coca plantations and rich ecosystems.

After a scenic drive (approx. 3 hours), we continue by boat along the Madre de Dios River for about 6 hours, entering deeper into the Amazon basin.

Enjoy a boxed lunch along the river as we watch for wildlife on the riverbanks. By afternoon, we arrive at Hummingbird Lodge, located near Boca Manu, a remote gateway to the jungle.

Day 3: Hummingbird Lodge – Manu River – Casa Matsiguenka

We begin early and navigate upstream along the Manu River, one of the most pristine areas of the Amazon.

This is one of the best wildlife days of the tour, with excellent chances to see:

• Monkeys
• Capybaras
• Caimans
• A wide variety of birdlife

After approximately 4 hours, we reach Casa Matsiguenka, an eco-lodge managed by the local indigenous community, located deep within Manu National Park (350 m / 1,150 ft).

In the afternoon, we visit a nearby oxbow lake, where we may encounter:

• Giant river otters
• Caimans
• Hoatzins and other wetland birds

Day 4: Exploring Manu National Park

A full day dedicated to exploring the rainforest around Casa Matsiguenka.

We search for an incredible diversity of wildlife, including:

• Monkeys and peccaries
• Macaws and toucans
• River otters and reptiles
• Countless bird species

This is a unique opportunity to experience the untouched wilderness of Manu.

Day 5: Manu National Park – Return to Hummingbird Lodge

We travel downstream along the Manu River, continuing to spot wildlife along the riverbanks.

This stretch offers some of the best chances to see caimans and possibly even jaguars.

By afternoon, we return to Hummingbird Lodge.

Day 6: Madre de Dios River – Parrot & Macaw Clay Lick Area

We continue by boat along the Madre de Dios River, with more opportunities to observe large mammals and birdlife along the banks.

We make several stops along the way before reaching our lodge near the parrot and macaw clay lick, preparing for an early visit the next day.

Day 7: Clay Lick – Return to Cusco

Early in the morning, we visit the parrot and macaw clay lick, where these colorful birds gather to feed on mineral-rich clay that helps neutralize toxins from their diet.

After breakfast, we begin our return journey:

• Approx. 1 hour by boat
• Approx. 7 hours by road

We arrive in Cusco around 5:00 p.m., marking the end of an unforgettable Amazon adventure.

Included

• All entrance fees to Manu National Park and lakes
• Professional English-speaking naturalist guide (with telescope & field books)
• Private transportation (bus and boat)
• Lodging throughout the tour
• All meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
• Snacks, juices, and mineral water
• Rubber boots

Not Included

• Flights
• Alcoholic drinks

Recommendations

• Best time to visit: April to November

What to Bring

• Light clothing & long-sleeve shirts
• Sunglasses & sunscreen
• Insect repellent
• Sandals
• Rain jacket
• Camera & binoculars
• Reusable water bottle

🌿 Why This Tour?

This expedition offers a once-in-a-lifetime journey from the Andes to the Amazon, combining dramatic landscapes, rich culture, and unmatched wildlife viewing in one of the most pristine ecosystems on Earth.

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