Tour details
DAY 1: CUSCO – AMAZON PONA LODGE
We depart from Cusco early in the morning in our private vehicle, specially adapted for both mountain and jungle routes.
Along the way, we visit several points of interest, including Ninamarca, a pre-Inca funerary complex from the Lupaca culture. We then continue through the scenic Paucartambo Valley and the traditional town of Paucartambo, known as the folkloric capital of Peru.
Later, we reach Ajanaco Pass, the official entrance to Manu National Park. From here, we descend into the Amazon basin through a spectacular cloud forest, one of the most biodiverse ecosystems in the world.
During the descent, we make several stops and short hikes to observe wildlife, especially the Andean cock-of-the-rock (Peru’s national bird), toucans, tanagers, hummingbirds, and mammals such as monkeys and coatis. With some luck, we may also spot sloths and a great variety of orchids and other plants.
Arrival at the lodge in the late afternoon.
Night at Amazon Pona Lodge (L.D.)
DAY 2: AMAZON PONA LODGE – DORADO / PAPAYA ECO LODGE
After breakfast, we continue by private vehicle to the Atalaya River Port, where we begin our journey by motorized boat along the Madre de Dios River.
During the boat ride (approximately 4 to 5 hours), we observe a variety of wildlife, including birds such as herons, macaws, toucans, and kingfishers, as well as animals like capybaras.
We also visit the natural hot springs of Shintuya, where you can relax surrounded by nature.
In the afternoon, we arrive at the lodge and have time to rest before visiting the camouflaged house, located near a mammal clay lick.
Here, during the night, we may observe animals such as tapirs, porcupines, deer, and other nocturnal species. With some luck, predators such as jaguars, pumas, or ocelots may also appear.
Night at Camouflaged House (B.L.D.)
DAY 3: DORADO / PAPAYA ECO LODGE – CASA MATSIGUENKA LODGE
Today we travel deeper into the Manu National Park Reserved Zone.
We navigate along the Madre de Dios River and then continue upstream along the Manu River, a pristine ecosystem with sandy beaches and ideal conditions for wildlife observation.
During this journey (approximately 6–7 hours), we may observe black caimans, white caimans, turtles, butterflies, and many bird species. This area is also known for its high chances of spotting large cats such as jaguars and pumas, especially during the dry season.
Several species of monkeys are commonly seen along the riverbanks, sometimes feeding on clay deposits.
Arrival at Casa Matsiguenka Lodge in the afternoon.
Night at Casa Matsiguenka Lodge (B.L.D.)
DAY 4: CASA MATSIGUENKA LODGE – SALVADOR LAKE - MACAW CLAY LICK
Today we explore one of the most important areas of Manu National Park.
In the morning, we visit Salvador Lake by catamaran, one of the best places to observe the endangered giant river otter. The lake is also home to caimans, turtles, herons, and large groups of monkeys.
Later, we visit a macaw clay lick, where colorful macaws and parrots gather to consume mineral-rich clay essential for their digestion.
In the afternoon, we continue exploring the forest, learning about the relationships between plants, animals, and ecosystems, as well as the medicinal uses of Amazonian plants.
Optional night walk to observe frogs, insects, and nocturnal wildlife.
Night at Casa Matsiguenka Lodge (B.L.D.)
DAY 5: CASA MATSIGUENKA LODGE – DORADO / PAPAYA LODGE
Early in the morning, we begin our return journey along the Manu River.
We visit Otorongo Lake, where we climb a 20-meter observation tower for panoramic views of the rainforest canopy. From here, we can observe macaws, toucans, eagles, and many other bird species.
During the journey, we continue spotting wildlife along the riverbanks, including caimans, turtles, monkeys, sloths, and, with luck, jaguars or other wild cats.
In the afternoon, we arrive at the lodge and later enjoy a guided night walk to observe frogs, snakes, tarantulas, night monkeys, and insects.
Night at Dorado / Papaya Lodge (B.L.D.)
DAY 6: DORADO / PAPAYA LODGE – CUSCO
Early in the morning, we travel by boat along the Madre de Dios River back to Atalaya.
From there, we return to Cusco by private vehicle, enjoying the changing landscapes along the way.
Arrival in Cusco in the late afternoon.
(B.L.)
What’s Included
- Private car
- Private boat.
- Tickets to the offered Lodges.
- Entrance to Manu National Park
- Mineral water
- Entrance to macaw and tapir clay lick
- Native bilingual Spanish and English professional guide.
- sleeping bag
- profecional cock.
- firt aid kit
- 3 meals per day (breakfast, lunch, dinner).
- Snacks (fruits, cookies, juices and sweets).
- Camping equipment such as tables, chairs, raint ponchos, rubber boots.
IMPORTAN LODGE INFORMATION:
- Showers: Most lodges have cold-water showers; hot water is generally not available.
- Electricity: Most lodges use solar power, which may be limited during cloudy weather. We recommend bringing a power bank.
WHAT THE TOURIST NEEDS TO BRING
- Binoculars.
- Photographic camera.
- Flashlight with extra batteries.
- Mosquito repellent minimum 25% poison.
- Sunscreen.
- Toilet paper (for forest baths).
- Some cash for souvenirs, personal expenses, and tips
- Dark or camouflaged clothing.
- light jacked or warm clothing
- One whole drink or bottle of water.
- A sun cap.
- Water sandals.
- Small daily backpack.
- Bath linen and towel (for hot springs).
- Does not include the first breakfast or the last dinner.
GROUP SERVICE
- $995 USD per person
Frequently Asked Questions
Day 1: Cusco - Santa Maria
The Inca Jungle Trail to Machu Picchu 4 days: begins with a hotel pickup at 6:00 am, followed by a scenic three-hour drive through the breathtaking Sacred Valley of the Incas. As we reach Abra Malaga, the highest point of the trip at 4,316m, we will gear up and receive a briefing from our experienced guide.
We’ll then embark on a thrilling 3-hour downhill biking journey through the Andes, surrounded by snow-capped mountains and tropical forests. A support vehicle will be available for those who need a break. We’ll end the day at Eco Terra Lodge Santa Maria for a delicious lunch, optional river rafting, dinner, and restful sleep.
The adrenaline-packed biking adventure takes us from Abra Malaga to Huamanmarka, covering a distance of less than 55km and descending from 4,316m to 2,130m. The scenic route offers breathtaking views of the changing landscape, from snowy peaks to lush tropical forests.
At Eco Terra Lodge Santa Maria, we’ll enjoy a tasty lunch and have the opportunity to go river rafting on the Vilcanota River, offering a thrilling level III and IV experience. Afterward, we’ll return to the lodge for a delicious dinner and a well-deserved rest, preparing us for the exciting activities that await us the next day.
- Transportation from Cusco – Abra Malaga: 3.5 hours by private bus.
- Bicycle: – 2h – 3 h.
- Bicycle ride: 55 km – 34 m.
- Rafting: 2 hours
- Meals: Lunch and Dinner.
- Lodging: Lodge
- Difficulty: medium
- Guaranteed Adventure
- Maximum altitude: 4316 m – 14160 ft.
- Minimum altitude: – 1200 m – 3937 ft
Day 2: Santa Maria - Hot spring - Santa Teresa.
2 Embark on a 7-hour trek through the vibrant rainforest, starting with a 45-minute hike along the car route before joining the well-preserved Inca trail. This trail, the only one in good condition among the various Inca trails, once connected Machu Picchu with the final Inca capital, Vilcabamba.
Immerse yourself in the lush surroundings, encountering exotic fruits, diverse birdlife, and orchids, while enjoying breathtaking views of the Urubamba valley from the mountain’s summit. Descend for 2.5 hours to Qellomayo village for a satisfying lunch break.
Afterward, take a break in hammocks, then continue the trek for another 3 hours, passing through farms, waterfalls, and rivers (including a cable car crossing). By late afternoon, arrive at the Santa Teresa hot water springs, known as Cocalmayo, offering crystal-clear pools with different temperatures.
Relax in this idyllic setting surrounded by the river and starry skies. Following the hot springs experience, a 40-minute walk (or optional bus ride) leads to Santa Teresa town, where a comfortable hotel awaits. Enjoy dinner and socialize with fellow group members at one of the downtown bars.
- Walking: 7 hours
- Hiking distance: (15 km / 9.3 mi)
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch / Dinner
- Lodging: Lodge (2, maximum 3 people per room)
- Adventure Guaranteed
- Starting altitude: – 1200 m / 3,937 ft
- Campsite altitude: – 1500 m – 4921 ft
- Difficulty: Moderate
