MANU CULTURAL ZONE 5 days
We explore the cloud forest, Manu Cultural Zone, and Alto Madre de Dios River on a 5-day journey through diverse ecosystems. Traveling from Cusco, we cross the Andes into the cloud forest. There, we watch the Cock-of-the-Rock perform its courtship dance and spend the night in a jungle lodge.
By boat, we navigate the Alto Madre de Dios River, surrounded by lush rainforest and towering mountains. At Cocha Machuhuasi, we paddle across the lake on wooden rafts, searching for birds and caimans. In Pantiacolla Lodge, we walk forest trails, spotting monkeys, toucans, and peccaries. A clay lick reveals colorful parrots and the rare blue-headed macaw.
Relax in the hot springs of Shintuya, then return through the cloud forest. On the way, visit an orchid sanctuary. Take a final morning walk in the rainforest before traveling back to Cusco.
ITINERARY
Day 1: Cusco – Cloud Forest- Manu Cultural Zone
We leave Cusco early by private transportation, crossing the Andes towards the Manu Biosphere Reserve. Along the way, we stop for breakfast in the colonial town of Paucartambo. We reach the highest point of our journey at 4,000 meters above sea level, before descending into the lush cloud forest. Here, a rich ecosystem surrounds us, home to orchids, bromeliads, and ferns.
In the afternoon, we take a guided hike to the lek of the Cock-of-the-Rock, performing its unique courtship dance. Along the way, we may also see Woolly or Capuchin monkeys moving through the trees.
We spend the night at Posada San Pedro Lodge, where we enjoy dinner before resting.
Day 2: Cloud Forest – Cocha Machuhuasi – Pantiacolla Lodge
At dawn, we continue by private bus toward the tropical lowlands. From Atalaya, a small village 650 meters above sea level, we continue by motorized canoe. We navigate for about 30 minutes down the fast Alto Madre de Dios River. We can see river birds and maybe squirrel monkeys, capybara or deer taking a peek at us from the green jungle walls.
We stop at one of the few lakes along the Alto Madre de Dios River. Cocha Machuhuasi is a quiet place surrounded by nature. We explore the lake on traditional wooden rafts, spotting colorful birds, tropical fish, and caimans by the shore.
Later, we continue our journey deeper into the jungle, navigating toward Pantiacolla Lodge. Nestled at the foot of the Pantiacolla Mountain Range, this will be our residence for the next two days.
Day 3: Clay Lick – Monk Saki Trail or Petroleo Stream Excursion
At dawn, we travel by boat to a clay lick, where dozens of parrots and macaws gather. The colorful birds create an unforgettable spectacle as they feed on the mineral-rich clay. Their loud calls echo through the jungle.
Later, we hike into the Pantiacolla Mountain Range to explore the Petroleo Stream. This area features small natural oil wells and bubbling hot springs. The warm, mineral-rich water offers a relaxing experience.
In the afternoon, we walk along lowland trails with higher chances of spotting wildlife. We may encounter tapirs, tamanduas, or even a jaguar. After dinner, we visit Ranacocha (Frog Lake), where amphibians create a nocturnal symphony. We spend the night in Pantiacolla Lodge.
Day 4: Hot Springs – Cloud Forest
After an early morning jungle walk, we board our boat and head to the hot springs of Shintuya. The steaming waters provide a perfect opportunity to relax and enjoy the natural surroundings.
We continue upriver to Atalaya, where we switch to our vehicle and ascend back into the cloud forests. Along the way, we stop at a unique orchid sanctuary, home to rare and vibrant species.
As the day ends, we settle back into Posada San Pedro Lodge. Here, we take a final evening walk to experience the forest’s transition from day to night.
Day 5: Cloud Forest – Cusco
We start the day with a quiet morning walk, listening to the calls of toucans and howler monkeys. The misty air carries the scent of fresh vegetation.
After breakfast, we drive back to Cusco, crossing the stunning landscapes of the Manu Biosphere. Along the way, we reflect on the incredible experiences of the past five days. We arrive in the city by late afternoon, marking the end of our unforgettable days tour.
INCLUSIONS
✅ Naturalist guide (English and Spanish).
✅ Private road transportation (Cusco – Cloud Forest – Port of Atalaya – Cloud Forest – Cusco).
✅ Private boat transportation (Port of Atalaya – Pantiacolla Lodge – Shintuya Hot Springs – Port of Atalaya).
✅ Accommodation in lodges (Posada San Pedro & Pantiacolla 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.
✅ Boat excursion on Cocha Machuhuasi using traditional wooden rafts.
✅ Exploration of the cloud forest, Manu Cultural Zone, and Alto Madre de Dios River
✅ Excursions to a clay lick to observe parrots and macaws.
✅ Wildlife spotting (monkeys, caimans, otters, macaws, peccaries, and possibly jaguars)
✅ Relaxing bath in the Shintuya Hot Springs.
✅ Visit to an orchid and colibrí sanctuary.
✅Rubber boots for jungle hikes.
✅First aid kit with essential supplies.
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 will visit a remote and untouched rainforest: The Manu Cultural Zone is a pristine region of the Amazon. Its isolation 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!
