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Discover the unparalleled beauty of Manú National Park, a majestic biosphere reserve nestled in the regions of Madre de Dios and Paucartambo, Cusco. Esteemed for its rich biodiversity and sprawling landscapes, this park spans an impressive 15,328 km², with an extended area including a Biosphere Reserve and a Cultural Zone, culminating in a vast expanse of 18,811 km². Celebrated as Peru’s largest National Park, Manú’s reputation has soared since its designation as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 1977 and a World Heritage Site a decade later, attributes that highlight its global ecological significance.
Manú National Park’s isolation has been its shield, preserving a wide array of ecological zones that ascend from 150 meters above sea level in the Southwest Amazon moist forests to the lofty Central Andean wet puna at 4200 meters. This dramatic topographical diversity supports an extraordinary array of biodiversity, hosting over 15,000 plant species and up to 250 tree varieties within a single hectare. Birdwatchers from around the globe flock to Manú, drawn by the chance to witness over 1,000 bird species, surpassing the combined avian diversity of the United States and Canada. Furthermore, the park is renowned for its dense population of land vertebrates, marking it as one of the most vibrant ecosystems in Latin American tropical forests. Embark on a journey to Manú National Park and immerse yourself in one of the world’s most biodiverse sanctuaries, where nature’s wonders await at every turn.
Begin your adventure early from Cusco and delve into the heart of the Manu Biosphere Reserve. Mid-morning, visit the ancient burial towers of Ninamarca, also known as “Chullpas,” to glimpse into the region’s pre-Columbian history. Continue your journey to the colonial town of Paucartambo, a showcase of Peru’s rich Spanish heritage. Afterward, ascend to the Acjanaco pass, the gateway to the Cultural Zone of Manu.
Cloud Forest Exploration: Traverse the vibrant cloud forest, a lush habitat for epiphytic plants, the colorful Cock of the Rock, and the elusive Spectacled Bear. This unique ecosystem, thriving between 2,000 and 3,500 meters above sea level, hosts a myriad of endemic species.
Rise early to witness the vibrant mating dance of Peru’s national bird, the Cock of the Rock, from a dedicated viewing platform— a truly spectacular start to your day.
Travel to Pilcopata: After breakfast, descend towards Pilcopata, then proceed to Atalaya Port where a scenic boat ride takes you to Erika Lodge, situated in a private reserve.
Jungle Exploration: Discover the transitional area between the high and low jungle through guided hikes, exploring the lodge’s rich biodiversity.
After breakfast, embark on a guided walk along the riverbanks in the transitional zone between high and low jungle (600 m.a.s.l.-1,150 m.a.s.l), learning about the diverse local fauna and flora.
Visit Machuwasi Lake: A short boat journey and a trek through vibrant trails lead you to Machuwasi Lake. Utilize a telescope for enhanced birdwatching, spotting great egrets, tucanets, and more.
Nocturnal Wildlife Exploration: Experience the nocturnal life of the jungle, observing a variety of frogs and insects under the cover of darkness.
Start your final day with an early morning boat ride to experience one of the Amazon’s spectacular natural phenomena at a nearby clay lick, where you can watch vibrant parrots and other bird species indulging in the mineral-rich clay. This unique behavior is essential for their diet and provides a fantastic opportunity for up-close wildlife observation and photography.
After witnessing the parrots at the “Collpa,” return to Atalaya Port. From there, board a bus destined for Cusco. The drive back offers time to reflect on the incredible diversity and beauty of the Amazon you’ve experienced. Arrive in Cusco in the late evening, bringing your adventurous exploration of the Manu Biosphere Reserve to a fulfilling conclusion. This day not only marks the end of your journey but also leaves you with lasting memories of the vibrant and dynamic ecosystems of the Peruvian Amazon.
Day 1 highlights include visiting the ancient burial towers of Ninamarca, exploring the colonial town of Paucartambo, ascending to the Acjanaco pass, and exploring the vibrant cloud forest, known for its diverse flora and fauna.
Day 2 includes witnessing the mating dance of the Cock of the Rock, traveling to Pilcopata and then to Atalaya Port by boat, and exploring the lodge’s surroundings through guided hikes, offering opportunities for wildlife sightings.
Day 3 includes a guided walk along the riverbanks in the transitional zone between high and low jungle, a visit to Machuwasi Lake for birdwatching, and experiencing the nocturnal life of the jungle.
Accommodations are provided at Orquídeas de San Pedro Lodge and Erika Lodge, both situated within the Amazon rainforest, offering rustic comfort and immersive experiences amidst the diverse ecosystems of the Manu Biosphere Reserve.
On the final day, travelers witness one of the Amazon’s spectacular natural phenomena at a clay lick, where vibrant parrots and other bird species indulge in mineral-rich clay, providing a fantastic opportunity for up-close wildlife observation and photography.
Our four-day adventure through the Manu Biosphere Reserve was an extraordinary experience! On Day 1, we departed from Cusco and visited the ancient Chullpas of Ninamarca, followed by a tour of the charming colonial town of Paucartambo. The journey to San Pedro Lodge through the lush cloud forest, home to the stunning Cock of the Rock and Spectacled Bear, was breathtaking. The tranquil surroundings of the Orquídeas de San Pedro Lodge made for a perfect overnight stay.
Day 2 started with witnessing the mesmerizing mating dance of the Cock of the Rock. We then traveled to Pilcopata and took a scenic boat ride to Erika Lodge, where we explored the rich biodiversity through guided hikes. Day 3 included a visit to Machuwasi Lake for birdwatching and a thrilling nocturnal wildlife exploration. On the final day, an early morning boat ride to a nearby clay lick provided an unforgettable wildlife spectacle, with vibrant parrots indulging in the mineral-rich clay. Returning to Cusco in the late evening, we reflected on the incredible beauty and diversity of the Amazon. This journey left us with cherished memories of the vibrant ecosystems and the serene lodges we stayed at.