MANU CULTURAL ZONE 3 days
On this Manu Cultural Zone 3 days tour, we leave Cusco early and cross the Andes to the cloud forest. On the way, we stop in Paucartambo, a colonial village. As we descend, the forest reveals its diverse wildlife. In the afternoon, we watch the Cock-of-the-Rock’s courtship display.
The next day, we take a bus to Atalaya and board a motorized canoe on the Alto Madre de Dios River. A quiet lake offers views of birds, monkeys, and fish. Later, we return to Atalaya and visit an orchid and colibri garden with colorful flowers and birds. We spend the night at Posada San Pedro.
On our final day, we explore the cloud forest at sunrise. With luck, we see more wildlife before returning to Cusco.
ITINERARY
Day 1: Cusco – Cloud Forest – Manu Cultural Zone
We leave Cusco early in the morning and drive through the Andes, passing its highest point of over 4000 meters above sea level. In Paucartambo, a charming colonial town, we stop to explore its historic streets and have breakfast. The road then climbs to Ajanaco, the highest point of the Manu Biosphere Reserve at 3500 meters above sea level. From here, we descend into the lush cloud forest.
Trees are covered in clouds of mist, covering a world of diverse plants and colorful birds. The forest echoes with the calls of toucans, tanagers, and oropendolas. In the afternoon, we take a guided hike to the lek of Peru’s national bird, the Cock-of-the-Rock, as it performs its unique courtship dance. Along the way, we may also spot Woolly or Capuchin monkeys moving through the treetops.
We spend the night at Posada San Pedro Lodge, where we enjoy dinner before resting.
Day 2: Lowland Forest
At daybreak, we continue our journey by bus toward the tropical lowland rainforest. The road winds through lush-green landscapes, revealing the dense beauty of the Manu Cultural zone. By mid-morning, we reach Atalaya, a small village at 650 meters above sea level. Here, we board a motorized canoe and navigate the fast-moving Alto Madre de Dios River.
After 20 minutes on the water and a 40 minutes walk, we arrive at one of the very few lakes on the Alto Madre de Dios River. Floating on small traditional balsa rafts, we observe the incredible variety of rainforest birds. The clear water reveals colorful fish, and monkeys often move through the trees around the lake.
In the late afternoon, we boat back up the Alto Madre de Dios River to Atalaya. On the way back to the cloud forest by bus, we visit a beautiful orchid and colibri garden that introduces us to unique and vibrantly colored flowers and birds. We spend the night again at Posada San Pedro, surrounded by nature.
Day 3: Cloud Forest – Cusco
Early in the morning, the forest is full of birdsongs and rustling leaves. A final walk offers one last chance to see monkeys, butterflies, and other wildlife. Manu Cultural Zone always has something new to discover.
After breakfast, we begin the journey back to Cusco, following roads through the forest and mountain landscapes. By late afternoon, we arrive in the city with lasting memories of Manu’s beauty.
INCLUSIONS
✅ Naturalist guide (English and Spanish).
✅Private road transportation (Cusco – Posada San Pedro – Port of Atalaya – Posada San Pedro – Cusco).
✅Private boat excursion on the Alto Madre de Dios River.
✅ Accommodation in Posada San Pedro Lodge.
✅ All meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner).
✅ Unlimited drinking water and warm beverages (tea, coffee, lemonade).
✅ Guided hikes and night walks in the rainforest and cloud forest.
✅ Excursions as described in the programs.
✅ Visit to an orchid and colibri sanctuary in the cloud forest.
✅ Guide book: Talking About Manu.
EXCLUSIONS
❌ Soft drinks, bottled water, and alcoholic beverages
❌ Personal expenses (snacks, souvenirs, laundry, phone calls)
❌ Travel insurance (highly recommended)
❌ Binoculars (recommended for wildlife spotting)
❌ Tips for guides, cooks, boat crew, and lodge staff (optional but appreciated).
IMPORTANT THINGS TO KNOW
🌿Nature can be unpredictable: Weather, river levels, and other natural factors may change our program at any time. Flexibility is key to enjoying this adventure.
🌿You visit a remote and untouched rainforest: The Manu Cultural Zone is an isolated region of the Amazon. This has preserved its ecosystems, offering an authentic wildlife experience. Traveling here involves long journeys by bus and boat, but the reward is breathtaking landscapes and exceptional biodiversity.
🌿 Immersive jungle experience: Expect rustic accommodations but comfortable with close contact with nature. This adventure is ideal for those seeking an authentic Amazon experience.
Tour Information & Pricing
At Pantiacolla, we strive to offer you the best experience while adapting to global cost fluctuations. To provide you with the most up-to-date pricing, we kindly invite you to contact us.
Email us or Call us, and we’ll be happy to assist you with current rates and any additional information you may need. We look forward to helping you plan your adventure in the heart of the Amazon!.
