Manu National Park 5 Days 4 Nights

Discover the Amazon rainforest on our Manu National Park 5 Days 4 Nights tour from Cusco. The journey takes you from the Andes through the cloud forest and into the rainforest, with time to enjoy the scenery and look for wildlife along the way.

Tour Overview

This 5-day journey begins in Cusco and follows the road toward Paucartambo and Acjanaco Pass. From the high Andes, the route descends into the cloud forest and continues toward Pilcopata.

Along the way, there are opportunities to see orchids, bromeliads, ferns, waterfalls, and the Peruvian national bird, the Cock of the Rock.

The journey then continues by boat into the rainforest. During the following days, you will explore the forest around the lodge, visit a macaw clay lick, walk through primary rainforest, and explore Machuwasi Lake by balsa raft.

A trip to the natural hot springs adds a quieter part to the experience before the return to Cusco.

Tour Highlights

  • Travel from the Andes through the cloud forest into the Amazon rainforest.
  • Visit the pre-Inca tombs of Ninamarca and the traditional town of Paucartambo.
  • Look for the Peruvian national bird, the Cock of the Rock.
  • Travel by motorized boat along the Alto Madre de Dios River.
  • Visit a macaw clay lick and observe Amazonian parrots and macaws.
  • Explore Machuwasi Lake by balsa raft and look for rainforest wildlife.
  • Relax in natural hot springs surrounded by rainforest.
  • Take guided rainforest walks and a night walk to observe nocturnal wildlife.

Manu Jungle Tour at a Glance

Day 1: Cusco – Paucartambo – Cloud Forest – Pilcopata

We leave Cusco early and travel through the Andes toward Ninamarca and Paucartambo. After visiting these areas, we cross Acjanaco Pass and start our descent into the cloud forest. Along the way, we look for orchids, bromeliads, ferns, and the Cock of the Rock. We arrive in Pilcopata in the afternoon and spend the night at the lodge.

Day 2: Pilcopata – Atalaya – Amazon Manu Lodge

After breakfast, we take a short walk around the lodge and visit a coca plantation and the wildlife rescue center. We then drive to Atalaya, where we board our boat and begin the journey along the Alto Madre de Dios River. During the trip, we can see different birds and other wildlife along the river. We arrive at Amazon Manu Lodge and later visit the nearby forest before a night search for caimans.

Day 3: Macaw Clay Lick – Rainforest Walk – Machuwasi Lake

We leave early by boat to visit the macaw clay lick, where parrots and macaws gather in the morning. After breakfast at the lodge, we take a walk through the forest with our guide and look for monkeys, birds, and jungle plants. After lunch, there is time to rest or try the optional zip line. In the afternoon, we visit Machuwasi Lake by balsa raft and later take a night walk.

Day 4: Amazon Manu Lodge – Rainforest Walk – Hot Springs

We start the morning with a walk through the forest around the lodge, where our guide points out plants and wildlife along the way. After lunch, we take the boat downstream for about two hours to reach the natural hot springs. You can enjoy a relaxing bath before returning to the lodge. After dinner, we go out for another night walk to look for frogs, insects, spiders, and other nocturnal animals.

Day 5: Amazon Manu Lodge – Atalaya – Cloud Forest – Cusco

After breakfast, we leave the lodge and take the boat back to Atalaya. From there, our vehicle takes us back through the cloud forest and the Andean valleys toward Cusco. We have lunch along the way and may make short stops if we spot birds or other animals. We expect to arrive in Cusco between 5:30 and 6:30 p.m.


Why Book with Manu Jungle Tour

  • More time in Manu: Four nights in the rainforest allow you to enjoy the area without rushing.
  • Local guides: Our guides share practical knowledge about the rainforest, wildlife, and local environment.
  • Different landscapes: The journey combines the Andes, cloud forest, rivers, and lowland rainforest.
  • Wildlife opportunities: The itinerary includes several places where you can look for birds, monkeys, reptiles, and other species.
  • River travel: Boat journeys give you access to rainforest areas that cannot be reached by road.
  • Varied activities: The program combines walks, wildlife observation, a clay lick, Machuwasi Lake, hot springs, and a night walk.
  • Comfortable jungle stay: Four nights at the lodge give you more time to rest between excursions and enjoy the rainforest surroundings.

Included

  • Pre-tour briefing 1 or 2 days before departure.
  • Entrance fees included in the itinerary.
  • Private tourist transportation from Cusco and back.
  • Bilingual naturalist guide.
  • Private boat and boat crew.
  • 04 nights in jungle lodges.
  • Meals during the tour according to the itinerary.
  • Telescope and binoculars for wildlife observation.
  • Rubber boots.
  • Towels and mosquito nets at the lodges.
  • Showers and toilets at the lodges.
  • Cook service.
  • Radio communication.
  • Mineral water from the second day.
  • First aid kit.
  • Local taxes.

Not Included

  • Breakfast on the first day.
  • Mineral water on the first day.
  • Drinks such as soda or beer.
  • Last dinner.
  • Personal binoculars.
  • Travel and health insurance.
  • Tips for guides, cook, and driver.
  • Personal expenses.

Detailed itinerary

Day 1: Cusco – Paucartambo – Cloud Forest – Pilcopata

Highlight of the Day: From the Andes to the cloud forest and the Cock of the Rock

Your guide will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco between 5:30 and 6:00 a.m. We begin our journey through the Andes, passing beautiful valleys and small countryside communities on the way to Manu National Park.

Our first stops include the pre-Inca tombs of Ninamarca and the traditional town of Paucartambo. From here, we continue toward Acjanaco Pass, reaching approximately 3,550 m (11,647 ft). The landscape gradually changes as we leave the highlands and begin descending into the cloud forest.

Along the route, we pass waterfalls and dense vegetation with orchids, bromeliads, ferns, and other native plants. We will also stop in the cloud forest to look for the Peruvian national bird, the Cock of the Rock. Your local guide will explain more about this remarkable bird and its habitat.

The changing scenery along the route makes this first day a beautiful introduction to the different environments of Manu.

We continue our descent toward Pilcopata and arrive at our jungle lodge, where you can rest after the day's journey.

  • Accommodation: Jungle lodge
  • Meals: Box lunch and dinner

Day 2: Pilcopata – Atalaya – Amazon Manu Lodge

Highlight of the Day: River journey and first wildlife encounters in the rainforest

After an early breakfast, we take a short guided walk around the lodge. Along the way, we can look for monkeys, birds, insects, and native Amazonian plants. We will also visit a coca plantation and a local wildlife rescue center.

We then continue by road to Atalaya, located along the Alto Madre de Dios River. Here we board our motorized boat and begin traveling deeper into the rainforest.

The boat journey gives us opportunities to observe herons, vultures, cormorants, and other birds along the riverbanks. We continue toward Amazon Manu Lodge, where we have lunch and time to settle in.

As we travel farther from the road, the river becomes an important part of the journey and gives us a closer view of the rainforest.

Later, we visit a nearby swamp to look for toucans, woodpeckers, macaws, and other rainforest birds. Before dinner, we take a short evening excursion to look for caimans, whose eyes can often be seen reflecting in the darkness.

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

Day 3: Amazon Manu Lodge – Macaw Clay Lick – Machuwasi Lake

Highlight of the Day: Macaw clay lick and rainforest wildlife

We start very early and travel by boat to a clay lick along the riverbank. Different species of parrots and parakeets may gather here in the morning, and with favorable conditions, macaws may also be seen. Your guide will explain why these birds visit the clay lick and how the mineral-rich clay forms part of their natural diet.

After the visit, we return to the lodge for breakfast. We then take a guided walk through the rainforest for approximately 2.5 to 3 hours. The forest is home to many types of trees, plants, insects, birds, and monkeys, and your guide will share information about the rainforest ecosystem.

The morning walk offers time to observe the forest at a slower pace and notice details that are easy to miss from the river.

After lunch, you can relax at the lodge or enjoy a swim in the river. There is also an optional zip-line activity for travelers who want an additional adventure.

Later, we visit Machuwasi Lake, where we explore the calm waters by balsa raft. The area is known for hoatzins, caimans, monkeys, capybaras, and many bird species. In the evening, we take a night walk to look for insects, frogs, and other nocturnal wildlife.

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

Free Optional Activity – Zip Line

Guests staying at Amazon Manu Lodge can enjoy an optional zip-line experience through the jungle canopy. The activity uses platforms built among the trees and includes safety equipment. After crossing the canopy, you descend by rappel from the final platform.

Day 4: Amazon Manu Lodge – Rainforest Walk – Hot Springs

Highlight of the Day: Rainforest exploration and natural hot springs

We begin the day with breakfast before taking another guided walk around the lodge. The guide will help us look for wildlife and explain the plants and different layers of the primary rainforest.

After the morning walk, we return to the lodge for lunch and some time to rest. In the afternoon, we board the motorized boat and travel approximately two hours downstream toward the natural hot springs.

The boat ride is also part of the experience, with opportunities to watch the riverbanks and surrounding forest as we travel downstream.

The river journey offers another opportunity to observe birds and wildlife along the banks. Once we reach the hot springs, you can relax in the warm natural waters and enjoy the surrounding rainforest.

Later, we return to the lodge. After dinner, we take a final night walk to look for snakes, frogs, insects, spiders, and other animals that become active after sunset.

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

Day 5: Amazon Manu Lodge – Atalaya – Cusco

Highlight of the Day: Final river journey and return through the cloud forest

We wake up early for breakfast before packing our belongings and boarding the boat back to Atalaya. The journey along the river gives us one last opportunity to enjoy the rainforest and look for birds and other wildlife.

At Atalaya, our vehicle will be waiting for the return journey to Cusco. We continue through the cloud forest and the Andean valleys, with short stops along the way when conditions allow.

We will have lunch during the journey and continue toward Cusco. Arrival is expected between 5:30 and 6:30 p.m., depending on road and travel conditions.

  • 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, 5,7 or 8 day Manu programs.

💰 Prices

We offer flexible departure dates and operate the Manu Jungle Tour daily, subject to availability.

Price: USD $469 per person

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

⚠️ Limited availability due to campsite capacity. Early booking is highly recommended.


Booking and Payment

To confirm your reservation for the Manu National Park, 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.

What to Bring

We recommend traveling light because the tour includes road and boat transportation and several rainforest activities.

  • Original passport.
  • Small backpack.
  • Lightweight clothing.
  • Long-sleeved shirts.
  • Long trousers.
  • Comfortable walking shoes.
  • Sandals or light shoes.
  • Rain jacket or poncho.
  • Warm layer for the Andes and cloud forest.
  • Insect repellent.
  • Sunscreen.
  • Sunglasses and hat.
  • Swimsuit.
  • Flashlight and spare batteries.
  • Camera and binoculars.
  • Small personal towel.
  • Personal toiletries.
  • Toilet paper and hand sanitizer.
  • Reusable water bottle.
  • Small plastic bags to protect belongings from rain.

Travel Preparation

Before your Manu National Park 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.

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.

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.

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 the different activities. The lodges also allow you to stay close to the forest and enjoy the natural sounds of the jungle.

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.

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.

Luggage Storage

You can leave extra luggage in Cusco before entering the rainforest. We recommend taking only what you need for the three-day trip. A smaller bag is easier to handle during the road and boat sections of the journey.

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 the rainforest conditions.

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.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, especially if you want more time to experience the Amazon rainforest. The five-day journey gives you more opportunities for wildlife observation, rainforest walks, boat trips, and visits to different areas. It is a good option for travelers who do not want to rush their jungle experience.

You may see monkeys, macaws, parrots, toucans, caimans, frogs, insects, and many other rainforest species. The journey also includes areas where wildlife observation is especially interesting, such as the macaw clay lick and Machuwasi Lake.

Yes. Manu is known for its great variety of plants, birds, and wildlife. During the tour, you will have several opportunities to observe animals from the boat, on rainforest walks, and during activities around the jungle lodges.

Yes. The itinerary includes an early morning visit to a macaw clay lick. Parrots, parakeets, and macaws may gather there to eat the mineral-rich clay. Sightings depend on weather conditions and the natural behavior of the birds.

The best time depends on what you want to experience, but the drier months are generally more comfortable for traveling through the rainforest. Wildlife can be seen throughout the year, although conditions may change with the weather and season.

The journey begins by road from Cusco and passes through the Andes and cloud forest. Atalaya is reached by road, and from there the journey continues by motorized boat along the river into the rainforest. This combination is an important part of the Manu experience.

Five days gives you a good amount of time to experience several parts of the Manu rainforest. The itinerary includes rainforest walks, river travel, wildlife observation, a macaw clay lick, Machuwasi Lake, and natural hot springs, giving you a varied jungle experience.

Yes. Cusco is the starting point for this Manu National Park tour. The journey takes you from the high Andes through the cloud forest and finally into the Amazon rainforest, showing how the landscape and climate change along the route.

Machuwasi Lake is a quiet rainforest area that can be explored by balsa raft. Depending on the conditions, you may see hoatzins, birds, caimans, capybaras, and other wildlife around the lake. It is one of the more peaceful activities on the tour.

Yes. The tour combines several of the main experiences travelers look for in Manu, including cloud forest scenery, rainforest walks, river travel, birdwatching, and wildlife observation. Having five days also gives you more time to enjoy the jungle at a comfortable pace.

Book Your Adventure

Fill out the details below to secure your spot for Manu National Park 5 Days 4 Nights.

Tour and Date

Choose the correct tour and date

Travel Details

Please list Full Names (as written on passport), Passport Number, Nationality, Dates of Birth, Gender and email addresses for all in your party. Please make sure your passports will be valid for more than 6 months after your visit to Peru. If not, Customs & Immigration may not allow you into the country

1

What is the email address of the main Point Of Contact (POC) in your group?

Please try to always reference this email when contacting us as we use it to search your history.

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.

Posted on Tripadvisor Tripadvisor
David D profile picture
David D
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verified
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 !!
Posted on Tripadvisor Tripadvisor
Robin F profile picture
Robin F
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verified
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!
Posted on Tripadvisor Tripadvisor
Melania C profile picture
Melania C
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verified
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.
Posted on Tripadvisor Tripadvisor
Ian P profile picture
Ian P
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verified
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!
Posted on Tripadvisor Tripadvisor
Cusco Journeys profile picture
Cusco Journeys
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verified
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.
Posted on Tripadvisor Tripadvisor
Keyko Victoria P profile picture
Keyko Victoria P
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verified
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