Manu National Park Fabulous 7D

Manu National Park Fabulous ,Departing from Cusco at 3,400m/11,150 ft, our journey unveils breathtaking landscapes as we transition from the Andean highlands to the lush cloud forest of the Amazon basin.

We explore a mountain wetland abundant with migratory and local bird species before traversing two mountain ranges, reaching an altitude peak of 3,900m/12,790ft. Descending through forested cliffs and cascading waterfalls, we pause to admire mountain villages, ancient burial chambers, and panoramic vistas.

Amidst the tropical Andean terrain, we encounter diverse flora and fauna, from grasslands to towering trees adorned with orchids and bromeliads.

Our leisurely stops offer glimpses of vibrant birdlife, including quetzals and trogons. Arriving at the Cock- of-the-Rock Lodge, we witness Peru's iconic national bird, the Cock-of-the-Rock, at its mesmerizing display ground. (Box Lunch, D)

Manu National Park Fabulous, We start early, seeking birds and monkeys along the road or opting for a secluded nature walk.

After breakfast, our journey transitions from mountains to rolling hills and farmland. Visiting a legitimate coca plantation at Patria, we then reach Atalaya, where our venture into the lowland rainforest begins. Traveling by comfortable canoes along the river, we marvel at diverse bird species and vibrant foliage along the way.

Turning northward into the lower Manu National Park, we enter pristine forests devoid of external development. Checking in at Limonal ranger station, we head upstream to Romero Lodge, enveloped by the forest's nocturnal symphony. As night falls, tinamous' calls yield to the shrill chorus of cicadas. (B, Box Lunch, D)

Manu National Park Fabulous
In the morning, we continue our trip to the Manu Tented Camp, as our boat driver steers skillfully through shallows and driftwood snags.

Orinoco Geese and Horned Screamers strut on the beaches, Capped and White-necked Herons patrol the shoreline, and countless sunbathing turtles dive off their log perches as we approach.

After some four hours on the river we reach the Manu Park Wildlife Center, a simple but comfortable low-impact lodge nestled almost invisibly in the forest.

Time permitting, we will take a short walk before dinner to stretch our legs and enjoy our first encounter with virgin rainforest. (B,Box Lunch,D)

Manu National Park Fabulous
Today, we explore two lakes near our Manu Park Wildlife Center. Our journey to Cocha Otorongo begins downstream, offering chances for thrilling wildlife encounters along the way. Along the trail, we might glimpse some of the park’s 13 monkey species swinging through the canopy.

Towering trees like kapok and ironwood will impress with their size and root systems. These oxbow lakes are havens for diverse wildlife, including caimans and the endangered Giant Otter. While boats are restricted, a 50ft tower provides an ideal vantage point to observe monkeys, kingfishers, and more. We have a good chance of spotting the resident Giant Otter family, known for their daily fish hunts.

Cocha Salvador, the largest lake, houses another Giant Otter family. Cruising on a floating platform, we gain new perspectives of the lake and surrounding forest. Monkeys swing from trees, macaws soar overhead, and herons scout the water's edge.

Caimans lurk beneath the surface, and we may catch glimpses of the elusive Giant Otters. Witnessing their playful antics or fishing endeavors is a remarkable experience in this pristine habitat. (B, L, D)

Manu National Park Fabulous
Departing at dawn, we embark downriver, maximizing our chances of wildlife sightings. Upon our return to the Limonal park station, we complete our wildlife report before exiting the park. As we navigate the tumultuous confluence of the Alto Madre de Dios and Manu rivers, Boca Manu village comes into view. Ninety minutes later, we reach the thrilling finale of our journey: Manu Wildlife Center, just in time for lunch.
After a brief afternoon siesta, we venture along the "collpa trail" to the lodge's renowned Tapir Clay Lick. Here, amidst the Amazon's most active tapir lick, 600-pound Tapirs indulge in a unique clay-rich snack. This clay serves to neutralize toxins in their vegetarian diet.

An elevated observation platform offers anunparalleled view, with each mattress adorned with fresh linens and surrounded by mosquito nets. The platform's sound- absorbing walkway ensures our silent approach.
While the patience required may challenge urban dwellers, the opportunity to witness these elusive creatures up close makes the wait worthwhile. Whether observing quietly or napping until the first Tapir arrives, the experience promises a rare glimpse into the Tapir's rainforest habitat. (B, L, D)

Manu National Park Fabulous
Another early start, typical for wildlife expeditions. After breakfast, we stroll to the Macaw Clay Lick , offering a hide with individual chairs and space for cameras, providing close-up views of scarlet Macaws. Then, we explore the lodge's trail system, returning for lunch.
In the afternoon, we delve deeper into the rainforest, wandering the lodge's trails. By late afternoon, we ascend the 34m Canopy Tower for a twilight spectacle in the rainforest canopy. Later, we embark on a boat excursion along the riverbank, seeking nocturnal creatures, weather permitting. (B, L, D)

Manu National Park Fabulous
We depart early for a 2.5-hour boat journey downstream to Colorado Village. Breakfast is served onboard or at the lodge, offering prime wildlife viewing. Along the river, we glimpse native settlements and gold miners. After reaching Colorado, we travel by road to Puerto Carlos, then cross the Inambari River by boat to Santa Rosa. Finally, a van or bus takes us to Puerto Maldonado Airport, concluding our
jungle adventure.