Traveling to the Manu Rainforest is a unique experience, but to enjoy it fully and safely, it’s essential to be well prepared. In this guide, we present what to pack for Manu National Park Peru, based on practical and real-world recommendations. Be sure to review this list before you depart, and enjoy your adventure in one of the most biodiverse places on Earth.
High-Quality Binoculars
Wildlife and bird watching in Manu can be challenging without a good pair of binoculars. While you can rent them in Cusco, the quality is often limited. If possible, bring your own from home to make the most of your wildlife sightings.
Flashlight and Spare Batteries
A reliable flashlight is essential for walking around the lodges at night or for night walks. Bring extra or rechargeable batteries, as electricity in the lodges is available for only a few hours per day through generators.
Small Day Pack
A small backpack is ideal for hikes and daily excursions. Make sure it’s comfortable and moisture-resistant.
Protection Against Rain and Humidity
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- Plastic bags: Use them inside your backpack to keep your belongings dry.
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- Rain jacket or poncho: Rain is common and can be quite heavy in both the cloud forest and the lowland jungle.
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- Light warm clothing: Temperatures can drop to 10 °C (50 °F), especially in the Andes or during a «friaje» (cold spell) between May and August.
Clothing for Insects and Climate
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- Long pants, long-sleeved shirts, and high socks: These will protect you from mosquitoes and other insects, especially in the Reserved Zone.
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- T-shirts and shorts: Useful in areas with fewer insects like the cloud forest or at Pantiacolla Lodge.
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- Swimsuit: Swimming is only allowed in the Alto Madre de Dios River and in the hot springs (on 5- or 9-day tours).
Appropriate Footwear
A pair of waterproof hiking boots is essential. Also bring light shoes or sandals for use in the lodges or showers.
Sun and Insect Protection
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- Sunhat, sunglasses, and sunscreen: Essential, especially during boat rides.
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- Insect repellent with at least 35% DEET: Hard to find in Cusco, so it’s best to bring it from home.
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- After-bite treatment: Useful for relieving discomfort from mosquito bites and other insects.
Other Important Items
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- Toilet paper: Available at the lodges, but bring one roll for travel days.
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- Reusable water bottle: Fill it for the first day of travel; you can refill it at the lodges.
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- Copy of your passport: Do not bring the original to protect it from humidity.
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- Vaccination records: A copy of your yellow fever vaccination (not required but strongly recommended) and tetanus vaccination (optional).
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- Malaria medication: Although malaria is a rare disease in Manu, taking a malaria prophylaxis is recommended. (Consult your doctor based on your itinerary.)
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- Cash in soles: Bring about S/250 in small bills to buy drinks, snacks, or souvenirs. (S/10 and S/20 bills are the most practical.)