Short itinerary
Day 1: Cusco – Pilcopata
- Departure from Cusco by bus through the Andes, passing folkloric rural communities like Paucartambo and Ninamaraca with pre-Inca tombs.
- Arrival at Acjanaco, the entrance to Manu National Park, then descend into the lush cloud forest teeming with orchids, bromeliads, and wildlife.
- Walk to observe Peru’s national bird, the Cock-of-the-Rock, performing its mating dance. Also spot toucans, quetzals, monkeys, and possibly the spectacled bear.
- Continue to the Kcosñipata Valley for overnight camping.
Day 2: Pilcopata – Boca Manu
- Early morning walk through the high Amazon forest, visiting coca, pineapple, and cassava plantations.
- Board a motorboat at Atalaya port for a 5-hour ride down the Alto Madre de Dios River, visiting native communities like Diamante (Yine or Piro group).
- Arrival at Boca Manu for overnight camping.
Day 3: Boca Manu – Casa Matsiguenka Lodge
- Boat journey along the calm Manu River, registering at the Limonal checkpoint to enter the Reserved Zone.
- Spot white and black caimans, turtles, capybaras, colorful parrots, macaws, and possibly a jaguar.
- Explore the pristine rainforest near the lodge.
Day 4: Casa Matsiguenka Lodge
- Morning excursion to Lake Salvador by catamaran to see birds, monkeys, caimans, and the endangered giant otter.
- Continue by boat and trek 4+ hours to Lake Otorongo. Climb a 25-meter observation tower to spot massive cedars, ceibas, rubber trees, and wildlife.
- Night walk to see insects, frogs, and caimans’ glowing eyes. Return for overnight at the lodge.
Day 5: Casa Matsiguenka – Yanayacu Lodge
- Drift down the Manu River to Boca Manu, then travel upriver on the Alto Madre de Dios for 3 hours.
- Look for migratory birds like osprey, hawks, jabiru, and roseate spoonbills. Camp on a river beach near Yanayacu.
Day 6: Yanayacu – Pilcopata
- Return by boat, enjoy some fishing and views of the Andes, stop at hot springs for lunch, then reach Atalaya port.
- Bus ride to Pilcopata for final overnight.
Day 7: Pilcopata – Cusco
- Early departure by bus, stop at San Pedro to see the Cock-of-the-Rock again while enjoying breakfast.
- Arrival in Cusco around 4:00 PM.
Detailed itinerary
This 7-day adventure begins with a vibrant morning in Pilcopata, waking to the songs of birds before trekking through the high Amazon forest to discover coca, pineapple, and cassava plantations. From Atalaya port, embark on a 5-hour motorboat journey down the Alto Madre de Dios River, visiting native communities en route to Boca Manu and your lodge. The days that follow are rich with river and jungle explorations, offering chances to see caimans, turtles, capybaras, parrots, macaws, and even the elusive jaguar. Visits to Lakes Salvador and Otorongo reveal an incredible diversity of flora and fauna, with nighttime walks adding a magical glimpse into the nocturnal world.
The journey continues drifting along the Manu River, spotting migratory birds and enjoying some fishing, combined with spectacular Andean views and relaxing hot springs. It concludes with a return to Pilcopata and finally Cusco, including a special breakfast with more opportunities to see the Cock-of-the-Rock. This expedition promises intimate contact with the untouched Amazon, paired with comfortable lodging, delivering a perfect blend of adventure, conservation, and culture for nature and biodiversity lovers.
Included
- Professional guide (English & Spanish)
- Entrance to the Cock-of-the-Rock viewing platform
- Private bus and boat transportation with safety equipment
- Lodges and fully equipped camping gear
- First aid kit
- Bottled water
- All meals (B.L.D. vegetarian options prepared by our professional chefs)
- Rubber boots and rain ponchos
- Amazon flora & fauna books and wildlife checklist
Not included
- Entrance fee to the Manu Reserved Zone
- Hot springs entrance
- Drinks, extra expenses, and tips
Recommendations
- Best time to travel is during the dry season.
- Bring layered clothing for cool mornings and hot afternoons, plus a rain jacket.
- Wear comfortable trekking shoes and insect repellent.
- Use sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
- Carry a small backpack with water, snacks, and personal items.
- Listen to your guide and respect local communities and wildlife.
