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Explore the diverse landscapes of Manu National Park, which spans from the high-altitude areas near 4,200 meters above sea level to the lush Amazon Basin plains. The park is divided into several distinct zones: the Restricted Use Zone, home to untouched forests and indigenous communities, with access granted only to researchers; the Reserved Zone, which is open for recreation and scientific studies; and the Recuperation Zone, aimed at restoring disturbed areas to their natural state. Embark on a 5-day journey through these remarkable zones with expert guides and immerse yourself in the beauty and biodiversity of Manu National Park.
5 Days 4 Nights
6 Days Time
Intermediate
50 msnm
Culture & Nature
02 Min - 10 Max
The Manu Reserved Zone is a protected area located in the southeastern Amazon rainforest of Peru. Part of the larger Manu National Park, it is renowned for its extraordinary biodiversity and is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The zone is home to a wide array of plant and animal species, including many that are rare or endangered.
Indigenous communities, some of whom live in voluntary isolation, inhabit the area, and the zone plays a vital role in preserving both their cultures and the surrounding ecosystem. The Manu Reserved Zone spans a vast area, encompassing various habitats, from lowland tropical rainforests to high-altitude cloud forests.
As a prime ecotourism destination, it attracts birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts eager to observe rare species such as the Andean condor, jaguars, and giant river otters. Access to the Manu Reserved Zone is carefully regulated to minimize human impact and preserve the delicate environment.
We depart from Cusco by private bus, making our first stop to visit the pre-Inca burial towers of Ninamarca. Continuing through the mountains, we will reach the charming folkloric village of Paucartambo, where we’ll take a brief walk around the town before heading to Tres Cruces, the highest point and gateway to Manu National Park.
From there, we’ll journey into the Cloud Forest. In San Pedro, we’ll enjoy a 1-hour walk to spot Peru’s national bird, the Cock of the Rock, along with various species of monkeys, plants, and flowers. We’ll then proceed to the port of Atalaya, where we’ll board a boat for a 40-minute ride to Soga de Oro Lodge. After arriving, we’ll rest for about 2 hours before dinner. Following our meal, we’ll embark on a night walk to observe tarantulas, scorpions, snakes, and other nocturnal insects.
After breakfast, we continue our journey downstream to the native community of Diamante, where we’ll learn about their lifestyle and traditions. Following this, we’ll visit the village of Boca de la Manu for cold drinks and some relaxation before entering the reserved area of Manu.
Our first stop will be at Limonal, after which we’ll continue our boat journey toward Casa Machiguenga Lodge. Along the way, we’ll observe a variety of wildlife, including capybaras, peccaries, monkeys, vibrant birds, adult black and white caimans, and possibly even a pair of jaguars. In the afternoon, we’ll arrive at Casa Machiguenga Lodge, which offers rustic yet comfortable accommodations in a cozy and intimate setting, deep in the Manu jungle. Managed by the Machiguenga people, the original caretakers of the Manu region, the lodge provides a unique cultural experience.
On this day, we will spend most of our time exploring the jungle. During our journey, we will encounter various wildlife, including tapirs, collared peccaries, monkeys, coatis, and a variety of birds such as eagles, parrots, and toucans. We’ll also learn about medicinal plants, flowers, and the towering trees of the jungle. After a jungle lunch, we’ll continue our tour to the stunning Cocha Salvador and Cocha Otorongo. Here, we’ll embark on a catamaran ride, where we’ll have the chance to observe the wild inhabitants of the Amazon Lake, such as white caimans and the famous Giant Otter. We will then return to Casa Machiguenga Lodge for the evening.
After breakfast, we depart from Casa Machiguenga Lodge and continue our journey downstream to Boca Manu. Along the way, if we’re fortunate, we may spot the elusive jaguar along the riverbanks. We’ll make a stop at the community of Diamante to learn about their culture and way of life. If you’re interested in local crafts, you can purchase handmade items from the community members. In the afternoon, we’ll visit a lake where we may spot a clay lizard and a tapir before heading to Dorado Lodge. In the evening, we’ll gather around a bonfire to relax, enjoy some drinks, and spend the night at the lodge.
We’ll begin the day early, boarding our motorized boat to Atalaya, where a private bus will be waiting to take us back to Cusco. On the way, we’ll stop to relax and unwind at a natural hot spring, where you can enjoy a soothing soak in the warm, mineral-rich waters surrounded by the lush rainforest. After rejuvenating at the hot springs, we’ll continue our journey through the cloud forest and pass through the charming town of Paucartambo, taking in the scenic views along the way. We expect to arrive in Cusco by the evening.
Availability: Daily Departures All Departures are 100% Guaranteed. If You’re Booked, You are Going, We wont Cancel your Trip !!!
How to Book?: Send us all Your Personal information as well as a Deposit of 30% and the Final Balance will be paid once you are in Puerto Maldonado or Cusco.
Manu Reserve Zone: Price per person: Price based on People departing that date:
01 Person Group / US$2600 per person
02 People Group / US$1650 per person
03 People Group / US$1600 per person
04 People Group / US$1550 per person
05 People Group / US$1500 per person
06 People Group / US$1450 per person
07 – or More People Group / US$1400 per person
Most people automatically assume that the weather is hot in South America, but because of the higher altitude in the Andes, the temperature can feel quite cold, especially at night. We recommend the use of a duffel bag or backpack, whichever is easiest for you to carry. A good size daypack is also essential.
List of things to bring for the Manu Reserve Zone Tour:
1. What is the Manu Reserved Zone?
The Manu Reserved Zone is a protected area within Manu National Park that serves to safeguard its diverse ecosystems, flora, and fauna. This area is one of the most biodiverse regions in the world, home to thousands of species of plants, birds, mammals, insects, and amphibians.
2. What makes the Manu Reserved Zone so special?
Manu is known for its incredible biodiversity. It encompasses a variety of ecosystems, from Andean cloud forests to lowland tropical rainforests. It is one of the few places in the world that is home to such a vast array of species, many of which are endangered or rare.
3. Is the Manu Reserved Zone accessible to tourists?
Yes, but access is highly regulated to ensure the protection of the area. Travelers must visit the zone with a licensed guide, and only certain routes are permitted to minimize human impact on the environment. Visitors typically access the area by traveling from Cusco or Puerto Maldonado and then navigating through the forest by boat or foot.
4. What are the main attractions in the Manu Reserved Zone?
Wildlife viewing: The area is home to jaguars, monkeys, giant river otters, tapirs, and thousands of bird species, including macaws and harpy eagles.
Cultural encounters: Visitors might have the opportunity to interact with indigenous communities, who have lived in the region for centuries and have unique knowledge of the area’s natural resources.
Diverse ecosystems: From high-altitude cloud forests to lowland Amazonian jungles, the reserve showcases multiple ecosystems within a relatively small area.
5. Can I visit the Manu Reserved Zone year-round?
Yes, the Manu Reserved Zone is open year-round, but it’s important to note that the rainy season (from November to March) can make travel more challenging due to swollen rivers and muddy trails. The dry season (April to October) is generally considered the best time to visit.
6. What type of accommodations are available?
Because the zone is highly protected, accommodations are limited to eco-lodges or campsites along certain routes. These lodges are basic but offer an immersive experience in nature. They typically provide meals and guided tours as part of the visit.
7. What should I bring with me to visit the Manu Reserved Zone?
Light, breathable clothing (but long sleeves and pants for protection against insects)
Insect repellent (to protect against mosquitoes)
Waterproof gear (rain jacket, boots)
Binoculars and a camera for wildlife viewing
Personal medications and a first aid kit
8. Is the Manu Reserved Zone safe to visit?
The Manu Reserved Zone is considered safe for visitors as long as they follow the rules and travel with a licensed guide. The remoteness and difficulty in access help protect the area, but it’s crucial to stay with a guide who knows the region to ensure both safety and environmental preservation.
9. How do I get permits for visiting the Manu Reserved Zone?
Access to the Manu Reserved Zone requires permission from the Peruvian government. Most visitors arrange their trip through licensed tour operators, who will help obtain the necessary permits. It’s recommended to book well in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.
10. How long should I plan to stay in the Manu Reserved Zone?
Most trips to the Manu Reserved Zone last around 4 to 7 days, depending on the route and the specific areas you plan to visit. Longer trips allow for deeper exploration into the reserve and a better chance of seeing a wider variety of wildlife.
11. What wildlife can I expect to see in the Manu Reserved Zone?
The Manu Reserved Zone is home to a staggering variety of species. Some of the wildlife you might encounter includes:
12. How do I get to the Manu Reserved Zone from Cusco?
The most common way to reach the Manu Reserved Zone from Cusco is by traveling by bus to Paucartambo, then continuing by boat or car to the entrance of the reserve. The journey typically takes several hours to a day, depending on road conditions and your starting point.
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Posted on Sara DVerified 10/10 Experience - Would Recommend! We had an amazing time on the Salkantay 5 Day Trek. Before the trip started, Quechuas had great communication and was very accommodating to our travel schedule, including adjusting our briefing time with our guide.The skydome accomodations were great (all fairly spacious, with exception of night 2, which was fine as we didn’t spend much time there), the food was delicious (a great variety and always more than enough to go around) and the trek itself was beautiful. Our guide Steven, as well as second guide Jorge, were very patient, knowledgeable and kind to us and the others in our group - not only did we get to see incredible scenery but we also learned a lot about the local landscape and culture.We rented sleeping bags, which we would highly recommend. We brought our own hiking poles but would recommend renting if you don’t bring your own.Overall, an amazing experience and we would highly recommend this company.Posted on Matthew WVerified Seamless and Supportive Inca Trail Experience – Highly Recommend We recently completed the 4-day Classic Inca Trail trek with Quechuas Expeditions in June 2025, and overall had a fantastic experience that struck the perfect balance between physical challenge and logistical ease.Our guide, Fernando (“Nando”), was outstanding—passionate, deeply knowledgeable about the trail’s rich history, and highly supportive throughout. He kept our group motivated and informed, and managed different paces and needs with professionalism and care. His English was great, and he always made time to answer questions or share interesting stories along the way.The porter and chef team were phenomenal. 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If I ever do this again, I would book with them without question, and if possible, request the exact same team. Thank you Fernando and team for a trip of a lifetime and memories that will stay with me forever 🙏Posted on Arianna OVerified Amazing trip on the Inca Trail with Quechuas Expeditions I never imagined that the Inca Trail could be so transformative. My partner and I decided to do the classic 4-day trek with Quechuas Expeditions and, honestly, it exceeded all our expectations. From the very first moment we felt very welcome. The service was impeccable, they were always attentive to our needs, solving all our doubts before and during the trek.The hike was not easy, but the views, the fresh mountain air and the energy of the group kept us going without thinking about how tiring it was. The meals at the campsites surprised us pleasantly, we really did not expect so much variety and flavor in the middle of the mountain. 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