DAY 1: CUSCO – MANU CLOUD FOREST – PARAISO LODGE
We begin our expedition at 5:00 AM with a pickup from your hotel in Cusco. Our journey toward the Manu jungle sets off toward the folklore capital of Paucartambo. Along the route, we will make our first archaeological stop at the Ninamarca Chullpas, a pre-Inca funerary site, where you will enjoy a guided tour (this initial segment takes between 2 to 3 hours). Next, we ascend toward the Acjanaco Pass, the official gateway to Manu National Park, to begin the second leg of our trip: a gradual descent through the breathtaking Manu cloud forest. This portion of the journey takes between 4 and 5 hours at a leisurely pace, specially designed to allow strategic stops for birdwatching (including quetzals, toucans, multicolored tanagers, and Peru's national bird, the iconic Cock-of-the-Rock). With a bit of luck, we may also spot Amazonian mammals such as the spectacled bear and various species of monkeys. Upon completing this scenic drive through the tropical rainforest, we will arrive at our ecological accommodation, Paraiso Lodge, where you can settle in and relax immersed in nature.
DAY 2: PARAISO LODGE – PARROT CLAY LICK – MACHUWASI LAKE – CUSCO
Our day begins early at 4:00 AM to experience an action-packed adventure in the Manu tropical rainforest. We will travel to the Port of Atalaya, where we will board motorized boats for an exciting ride along the Alto Madre de Dios River toward the parrot clay lick. Here, you will witness a fascinating natural spectacle as various species of parrots, parakeets, and macaws gather. Following this wildlife encounter, we will enjoy a delicious breakfast.
Next, we continue our exploration of the Manu Cultural Zone with a guided hike to a massive, ancient Ceiba tree (Kapok tree), where you will have the unique opportunity to embrace this jungle giant and recharge your energy in nature.
Our journey continues to Machuwasi Lake (Cocha Machuwasi). After a short walk, we will explore the wetland on traditional balsa wood rafts and ascend an observation tower offering breathtaking panoramic views of the lake and surrounding wildlife.
Finally, we navigate back upriver to the Port of Atalaya, where our private transport will drive us to visit the Hummingbird Garden (lunch will be provided in Atalaya or Pilcopata). After an unforgettable lightning expedition showcasing the highlights of the Manu Cultural Zone, we begin our return journey to Cusco, arriving between 7:00 PM and 8:00 PM.
ITINERARY
