Amazon Explorer – Pusharo Petroglyphs 5 days

5-Day Expedition to the Pusharo Petroglyphs from Cusco

  Amazon Explorer – Pusharo Petroglyphs : Embark on an extraordinary expedition from Cusco into the Peruvian Amazon and discover some of the most remarkable natural and cultural landscapes in southern Peru.

Over five days, we will travel across the Andes, cloud forest, and Amazon rainforest before reaching the Palotoa–Teparo Native Community, the cultural territory of the Matsigenka people. From

there, we will begin our expedition to the Pusharo Petroglyphs, one of the most enigmatic collections of rock art in this region.

The journey combines nature, wildlife observation, Amazonian river navigation, cultural experiences, and archaeological exploration, while always promoting respect for cultural heritage and local

communities.

Day 1: Cusco – Ninamarca – Paucartambo – Cloud Forest – Pilcopata

Our adventure begins at approximately 6:00 a.m. in the city of Cusco, traveling by private transportation toward the Amazonian slopes of the Andes.

Along the way, we will make our first stop to visit the pre-Hispanic funerary structures, or chullpas, of Ninamarca before continuing to the traditional town of Paucartambo.

After crossing this Andean region, we will ascend toward Acjanaco, one of the highest points on our route, at approximately 3,900 meters (12,795 feet) above sea level. From here, we will begin our

descent into the spectacular cloud forest.

This ecosystem is characterized by high humidity, abundant vegetation, and extraordinary floral diversity. During the journey, we may observe orchids, ferns, bromeliads, and other species typical of

this environment.

After lunch, we will continue with birdwatching and wildlife observation. Depending on the conditions and the luck of the day, we may encounter species such as trogons, quetzals, the Andean cock-

of-the-rock, Andean motmots, and different species of monkeys.

With some luck, we may also encounter one of the cloud forest’s emblematic species, the spectacled bear.

In the afternoon, we will arrive at our lodge, where we will have time to rest and enjoy the surrounding natural environment.

Overnight: Lodge in Pilcopata.

Day 2: Pilcopata – Atalaya – Machuhuasi Lake – Palotoa–Teparo

After breakfast, we will continue by road toward Atalaya, where we will leave our land transportation and continue the expedition by river.

During the journey, we will observe the gradual transformation of the landscape as we move from the cloud forest into the lowland Amazon rainforest.

From Atalaya, we will navigate the Alto Madre de Dios River toward our next exploration point. One of the main activities will be a visit to Machuhuasi Lake, where we will take a raft excursion to

observe the surrounding wildlife and vegetation.

This environment is ideal for birdwatching and observing other Amazonian wildlife. Species we may encounter include hoatzins, herons, toucans, caimans, and different species of monkeys.

After lunch, we will continue navigating toward the relevant checkpoint before entering the area of our expedition.

We will then board a local boat and continue along the Teparo River toward the Palotoa–Teparo Native Community, which is culturally connected to the Matsigenka people.

Our arrival at the community will allow us to experience a territory where nature, culture, and traditional activities maintain a close relationship.

At night, we will take a guided nocturnal walk through the rainforest, always accompanied by our guides and following the safety and conservation conditions established for the area.

Overnight: Palotoa–Teparo Native Community.

Day 3: Palotoa–Teparo – Expedition to the Pusharo Petroglyphs

This will be one of the most important days of our expedition.

We will start very early and continue along the Teparo River aboard a small boat. Due to the characteristics and water levels of the river, certain sections may require us to walk, help carry or move

the boat, or travel through shallow stretches.

Our journey will take us toward the area known as Pongo de Megantoni, in the surroundings where the Pusharo Petroglyphs are located.

Upon arrival, we will begin exploring the rock art site. The representations carved into the rock surfaces are among the most striking cultural features of this part of the Amazon.

Pusharo is also surrounded by stories, interpretations, and traditions that connect the site with ancient territories, sacred places, and Amazonian legends. Some popular narratives have associated

the area with Paititi or with the search for lost ancient cities. These references form part of the traditions and cultural imagination associated with the region and should not be confused with

conclusive archaeological evidence. Bird of Peru

For the Palotoa–Teparo Native Community, Pusharo also holds cultural significance connected to the territory of their ancestors and to knowledge passed down through generations.

During our visit, we will learn about the cultural importance of the site and the need to preserve the petroglyphs by avoiding any contact with, alteration of, or damage to the carved surfaces.

At the end of the day, we will set up our camp at an authorized location near the river.

Overnight: Jungle campsite.

Day 4: Pusharo Petroglyphs – Palotoa–Teparo

After breakfast, we will continue exploring the surroundings of Pusharo and its rock art.

Our guides will help us understand the characteristics of the landscape, its biodiversity, and the cultural context of the petroglyphs, distinguishing observable evidence from traditional interpretations and stories associated with the site.

The experience will also allow us to appreciate the primary rainforest and the diversity of species that inhabit this part of the Amazon.

We will then begin our return journey to the Palotoa–Teparo Native Community by boat.

Depending on river conditions and the safety regulations established for the expedition, we may participate in recreational activities such as wildlife observation, traditional fishing, or simply enjoy

selected areas along the river.

The day will end back at the community, where we will have time to rest and share our experiences from the expedition.

Overnight: Palotoa–Teparo Native Community.

Day 5: Palotoa–Teparo – Parrot Clay Lick – Atalaya – Cusco

We will wake up early to visit a parrot clay lick, where we will have the opportunity to observe different species of parrots and parakeets that gather at these sites to consume minerals found in the soil.

The activity will depend on natural conditions and the presence of birds at the time of the visit.

After breakfast, we will begin our return journey to Atalaya, where we will continue by road toward Cusco.

Along the way, we will make necessary stops to rest and, when conditions allow, observe the landscape and wildlife along the route.

We expect to arrive in the city of Cusco at approximately 7:00 p.m., although the schedule may vary depending on road conditions, weather, and the development of the activities.

This marks the end of our five-day expedition through the Andes and the Peruvian Amazon, an experience that combines nature, Matsigenka culture, wildlife observation, and exploration of the

Pusharo Petroglyphs.  MANU  NATIONAL PARK,