6-Day Manu Deep Jungle Tour | Explore the Peruvian Amazon

Explore the depths of Manu National Park on this 6-day, 5-night expedition, where each day reveals unique landscapes, ancestral cultures, and breathtaking wildlife. From the magical cloud forest of San Pedro to the remote Matsiguenka House in the heart of the Reserved Zone, this tour connects you with the living essence of the Peruvian Amazon. Enjoy boat trips, jungle hikes, encounters with macaws, giant otters, and capybaras, as well as cultural experiences with local communities. Ideal for nature lovers, conscious travelers, and explorers seeking a transformative experience far from mass tourism.

🏞️Day 1: Cusco – Chullpas of Ninamarca – Paucartambo – Cloud Forest – Pilcopata

4:00 – 5:00 a.m. | Departure from Cusco

We depart early for the jungle, crossing the Andean valleys as the sun illuminates the mountains and the agricultural terraces typical of the region.

Visit to the Chullpas of Ninamarca

We discover this pre-Incan funerary complex where the ancient inhabitants worshipped their ancestors. The guide explains its ritual and architectural function.

Arrival in Paucartambo

In the picturesque town of Paucartambo, known as the “town of living folklore,” we stroll along its cobblestone streets and visit the colonial church and a small museum of local traditions.

Beginning of the Descent into the Cloud Forest

As we descend, the landscape changes from mountains to a lush, green environment, perfect for observing tropical flora and birds.

Lunch in Nature

We enjoy lunch surrounded by endemic vegetation, while the guide explains the ecological importance of this area as a biological corridor.

Andean Cock-of-the-Rock and Wildlife Observation

We stop at a strategic point to observe the Andean Cock-of-the-Rock, Peru’s national bird, and other species such as orchids, bromeliads, and giant ferns.

Journey to Pilcopata

We continue our descent, passing through denser and warmer jungle landscapes, marking our arrival in the Amazonian ecosystem.

Arrival in Pilcopata and Dinner

Check-in at the lodge and time to rest. We enjoy a homemade dinner with local products, surrounded by the nighttime sounds of the rainforest.

🌳Day 2: Pilcopata – Puerto Atalaya – Hot Springs – Boca Manu

Wake up and spend the morning immersed in nature. We take advantage of the early hours to listen to the sounds of the wildlife active in the surrounding area.

Energetic breakfast at the lodge. A nutritious breakfast with local products prepares us for the day’s exploration.

Interpretive hike through the rainforest. We take a guided hike where we observe monkeys, insects, butterflies, and medicinal plant species used by Amazonian communities.

Visit to a Coca Plantation and Animal Rescue Center. We learn about the traditional cultivation of coca leaves and their ancestral uses. Afterward, we visit a wildlife rescue center where animals rescued from illegal trafficking, such as monkeys, toucans, and sloths, are rehabilitated.

Transfer to Puerto Atalaya and Navigation on the Alto Madre de Dios River
We begin our journey on the river, enjoying jungle landscapes and observing herons, caimans, and tropical birds in their natural habitat.

Lunch amidst the river and jungle
We have lunch on board or on a natural sandy beach, surrounded by the beauty of the Amazon.

Relaxation in Natural Hot Springs
We stop at the natural hot springs, where we enjoy a relaxing soak in a tropical setting.

Journey to Boca Manu
We continue navigating downstream until we reach the small village of Boca Manu, where we stay in a rustic lodge surrounded by jungle.

Dinner and Talk about the Reserved Zone
We enjoy dinner while the guide tells us about the biodiversity of Manu National Park and what we will see the following day.

🌊Day 3: Boca Manu – Parrot Salt Dungeon – Manu Reserved Zone – Casa Machiguenga

Wake up and prepare for wildlife viewing
We wake up early to take advantage of the first hours of the day, when the wildlife is most active.

Observing the Parrot and Macaw Salt Dungeon
We navigate the river to the parrot salt dam, where we can observe the feeding ritual of parrots and macaws up close, an incredible natural spectacle.

Breakfast outdoors and sailing to the Reserved Zone
We return to the lodge for a light breakfast before setting sail for the heart of Manu, where the landscape becomes wilder and more pristine.

Entrance checkpoint at the Limonal Post
A brief stop at the checkpoint to register our entry into the protected area.

Navigating the Manu River
We continue our journey along the Manu River, where we can observe capybaras, caimans, turtles, and birds such as toucans and macaws.

Lunch at Casa Machiguenga
We’ll have lunch in the Matsiguenka native community, which manages this eco-lodge. Here, we’ll experience the local culture surrounded by nature.

Hike through Primary Forest
We’ll hike along a trail through primary forest, exploring giant trees, vines, and mammal tracks, while the guide tells us about the ecosystem.

Dinner and Rest at Casa Machiguenga
We’ll have dinner surrounded by the sounds of the rainforest and rest in this eco-lodge, ideal for a complete escape.

🐾Day 4: Casa Machiguenga – Lake Salvador – Forest Hike – Optional Night Hike

Wake up to the sounds of the forest
The day begins with the howls of howler monkeys, which surround us in the jungle.

Breakfast at Casa Machiguenga
Enjoy a nutritious breakfast before beginning our hike to Lake Salvador.

Hike to Lake Salvador
We venture into the primary forest to reach Lake Salvador, home to the giant otter and other fascinating animals.

Raft observation on Lake Salvador
We explore the lake on quiet rafts to observe aquatic wildlife, including black caimans and birds like the hoatzin.

Exploratory hike in the deep forest
We hike through the forest observing giants like the shihuahuaco tree and learn about the ecological balance of Manu National Park.

Free time and relaxation at Casa Machiguenga
Free afternoon to relax in hammocks or further explore the surroundings.

Dinner at Casa Machiguenga
Enjoy a cozy dinner while your guide shares insights into local life.

Optional Night Hike
An opportunity to explore the rainforest at night, observing frogs and other wildlife.

🌿Day 5: Lake Otorongo – Observation Tower – Manu River Navigation – Boca Manu

Breakfast and hike to Lake Otorongo
We head towards Lake Otorongo, a key location for Manu’s biodiversity.

Viewing from the Panoramic Tower
We ascend an observation tower to view otters, caimans, and monkeys from above.

Interpretive Hike Around the Lagoon
We walk along the trail around the lagoon, observing unique flora and fauna.

Navigation Downriver on the Manu River
We descend the Manu River, enjoying panoramic views and wildlife.

Dinner and Rest at Boca Manu
Farewell dinner at the Boca Manu lodge.

🚐Day 6: Boca Manu – Puerto Atalaya – Return to Cusco

Last sunrise in Manu
Enjoy the last sunrise in the jungle, surrounded by the sounds of nature.

Breakfast and sailing to Puerto Atalaya
We sail back, observing wildlife in its natural habitat.

Lunch and return to Cusco
We travel up the road to Cusco, crossing the Cloud Forest and enjoying breathtaking views.

Arrival in Cusco
End of the 6-day Manu Deep Jungle Tour. We arrive in Cusco at sunset with unforgettable memories.

✅ What’s Included in the Tour?

🧭 Transportation

• ✅Shared ground transportation (not a private tour) from Cusco to Atalaya (round trip).
• ✅River transportation in a motorized canoe with a roof on the Alto Madre de Dios River, Manu River, and tributaries throughout the expedition.
• ✅Fuel and river permits included.

🧑‍🏫 Guides

• ✅Professional Spanish-speaking naturalist guide specializing in Amazonian biodiversity.
• ✅Experienced crew (boat pilot, assistant, and cook).
• ✅Native Matsiguenka staff in the reserve area.

🛖 Accommodation

• ✅5 nights’ accommodation in eco-lodges within the Amazon region.
• ✅Shared rooms with beds, mosquito nets, basic eco-friendly bathroom, and cold showers.

🍽️ Meals

• ✅All meals during the tour: buffet breakfast, lunch, and dinner, or local menu.
• ✅Purified mineral water throughout the expedition (from the second day onward).
• ✅Vegetarian or gluten-free menu options available (with prior notice).

🧰 Equipment and Entrance Fees

• ✅Complete first-aid kit and portable oxygen.
• ✅River safety equipment (life jacket, satellite radio).
• ✅Use of traditional rafts, observation towers, and catamaran on lagoons.

❌ What’s not included?

❌ Not included:

• ❌Breakfast on the first day (it is recommended to bring snacks or eat breakfast before pickup).
  ❌Dinner on the last day in Cusco.
• ❌Bottled or alcoholic beverages (sodas, beers, energy drinks).
• ❌Travel or health insurance (optional but highly recommended).
• ❌Voluntary tips for guides, cooks, or crew.
• ❌Personal items (toilet paper, sunscreen, insect repellent, etc.).
• ❌Personal cameras or binoculars (you can rent them in Cusco if you wish).
• ❌Services not mentioned in the itinerary or requirements outside the regular program.

🧳 Recommendations

Traveling to Manu requires special preparation, as you will be entering one of the most biodiverse areas on the planet. To ensure your experience is safe, comfortable, and enriching, we recommend the following:

📋 Before your trip:

• ✅Book in advance to guarantee availability and entry permits to the Reserved Zone.
• ✅Inform us of any dietary restrictions, allergies, or special medical conditions.
• ✅Acclimatize in Cusco at least one day before the tour, as the first part includes high mountain passes.

🎒 What to bring:

• 🎟️ Original passport and ISIC card (if applicable for a discount).
• 🧢 Hat or cap, sunglasses with UV protection.
• 🧥 Waterproof jacket or rain poncho (weather is highly variable).
• 👕 Lightweight, quick-drying, long-sleeved clothing (avoid dark colors).
• 👖 Comfortable hiking pants.
• 👟 Hiking boots or shoes with good traction (essential).
• 🧦 Knee-high socks to prevent bites or stings.
• 🦟 Insect repellent with DEET (minimum 30%).
• 🧴 Biodegradable sunscreen.
• 💡 Headlamp with extra batteries (very useful for night hikes).
• 🧼 Eco-friendly personal hygiene items.
• 🥤 Canteen or reusable water bottle.
• 📷 Camera, binoculars, and power bank for recharging batteries.

💊 Other important items:

• 💊Altitude sickness medication (if you are sensitive to altitude sickness).
• 💊Personal first-aid kit with basic medications.
• 💵 Cash in soles (there are no ATMs in the jungle).

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

🔹Is this a private tour?

No. This tour is shared in small groups, ideal for those who want to socialize, share experiences, and reduce costs. If you would like a 100% private tour, please contact us to arrange a personalized one.

🔹What is the best time to travel to Manu?

The best time is between April and November, during the dry season. During the rainy season (December to March), some areas may become inaccessible due to the river’s flow.

🔹What is the difficulty level of the tour?

This tour is of moderate difficulty, with hikes of 1 to 3 hours per day. You don’t need prior trekking experience, but you do need to be in good physical condition.

🔹Is there cell phone signal or internet during the tour?

No. There is no cell phone coverage or internet access for most of the tour, allowing for a true disconnection to enjoy nature.

🔹Are animal sightings guaranteed?

The wildlife in Manu is wild and free-roaming, so we cannot guarantee sightings of specific species. However, with our day and night hikes, there is an 80% chance of seeing monkeys, macaws, caimans, capybaras, and more.

🔹Is the accommodation basic or comfortable?

All the included lodges are rustic but comfortable eco-lodges with single beds, mosquito nets, cold showers, and eco-friendly toilets.

🔹Can I do the tour with children?

Yes, but we recommend this tour for children over 10 years old who enjoy nature and long hikes.

🔹Are any vaccines required?

The Peruvian Ministry of Health recommends vaccination against yellow fever if you will be visiting the Amazon region. Consult your doctor before your trip.