Amazon, the kingdom of the Jaguar
Our trip takes you deep into the jungle, at the exact time and place. The best time to see this big cat is during the dry season from April to December, the jaguars are seen in their mating season and when the small rivers and lakes begin to dry up and the dams are concentrated in these spaces, they are also seen before the beginning of the torrential rainy season. In this fantastic trip we can see giant otters, black caimans, different groups of monkeys, anacondas, capybaras and tapirs.
DAY 01: Cusco – Manu Lodge SALIVACIÓN.
Early in the morning, we pick you up from your hotel in Cusco to start our journey through the Andean mountains, beautiful landscapes, and folkloric rural communities such as Paucartambo and Ninamarca (chullpas or funeral tombs) belonging to the pre-Inca LUPACAS culture. We then ascend the last mountain to reach Acjanaco, the entrance to MANU NATIONAL PARK, from where we descend into the lush cloud forest, home to a variety of wild flora and fauna. This is an ideal place for epiphytes, orchids, bromeliads, etc. Here, we explore the cloud forest and can observe Peru’s National Bird, the colorful Andean Cock-of-the-Rock, in its ritual mating dance, as well as toucans, trogons, quetzals, monkeys, and with luck, the South American spectacled bear (Tremarctos ornatus).
In the afternoon, we visit the hummingbird sanctuary, where we observe dozens of species of vibrant creatures – hummingbirds, multicolored birds attracted by the fruits. Along the trails, we may encounter groups of monkeys and sloths.
At the end of the day, we head to the village of Salvación to TERRA MANU LODGE. Spend the night in our comfortable rooms, enjoy dinner, and have free time to indulge in some cold and hot beverages.
DAY 02: Terra Manu Lodge – Boca Manu – Matsigenka House
Early in the morning, wake up to the song of birds and the lush Amazon jungle, and savor a healthy breakfast. Then, board our 4×4 vehicle to continue our journey towards Boca Manu. Along the way, observe groups of monkeys, macaw families, and hundreds of butterflies.
From Boca Manu, we continue the expedition in our private boat, navigating the calm waters of the Manu River. We visit the Limonal Control Post to register and enter the Reserved Zone of Manu, the heart of Amazonian biological diversity. Carefully, we spot white caimans and massive black caimans basking on the sandy banks, hundreds of turtles called “Taricayas” on logs along the riverbank, and the world’s largest rodent, the capybara. Meanwhile, parrots, colorful macaws, and chotacabras camouflage on the logs, and with luck, the impressive jaguar (Panthera onca), the third-largest feline in the world, is seen on the banks of the Manu River, waiting for prey or basking in the morning sun.
In the afternoon, we visit Lake Cocha Otorongo and climb the 30-meter observation tower to view the expanse of the lake and admire the towering emergent trees such as cedar, mahogany, and the famous rubber or rubber trees. This is the home of many mammals, occasionally encountered, such as capuchin monkeys and black spider monkeys.
By 5:00 PM, we arrive at our typical and comfortable Matsigenka House Lodge, where lodge families await to escort us to our accommodations and show us the entire infrastructure and services for a pleasant stay.
As darkness falls, prepare for a fascinating activity on the lodge trails where we may encounter owls and various nocturnal creatures. Night walks or activities are possible every evening, organized by our guides.
DAY 03: Matsigenka House Lodge in the Reserved Zone
This is the most heartwarming spot for observing Amazonian flora and wildlife. It’s time to venture through the primary forest towards Manu’s most famous lake, Lake Salvador or Cocha Salvador. Navigate on a catamaran, facilitating the sighting of a variety of birds such as Hoatzins, snakebirds, toucans, woodpeckers, macaws, eagles, the ever-present spider monkeys, emperor monkeys, black caimans, and the large family of river wolves or giant otters (Pteronura brasiliensis). This endangered species is most often seen swimming, fishing, eating, and playing among the floating logs on the lake. After this fantastic observation, we return to our lodge for a delicious typical Manu lunch.
In the late afternoon, continuing our quest for the largest feline in America, it’s time to board our boat to sail upstream to the deepest part of the Manu Reserved Zone. With the help of our expert guide and local collaborators, we aim to spot the jaguar.
Overnight in our comfortable lodge.
DÍA 04: Casa Matsigenka lodge – Terra Manu lodge
Por la mañana empezar a descender lentamente las corrientes del impresionante río Manu en nuestra embarcación, teniendo una gran oportunidad más de encontrar al Jaguar y diferentes aves estacionarias que ocasionalmente son vistos en las orillas del río Manu; Osprey, jabirú, cigüeña, espátula rosada y con suerte una impresionante anaconda.
Una vez llegado a la unión del río Manu y Madre de Dios, nos despedimos del río Manu y la zona reservada del parque nacional del Manu.
En seguida nos dirigimos hacia el río Madre de Dios para continuar nuestra fascinante aventura contra la corriente del río Madre de Dios hasta el puerto de boca Manu. Allí nos espera nuestro vehículo 4×4 para transportarnos al albergue de Terra Manu. Noche y cena en el lodge.
DAY 05: Terra Manu Lodge – Cusco
After a wholesome breakfast in the morning, we head to Machuwasy Lake, a very special place equipped with rafts to explore the lake and photograph beautiful birds. Hoatzins, camungos, paucares, tiger herons, and families of capybaras.
After this fantastic activity, we return slowly to the city of Cusco. Along the way, we make some interesting stops to once again enjoy the colorful Andean Cock-of-the-Rock and the cloud forest. Arrival time at 6:00 PM.
THE SERVICE INCLUDES:
- Professional guide (English and Spanish) with powerful equipment including telescopes, binoculars, flashlights, and books for easy identification and sighting.
- Transportation in private vehicles and boats with safety equipment.
- Accommodation at EcoManu Lodge and Matsigenka House with single, double, triple, and matrimonial rooms, all-inclusive.
- First aid kit.
- Entrance ticket to the Reserved Zone of Manu National Park.
- Complete meals (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner) with vegetarian, vegan, and other dietary restriction options. Coffee, organic infusions, and mineral water available at all times.
- Long rubber boots and rain ponchos.
- Rooms illuminated with solar panels and good energy for charging batteries.
NOT INCLUDED:
- Tips.
- Beverages and extra expenses.
- Travel insurance.
WHAT TO BRING FOR THE TRIP:
- Lightweight clothing, long-sleeved cotton shirts, long pants, a pair of hiking shoes, a pair of sandals, towel, swimsuit, personal medications, and a waterproof jacket.
- Small daily backpack and one for equipment.
- Binoculars and cameras if you’re passionate about photography.
- Insect repellent with at least 20% DEET, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat or cap.
- Flashlight or battery-operated lamp for nighttime activities.
BOOK TOUR
HERE
