Manu Park Express (Cultural Zone) 3D/2N
The Manu Park Express Cultural Zone 3 Days / 2 Nights is the perfect adventure for travelers who want to experience the incredible biodiversity of Manu National Park in a short time. This journey crosses the Andes and the spectacular Cloud Forest before reaching the Amazon rainforest.
Highlights include Ajanaco at 3500 m / 11,483 ft, Pillcopata, Atalaya, the beautiful Machuwasi Lake, and a fascinating parrot clay lick. Visitors will enjoy wildlife observation, river navigation, rainforest walks and optional night excursions.
With an easy difficulty level, comfortable lodge accommodation and excellent opportunities to observe birds, monkeys and other Amazon wildlife, this tour is ideal for nature lovers.
Important Information:
From December to March, heavy rains may cause itinerary changes due to weather conditions, landslides or river level increases.
Itinerary
Cloud Forest and Pillcopata
Pickup begins at 05:30 hrs from your hotel in Cusco. We travel through the Andes, visiting the ancient Ninamarca Chullpas before reaching Ajanaco at 3500 m / 11,483 ft, the gateway to Manu National Park.
We then descend through the spectacular Cloud Forest, home to orchids, giant ferns and abundant wildlife. If lucky, we may spot the famous Andean Cock-of-the-Rock. Arrival at our lodge in Pillcopata in the late afternoon.
Day details
Atalaya and Machuwasi Lake
After breakfast, enjoy an optional wildlife walk before traveling to Atalaya Port. From there, a boat ride takes us to our lodge in the Amazon rainforest.
In the afternoon we explore Machuwasi Lake on traditional rafts, searching for hoatzins, monkeys, reptiles, capybaras and many bird species. After dinner, an optional night walk reveals the fascinating nocturnal life of the jungle.
Day details
Parrot Clay Lick and Return to Cusco
Early in the morning we visit a parrot clay lick, where colorful parrots gather to feed on mineral-rich clay. This is one of the most rewarding wildlife experiences of the tour.
After breakfast we return by boat to Atalaya and continue by road to Cusco. Arrival is expected between 17:00 and 19:00 hrs.
Day details
Inclusions
PACKAGE INCLUDES:
- Transportation by minivan/van and boat.
- Professional and experienced guide.
- Boat driver, crew member, and cook.
- 3 meals per day: breakfasts, lunches, and dinners as specified in the itinerary (vegetarian or vegan options available upon request).
- 2 nights at the selected lodge.
- Drinking water at the lodge.
- Safety equipment.
- Rubber boots.
PACKAGE DOES NOT INCLUDE:
- Services not mentioned.
- First breakfast and dinner on the last day.
- Alcoholic beverages, soft drinks, juices, or sodas.
- Entrance tickets to the Hummingbird Garden and the Animal Rescue Center.
Before Traveling
OTHER IMPORTANT INFORMATION:
- It is very important to read the itinerary carefully to understand the activities included and follow the recommendations. Please also share this itinerary with the members of your group so they are aware of the day-by-day schedule.
- Please note that this is an adventure activity, so the itinerary may change due to force majeure or external circumstances. There may also be insects (for those with entomophobia) and wild animals.
- For this Express option, the Yellow Fever vaccination is not mandatory (however, you may choose to get vaccinated in advance if you wish).
- December through March is the rainy season, so this tour is not highly recommended during these months due to landslides, rising river levels, heavy rainfall, and other weather-related conditions.
- Prices are per person.
- Tours begin with hotel pick-up and end with drop-off at your hotel.
- A minimum of 2 passengers is required to make a reservation.
- A NO SHOW (non-refundable) applies to passengers who fail to appear on the scheduled date or who wish to cancel the services after the minimum cancellation deadline.
- The tour price does not include travel insurance.
Important
- Electricity is available from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM (powered by a generator).
- There are electrical outlets in the dining area for charging devices.
- The showers have cold water only.
- Cell phone coverage is available with Claro and Movistar.
- Start and end times are approximate and may vary depending on the group's pace and decisions.
- There are no electrical outlets in the rooms.
- There are no fans in the rooms.
- There is no Wi-Fi connection.
Packing List
Essential
Passport
Medications
Extra money
Water bottle
Sunscreen
Insect repellent
Personal hygieneClothing
Trekking pants
Rain poncho
Thermal jacket
Sun hat
Rain jacket
Long sleeve shirts
UV sunglasses
Hiking socksEquipment
Day backpackRecommended
Snacks / energy bars
Power bank
Flashlight
Towel
Swimsuit
CameraTHINGS TO BRING: Please note that these items are very important!
- Bring a backpack with only the essentials.
- Water bottle or reusable water container.
- Mosquito repellent (40% DEET).
- Binoculars (optional).
- Sunscreen and sunglasses.
- Flashlight with extra batteries.
- Binoculars (recommended – optional).
- Portable charger (power bank).
- Personal medications and antibiotics (it is recommended to bring medication for diarrhea, infections, or pain, just as a precaution).
- Extra cash.
- Clothing for cool and humid mornings.
- Rain gear / waterproof clothing.
- Swimwear, towel, and sandals.
- Hat.
- Long-sleeved shirts and long pants in neutral colors.
- Long socks.
- Personal hygiene items.


