Manu National Park from Cusco in Peru

Day 1: Departure from Cusco to Manu National Park

The adventure begins early. At 5:30 a.m., our bilingual tour guide will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco to begin a scenic journey toward one of South America’s most protected natural areas: Manu National Park.

Archaeological Stop at Ninamarca and Visit to Paucartambo

After a drive of approximately an hour and a half, we arrive at Ninamarca, an archaeological site that preserves pre-Inca funerary towers, built high on an Andean hillside. Here, the guide will provide a detailed explanation of the history and ceremonial function of these ancient structures.

We then continue in our minivan for about 30 minutes to the colonial town of Paucartambo, known for its cobblestone streets, traditional architecture, and cultural celebrations. At this point, we enjoy a typical local breakfast and take a guided walk of about 30 minutes through its historic center.

Entry into Manu National Park and Ajanaco Viewpoint

After leaving Paucartambo, we continue ascending a scenic road to the Ajanaco sector, located at 3,600 meters (11,811 feet) above sea level. This spot marks the official entrance to Manu National Park, globally recognized for its biodiversity and designated as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

Here, we take a short 7-minute walk to a natural viewpoint. From there, we can enjoy a spectacular view of the Tres Cruces mountains, the vast Andean cloud forest, and other peaks that mark the boundary between the Andean highlands and the tropical rainforest of Manu. This stop is perfect for photography and appreciating the ecological transition into the Amazon.

Exploration of the Cloud Forest and Wildlife Observation

From Ajanaco, we begin our descent into the cloud forest, an ecosystem of permanent mist, ideal for bird and mammal watching. Along the way, we take short walks in strategic areas to search for species such as the blue-banded toucanet, the golden-headed quetzal, and the crested quetzal. With some luck, we may also spot the elusive Andean bear (Tremarctos ornatus), an endangered species.

Around midday, we reach the San Pedro sector, where we enjoy a picnic-style lunch outdoors in a designated area beside the road.

Cock-of-the-rock Sighting and Arrival at the Lodge

After lunch, we head to a part of the cloud forest where it’s possible to see the Andean cock-of-the-rock, the national bird of Peru, famous for its bright red plumage and elaborate courtship display.

During the walk, it’s also common to encounter woolly monkeys, wild orchids, bromeliads, and a wide variety of tropical birds. This close encounter with wildlife makes Manu an unmissable destination for nature lovers.

Around 5:00 p.m., we arrive at Bambú Lodge, our accommodation surrounded by jungle and peace. After settling in, we offer an optional night walk for those who wish to explore the jungle after dark. On this nighttime expedition, equipped with flashlights and rubber boots, you may encounter tarantulas, poisonous frogs, tree frogs, snakes, armadillos, night monkeys, and even boas. The jungle at night is both unpredictable and fascinating.

Day 1 Statistics – Manu National Park, Peru

• Distance traveled: 150 km (93 miles)
• Maximum altitude: 3,600 meters (11,811 feet)
• Lowest altitude: 650 meters (2,133 feet)
• Difficulty level: Moderate

This first day is the perfect beginning to an unforgettable experience in the Manu Biosphere Reserve, where the connection with nature and Amazonian biodiversity can be felt every step of the way.

Day 2: Pico de Hoz Viewpoint, Cocha Machuwasi in Manu National Park, and Return to Cusco

After a night surrounded by the sounds of the jungle, we begin the second day with an early breakfast at our lodge. This day will be ideal for connecting with the natural wealth of Manu National Park, through hikes, boating, and unique moments of wildlife observation.

Exploration of Amazon Trails and Wildlife Observation

We will venture into the trail system that crosses the jungle, where you can hear the calls of birds such as parrots, macaws, and toucanes. During the hike, the guide will share valuable information about the traditional use of Amazonian medicinal plants. We’ll keep an eye out for species of primates such as squirrel monkeys and titi monkeys, known for their agility and curious behavior.

Visit to Cocha Machuwasi by Traditional Raft

Next, we head to Cocha Machuwasi, a serene lagoon surrounded by tropical vegetation. We’ll board a traditional wooden raft to peacefully navigate as we observe the local wildlife. In this natural setting, it’s possible to spot the hoatzin, one of the oldest birds in the world, along with herons, cormorants, and kingfishers. This experience offers a unique perspective on the wildlife that inhabits the aquatic ecosystems of Manu.

Lunch, Refreshing Swim, and Return to Cusco

After this activity, we will enjoy lunch in nature. For those interested, there will be an opportunity to take a refreshing swim in the cool waters of the river, an excellent way to relax and refresh before our return.

Around 2:30 p.m., we will begin our journey back to Cusco. The drive will allow us to enjoy the last views of the cloud forest and the Andes. We’ll arrive in the city around 8:30 p.m., with a transfer to your hotel.

Day 2 Statistics – Manu National Park, Peru

• Distance traveled: 150 km (93 miles)
• Maximum altitude: 3,600 meters (11,811 feet)
• Lowest altitude: 650 meters (2,133 feet)
• Difficulty level: Moderate

This second day marks the end of an unforgettable expedition through the Manu Biosphere, an experience that leaves a lasting impression due to its impressive biodiversity, lush landscapes, and close encounters with the Amazonian nature of Peru.