Manu Reserve Zone 7 Days / 6 Nights

Traveling down the Manu River, we enter the park’s most protected area, where wildlife thrives undisturbed. Explore Lake Salvador, home to giant river otters, hoatzins, Agami herons and a variety of monkeys, including the white-fronted capuchin and tiny pygmy marmoset.

Tour Overview

The Manu Reserve Zone 7 Days 6 Nights takes you from Cusco into the rainforest through the Andes and cloud forest. Along the way, you will visit Paucartambo, explore the cloud forest, and continue by road and boat toward the remote areas of Manu.

Once inside the Reserved Zone, you will have more time to explore the forest and its lakes. The journey includes visits to Cocha Salvador and Lake Otorongo, walks through the rainforest, and boat trips where you can look for monkeys, giant river otters, caimans, birds, macaws, and other wildlife.

Highlights

  • Travel from Cusco through the Andes and into the cloud forest.
  • Visit the Chullpas of Ninamarca and the traditional town of Paucartambo.
  • Look for the Cock of the Rock and other cloud forest wildlife.
  • Travel by boat along the Alto Madre de Dios and Manu rivers.
  • Visit a parrot clay lick and continue deep into the Manu Reserved Zone.
  • Explore Cocha Salvador in search of giant river otters and other wildlife.
  • Visit Lake Otorongo and use the observation tower to explore the surrounding forest.
  • Enjoy several opportunities to observe wildlife during rainforest walks and river journeys.

Manu Reserve Zone at a Glance

Day 1: Cusco – Cloud Forest – Pilcopata

Travel from Cusco through the Andean valleys, visiting Ninamarca and Paucartambo along the way. Continue into the cloud forest for lunch and look for orchids, bromeliads, ferns, the spectacled bear, and the Cock of the Rock. Arrive at Pilcopata Lodge in the afternoon.

Day 2: Pilcopata – Aguas Calientes – Boca Manu

Start with a forest hike and visits to a coca plantation and animal rescue center. Continue by bus to Atalaya and then travel by boat along the Alto Madre de Dios River. Stop at the natural hot springs before continuing to Boca Manu.

Day 3: Boca Manu – Reserved Zone – Casa Matsiguenka

Visit the parrot clay lick early in the morning before stopping at the Limonal security checkpoint. Continue by boat into the Manu Reserved Zone while looking for birds, monkeys, caimans, turtles, and other wildlife. Arrive at Casa Matsiguenka and take an afternoon forest walk.

Day 4: Reserved Zone – Cocha Salvador

Explore Cocha Salvador and look for giant river otters, black caimans, monkeys, hoatzins, kingfishers, and other rainforest species. After lunch, continue with an afternoon forest hike to discover more of the surrounding flora and fauna. An optional night walk is available.

Day 5: Reserved Zone – Lake Otorongo – Boca Manu

Take an early walk around Lake Otorongo and visit the observation tower overlooking the surrounding primary forest. Look for otters, birds, monkeys, butterflies, and giant Ceiba trees. Continue downstream by boat, stopping at Limonal before arriving at Boca Manu.

Day 6: Boca Manu – Amazon Manu Lodge

Travel upstream by boat along the Alto Madre de Dios River while enjoying the rainforest scenery and looking for birds along the way. There is an option to stop at the natural hot springs before continuing to Amazon Manu Lodge. Spend the final night in the jungle with an optional night walk.

Day 7: Amazon Manu Lodge – Atalaya – Cusco

Begin the return journey early in the morning by boat toward Atalaya. From the port, continue by vehicle through the rainforest and cloud forest toward the Andes. Arrive back in Cusco in the evening after seven days in the Manu rainforest.


Why Book with Manu Jungle Tour

  • Spend more time in the Reserve Zone: The seven-day program gives you more time inside the rainforest.
  • Explore Cocha Salvador: Travel across the lake by catamaran and look for giant otters, birds, and monkeys.
  • Visit Cocha Otorongo: Reach the observation tower and look across the lake and surrounding forest.
  • Stay at Casa Matsiguenka: Experience several nights in the rainforest while exploring the area around the lodge.
  • Wildlife observation: The route offers opportunities to look for monkeys, caimans, giant otters, birds, macaws, and other species.
  • Day and night activities: Explore the rainforest during the day and join optional night walks when available.
  • Travel deeper into Manu: Continue by boat along the Alto Madre de Dios and Manu rivers into the Reserve Zone.
  • A complete rainforest experience: Combine cloud forest, river journeys, jungle walks, lakes, and remote rainforest landscapes in one trip.

Included

  • Pre-tour briefing before departure.
  • Professional English-speaking guide.
  • Private tourist transportation during the road sections.
  • Private motorized boat transportation according to the itinerary.
  • Entrance fees to the Manu Reserved Zone and scheduled attractions.
  • Accommodation in lodges according to the itinerary.
  • Meals as indicated in the program.
  • Drinking water during the rainforest portion of the trip.
  • Rubber boots for use during the jungle walks.
  • First-aid kit.
  • Anti-venom included in the first-aid equipment.
  • Telescope for wildlife observation.
  • Radio communication during the trip.

Not Included

  • Breakfast on the first day.
  • Last dinner in Cusco.
  • Soft drinks, beer, and other personal beverages.
  • Personal binoculars.
  • Travel and health insurance.
  • Tips for the guide, cook, boat crew, and lodge staff.
  • Personal expenses.
  • Any service not specifically mentioned in the itinerary.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Cusco – Cloud Forest – Pilcopata Lodge

Highlight of the Day: Exploring the Andean Landscapes, Cloud Forest and Cock of the Rock

Very early in the morning, we will leave Cusco by private bus and begin our journey through the valleys of the Andes and the countryside communities along the route. Our first stops include the Chullpas of Ninamarca, a pre-Inca cemetery, and Paucartambo, a traditional colonial town where we will visit a museum and learn more about the local culture.

We will have lunch along the route in the cloud forest. From here, we continue our descent through a region known for its rich variety of plants and wildlife. Along the way, we may see orchids, bromeliads, ferns and with luck, species such as the spectacled bear and the Cock of the Rock, Peru's national bird.

In the afternoon, we continue toward Pilcopata. Once we arrive, we will check in at our lodge and have time to rest after the first day of travel.

  • Accommodation: Lodge
  • Meals: Box lunch and dinner

Day 2: Pilcopata – Aguas Calientes – Boca Manu

Highlight of the Day: Traveling Along the Alto Madre de Dios River and Relaxing in the Natural Hot Springs

After an early breakfast, we will begin with a hike through the forest, where we will look for monkeys, birds and other wildlife. We will then visit a coca plantation and an animal rescue center before continuing by bus toward Port Atalaya.

At Port Atalaya, we will board our boat and begin traveling along the Alto Madre de Dios River. During the journey, we will have opportunities to observe different bird species, including herons, vultures and cormorants, while enjoying the changing scenery along the river.

We will make a stop at the natural hot springs, surrounded by the rainforest, where we can take some time to relax. After lunch, we continue by boat toward Boca Manu, where we will arrive later in the day and spend the night at our lodge.

  • Accommodation: Lodge
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

Day 3: Boca Manu – Reserved Zone – Casa Matsiguenka

Highlight of the Day: Visiting the Parrot Clay Lick and Traveling Deep into the Manu Reserved Zone

We will leave very early to visit the parrot clay lick, located about ten minutes downriver from the lodge. Afterward, we will make a brief stop at the Limonal security checkpoint before continuing our journey into the heart of the Manu Reserved Zone.

The boat journey takes approximately four hours. Along the way, we will have plenty of time to look for wildlife along the riverbanks, including macaws, vultures, eagles, toucans, herons, capybaras, caimans, river turtles and different species of monkeys.

With luck, we may also see a jaguar resting on the river beach or feeding in the trees. In the afternoon, we will take a walk through the forest to look for wildlife before arriving at Casa Matsiguenka, where we will spend the next two nights.

  • Accommodation: Lodge
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

Day 4: Reserved Zone – Cocha Salvador

Highlight of the Day: Exploring Cocha Salvador and Looking for Giant River Otters and Rainforest Wildlife

The sounds of the howler monkeys may wake us early. After breakfast, we will take a morning hike while the temperature is still comfortable and wildlife is often more active. We will then explore the impressive Cocha Salvador, one of the main highlights of our time in the Reserved Zone.

At the lake, we will look for giant river otters (Pteronura brasiliensis), an endangered species that lives in these waters. We will also look for black caimans, different species of monkeys, hoatzins, kingfishers, and other rainforest species.

After lunch, we will continue with an afternoon hike of approximately three hours to explore more of the forest and observe its flora and fauna. There is also an option to take a night walk in search of frogs, snakes, insects, and other species that become active after dark.

  • Accommodation: Lodge
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

Day 5: Reserved Zone – Lake Otorongo – Boca Manu

Highlight of the Day: Exploring Lake Otorongo, Climbing the Observation Tower and Watching Wildlife

We will wake up early, have breakfast, and take a walk around the lodge and Lake Otorongo. The observation tower, located about 15 meters from the lake, gives us a good view of the surrounding primary forest and better opportunities to look for the family of otters that lives in the lake.

From the tower, we can also watch birds moving through the forest canopy. During our walk, we may see giant Ceiba trees, colorful butterflies, and different species of monkeys as we continue exploring the area.

Afterward, we will board our boat and travel downstream toward Boca Manu, continuing to look for caimans, turtles, birds, and other animals along the river. At Limonal, we will take a walk to a platform where we can observe the surrounding flora and fauna before continuing to Boca Manu for the night.

Accommodation: Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

Day 6: Boca Manu – Amazon Manu Lodge

Highlight of the Day: Traveling Upstream Along the Alto Madre de Dios River Through the Amazon Rainforest

Today, we will board our boat and travel upstream along the Alto Madre de Dios River. The journey gives us another chance to enjoy the rainforest landscape and look for the many bird species found along the river.

We will have the option to stop at the natural hot springs during the journey before continuing toward Amazon Manu Lodge. The river journey is also a good opportunity to enjoy the changing scenery as we gradually make our way back toward Atalaya.

In the afternoon, we will arrive at the lodge and settle into our rooms. This will be our final night in the rainforest, surrounded by the natural sounds of the jungle. There is also an optional night walk for those who would like to explore the forest after dark.

  • Accommodation: Lodge
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

Day 7: Amazon Manu Lodge – Atalaya – Cusco

Highlight of the Day: Enjoying the Final River Journey and Traveling Back Through the Rainforest to Cusco

We will wake up early and begin our final journey toward Port Atalaya. We will travel by boat along the river, enjoying the rainforest scenery and making the most of our last moments in the Amazon.

Once we reach Atalaya, our vehicle will be waiting for us. We will continue by road toward Cusco, traveling through the rainforest and cloud forest before gradually returning to the Andes.

We expect to arrive in Cusco in the evening, bringing our Manu Reserve Zone 7 Days 6 Nights journey to an end.

  • Accommodation: None
  • Meals: Breakfast and box lunch

Important Notes

  • Health: Manu is a rainforest area with mosquitoes and other insects. Bring a good insect repellent and light, long-sleeved clothing. For yellow fever and malaria prevention, please consult your doctor or a travel health professional before your trip.
  • Itinerary changes: The program may change due to weather, river conditions, road conditions, or other circumstances beyond our control.
  • Travel time: Manu is a remote rainforest destination. The 3-day tour includes several hours of travel by road and boat. This is necessary to reach the rainforest and its wildlife areas.
  • Mixed groups: The group may include travelers who have booked 3, 4, 5,6,7 or 8 day Manu programs.

💰 Prices

We offer flexible departure dates and operate the Manu Reserve Zone 7 Days 6 Nights daily, subject to availability.

Price: USD $1379 per person

 Small-group experience for greater comfort and personalized service
 Professional guides and full logistics included

⚠️ A minimum of 3 participants is required to operate this tour. Due to limited availability and operational logistics, early booking is highly recommended.


Booking and Payment

To confirm your reservation for the Manu ReserveZone, a deposit is required in advance.

  • Deposit: 40% per person (to secure your spot)
  • Balance: The remaining amount can be paid online or in Cusco before the trek

We accept credit cards, PayPal, and bank transfers. If you prefer another payment method, feel free to contact us for assistance.

You Will Need to Bring

We recommend traveling light for the Manu Reserve Zone 7 Days 6 Nights. The journey includes long hours by road and boat, as well as rainforest walks, so bring practical clothing and only what you will need. Quick-dry clothing is especially useful in the warm and humid jungle conditions.

  • Mosquito repellent (DEET 45 recommended as a minimum).
  • Original passport.
  • Small backpack.
  • Long-sleeved cotton shirts.
  • Long cotton trousers.
  • Long cotton socks to wear inside your trousers.
  • Comfortable walking shoes.
  • Sandals or light shoes.
  • Rain gear.
  • Sweater for the Andes and cloud forest.
  • Swimsuit.
  • Binoculars.
  • Camera and charger.
  • Plastic bags for clothes and electronic equipment.
  • Hat for protection from the sun or rain.
  • Toiletries.
  • Small towel.
  • Toilet paper.
  • Antibacterial gel.
  • Sunscreen.
  • Sunglasses.
  • Flashlight with spare batteries.
  • Water bottle of at least 1 liter.
  • Pocket money in Peruvian Soles.
  • Electrical converter or adapter.

Travel Information

Before your Manu Reserve Zone tour begins, our team will help you prepare for the journey. The route includes long hours of travel, changing temperatures, rainforest conditions, and boat transportation, so it is important to know what to expect before departure. Being prepared will make the journey more comfortable from the beginning.

Pre-Tour Briefing

Your guide will meet you 1 or 2 days before departure for a short briefing. We will review the itinerary, confirm your pick-up details, and answer any final questions about the trip.

You can also use this meeting to check your personal equipment before leaving Cusco. It is a good opportunity to make sure everything is ready for the rainforest.

Balance Payment

If you have an outstanding balance, please complete it at least 2 days before departure. Payment options will be confirmed during the briefing or before the tour. Please make sure your payment is completed before the day of departure. This helps keep the departure arrangements simple and organized.

Jungle Lodge Experience

During the tour, you will stay in jungle lodges surrounded by rainforest. The accommodation is simple and comfortable and gives you a place to rest between activities.

The lodges also allow you to stay close to the forest and enjoy the natural sounds of the jungle. The experience is focused on enjoying the rainforest rather than luxury accommodation.

Wildlife Observation

Wildlife sightings depend on weather, season, and animal behavior. Along the route, you may see monkeys, birds, reptiles, caimans, insects, and other rainforest species. Your guide will help you identify the animals and explain more about the environment where they live. Patience and careful observation are important during the wildlife activities.

Transportation and Pick-Up

Hotel pick-up is included for travelers staying in Cusco before the tour. Our team will confirm your pick-up time before departure. Please be ready at your hotel at the agreed time.

The journey includes long sections by road and boat. These are necessary to reach the remote rainforest areas included in the program. The travel time is an important part of reaching the different environments along the Manu route. The scenery changes gradually as you travel from the Andes into the rainforest.

Luggage Storage

You can leave extra luggage in Cusco before entering the rainforest. We recommend taking only what you need for the seven-day trip. A smaller bag is easier to handle during the road and boat sections of the journey. Keeping your luggage light also makes moving between lodges and boats easier.

Health and Safety

Bring insect repellent, drink enough water, and follow your guide’s instructions during the activities. If you have any health concerns, consult your doctor before traveling to the rainforest.

We also recommend wearing comfortable clothing and suitable shoes for rainforest conditions. Your guide will provide instructions throughout the journey when needed.

Travel Conditions in Peru

Weather, road conditions, river levels, or other local circumstances can affect the journey. If necessary, the itinerary may be adjusted during the tour. Any changes will be made with the safety of the group in mind.

Your guide and our operations team will provide information if any changes are required. Flexibility is important when traveling through remote rainforest areas.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. This tour is a good choice if you want more time to explore the Manu Reserved Zone and experience the rainforest at a slower pace. The itinerary includes Cocha Salvador, Lake Otorongo, the parrot clay lick, forest walks, and several boat journeys with opportunities to observe wildlife.

Cocha Salvador is one of the main wildlife areas visited during this journey. The lake offers opportunities to look for giant river otters, black caimans, monkeys, hoatzins, kingfishers, and other species while exploring the surrounding rainforest.

Yes. Lake Otorongo is included on Day 5. You will walk around the lake and visit its observation tower, which provides a higher view of the surrounding primary forest and better opportunities to observe wildlife.

The parrot clay lick is visited early on Day 3, before entering deeper into the Manu Reserved Zone. It is an opportunity to observe parrots and other birds gathered in this part of the rainforest before continuing the boat journey toward Casa Matsiguenka.

During the Reserved Zone portion of the journey, you will stay at Casa Matsiguenka. The accommodation provides a place to rest while keeping you close to the forest and the activities planned in this remote part of Manu.

Yes. Boat travel is essential to reaching the more remote areas of Manu included in this itinerary. These journeys are also part of the experience, as you travel along the rivers while watching the forest, riverbanks, birds, and other wildlife.

Yes. A night walk is offered as an optional activity during the appropriate part of the itinerary. It gives you a different perspective of the rainforest and the chance to look for species that are more active after sunset.

Yes. The itinerary includes opportunities to stop at natural hot springs during the river journey. These stops provide time to relax before continuing deeper into or out of the rainforest.

The longer itinerary provides more time in different rainforest environments and several opportunities to observe wildlife by boat and on foot. Spending more time around Cocha Salvador, Lake Otorongo, and the Reserved Zone can be particularly useful for travelers interested in nature photography.

On Day 7, you begin the return journey from Amazon Manu Lodge toward Atalaya by boat. From Atalaya, you continue by vehicle toward Cusco, traveling through the rainforest and cloud forest before arriving in the city in the evening.

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Traveler Reviews

Our travelers share their experiences exploring Manu National Park and the Amazon with our team. Discover what they say about our local guides, wildlife experiences and the service provided throughout their journey.

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David D profile picture
David D
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2day 1night Inca trek What an amazing experience from start to finish! Our experienced english speaking guide Raul made the whole journey so much more enjoyable from his knowledge, wisdom and his sense of humour! Highly recommend the guys from info Machu Picchu !!
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Robin F profile picture
Robin F
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Humantay & 🌈-Mountains Absolutely excellent service! Despite a mix-up where we were picked up by the wrong bus and missed our original tour, the travel agency handled everything with great professionalism and flexibility. They took responsibility right away and made rebooking a new tour incredibly easy and stress-free. We really appreciated how understanding and accommodating their team was throughout the process. Thanks to their quick response, we were able to enjoy an equally fantastic tour, and their willingness to resolve the issue left a lasting positive impression.Overall, a great example of excellent customer service. We’ll happily book with them again!
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Melania C profile picture
Melania C
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Three days Manu Forest Wonderful experience in the Manu jungle!! We could observe capuchin monkeys, the cock of rocks, macaws, AMAZING! Super recommended! Thank you, thank you, thank you.
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Ian P profile picture
Ian P
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Inca trail tours 2 days Excellent!! The Tours Inca trail 2 days very pleasant, they are very available and professional. Manu Jungle I love! and I recommend it!
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Cusco Journeys
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Great Experience on the Short Inca Trail We had an amazing experience hiking the short Inca trail with Dayan. He provided us with a box lunch which was delicious and had plenty of food to fill us up! Highly recommend Info Machu Picchu! It was a great experience and Dayan made it unforgettable. She was very knowledgeable and kind.
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Keyko Victoria P
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Immortal Cusco Nice guided experience through the city and surroundings of Cusco... Everything was wonderful. And above all with the security that the agency provided us. Ready to come back...
Manujungletour

Manujungletour

3.7 3.5 stars 1 Reviews