Cusco provides a gateway to the breathtaking Manu National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site teeming with diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes. This 3-day excursion from Cusco offers a chance to take in the cloud forest and Amazon, with comfortable accommodations and a chance to witness the vibrant macaw clay lick. From pre-Incan tombs to birdwatching, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure for nature enthusiasts. With flexible booking options and a focus on sustainability, it’s the perfect way to explore one of Peru’s natural wonders.

Contents show

Key Points

3-day excursion to Manu National Park, Peru, with prices starting at $419 per person for a group of up to 10 participants.
Tour conducted in multiple languages, including English and Spanish, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before for a full refund.
Itinerary includes visiting pre-Incan tombs, cloud forest, coca plantation, and birdwatching at Lake Machuwasi, with overnight stays at Pilcopata Lodge and Amazon Manu Lodge.
Highlights include a boat trip to observe the macaw clay lick and diverse birdwatching opportunities throughout the tour.
Flexibility to reserve now and pay later, making it a convenient option for travelers.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

This tour offers a 3-day excursion to the renowned Manu National Park in Peru. Priced from $419 per person, the group size is limited to 10 participants.

Along with English and Spanish, the tour is conducted in multiple languages. Travelers can enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Flexibility is provided through a reserve now and pay later option. The itinerary includes visiting pre-Incan tombs, a colonial city, cloud forests, a coca plantation, a wildlife rescue center, and a macaw clay lick for birdwatching.

Looking for more options in Cusco? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Itinerary Highlights

On the first day, travelers depart from Cusco early in the morning and visit pre-Incan tombs and the colonial city of Paucartambo.

They enjoy lunch in the cloud forest, home to many endemic species. The night is spent at the Pilcopata Lodge.

On the second day, travelers visit a coca plantation and a wildlife rescue center before descending by boat from Puerto Atalaya to the Amazon Manu Lodge.

They venture out to Lake Machuwasi for birdwatching.

The third day begins with an early boat trip to the macaw clay lick, a unique feature where various parrot species gather.

Afterward, the group returns to Cusco, arriving around 6:30 PM.

Day 1: Pre-Incan Tombs and Cloud Forest

The tour begins with an early morning departure from Cusco.

First, the group visits pre-Incan tombs near the colonial city of Paucartambo. Next, they enjoy lunch in the rich cloud forest, home to many endemic species. The diverse ecosystem is teeming with life, from birds to butterflies.

The group visits pre-Incan tombs near Paucartambo, then enjoys lunch in the rich, diverse cloud forest teeming with endemic species.

After the meal, the travelers continue their journey, arriving at Pilcopata Lodge for their overnight stay. The lodge provides cozy accommodations nestled in the lush surroundings.

With bellies full and cameras ready, the group settles in for the night, eager to explore more of Manu National Park the following day.

Day 2: Coca Plantation and Amazon Manu Lodge

After a hearty breakfast, the group visits a nearby coca plantation. Here, they learn about the cultural significance and traditional uses of this important crop.

Next, they head to the Amazon Manu Lodge by boat, descending the river from Puerto Atalaya. At the lodge, an excursion to Lake Machuwasi offers prime birdwatching opportunities, with chances to spot herons, vultures, and the unique hoatzin.

With comfortable accommodations and delicious meals, the group settles in for another night immersed in the rich biodiversity of the Peruvian Amazon.

More Great Tours Nearby

Day 3: Macaw Clay Lick and Return to Cusco

Early in the morning, the group embarks on a boat trip to observe the macaw clay lick, a unique natural phenomenon where various parrot species gather to consume the mineral-rich clay. They witness a vibrant display of color and sound as the birds congregate at the lick. After this extraordinary birdwatching experience, the group starts their journey back to Cusco, enjoying a lunch en route. They arrive in Cusco around 6:30 PM, concluding their 3-day adventure in the Manu National Park.

| Highlights | Details |

| — | — |

| Macaw Clay Lick | Observe parrots gathering for mineral-rich clay |

| Birdwatching | Spot herons, vultures, cormorants, hoatzin, and more |

| Return to Cusco | Arrive around 6:30 PM, end of the tour |

| Lunch | Served during the journey back to Cusco |

| Duration | 3 days, 1 night at Pilcopata Lodge, 1 night at Amazon Manu Lodge |

There's plenty more to explore in Cusco

Wildlife and Biodiversity

Manu National Park is renowned for its incredible biodiversity, boasting diverse ecosystems that are home to an array of endemic species.

Visitors can spot the elusive Spectacled Bear and marvel at the vibrant Cock-of-the-Rock, Peru’s national bird. Birdwatching opportunities abound, with chances to observe herons, vultures, cormorants, and the primitive hoatzin.

Along the river, guests may encounter caimans, monkeys, and capybaras. The highlight for many is the macaw clay lick, where various parrot species gather to consume the mineral-rich clay, an unforgettable natural spectacle.

Manu’s biodiversity is truly a highlight of any visit to this remarkable protected area.

Inclusions

The tour includes transportation via tourist transport and river transport, providing a seamless journey through the diverse landscapes of Manu National Park.

Accommodation is provided for one night at Pilcopata Lodge and one night at Amazon Manu Lodge, ensuring a comfortable stay.

Meals are included, with three meals and one snack daily, and a vegetarian option available on request.

A professional bilingual guide, a first-aid kit, and drinking water are provided, ensuring a safe and informative experience.

Additional inclusions are breakfast and water on the first day, but guests are responsible for drinks, souvenirs, dinner on the last day, tips, and travel insurance.

Important Notes

Travelers should be aware that the itinerary is subject to change due to weather conditions, strikes, or other unforeseen events. In such cases, no refunds will be provided.

Plus, if participants fail to attend the scheduled service, it will be considered completed without any claims or refunds. It’s crucial for travelers to understand these policies before booking the tour.

While the experience aims to be memorable, unexpected situations may arise that require flexibility and understanding from participants. Ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey for all is the primary objective, though some aspects may be beyond the tour operator’s control.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Participants can bring their own food and drinks, but meals and snacks are already included in the tour price. Bringing extra items is optional, as the tour provides all necessary sustenance during the 3-day excursion.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Length?

Yes, the tour can be extended for an additional fee. Travelers can inquire about extending the trip length when booking. The standard 3-day tour itinerary may be customized to suit individual preferences and schedules.

How Are the Accommodation Facilities at the Lodges?

The accommodation at the Pilcopata Lodge and Amazon Manu Lodge is comfortable and well-appointed, providing a scenic and immersive experience in the lush rainforest environment. Lodges offer basic amenities to ensure a pleasant stay.

Is There Wi-Fi Available During the Tour?

The tour doesn’t offer Wi-Fi access during the excursion. The lodges are located in remote areas of the Amazon rainforest, so connectivity is limited to allow guests to fully enjoy the natural environment.

Can I Purchase Additional Souvenirs or Items During the Tour?

Participants can purchase additional souvenirs or items during the tour. The itinerary includes time for shopping, and vendors may be present at some stops offering handcrafted goods and other local products for purchase.

The Sum Up

Discover the breathtaking wonders of Manu National Park on a 3-day excursion from Cusco. Enjoy the cloud forest’s rich biodiversity, explore pre-Incan tombs, and witness the vibrant macaw clay lick. With cozy accommodations, flexible booking options, and an affordable price tag, this tour offers an unforgettable adventure in the heart of the Peruvian Amazon.

You can check availability for your dates here: