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Experience an immersive adventure in the heart of Manu National Park. This 5-day tour takes you from Cusco to reserved areas in the heart of the jungle, where you can explore unique landscapes, navigate pristine rivers, and visit the habitat of giant otters, monkeys, and exotic birds. The experience also includes living with a native community, jungle hikes, wildlife watching, and visits to collpas and natural gardens. An ideal journey for lovers of biodiversity, Amazonian culture, and conservation, allowing you to closely experience one of the most biodiverse places on the planet.
Why choose this experience?
Traditional experience: We know the route from Cusco to the Amazon and work with local staff to offer an authentic and well-organized tour.
Accompaniment throughout the entire trip: Our team accompanies you from Cusco to Manu, coordinating each stage of the journey, from transfers and accommodations to the various activities.
Nature and culture in a single experience: We not only explore the biodiversity of Manu, but we also approach the native communities and learn about their ways of life, respecting their culture and environment.
Small groups for a more personalized experience: Travel in groups of up to 12 passengers and enjoy a more comfortable, flexible, and peaceful journey.
Summary
Day 1 | Cusco – Manu Cloud Forest – Dorado Lodge
Cross the Acjanaco cloud forest and discover orchids, birds, and the iconic cock-of-the-rock.
Day 2 | Dorado Lodge – Manu Reserved Zone – Matsiguenka House
Sail along the Manu River and venture into the Reserved Zone to experience an authentic encounter with the Matsiguenka community.
Day 3 | Matsiguenka House – Cocha Salvador – Cocha Otorongo
Explore Cocha Salvador in search of giant otters and discover the jungle from the observation tower at Cocha Otorongo.
Day 4 | Matsiguenka House – Reserved Zone – Dorado Lodge
Return along the Manu River with new opportunities to observe wildlife and meet the Native Community of Diamante.
Day 5 | Dorado Lodge – Parrot and Macaw Clay Lick – Cusco
Observe hundreds of parrots and macaws at the collpa and say goodbye to the Amazon amidst nature and biodiversity.
General Technical Data
Walking activity:
Day 1: Short walks during stops and observation activities
Day 3: Exploration hike through the primary forest
Day 4: Night hike of variable duration
Maximum altitude:
High mountain zone: 4,000 m a.s.l. / 13,123 feet
Minimum altitude:
Dorado Lodge: 350 meters above sea level / 1,148 feet
Level of difficulty:
Moderate
Temperature:
Minimum: 5 °C / Maximum: 32 °C
Featured Places:
Acjanaco (Gateway to Manu): Cross this spectacular Andean pass and begin the descent into the cloud forest, where the landscape and biodiversity gradually change.
Cloud Forest of Manu: Discover an ecosystem of extraordinary biodiversity, with orchids, giant ferns, and numerous bird species, including the iconic cock-of-the-rock.
Upper Madre de Dios River: Sail through jungle landscapes and observe the transformation of the environment as you advance into the depths of Manu.
Manu River: Travel for several hours along this Amazonian river, with opportunities to observe birds and other animals on its beaches and shores.
Reserved Zone of Manu: Venture into one of the most biodiverse sectors of Manu National Park and enjoy an authentic nature experience.
Matsiguenka House: Share with native families and get to know their traditions, culture, and way of life up close in the heart of the Amazon.
Cocha Salvador: Explore the lake on a rowing catamaran and look for giant otters, herons, skimmers, macaws, and other species.
Cocha Otorongo: Climb a 20-meter observation tower to view the forest from the canopy and look for monkeys, caimans, and birds.
Native Community of Diamante: Get to know the community and support its local economy by purchasing crafts and traditional products.
Clay Lick of Parrots and Macaws: Witness the natural spectacle of these birds as they descend to the collpa to feed on minerals.
Hummingbird Garden: Enjoy observing different species of hummingbirds and discover the diversity of Amazonian birds.
From the Andes to the Amazon: 5 days to discover extraordinary landscapes, navigate the heart of Manu, delve into its incredible wildlife, and be part of an authentic experience with native communities.
Day 1: Cusco – Manu Cloud Forest – Dorado Lodge
The adventure begins with pickup from your hotel in Cusco between 5:00 a.m. and 5:30 a.m. to embark on an unforgettable journey to Manu National Park. On the way, we will visit the mysterious Chullpas of Ninamarca and the charming colonial town of Paucartambo, where history and tradition come to life.
We will continue to Acjanaco, the gateway to Manu, to descend through the magical cloud forest. During the journey, we will make stops to observe orchids, giant ferns, and a wide variety of birds, with the possibility of spotting the majestic cock-of-the-rock, the national bird of Peru.
In the afternoon, we will arrive at the town of Salvación, where we will switch vehicles to a 4x4 truck to continue along the Amazon route to the Dorado Lodge. After dinner, those who wish can join a night walk to discover amphibians and other fascinating species that come to life at nightfall.
Day 2: Dorado Lodge – Reserved Zone of Manu – Matsiguenka House
In the morning, very early, we boarded a boat to navigate the Alto Madre de Dios River.
Breakfast will also be on the boat as we head to the Limonal checkpoint, where the park rangers will welcome us to Manu National Park. During the journey, we will navigate surrounded by the dense jungle.
Afterward, we will continue sailing on the Manú River for almost 6 hours. In the afternoon, we will arrive at the Matsiguenka House, where we will live with native families in bungalows.
Dinner and overnight stay will be here.
Day 3: Matsiguenka House – Cocha Salvador – Cocha Otorongo
After breakfast, we explored Cocha Salvador, paddling in a catamaran. This lake is one of the highlights of Manu and home to the impressive giant otters, as well as birds like herons, skimmers, and macaws.
In the afternoon, we will visit Cocha Otorongo, where we will climb a 20-meter observation tower that allows us to appreciate the jungle from the canopy and observe caimans, monkeys, and other species. For the rest of the day, we will walk along primary forest trails, experiencing the magic of the jungle. We return to the accommodation for dinner and spend the second night at Casa Matsiguenka.
Day 4: Matsiguenka House – Exploration of the Reserved Area – Dorado Lodge
Very early, we will begin the return journey, navigating for about 6 hours again on the Manú River, with new opportunities to observe wildlife on the beaches and shores. After registering at the Limonal checkpoint, we will continue downstream with a stop at the Native Community of Diamante, where we can support the local economy by purchasing handicrafts and local products.
In the afternoon, we will arrive at the Dorado Lodge and after dinner, we will take a night walk in search of nocturnal wildlife. Upon returning, we will stay overnight at Dorado Lodge.
Day 5: Dorado Lodge – Collpa de Loros – Cusco
At dawn, we will visit the spectacular clay lick of parrots and macaws, a special place where these birds descend to feed on minerals that aid their digestion. After the activity, we will return to the lodge for breakfast and then board the 4×4 trucks to head back to Salvación. On the way, we will visit a hummingbird garden and make a stop in Pilcopata to taste juices and ice creams made from local fruits such as aguaje, pineapple, and cocona. From there, we will continue toward Cusco, concluding our adventure in the Manu National Reserve.
Permits and entries guaranteed
Entry to Manu National Park:
We manage all the necessary permits and access to enter the different areas included in the program, including the Reserved Zone of Manu and its main natural attractions.
Entry to Cocha Salvador and Cocha Otorongo:
Access to these important attractions of the Reserved Zone, where we will carry out wildlife observation activities and jungle exploration.
Access to local enterprises:
Includes access to the local ventures included in the tour, such as the hummingbird and orchid garden.
Accompaniment and security
Professional bilingual guide (Spanish and English):
Accompaniment throughout the entire journey by a professional guide specialized in nature, culture, and Amazonian biodiversity.
First aid kit:
We have a basic first aid kit to handle any eventuality during activities and outings.
Rubber boots:
We provide rubber boots to make it easier to walk through trails and wet areas of the jungle.
24/7 customer service
Our attention will be available at all times, from start to finish in the adventure. We have an emergency number you can call whenever you need it.
Accommodation and comfort
4 nights of accommodation in lodges:
Accommodation for four nights at Dorado Lodge and Casa Matsiguenka, in double rooms subject to availability.
Food (vegetarian at no extra charge)
5 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 4 dinners
5 snacks (mango, granadilla, banana, apple, orange, cookies, etc.)
Vegetarian options:
Vegetarian options can be requested for the main meals, with prior coordination at the time of booking.
Tourist transfers
Tourist transportation Cusco – Dorado Lodge:
Tourist transportation Dorado Lodge – Cusco:
Dorado Lodge – Casa Matsiguenka Vessel:
Boat Casa Matsiguenka – Dorado Lodge:
Experiences and activities included
Exploration of the Cloud Forest:
Tour through one of the most biodiverse ecosystems in Manu, with the possibility of observing birds, orchids, bromeliads, and other species.
Observation of the cock-of-the-rock:
Search for the national bird of Peru in the San Pedro area, depending on the conditions and behavior of the birds.
Navigation on the Manu River:
River journey of approximately 6 hours along the Manu River, with opportunities to observe wildlife on its banks and beaches.
Cocha Salvador by rowing catamaran:
Exploration of the lagoon in a rowing catamaran, with the possibility of observing giant otters, caimans, and various species of birds.
Cocha Otorongo and observation tower:
Visit to the lagoon and access to its observation tower of approximately 20 meters to contemplate the forest from the canopy.
Exploration hikes in primary forest:
Walks along Amazon rainforest trails to learn about the biodiversity and different ecosystems of Manu.
Night walk:
Nighttime exploration to search for amphibians, reptiles, arachnids, and other nocturnal species.
Visit to the Native Community of Diamante:
Stop at the community to learn about their products and crafts, directly contributing to the local economy.
What is not included?
Day 1: Breakfast.
Day 5: Lunch and dinner.
Travel insurance (Mandatory): For greater peace of mind during your trip, we recommend purchasing insurance that provides coverage for unforeseen events such as flight cancelations or delays, loss or delay of luggage, illnesses, accidents, trip interruptions, loss of tourist services due to delays, as well as medical assistance and personal protection throughout your entire adventure.
Tips: Optional.
Additional expenses due to causes beyond the agency's control: Adverse weather conditions, itinerary modifications for safety, illness, changes in government policy, political instability, strikes, or other similar circumstances.
Binocular rental
Enhance your observation experience and enjoy a closer view of birds, mammals, and other animals in their natural habitat.
Request your private experience
Enjoy greater flexibility, more time to explore, and an adventure tailored to your own pace, with more personalized attention throughout the journey.
Mandatory documents
Original and valid passport or national identity card.
Digital copy of your document, recommended as a backup.
Recommended luggage
Small or medium backpack of 20 to 30 liters, to carry your personal items during excursions.
Moderate-sized main luggage, avoiding unnecessary items.
Waterproof bag or airtight bags to protect clothes, documents, and electronic equipment from rain and humidity.
Reusable water bottle.
Clothing and footwear
Lightweight, comfortable, and quick-drying clothing for the warm and humid climate of the Amazon.
Long pants and long-sleeve shirts to protect yourself during hikes.
Waterproof jacket or rain poncho.
A warm garment for the first day, especially during the tour through the highlands and the cloud forest.
Hat or cap for the sun.
Sunglasses with protection.
Change of clothes and extra underwear.
Swimsuit, optional according to your preferences.
Comfortable and waterproof footwear for walks.
Personal items
Sunscreen.
Insect repellent.
Personal medication.
Basic personal first aid kit.
Toilet paper and wet wipes.
Hand sanitizer.
Additional snacks, optional.
Cash in soles and small bills for personal purchases, crafts, and local products.
Personal hygiene items.
Equipment and extras
Camera or cell phone.
Binoculars, highly recommended for bird and wildlife watching.
Portable charger / power bank.
Headlamp or handheld flashlight for the night hike.
Waterproof protector for cell phone or camera.
Hermetic bags to protect electronic equipment from moisture.
IMPORTANT CONSIDERATIONS
Wear lightweight, waterproof, and quick-drying clothing due to the humid and variable weather.
Protect your belongings from rain and humidity with waterproof bags.
Cell phone signal is limited or non-existent in much of the route.
Always respect nature and follow the guide's instructions during wildlife observation.
What is the difficulty level of the Manu tour?
The program has a moderate difficulty. It does not require trekking experience, but it includes walks on natural trails, forest tours, and activities lasting several hours, so a basic level of physical fitness is recommended.
What is the best time to visit Manu?
The recommended season to visit the Manu National Park is from April to November, although the program can be carried out at different times of the year. The Amazonian climate is variable and rain may occur during the tour.
What temperature will I find during the trip?
Temperatures vary by area: they can drop to approximately 5 °C in the highlands and reach around 30–32 °C in the jungle, with high humidity.
What should I bring for the tour?
It is recommended to bring lightweight and quick-drying clothing, long-sleeved pants and shirts, insect repellent, sunscreen, a rain poncho, a hat, a flashlight, a reusable water bottle, personal medications, a camera, and binoculars.
Do I need to bring trekking boots?
It is advisable to wear comfortable footwear for transfers and walks. Rubber boots for jungle activities are included in the program.
Is it necessary to bring binoculars?
It is not mandatory, but they are highly recommended for observing birds, monkeys, and other animals from a distance. You can also request binocular rental as an additional service.
How long does it take to travel from Cusco to Manu?
The journey from Cusco to the heart of Manu is done in stages and is part of the adventure. The first day we will travel approximately 10 to 12 hours by tourist transport. The next day we will continue by boat along the Alto Madre de Dios River and the Manu River for approximately 6 hours, until we reach the Reserved Zone and the Matsiguenka House.
How long does it take to navigate by boat on the Manu River?
The navigation between the Dorado Lodge and the Matsiguenka House takes approximately 6 hours each way, depending on the river conditions and the weather.
Is boating safe?
Yes. The navigations are carried out accompanied by the team responsible for the program and following the conditions and recommendations established for the protected area. The itinerary may be adjusted if river or weather conditions require it.
What animals can I observe during the tour?
The Manu offers opportunities to observe giant otters, caimans, monkeys, macaws, parrots, toucans, capybaras, birds, and other species. There is also the possibility of encountering larger wildlife, but sightings are natural and cannot be guaranteed.
Is it guaranteed to see jaguars, giant otters, or cock-of-the-rocks?
No. They are wild animals, and their observation depends on natural factors such as climate, behavior, season, and location of each species. The guide will conduct the search and responsible observation during the activities.
What is the visit to Cocha Salvador like?
The visit is conducted on a rowing catamaran, allowing for a peaceful exploration of the lagoon and the search for giant otters, caimans, birds, and other species without disturbing the environment.
What is done at Cocha Otorongo?
Activities are carried out to explore the forest, and there is access to an observation tower approximately 20 meters high, from where it is possible to view the forest from the canopy and look for wildlife.
Is the night walk included?
Yes. The program includes a night walk, depending on the weather conditions and the safety of the route. It is an opportunity to look for frogs, insects, spiders, reptiles, and other nocturnal species.
What are the accommodations like during the tour?
The program includes 4 nights of accommodation in lodges, including Dorado Lodge and Casa Matsiguenka. The accommodation is of Amazonian style and offers an experience integrated with the natural environment. The rooms are between doubles and quadruples, depending on availability.
What are the rooms like at Casa Matsiguenka?
Casa Matsiguenka offers bungalows for guests, generally in double rooms, with private or shared bathrooms depending on availability. It is a nature accommodation, so we recommend not expecting the same conditions as a conventional hotel.
Is food included? Are there vegetarian options?
Yes. The program includes 5 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 4 dinners, and snacks during the tour.
Vegetarian options can be requested in advance at no additional cost.
Is there drinking water during the tour?
Yes, the program includes water during the trip. We also recommend bringing a reusable bottle to maintain good hydration during the activities.
Is there cell phone and internet signal during the tour?
The signal is limited or nonexistent in most of the Reserved Zone. It is recommended to inform family or contacts before starting the trip and to take advantage of areas with connectivity when available.
What happens if I feel unwell during the trip?
Passenger safety is a priority. The guide has a first aid kit and will assess any discomfort during the activities. If necessary, the appropriate assistance will be coordinated according to the location and the conditions at the time.
Can I perform the Manu in private service?
Yes. You can request a private service to enjoy greater flexibility, more time for wildlife observation, and a travel pace tailored to your group.
Can I visit Manu if I'm not a trekking enthusiast?
Yes. This program is not a long-distance trek. The experience combines land transportation, navigation, wildlife observation, and exploratory walks, so you can enjoy the Amazon without having to undertake a demanding hike all day long.
What is the reservation process like?
Step 1: Check availability
Write to us at info@sakuraexpedition.com to check the availability for the date you wish to travel. Our team will guide you on the program and the included services.
Step 2: Passenger Information
To manage your reservation, we will request the necessary information from each participant, as it appears on their travel document:
Full name
Passport or identity document number
Date of birth
Nationality
Gender
Step 3: Payment and Confirmation
Once availability is confirmed, we will send you the corresponding payment instructions. Once the required payment is received, we will proceed with the management and confirmation of the program services.
Step 4: Final Confirmation
Once the services are confirmed, you will receive the official confirmation of your reservation with the details of your trip. At that moment, your reservation will be guaranteed 100%.
Can I cancel the tour and request a refund of my deposit?
Unfortunately, no. Due to the program being scheduled well in advance, the deposit or guarantee paid to confirm the reservation is non-refundable and non-transferable.
We recommend consulting with your sales executive about the specific cancelation conditions and deadlines applicable to your reservation before making any modifications.
Can I leave my luggage at your office?
Of course! During the trip, your main luggage can be stored at our office or at your hotel, both free of charge.
Why choose Sakura Expedition for your trip?
At Sakura Expedition, we believe that traveling is not just about visiting a destination, but about living an authentic experience that will stay in your memory forever. For this reason, we design each of our programs with small groups, personalized attention, and a deep respect for the culture, nature, and communities of Peru.
Our commitment is to accompany you from the moment of your reservation until the end of your trip, providing you with professional, safe, and carefully organized service so that you can enjoy each experience with complete peace of mind.
What sets us apart?
Small groups
Enjoy a more comfortable, personalized experience with greater attention from our guides.
Own operation and local team
We directly coordinate our own programs, this way we have control to maintain high standards of quality, punctuality, and organization.
Certified professional guides
Our team shares their work with passion, in history, culture, and the traditions of Peru, making each tour a memorable experience.
Personalized attention
We accompany you from the beginning of your reservation, during, and after your trip, offering continuous assistance and timely responses to your inquiries.
Responsible and sustainable tourism
We promote responsible tourism together with our allied communities, respecting their traditions and contributing to the sustainable development of local families.
Commitment to safety
We work with safety protocols, appropriate equipment, and trained personnel to offer you a more peaceful experience.
Local company with tourism quality certification
We are a 100% local and Peruvian company, based in Cusco. Our commitment to excellence has allowed us to obtain this year the CALTUR Gold Certification, the highest recognition for tourism quality in Peru.
Our commitment
At Sakura Expedition, we don't just organize trips; we create authentic experiences that connect our travelers with the history, culture, nature, and essence of Peru.
