Manu Expedition Tour 5-days
¿WHAT WE EXPECT?
Manu Expedition Tour
On the first day of the Manu Expedition Mazuco 5-Day tour, you will ascend from the high mountains of Cusco to the depths of the jungle, passing through misty cloud forests adorned with ferns and orchids.
The adventure commences with an ascent to Paso Pituhuaylla at 4750 meters above sea level, and continues through a vibrant tropical rainforest.
As the evening approaches, you’ll immerse yourself in the magical atmosphere of Mazuco, also known as the ‘gold mine,’ where you’ll spend the night in a local lodge. And that’s just the beginning.
Manu Expedition Tour
- Length: 5 Days/4 Nights
- Type of service: Private or Group .
- Location: Southern Peru, Madre de Dios Department, Manu National Park, jungle trips, manu peruvian -jungle expedition tour .
- Activities: manu peruvian jungle, jungle trips, Rainforest, Expedition
- Altitude: 400 – 3,600 m.a.s.l.
- Best time to visit : May – December
- Departure in tour amazon expedition: Every day
- Minimum of participants amazon expedition : 2
- Maximum of participants: 10
- Price per person: USD
DETAILED TOUR ITINERARY:
Itinerary for the Manu Expedition Tour: 5 Days of Adventure.
Day 1: Cusco Urcos – Mazuco Rainforest
Get ready for an exciting journey. Our Manu Expedition Tour starts with a long travel day of 11 hours. Don’t worry, we’ll stop at all the key sights along the way.
First, we ascend in our private vehicle to the Pituhuaylla Pass, reaching 4,750 m.a.s.l.. As we continue, we’ll traverse high savannahs and enter the tropical rainforest.
Next, we’ll descend through a cloud forest, marveling at the lush vegetation, including ferns, bromeliads, and orchids, until we reach the lowlands by the Inambari River.
In the afternoon, we arrive in the village of Mazuco (500 m.a.s.l.), famous for its gold mining. We’ll spend the night in a private twin room at a local Lodge.
Optional: Join us for a night walk in the rainforest. Manu Jungle Trips
Day 2: Manu Expedition Tour – Puerto Colorado to Maquisapayoq.
After breakfast, we continue our expedition to a nearby port, where we’ll sail across the Inambari River. We then hop back into our private vehicle for an hour-long ride to the main port at Puerto Colorado.
Here, our motorboat awaits to take us up the Madre de Dios River for a 4-hour journey to the Maquisapayoq Lodge, home to the adorable red-faced spider monkey.
Keep an eye out for the incredible wildlife along the rocky shores—spot 13 monkey species, herons, vultures, caimans, and even crocodiles.
After settling into our private twin rooms with bathrooms at the lodge, you can opt for a night walk –Manu photograph Manu Jungle Trips where you see some amazing rainforest insects, frogs, and snakes.
Day 3: Manu Expedition Tour- Maquisapayoj to Macaw Clay Lick and Tapir Lick
Rise and shine. At 4 AM, we set out to witness the famous macaw clay lick at Blanquillo. After a 40-minute boat ride and a 15-minute walk, we’ll enjoy breakfast while waiting for the “show” to begin at about 5:50 AM.
Smaller parrots and parakeets will arrive first, followed by the stunning macaws (Ara Chloroptera) that come to eat
clay, which helps them digest and cleanse their bodies of toxins.
After lunch, we’ll explore the nearby tapir clay lick, where we’ll spend the night observing tapirs and other mammals from a hidden platform just 3 meters away.
If you prefer, you can spend the night in a lodge near the river. explorer Amazon Manu Jungle Trips.
Day 4: Manu Expedition Tour-Maquisapayoj to Cocha Blanco and Camungo Lake
Early morning brings a visit to Cocha Blanco, where you might spot a family of giant river otters while they fish, Keep an eye out for the prehistoric bird, the hoatzin, as well as various monkeys and sloths native to the area.
After lunch back at the lodge, we’ll head to Camungo Lake. First, we’ll climb a 42-meter high observation tower for stunning views, then take a boat ride to see more river otters and an array of jungle birds.
Later, we’ll return to the lodge for dinner and have another chance to spot tapirs if we didn’t succeed before.
Day 5: Maquisapayoj to Puerto Maldonado or Cusco
It’s time to head back. We’ll wake up early, enjoy breakfast, and start packing. We’ll board our motorboat for the return journey down the Madre de Dios River to Puerto Colorado.
From there, we’ll switch to our land vehicle and travel back to the Inambari River, crossing it by boat once more before continuing to Cusco, expected arrival around 6:30 – 7 PM.
IMPORTANT: You do not need to be vaccinated against Yellow Fever to participate in this jungle tour.
Join us for this 5-day adventure and discover the biodiversity of Manu National Park. Experience the
breathtaking macaw clay lick, where you can see hundreds of macaws feeding every morning Brings several families of parrots and macaws .
With a special observatory platform available for visitors, you can capture stunning photographs of the vibrant
bird activity without needing expensive equipment
. Get ready for an unforgettable experience in the heart of the Tour Amazon rainforest to Manu Jungle Trips
How to Visit Manu: Your Guide to an Unforgettable Journey
Trip from Cusco to Manu National Park
Although you can enter the ‘cultural zone’ of Manu on your own, accessing the ‘reserve zone‘ requires booking a tour with a reputable travel agency. It is not possible to enter this area without a tour guide and the necessary permit. Both can only be obtained through an all-inclusive tour, ensuring a safe and enriching experience in this stunning national park.
Plan your adventure today and discover the wonders of Manu National Park and Sandoval Lake Reserved
WHAT TOUR SERVICES:
Included in jungle Expedition.
- A professional naturalist Tour Guide in expedition tour;
- Motorboat transportation durnat the trips expedition :
- Private vehicle land transportation; for the trip expedition
- Entrance fees to the clay-licks;
- A professional Cook for expedition manu,
- Meals: 4x breakfast, 5x lunch, 4x dinner and drinking water (Please note:
- vegetarian option upon request for no extra cost!); in the wildlife expedition
- Accommodation: 3 nights in lodges, 1 night of camping (alternatively in a lodge).;
- Camping equipment (personal tents, mattresses, tables, chairs, dining tent,
- kitchen tent, kitchen equipment and a gas bottle); during rainforest expedition .
- First aid kit, including a poison extractor, mosquito bite treatment and an antidote for a snake bite;
- Life jackets; in thek expedition manu
- Radio communications;
- Rubber boots. amazing trips expedition
Not included in the Expedition jungle Tour
- Any flight nor airport departure taxes;
- Travel insurance;
- Vaccination;
- A sleeping bag (we also rent it);
- Breakfast on the first day and dinner on the last day;
- Drinks;
- Tips to local staff.
What to take with you to the Expedition Tour:
- Mosquito repellent (DEET 35 recommended as a MINIMUM!!),
Original passport,
A sleeping bag (you can rent it from us too!),
Small backpack,
Long sleeved cotton shirts (preferably green coloured),
Long cotton trousers,
Cotton long socks (to be put into your trousers),
Comfortable walking shoes,
Sandals or light shoes,
Rain gear (e.g. rain poncho),
Sweater (for the beginning of the tour in Andes and the cloud forest only),
Swimsuits;
Binoculars (we also rent it),
Camera and its charger for expedition,
Plastic bags to be used for clothes and a camera,
A hat as a protection against the Sun or rain,
Toiletries,
Small towel,
Toilet paper,
Antibacterial gel,
Sun cream,
Sunglasses,
Flashlight (with spare bulb and batteries),
A bottled water (1 litre as a minimum),
Pocket money (Soles) to buy some beverages and souvenirs as well as to tip.
PHOTO GALLERY?
ABOUT LODGE:
Frequently asked questions (FAQs):
Manu Expedition Tour FAQ – 5 Days of Adventure
What is the best time to visit Manu National Park?
The best time to visit is during the dry season, from May to September. However, Manu National Park is beautiful year-round, with each season offering its own unique experiences and opportunities for wildlife sightings.
What should I bring for the tour?
- Comfortable, lightweight, and breathable clothing
Waterproof jacket and pants
Sturdy hiking boots
Hat, sunscreen, and insect repellent
Camera and binoculars for wildlife viewing
Personal items such as toiletries and medications
A light backpack for day hikes
How strenuous is the hike?
The hike is moderate, featuring easy walks and boat rides. Trails are well-maintained, but be prepared for hot and humid conditions, especially in the lower jungle areas.
What types of wildlife can I see during the tour?
During the tour, you’ll have the opportunity to see a variety of fascinating wildlife, including:
- 13 species of monkeys
- Parrots, macaws, and other colorful birds
- Tapirs, giant river otters, caimans, and even crocodiles
- A variety of frogs, insects, and amphibians
Do I need to be vaccinated before going?
While yellow fever vaccination is not required, it is recommended to check with your healthcare provider to ensure you’re up-to-date on any necessary vaccinations for travel in the Amazon region.
What are the accommodations like?
You will stay in comfortable lodges with private twin rooms, most of which are equipped with bathrooms. These lodges are set within the jungle, providing a unique, nature-immersive experience.
Can I do the tour independently?
Accessing the ‘reserve zone’ of Manu National Park requires booking a tour through a reputable agency. Independent travel in this protected area is not allowed. A guided tour ensures your safety and enhances your understanding of the park’s rich environment.
What is the “Macaw Clay Lick”?
The Macaw Clay Lick is a famous natural phenomenon where hundreds of vibrant macaws gather each morning to consume clay. The clay helps the birds digest their food and neutralize toxins in their diet, providing a remarkable sight for visitors.
How long is the drive from Cusco to Manu?
The journey from Cusco to the rainforest village of Mazuco takes about 11 hours, with stops along the way to visit scenic viewpoints and experience the diverse landscapes.
Will I have a chance to see a tapir or other mammals?
Yes! You’ll have the opportunity to observe tapirs and other mammals at the tapir lick, where you can watch them from a hidden platform, providing a rare and fascinating wildlife encounter.
Is there any Wi-Fi or cell service during the tour?
Connectivity is limited in the rainforest, so don’t expect reliable Wi-Fi or cell service. This is the perfect opportunity to disconnect and immerse yourself fully in the natural beauty of Manu National Park.
How safe is the Manu Expedition Tour?
Safety is a top priority for the tour operators. All guides are highly experienced and trained in first aid and wildlife safety. You’ll receive a full briefing before starting the tour to ensure your safety and comfort throughout the journey.
What happens if I get sick or need medical attention?
Guides are trained in basic first aid, and in the event of a medical emergency, evacuation procedures can be implemented. It’s essential to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies during your trip.
What should I expect on the boat trips?
The boat rides are scenic and provide a unique perspective of the rainforest. You’ll cruise along the Inambari and Madre de Dios rivers, observing wildlife along the shores and experiencing the rainforest from the water.
Can I join the night walks?
Yes! Optional night walks are available, giving you the chance to spot nocturnal wildlife such as frogs, insects, and snakes, offering a completely different experience of the rainforest.
Are meals included in the tour?
Yes, all meals are included in the tour. You’ll enjoy traditional Peruvian cuisine, including fresh fruits, local dishes, and hearty meals that keep you energized during your adventure.
Can I bring my camera?
The rainforest and its wildlife provide excellent photo opportunities. A camera with a zoom lens is ideal for capturing wildlife from a safe distance without disturbing the animals.
What happens if the weather is bad?
Weather in the rainforest can be unpredictable. However, your guides are experienced and will adapt to any weather conditions, ensuring your safety and enjoyment throughout the tour.
Is the Manu Expedition suitable for children?
The tour is suitable for older children (10+), as it involves long travel times and hikes through the jungle. Please ensure your child is comfortable with the physical activity and conditions of the rainforest.
How do I book the Manu Expedition Tour?
To book your tour, reach out to a reputable tour operator specializing in Manu National Park expeditions. Be sure to read reviews and verify their credentials before booking to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Discover Elfinwood Forest & Manu Center: A Hidden Paradise in the Amazon
What is Elfinwood Forest?
Elfinwood Forest is a magical, mist-covered landscape found at varying lower elevations, depending on latitude. These unique forests are characterized by their stunningly stunted growth, where trees and shrubs rarely rise above 2 meters in height. This mysterious environment, often referred to as “elf wood,” thrives in near-perpetual mist, creating a serene, otherworldly atmosphere that is home to a rich diversity of epiphytes, including mosses, lichens, and bromeliads.
Features of Elfinwood Forest:
Gnarled Trees: The trees are twisted and low-growing due to limited sunlight and energy resources, giving the forest its distinctive look.
High Epiphyte Diversity: Elfinwood is abundant in microphyllous epiphytes, such as lichens, algae, and bryophytes, adding to its dense, magical feel.
Limited Species Richness: While elfin forests are rich in unique vegetation, they have fewer tree species compared to lower-elevation rainforests due to the harsh, misty climate.
Explore the Manu Center: A Rainforest Paradise
The Manu Center, nestled in the heart of Manu National Park, is a must-see destination for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and adventurers. Home to pristine jungle paths and abundant wildlife, the Manu Center includes private reserves like Maquisapayoq and Blanquillo, where visitors can explore untouched rainforests and encounter the Amazon’s fascinating creatures.
How to Get to Manu Center:
Your adventure begins with a thrilling journey along the newly paved Interoceanic Highway, followed by a scenic boat ride on the Madre de Dios River, providing breathtaking views of the lush rainforest and its wildlife. The road to Manu Center is an unforgettable experience that brings you closer to the beauty of the Amazon.
Wildlife Viewing at Blanquillo:
Blanquillo, located in Manu National Park, offers unparalleled opportunities for wildlife viewing:
Giant River Otters: Watch these playful otters in the lakes near Blanquillo.
Macaw and Parrot Viewing: Visit one of Manu’s best-known clay-licks to see colorful macaws, parrots, and parakeets up close.
Tapir Sightings: The Maquisapayoq clay-lick is a prime spot to witness tapirs and other forest mammals as they feed on the mineral-rich clay.
Why Manu National Park is So Unique:
Spanning nearly 1.9 million hectares, Manu National Park is one of the most biodiverse places on Earth. From Andean grasslands to lush lowland rainforests, the park protects an extraordinary range of habitats.
Incredible Biodiversity:
Over 1,000 Bird Species: Manu is a birdwatcher’s paradise, boasting a rich diversity of avian life.
200 Mammal Species: The park is home to rare wildlife like giant otters, 13 species of monkeys, and elusive tapirs.
15,000 Plant Species: The diversity of plant life in Manu is unmatched, from towering rainforest trees to rare flowers and unique vegetation.
Rare Wildlife Encounters:
Spot iconic species such as the Giant Otter, 13 species of monkeys, and seven species of macaws. Manu National Park is also a sanctuary for endangered species like the lowland tapir and the elusive jaguar.
Visiting Manu Center:
Around 5,000 visitors explore the Manu Center each year, with 5% of them being avid birdwatchers who record between 550-650 bird species during their guided tours. Whether you’re a bird enthusiast or a wildlife lover, Manu Center offers an experience like no other.
Highlights of a Typical Tour:
Begin in Cusco: Start your journey in Cusco and gradually descend into the lush lowland forests of the Manu Center, passing through vibrant ecosystems.
Spot Wildlife at Huacarpay Wetlands: One of the most popular stops, Huacarpay wetlands, is perfect for birdwatching, where you can see Andean waterfowl and the beautiful Bearded Mountaineer, an endemic species.
Experience the Elfinwood Forests: Wander through the captivating elfinwood forests, home to unique plant species and low-growing, gnarled trees.
Explore the Paramo Ecosystem:
Above the elfin forests lies the Paramo ecosystem, a high-altitude habitat that is cool and often frosty. Dominated by tussock grasses and rare vegetation like Polylepis trees, the paramo ecosystem is vital for biodiversity. However, due to climate change, it faces increasing threats, making it a crucial area for conservation efforts.
Why Visit Elfinwood Forest & Manu Center?
Unrivaled Biodiversity: Experience the richness of the Amazon rainforest and discover species that can’t be found anywhere else on Earth.
Perfect for Adventurers & Nature Lovers: Whether you’re hiking through the elfinwood forests or embarking on a boat ride along the Madre de Dios River, every moment is an adventure.
Exclusive Wildlife Experiences: From watching macaws at a clay-lick to seeing giant river otters in their natural habitat, Manu National Park offers rare wildlife encounters.
Plan Your Trip Today: ; If you’re looking for an immersive rainforest experience, the Elfinwood Forest and Manu Center are perfect destinations. Book your guided tour to explore one of the world’s most biodiverse ecosystems and experience the magic of the Amazon rainforest firsthand.
Review Manu Expedition Tour 5-days.