4 DAYS
FROM $ 495
Expedition Type
Activity Level
Service Level
CASUAL
Or call +51 979718679
Manu Adventurer is an expedition of scenic drama and striking contrasts. Explore a mountain wetland habitat teeming with migrant and local waterfowl, before crossing two mountain ranges between the Cusco and the Paucartambo valley. Admire a breathtaking panorama of cloud forest and mountain giving way to the lowland rainforest plains far below us, while you have a delicious picnic lunch. Descend through the startling and rapid environmental transformations characteristic of the tropical Andes, passing through a lush and magical world of overhanging trees, giant ferns, monster begonias, countless orchids and bromeliads, and a diverse and teeming birdlife.
Depart Cusco after breakfast to the first destination in the lush elfin forest region where the Andes fall away to the Amazon basin. Explore a mountain wetland habitat teeming with migrant and local waterfowl, before crossing two mountain ranges between the Cusco and the Paucartambo valley. Take leisurely stops to see mountain villages, a hilltop necropolis of chullpas (pre-Inca burial chambers), and the abrupt ridgetop of Ajanaco, which marks the final high point where the Andes begin their swoop into the Amazon basin. Admire a breathtaking panorama of cloud forest and mountain giving way to the lowland rainforest plains far below us, while you have a delicious picnic lunch. Travel down into the misty cloud forests of San Pedro, following a sinuous ribbon of road on its plunge through an extraordinary world of forested cliffs, waterfalls and gorges. Make frequent spontaneous stops, perhaps spotting a brilliantly feathered quetzal, a trogon, or the wild turkey-like Guan.
Take a secluded nature walk on the road, scouting for birds, and perhaps capuchin monkey or woolly monkey. After breakfast we continue driving, as mountains give way to low rolling hills and farmland. Now the lowland rainforest part of our journey begins. Rivers are the highways of the rainforest, and henceforth we will travel in large, comfortable dugout canoes shaded by canopy roofs and driven by powerful outboard motors. On arrival at the lodge have lunch and spend the afternoon explore the local trail system, before relaxing at the lodge to the sounds of rainforest. Whilst staying at the lodge guests will have the opportunity to learn about the human history of Manu and the challenges conserving this beautiful and fragile environment. Spend the evening relaxing while watching the sunset over the Amazon.
Rise and shine! early today for our main activity in this part of the Amazon, the Macaw clay-lick. Spend the day exploring the thriving ecosystems of the rainforest with your naturalist guide. Later, we visit and explore Machuwasi oxbow-lake, which harbors amazing bird species, such as the prehistoric hoatzin, kingfishers, flycatchers, and much more. This evening, follow your Naturalist into the forest to seek out the fascinating nocturnal creatures that spring to life after the sun goes down, from red-eyed tree frogs to spiny porcupines.
Travel out of the rainforest by boat to Atalaya village, then, head back to Cusco as your Amazon experience comes to an end. Upon arrival, connect with your flight home or consider extending your holiday.
In keeping with the nature of an expedition, we keep our schedule flexible to take advantage of the unexpected, adapting our course to the conditions and opportunities that arise. Your Expedition experience can be tailored to the activity level you choose, whether it’s light or moderate or a little of both. Travelers should be in good health, comfortable walking or standing for extended periods of time and over uneven surfaces, and able to get in and out of unstable expedition landing craft. Daily activities may include easy hikes, walking tours, and visits to cultural or historic sites, with options for more physical activities such as longer hikes, dependant on conditions. All departures are family friendly.
Accommodations
Throughout the expedition, you’ll stay in accommodations selected for their exceptional quality, location, and character.
Expedition Team
A Natventure Expert will accompany you throughout the expedition, as described in the itinerary.
Shared Services
Please note that the activities at Manu Lodge may be a shared service with others outside your travel pod.
MY OWN ROOM
During your expedition, sometimes it´s just more convenient and comfortable to have your own room (only for hotel stay). That´s why we offer the «My own room» option – a single room all to yourself.
My own room option: from $ 985