Manu National Park Tour 5-Day: Manu Reserved Zone Expedition

Amazon 5 Days / 4 Nights

Availability Daily departures
Transport Hotel pickup
Languages Spanish, English
Service type Not specified
Cancellation policy Not specified
Maximum altitude 3,800 m (12,467 ft) — Acjanaco Pass m.s.n.m.

Summary
Itinerary
Inclusions
Recommendations
FAQs
Reviews
Inquire

About this activity

Itinerary

Day 01

Day 1: Cusco – Manu Reserved Zone

Departure from your Cusco hotel by private tourist transport, with a stop in Paucartambo and the ascent to Acjanaco Pass, the official entrance to Manu National Park. The route descends through dense cloud forest, then switches to a motorized boat at the port of Atalaya for a two-hour ride down the Madre de Dios River to the first jungle lodge, arriving in time for dinner.

Day 02

Day 2: Into the Manu Reserved Zone – Casa Matsiguenka Lodge

An early departure by boat continues along the Madre de Dios River before turning onto the Manu River, with a stop at the Limonal control post to present park permits. Watch for nesting herons, egrets, and caimans along the riverbanks. By afternoon, arrive at Casa Matsiguenka Lodge and take a short excursion to Cocha Otorongo, including a climb up a 20-metre canopy observation tower to spot giant otters.

Day 03

Day 3: Cocha Salvador and the Macaw Clay Lick

Canoeing across Cocha Salvador, one of the reserve's largest oxbow lakes, watching for giant river otters, capuchin monkeys, and herons. Continue on foot along forest trails in search of Manu's resident monkey species. In the afternoon, settle into a hide overlooking a macaw and parrot clay lick. Second night at Casa Matsiguenka.

Day 04

Day 4: Return Toward the Palotoa Ecological Reserve

The journey turns back downriver, with a stop at Cocha Blanco, another biodiversity-rich lagoon. By late afternoon, reach a second lodge bordering the rainforest near the Palotoa Ecological Reserve, with an optional night walk.

Day 05

Day 5: Return to Cusco

A final rainforest breakfast is followed by a motorized boat transfer to the port of Atalaya, where private transport departs for the return journey to Cusco, with a lunch stop along the way, arriving back by early evening.

What's included

Inclusions

Included
- Private transportation (Cusco – Manu – Cusco) and motorized boat transport along the rivers.
- Rubber boots for jungle terrain.
- Accommodation in jungle lodges (4 nights).
- Professional bilingual jungle guide.
- All meals as specified in the itinerary (vegetarian and vegan options available), plus snacks.
- Mineral water throughout the trip.
- First-aid kit.
- Entrance fees to the Manu Reserved Zone and applicable ecological reserves.
- Entrance fee to natural hot springs (where included in the itinerary).

What's Not Included

Not included
- International or domestic flights to/from Cusco.
- Travel insurance.
- Alcoholic beverages and drinks outside of meal times.
- Tips for guides and lodge staff.
- Personal expenses and souvenirs.
- Optional activities not listed in the itinerary.

Recommendations

Light, quick-dry clothing for hot, humid days, plus a lightweight rain jacket.
Long sleeves and comfortable trousers, a wide-brimmed hat, and high-SPF sunscreen.
Insect repellent with a high DEET concentration or a suitable natural alternative.
Trekking shoes or waterproof boots for wet, uneven trails.
Binoculars and a camera for the reserve's exceptional wildlife-viewing opportunities.
A headlamp with spare batteries for evenings and night walks.
Consider altitude sickness precautions before departing Cusco.
Cash in Peruvian soles — no ATMs once inside the jungle.
Biodegradable toiletries to help protect this fragile ecosystem.
Stay quiet at clay licks and lake viewpoints.

Frequently Asked Questions

How difficult is this Manu National Park tour?

The trip is rated easy to moderate, combining boat travel with short-to-moderate hikes, accessible to most travelers including children from around 2 years old with supervision.

What is the difference between the Manu Reserved Zone and the Manu Cultural Zone?

The Core Zone is restricted to scientific researchers; the Reserved Zone is open to tourism with a permit (the focus of this tour); the Cultural Zone is where local communities live.

What wildlife can I expect to see on this tour?

Giant river otters, black and white caimans, several monkey species, herons, macaws, parrots, and — with patience and luck — jaguars along the riverbanks.

Do I need a permit to visit the Manu Reserved Zone?

Yes, checked at the Limonal control post, but this is arranged as part of your tour package.

Is altitude sickness a concern on this trip?

The first day briefly crosses high Andean terrain near Acjanaco Pass before descending into the Amazon basin — standard precautions like hydration and rest are recommended.

What's the best time of year for this tour?

The dry season, roughly May to October, offers easier access and generally better wildlife visibility.

Can I do a private version of this tour?

Yes, Go Xplore Peru offers private departures — reach out to our team for a personalized quote.

Can’t find the answer to your question?

Get in touch with the experts at Go Xplore Peru for your inquiry.

Ask a question