Amazon Rainforest Tour: Manu Reserved Zone 6-Day Trip (Bus/Boat) from Cusco
DAY 1: From Cusco to the Mysterious Cloud Forest in Manu Reserved Zone
Our trip begins early in Cusco, with a comfortable bus that will pick us up between 5:30 and 6:00 a.m. First, we will visit the funerary towers of Ninamarca and then head to Paucartambo, a folkloric village with a colonial bridge. As we ascend to the highest point, the Acjanaco Pass (4,000 m), the landscape changes dramatically.
From that point on, we will enter the mysterious cloud forest, home to orchids, ferns, and surprising wildlife. In this fascinating ecosystem, we will hike to witness the courtship ritual of the cock-of-the-rock (Rupicola peruviana).
With a little luck, we may also spot trogons, quetzals, and even the spectacled bear (Tremarctos ornatus), the only bear species in South America.
As evening falls, we’ll arrive at our comfortable hostel in Pilcopata, where we’ll rest and prepare for the next stage of our adventure.
DAY 2: From the Upper Madre de Dios River to the Amazon Wildlife of Cocha Otorongo
After a delicious breakfast, we will continue our journey by bus to Puerto de Atalaya. Along the way, we will observe coca plantations and fruit trees.
Once at the port, we will board a motorboat and navigate the Upper Madre de Dios River. During the journey, we will have the opportunity to spot a wide variety of birds, such as herons and kingfishers, and perhaps the impressive jungle condor. With luck, we might also see the elusive jaguar on the riverbanks.
After a brief stop at Boca Manu, we will continue to the Limonal lookout post. It is here that the majesty of Manu’s wildlife becomes evident: flocks of turtles, white caimans, and ronsocos (a type of caiman) appear on the shore. In the afternoon, we will arrive at our campsite at Cocha Otorongo.
We’ll then hike to the lake and climb a 30-meter observation tower, where we’ll be able to see giant otters, turtles, and birds. We’ll spend the night on comfortable platforms with beds and mosquito nets.
DAY 3: Manu – Cocha Salvador and Primary Amazon Rainforest Immersion
Today, the group will visit Cocha Salvador, just 30 minutes from Cocha Otorongo. We will explore the pristine primary rainforest by hiking its trails.
Then, we will quietly sail a catamaran across the lake to observe giant otters, one of Manu’s most emblematic species, up close, as well as a wide variety of monkeys.
Throughout the day, your guide will reveal the secrets of the tropical rainforest, from its medicinal plants to its complex ecosystem.
In the afternoon, we will return to our camp for a well-deserved dinner and a restful night’s sleep.
DAY 4: The Macaw Clay Lick and Return to Boca Manu Reserved Zone
We’ll start the day very early to visit the spectacular macaw clay lick in the Salvadorcillo Ravine.
This is an unparalleled spectacle of colors and sounds, where hundreds of macaws congregate to consume clay.
Afterward, we’ll sail back along the Manu River, appreciating the biodiversity of its banks.
We’ll make a brief stop at Cocha Brasco for one last attempt at spotting giant otters. We’ll spend the night in a lodge in Boca Manu, with the comforts of a bathroom and shower.
DAY 5: Sailing Back Along the Upper Madre de Dios River – Amazon Rainforest
We’ll continue our return by boat along the Upper Madre de Dios River – Peru.
As we continue, we’ll have one last chance to spot birds and, with luck, some more mammals.
The beautiful landscape will accompany us until we reach our lodge in Paititi, where we’ll spend the night, enjoying the comforts of the place.
DAY 6: Farewell to the Amazon Rainforest and Return to Cusco – Peru
This day we bid farewell to the wonderful jungle.
We’ll take the boat back to Atalaya, where the bus will be waiting to take us to Cusco.
Along the way, we’ll be able to appreciate the cloud forest once again, saying goodbye to its immense variety of flora and fauna. Arrival in the city is scheduled between 6:00 and 6:30 p.m.