From Cusco: 3-Day Escape to the Manu Cultural Zone
Discover Peru’s Amazon in just 3 days! Explore the Manu Cultural Zone with vibrant wildlife, lush rainforests, and unforgettable experiences.
From Cusco: 3-Day Escape to the Manu Cultural Zone
Immerse yourself in the natural beauty and vibrant ecosystems of the 3-Day Escape to Manu Cultural Zone, a short yet unforgettable journey into the Peruvian Amazon. Starting from Cusco, this adventure takes you through the enchanting Cloud Forest, down jungle rivers, and into the heart of the Manu Cultural Zone.
Highlights include observing the fascinating Cock-of-the-Rock during its mating ritual, paddling on serene lakes, and visiting a parrot clay lick where colorful parrots gather. Enjoy guided walks to discover exotic wildlife such as capybaras, monkeys, and caimans, and relax in comfortable lodges with modern amenities.
Perfect for travelers seeking a brief yet immersive Amazonian experience, this 3-day tour combines adventure, wildlife, and the tranquility of one of the most biodiverse regions on Earth.
Departure & Return Location | Your Hotel in Cusco |
Departure Time | 5:30 AM – 6:00 AM |
Estimated Return Time | 6:30 PM – 7:00 PM (Day 3) |
Guide Languages Available | Guides fluent in English and Spanish |
Key Attractions | Cloud Forest, Parrot Clay Lick, Cocha Machuwasi |
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Cusco – Paucartambo – Cloud Forest – Pilcopata
Your adventure begins early in the morning with a pickup from your hotel between 5:30 and 6:00 a.m. Board a comfortable bus and embark on a scenic journey through the Andes. Your first stop is the Funerary Towers of Ninamarca, ancient pre-Incan structures perched at 3,750 meters above sea level. Continue to Paucartambo, a charming folkloric town with a colonial bridge and rich history.
From Paucartambo, ascend to the Acjanaco Pass, the highest point of the trip at 4,000 meters, marking the entrance to Manu National Park. Begin your descent into the Cloud Forest, a vibrant ecosystem filled with diverse flora and fauna. On a guided walk, observe the Cock-of-the-Rock in its mesmerizing mating ritual, and look out for species like Trogons, Quetzals, and, with luck, the elusive Spectacled Bear.
Arrive at Pilcopata Lodge in the late afternoon. This cozy accommodation, located 550 meters above sea level, offers private bathrooms and showers for your comfort. Enjoy a delicious dinner and rest well for the adventures ahead.
Accommodation: Pilcopata Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Transport: Approx. 7–8 hours by bus
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Pilcopata – Atalaya – Cocha Machuwasi – Paititi Lodge
After breakfast, continue your journey by bus for 45 minutes to Atalaya Port (490m). Along the way, admire landscapes featuring coca plantations, fruit trees, and orchids. At Atalaya, board a motorized boat for a scenic 30-minute ride along the Alto Madre de Dios River to reach Paititi Lodge, your accommodation for the night.
After settling in and enjoying lunch, head to Cocha Machuwasi, a serene oxbow lake. Paddle on a traditional catamaran to observe a variety of wildlife, including the Hoatzin (Shansho), monkeys, reptiles, caimans, and possibly Capybaras, the world’s largest rodents.
In the evening, opt for an Exciting Night Trekking Program to explore the jungle under the cover of darkness. Return to Paititi Lodge, where you’ll have private bathrooms and showers for a comfortable night’s stay.
Accommodation: Paititi Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Transport: Approx. 1 hour by bus; 1 hour by boat
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Paititi Lodge – Parrot Clay Lick – Return to Cusco
Start the day early with a 45-minute boat ride to the Parrot Clay Lick, a mineral-rich wall where multiple parrot species gather to feed. Witness this colorful and lively spectacle as the parrots flock to the clay lick in large numbers.
After breakfast, return to Atalaya Port, where your bus awaits. Begin the journey back to Cusco, passing through Pilcopata, Patria, and Chontachaca, and crossing the enchanting Cloud Forest once again. Enjoy one final look at the lush greenery and vibrant wildlife before arriving in Cusco between 6:30 and 7:00 p.m., marking the end of your unforgettable journey through Manu.
Accommodation: None included
Meals: Breakfast
Transport: Approx. 1 hour by boat; 7–8 hours by bus
Important Note:
This itinerary serves as a guide and may be adjusted due to weather conditions, safety considerations, lodge availability, or other unforeseen circumstances to ensure the best possible experience. While minor changes may occur, the tour will always start and finish on the scheduled dates, delivering all key activities and highlights as planned.
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Special Discounts
- Group Discount: Automatically applied during online booking.
- Save 5% per person for groups of 5-9 people.
- Save 8% per person for groups of 10-14 people.
- Save 10% per person for groups of 15 or more people.
Payment Terms & Cancellation Policy
Kindly take a moment to read our Payment Terms & Cancellation Policy before booking. Happy adventuring!
Payment Terms
Beginning Your Adventure – Booking Confirmation and Deposit
Your journey starts with a commitment: a 50% deposit of the total tour cost. This initial investment is pivotal in activating the extensive preparatory process, ensuring every aspect of your tour is curated to perfection.
Final Payment: The Last Step Before Your Journey Begins
The remaining 50% of the tour cost is due no later than 30 days before the commencement of your tour. This timely payment is critical to finalize all logistical arrangements, guaranteeing a hassle-free start to your adventure.
Expansive Payment Options for Ease and Flexibility
In line with our commitment to your convenience, Peru Tripper accepts a variety of payment methods, including bank transfers, credit cards, and PayPal. Please be aware that additional fees may apply depending on the payment method selected. Detailed payment procedures and potential fees can be found on our dedicated payment page.
Implications of Late Payments – Protecting Your Reservation
Adherence to the payment schedule is crucial. Late payments can unfortunately lead to the cancellation of your reservation, with the deposit being retained as a non-refundable fee. We urge you to maintain timely payments to safeguard your tour plans.
Policy for Last-Minute Adventurers
For those inspired to join this tour on short notice, namely less than 15 days before departure, full payment is required at the time of booking. This ensures that we can expedite all necessary preparations for your inclusion.
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation Terms for Clients
We recognize that life is ever-changing. However, due to the elaborate planning and expenses involved in preparing for this tour, we maintain a strict no-refund policy after booking confirmation. This underscores the importance of obtaining comprehensive travel insurance, which can offer protection against unforeseen cancellations.
Navigating Unpredictable Circumstances – Force Majeure
In extraordinary situations beyond our control, such as natural disasters or political upheavals, Peru Tripper will strive to offer alternative arrangements. This may include rescheduling your trip or issuing a credit for future travel, based on current availability and discretion.
Navigating Through Force Majeure
In the event of extraordinary and uncontrollable circumstances, such as natural disasters or significant political unrest, Huaynas Expeditions adopts a flexible approach. We prioritize your safety and satisfaction, offering to reschedule your trip or provide a credit for future travel, subject to availability.
Emphasizing the Need for Comprehensive Travel Insurance
To cover unexpected events, including trip disruptions and medical emergencies, we cannot stress enough the importance of securing comprehensive travel insurance. It’s your safety net, ensuring peace of mind throughout your journey. Please note, Peru Tripper does not bear responsibility for costs arising from incidents not covered by your travel insurance.
Inclusions
This package includes the following:
Exclusions:
Additional costs to consider:
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Packing List
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