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Delve into the heart of the Reserved Zone of Manu National Park for six days and experience an immersive adventure in the Amazon jungle. From Cusco, you will traverse natural landscapes and communities until you reach areas where you can observe native animals. The experience also includes overnight stays in the jungle, living with a traditional community, navigation through the Madre de Dios basin, and days of exploration. An ideal journey for those looking to closely experience the biodiversity, Amazonian culture, and wildlife of one of the most biodiverse places on the planet.
Why choose this experience?
Traditional experience: We know the route from Cusco to the Amazon and work with local staff to offer an authentic and well-organized tour.
Accompaniment throughout the entire trip: Our team accompanies you from Cusco to Manu, coordinating each stage of the journey, from transfers and accommodations to the various activities.
Nature and culture in a single experience: We not only explore the biodiversity of Manu, but we also approach the native communities and learn about their ways of life, respecting their culture and environment.
Small groups for a more personalized experience: Travel in groups of up to 12 passengers and enjoy a more comfortable, flexible, and peaceful journey.
Summary
Day 1 | Cusco – Ninamarca Chullpas – Paucartambo – Cloud Forest – Bambu Lodge Cross the Andes toward Manu, visiting the Chullpas of Ninamarca and Paucartambo before entering the cloud forest. Observe birds, orchids, and look for the iconic cock-of-the-rock.
Day 2 | Bambu Lodge – Puerto de Atalaya – Manu River – Cocha Otorongo – Matsiguenka House Sail through the Alto Madre de Dios and Manu rivers toward the Reserved Zone, surrounded by Amazonian landscapes and wildlife. Explore Cocha Otorongo from its observation tower and reach Casa Matsiguenka.
Day 3 | Matsiguenka House – Cocha Salvador – Primary Forest
Explore Cocha Salvador on a rowing catamaran, one of the best places in Manu to observe giant otters and endemic species. Complete the day with walks through the primary forest and an experience of meeting the Matsiguenka traditions.
Day 4 | Matsiguenka House – Tapir Clay Lick – Upper Madre de Dios River – Dorado Lodge Begin the return journey by sailing along the Manu River, with new opportunities to observe wildlife on the beaches and banks. Visit the tapir clay lick and continue to Dorado Lodge to explore the jungle and take a night walk.
Day 5 | Dorado Lodge – Macaw and Parrot Clay Lick – Shintuya Hot Springs – Bambu Lodge Admire at dawn the spectacle of parrots and macaws at the collpa and continue sailing through the Alto Madre de Dios. Relax in the hot springs of Shintuya before returning to the cloud forest.
Day 6 | Bambu Lodge – Cloud Forest – Paucartambo – Cusco
Enjoy one last morning among hummingbirds and nature before starting the return to the Andes.
Cross the cloud forest and Paucartambo again until you reach Cusco in the afternoon.
General Technical Data
Walking time:
Day 1: Short walks during stops and observation activities
Day 3: Exploration hike through the primary forest
Day 4: Night hike of variable duration
Maximum altitude:
High mountain zone: 4,000 meters above sea level / 13,123 feet
Minimum altitude:
Dorado Lodge: 350 meters above sea level / 1,148 feet
Difficulty level:
Moderate
Temperature:
Minimum: 5 °C / Maximum: 32 °C
Highlighted places:
Chullpas of Ninamarca: Pre-Inca archeological site located among high Andean landscapes, where you can learn about part of the legacy of the ancient cultures of the region.
Paucartambo: Andean town of great cultural wealth, recognized for its traditions, architecture, and festivities, considered one of the gateways to Manu.
Acjanaco: High mountain pass that marks the entrance to Manu National Park and the beginning of the descent from the Andes to the cloud forest.
Cloud Forest of Manu: Ecosystem of great biodiversity, where you can observe orchids, bromeliads, ferns, and numerous species of birds.
San Pedro – Cock of the Rock: Privileged area to try to observe the cock of the rock, the national bird of Peru, in its natural habitat.
High Madre de Dios River: Sail through one of the main waterways to the Amazon, surrounded by lush vegetation and a great diversity of typical fauna.
Manu River: Delve into the heart of the Reserved Zone by navigating its waters, with opportunities to observe monkeys, caimans, turtles, birds, and other animals along the shores.
Reserved Zone of Manu: One of the sectors with the highest biodiversity in Manu National Park, where the jungle remains practically untouched and wildlife observation takes center stage.
Matsiguenka House: Accommodation located in the heart of the jungle that allows you to get close to the culture and traditional way of life of the Matsiguenka people.
Cocha Salvador: One of the main cochas of Manu, explored by rowing catamaran and known for the presence of giant otters, caimans, and numerous birds.
Cocha Otorongo: Lagoon surrounded by primary forest that features an observation tower approximately 20 meters high to observe wildlife from the jungle canopy.
Tapir Clay Lick: Place for wildlife observation where there is a possibility of finding tapirs and other species that visit these natural spaces.
Lory and Macaw Clay Lick: Spectacular natural setting where, at dawn, numerous species of parrots and macaws can gather.
Shintuya Hot Springs: Thermal medicinal waters in the heart of the Amazon, ideal for relaxing during the return journey.
From the Andes to the Amazon: six days to discover the cloud forest and delve into the heart of Manu National Park, navigating its rivers, exploring its forests, and observing its extraordinary biodiversity.
DAY 1 | Cusco – Ninamarca Chullpas – Paucartambo – Cloud Forest – Bambu Lodge
The adventure begins early with the pickup from your hotel in Cusco to start the journey to Manu National Park. Our first stop will be at the Chullpas of Ninamarca, an important pre-Inca funerary complex located amidst Andean landscapes. Next, we will continue to Paucartambo, a town of great historical and cultural wealth, where we will take a brief visit accompanied by our guide.
From Paucartambo, we will ascend toward Acjanaco, one of the main transition points between the Andes and the Amazon. From here, we will begin the descent through the cloud forest, making stops to observe the lush vegetation, including orchids, bromeliads, and ferns, as well as a great variety of birds.
One of the highlights of the day will be the search for the cock-of-the-rock, Peru's national bird, in the San Pedro area. At the end of the day, we will continue to Bambu Lodge, where we will enjoy dinner and rest. Finally, our guide will give an informative talk about the activities and recommendations for the next day.
Accommodation: Bamboo Lodge.
DAY 2 | Bambu Lodge – Puerto de Atalaya – Limonal – Río Manu – Cocha Otorongo – Casa Matsiguenka
Very early, we will continue our journey to the Amazon. First, we will arrive at the Port of Atalaya, where we will board our vessel to navigate the Alto Madre de Dios River toward the Manu National Park.
During the navigation, we will make a stop at the Limonal checkpoint, where we will complete the necessary registration before entering the Reserved Zone. We will continue along the Manu River, surrounded by vast tropical forests and Amazonian beaches, with opportunities to observe birds and wildlife during the journey.
Depending on the river conditions and the time available, we will be able to observe native species such as macaws, herons, spoonbills, caimans, turtles, monkeys, and capybaras. The meals planned during the navigation will allow us to enjoy the journey without interrupting the experience.
In the afternoon, we will arrive at Casa Matsiguenka, located approximately 370 meters above sea level, where we will stay for the next two nights. After settling in, we will take an initial exploratory walk along the forest trails and visit Cocha Otorongo, where we will access a viewing tower approximately 20 meters high to observe the landscape from the canopy and look for animals.
Accommodation: Matsiguenka House.
DAY 3 | Matsiguenka House – Cocha Salvador – Primary Forest – Matsiguenka House
After breakfast, we will head to Cocha Salvador, one of the main natural attractions of the Manu Reserved Zone. The exploration will be carried out in a rowing catamaran, a peaceful way to navigate the lagoon and observe the wildlife without disturbing the environment.
The main experience will be the search for the giant otter, one of the most emblematic species of this ecosystem. We will also have opportunities to observe caimans, turtles, and various species of birds that inhabit the shores and surroundings of the lagoon.
Subsequently, we will continue exploring the trails of the primary forest, accompanied by our guide, who will help us identify different species of flora and fauna and understand the importance of this ecosystem.
We will return to Casa Matsiguenka for lunch and will have time to learn more about the culture and way of life of the Matsiguenka community. At night, after dinner, we will take a night walk, depending on the weather conditions, to look for amphibians, insects, arachnids, and other nocturnal species.
Accommodation: Matsiguenka House.
DAY 4 | Casa Matsiguenka – Limonal – Tapir Clay Lick – Dorado Lodge
We will start the day with an early breakfast before beginning our return along the Manu River.
During the navigation, we will have new opportunities to observe wildlife on the beaches and riverbanks, where monkeys, caimans, and various bird species may appear.
Upon arriving at the Limonal checkpoint, we will register our exit from the Manu Reserved Zone before continuing our journey along the Alto Madre de Dios River.
During the journey, there will be a stop to visit a tapir clay lick, where, if conditions permit, we will be able to observe traces or activity of these large Amazonian mammals. Subsequently, we will continue sailing until we reach the Dorado Lodge, located approximately 300 meters above sea level.
After settling in, we will have time to rest or take a walk along the trails near the lodge. At the end of the day, we will enjoy dinner and, if conditions are favorable, we can participate in a night walk to discover some of the wildlife that becomes active after dark.
Accommodation: Dorado Lodge.
DAY 5 | Dorado Lodge – Collpa de Loros – Shintuya Hot Springs – Atalaya Port – Cloud Forest
Very early, we will leave to visit a clay lick for parrots and macaws, where these birds descend to consume minerals present in the clay. With patience, we will be able to observe different species of parrots and macaws in one of the most characteristic natural spectacles of the Amazon.
Afterward, we will return to the lodge for breakfast and continue our journey by boat along the Alto Madre de Dios River. During the trip, we will make a stop at the Shintuya hot springs, where we will have the opportunity to relax in its thermal waters, depending on the conditions and availability of the place.
The next stop of the day will be the Port of Atalaya, where we will leave the boat and resume land transportation to the cloud forest. The change of scenery will once again be part of the experience: we will gradually move from the Amazon rainforest to mountains covered in vegetation.
Upon arriving at our accommodation in the cloud forest, we will have time to take a walk along the nearby trails and observe the diversity of flora and birds in this ecosystem.
Accommodation: Bambu Lodge / accommodation in the cloud forest.
DAY 6 | Cloud Forest – Paucartambo – Cusco
We will start the morning enjoying the natural surroundings of the cloud forest and the activity of the birds in the gardens of the accommodation. After breakfast, we will gather our belongings to begin the return journey to Cusco.
During the journey, we will cross the Andes again, enjoying the changes in scenery and making the scheduled stops. We will arrive in Paucartambo, where we will have time to have lunch before continuing our journey.
Finally, we will ascend to Cusco, culminating our journey from the Amazon to the Andes. We will arrive in the city in the afternoon and transfer you to your hotel, concluding this unforgettable six-day experience in Manu National Park.
Permits and entries guaranteed
Entry to Manu National Park:
We manage all the necessary permits and access to enter the different areas included in the program, including the Reserved Zone of Manu and its main natural attractions.
Entry to Cocha Salvador and Cocha Otorongo:
Access to these important attractions of the Reserved Zone, where we will carry out wildlife observation activities and jungle exploration.
Access to local enterprises:
Includes access to the local ventures included in the tour, such as the hummingbird and orchid garden.
Accompaniment and security
Professional bilingual guide (Spanish and English):
Accompaniment throughout the entire journey by a professional guide specialized in nature, culture, and Amazonian biodiversity.
First aid kit:
We have a basic first aid kit to handle any eventuality during activities and outings.
Rubber boots:
We provide rubber boots to make it easier to walk through trails and wet areas of the jungle.
24/7 customer service
Our attention will be available at all times, from start to finish in the adventure. We have an emergency number you can call whenever you need it.
Accommodation and comfort
5 nights of accommodation in lodges:
Accommodation for four nights at Dorado Lodge and Casa Matsiguenka, in double rooms subject to availability.
Meals (vegetarian at no extra charge)
6 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 5 dinners
6 snacks (mango, granadilla, banana, apple, orange, cookies, etc.)
Vegetarian options:
Vegetarian options can be requested for the main meals, with prior coordination at the time of booking.
Tourist transfers
Tourist transportation Cusco – Dorado Lodge:
Tourist transportation Dorado Lodge – Cusco:
Dorado Lodge – Casa Matsiguenka Vessel:
Boat Casa Matsiguenka – Dorado Lodge:
Experiences and activities included
Cloud Forest Exploration: Observe orchids, bromeliads, ferns, and a wide variety of birds as you descend from the Andes to the Amazon.
Observation of the cock-of-the-rock: Look for the national bird of Peru in its natural habitat in the San Pedro area, subject to the day's conditions.
Navigation on the Manu River: Venture into the Reserved Zone by navigating the Manu River, with opportunities to observe birds, monkeys, caimans, turtles, and other animals.
Matsiguenka Cultural Experience: Get to know the culture and way of life of this native community up close during your stay at Casa Matsiguenka.
Cocha Salvador by rowing catamaran: Explore one of the most important cochas in Manu and look for giant otters, caimans, and numerous species of birds.
Cocha Otorongo and observation tower: Climb a tower of approximately 20 meters to contemplate the jungle from the canopy and observe wildlife.
Jungle walks and night walk: Explore primary forests during the day and discover the nocturnal activity of the Amazon in search of frogs, insects, and other animals.
Clay Lick for Parrots and Macaws: Enjoy at dawn one of the most impressive natural spectacles of Manu, with numerous birds feeding at the clay lick.
What is not included?
Day 1: Breakfast.
Day 6: Lunch and dinner.
Travel insurance (Mandatory): For greater peace of mind during your trip, we recommend purchasing insurance that provides coverage for unforeseen events such as flight cancelations or delays, loss or delay of luggage, illnesses, accidents, trip interruptions, loss of tourist services due to delays, as well as medical assistance and personal protection throughout your entire adventure.
Tips: Optional.
Additional expenses due to causes beyond the agency's control: Adverse weather conditions, itinerary modifications for safety, illness, changes in government policy, political instability, strikes, or other similar circumstances.
Binocular rental
Enhance your observation experience and enjoy a closer view of birds, mammals, and other animals in their natural habitat.
Request your private experience
Enjoy greater flexibility, more time to explore, and an adventure tailored to your own pace, with more personalized attention throughout the journey.
Mandatory documents
Original and valid passport or national identity card.
Digital copy of your document, recommended as a backup.
Recommended luggage
Small or medium backpack of 20 to 30 liters, to carry your personal items during excursions.
Moderate-sized main luggage, avoiding unnecessary items.
Waterproof bag or airtight bags to protect clothes, documents, and electronic equipment from rain and humidity.
Reusable water bottle.
Clothing and footwear
Lightweight, comfortable, and quick-drying clothing for the warm and humid climate of the Amazon.
Long pants and long-sleeve shirts to protect yourself during hikes.
Waterproof jacket or rain poncho.
A warm garment for the first day, especially during the tour through the highlands and the cloud forest.
Hat or cap for the sun.
Sunglasses with protection.
Change of clothes and extra underwear.
Swimsuit, optional according to your preferences.
Comfortable and waterproof footwear for walks.
Personal items
Sunscreen.
Insect repellent.
Personal medication.
Basic personal first aid kit.
Toilet paper and wet wipes.
Hand sanitizer.
Additional snacks, optional.
Cash in soles and small bills for personal purchases, crafts, and local products.
Personal hygiene items.
Equipment and extras
Camera or cell phone.
Binoculars, highly recommended for bird and wildlife watching.
Portable charger / power bank.
Headlamp or handheld flashlight for the night hike.
Waterproof protector for cell phone or camera.
Hermetic bags to protect electronic equipment from moisture.
IMPORTANT CONSIDERATIONS
Wear lightweight, waterproof, and quick-drying clothing due to the humid and variable weather.
Protect your belongings from rain and humidity with waterproof bags.
Cell phone signal is limited or non-existent in much of the route.
Always respect nature and follow the guide's instructions during wildlife observation.
What is the difficulty level of the Manu tour?
The program has a moderate difficulty. It does not require trekking experience, but it includes walks on natural trails, forest tours, and activities lasting several hours, so a basic level of physical fitness is recommended.
What is the best time to visit Manu?
The recommended season to visit the Manu National Park is from April to November, although the program can be carried out at different times of the year. The Amazonian climate is variable and rain may occur during the tour.
What temperature will I find during the trip?
Temperatures vary by area: they can drop to approximately 5 °C in the highlands and reach around 30–32 °C in the jungle, with high humidity.
What should I bring for the tour?
It is recommended to bring lightweight and quick-drying clothing, long-sleeved pants and shirts, insect repellent, sunscreen, a rain poncho, a hat, a flashlight, a reusable water bottle, personal medications, a camera, and binoculars.
Do I need to bring trekking boots?
It is advisable to wear comfortable footwear for transfers and walks. Rubber boots for jungle activities are included in the program.
Is it necessary to bring binoculars?
It is not mandatory, but they are highly recommended for observing birds, monkeys, and other animals from a distance. You can also request binocular rental as an additional service.
How long does it take to travel from Cusco to Manu?
The journey from Cusco to the heart of Manu is done in stages and is part of the adventure. The first day we will travel approximately 10 to 12 hours by tourist transport. The next day we will continue by boat along the Alto Madre de Dios River and the Manu River for approximately 6 hours, until we reach the Reserved Zone and the Matsiguenka House.
How long does it take to navigate by boat on the Manu River?
The navigation between the Dorado Lodge and the Matsiguenka House takes approximately 6 hours each way, depending on the river conditions and the weather.
Is boating safe?
Yes. The navigations are carried out accompanied by the team responsible for the program and following the conditions and recommendations established for the protected area. The itinerary may be adjusted if river or weather conditions require it.
What animals can I observe during the tour?
The Manu offers opportunities to observe giant otters, caimans, monkeys, macaws, parrots, toucans, capybaras, birds, and other species. There is also the possibility of encountering larger wildlife, but sightings are natural and cannot be guaranteed.
Is it guaranteed to see jaguars, giant otters, or cock-of-the-rocks?
No. They are wild animals, and their observation depends on natural factors such as climate, behavior, season, and location of each species. The guide will conduct the search and responsible observation during the activities.
What is the visit to Cocha Salvador like?
The visit is conducted on a rowing catamaran, allowing for a peaceful exploration of the lagoon and the search for giant otters, caimans, birds, and other species without disturbing the environment.
What is done at Cocha Otorongo?
Activities are carried out to explore the forest, and there is access to an observation tower approximately 20 meters high, from where it is possible to view the forest from the canopy and look for wildlife.
Is the night walk included?
Yes. The program includes a night walk, depending on the weather conditions and the safety of the route. It is an opportunity to look for frogs, insects, spiders, reptiles, and other nocturnal species.
What are the accommodations like during the tour?
The program includes 5 nights of accommodation in lodges, including Dorado Lodge and Casa Matsiguenka. The accommodation is of Amazonian style and offers an integrated experience with the natural environment. The rooms are between double and quadruple depending on availability.
What are the rooms like at Casa Matsiguenka?
Casa Matsiguenka offers bungalows for guests, generally in double rooms, with private or shared bathrooms depending on availability. It is a nature accommodation, so we recommend not expecting the same conditions as a conventional hotel.
Is food included? Are there vegetarian options?
Yes. The program includes 6 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 5 dinners, and snacks during the tour.
Vegetarian options can be requested in advance at no additional cost.
Is there drinking water during the tour?
Yes, the program includes water during the trip. We also recommend bringing a reusable bottle to maintain good hydration during the activities.
Is there cell phone and internet signal during the tour?
The signal is limited or nonexistent in most of the Reserved Zone. It is recommended to inform family or contacts before starting the trip and to take advantage of areas with connectivity when available.
What happens if I feel unwell during the trip?
Passenger safety is a priority. The guide has a first aid kit and will assess any discomfort during the activities. If necessary, the appropriate assistance will be coordinated according to the location and the conditions at the time.
Can I perform the Manu in private service?
Yes. You can request a private service to enjoy greater flexibility, more time for wildlife observation, and a travel pace tailored to your group.
Can I visit Manu if I'm not a trekking enthusiast?
Yes. This program is not a long-distance trek. The experience combines land transportation, navigation, wildlife observation, and exploratory walks, so you can enjoy the Amazon without having to undertake a demanding hike all day long.
What is the reservation process like?
Step 1: Check availability
Write to us at info@sakuraexpedition.com to check the availability for the date you wish to travel. Our team will guide you on the program and the included services.
Step 2: Passenger Information
To manage your reservation, we will request the necessary information from each participant, as it appears on their travel document:
Full name
Passport or identity document number
Date of birth
Nationality
Gender
Step 3: Payment and Confirmation
Once availability is confirmed, we will send you the corresponding payment instructions. Once the required payment is received, we will proceed with the management and confirmation of the program services.
Step 4: Final Confirmation
Once the services are confirmed, you will receive the official confirmation of your reservation with the details of your trip. At that moment, your reservation will be guaranteed 100%.
Can I cancel the tour and request a refund of my deposit?
Unfortunately, no. Due to the program being scheduled in advance, the deposit or guarantee paid to confirm the reservation is non-refundable and non-transferable.
We recommend consulting with your sales executive about the specific cancelation conditions and deadlines applicable to your reservation before making any modifications.
Can I leave my luggage at your office?
Of course! During the trip, your main luggage can be stored at our office or at your hotel, both free of charge.
Why choose Sakura Expedition for your trip?
At Sakura Expedition, we believe that traveling is not just about visiting a destination, but about living an authentic experience that will stay in your memory forever. For this reason, we design each of our programs with small groups, personalized attention, and a deep respect for the culture, nature, and communities of Peru.
Our commitment is to accompany you from the moment of your reservation until the end of your trip, providing you with professional, safe, and carefully organized service so that you can enjoy each experience with complete peace of mind.
What sets us apart?
Small groups
Enjoy a more comfortable, personalized experience with greater attention from our guides.
Own operation and local team
We directly coordinate our own programs, this way we have control to maintain high standards of quality, punctuality, and organization.
Certified professional guides
Our team shares their work with passion, in history, culture, and the traditions of Peru, making each tour a memorable experience.
Personalized attention
We accompany you from the beginning of your reservation, during, and after your trip, offering continuous assistance and timely responses to your inquiries.
Responsible and sustainable tourism
We promote responsible tourism together with our allied communities, respecting their traditions and contributing to the sustainable development of local families.
Commitment to safety
We work with safety protocols, appropriate equipment, and trained personnel to offer you a more peaceful experience.
Local company with tourism quality certification
We are a 100% local and Peruvian company, based in Cusco. Our commitment to excellence has allowed us to obtain this year the CALTUR Gold Certification, the highest recognition for tourism quality in Peru.
Our commitment
At Sakura Expedition, we don't just organize trips; we create authentic experiences that connect our travelers with the history, culture, nature, and essence of Peru.
