Faqs

Find quick, clear answers to the most common questions about traveling with Wild Watch Peru—from booking and payment options to what’s included, packing, safety, weather, and lodge conditions in Manu. If you don’t see your question here, contact us anytime and we’ll help you choose the right tour and prepare with confidence.

How do I register/book a tour?

Contact Wild Watch Peru to confirm availability (dates, group size, tour type). Then send the details below by email or through our contact form or sending email to: info@wildwatchperu.com

What payment methods do you accept?

Credit/Debit Card: Visa, MasterCard and others (online link or POS in Cusco). Peruvian Bank Transfer (USD):

  • Bank: Banco Internacional del Perú
  • Account name: Wild Watch Peru E.I.R.L
  • CCI: 003-420-003003704309-75
  • SWIFT: BINPPEPL
  • Address: APV Virgen del Carmen 206, San Sebastián – Cusco

PayPal: https://www.paypal.me/wildwatchperutours Cash: USD or Peruvian soles (available for last-minute payments; cash discounts may apply at our Cusco office).

When is my seat confirmed?

Your place is confirmed once we receive the deposit (and any additional requirements for specialized tours).

When do I need to pay the balance?

Final payments should be completed at least 2 days before departure. If not paid on time, spaces may be released.

How much is the deposit?

USD 100 per person to secure your space (unless your tour requires a higher deposit, e.g., birding or Reserved Zone programs around USD 250.00 per person).

Is the deposit refundable?

  • Refundable/transferable up to 7 days before departure.
  • 2 days or less before departure: deposit is non-refundable.
  • The deposit may be transferred to another date/tour within the season if requested by email at least 7 days before the original departure date.

What’s included in the tour price?

As stated in your itinerary, tours typically include:

  • Accommodation
  • Meals during the tour
  • In-tour transportation (road/boat)
  • Entrance fees (where applicable)
  • Guide services
  • Purified/mineral water during activities

What’s not included?

  • Transport to/from the tour start/end point (unless specified)
  • Alcoholic drinks, snacks, laundry, personal expenses
  • Phone calls / extra services
  • Single supplement (cost depending of the booked trip)

What is the best time to visit Manu?

The dry season (May–October/November) is generally best for wildlife viewing and smoother logistics. Rainy season (Dec–Apr) is greener and wetter; conditions vary by year.

How is the road to Manu?

The Manu route is currently largely paved from Cusco toward Atalaya, improving reliability. In rainy months, landslides can still cause delays in mountain sections—our drivers operate cautiously.

What altitude will we reach?

Highest points are in the Andes:

  • Ninamarca area: up to ~3900 m
  • Acjanaco Pass: ~3400+ m Then you descend into the Amazon as low as: ~610 m (foothill rainforest areas such as Guadalupe Lodge)

How long does it take to reach Manu from Cusco?

Travel time depends on stops and itinerary, but reaching Manu’s boundary areas can take around 7 hours (average driving pace), plus boat travel on longer programs.

What vehicles do you use?

  • Small groups: 4×4 vehicles
  • Larger groups: minivans (Sprinter/Solati-type) adapted for road conditions

What safety support exists along the route?

Some areas have mobile coverage and Wi‑Fi (varies by lodge/zone). Medical posts are available in places like Villa Salvación and Boca Manu (basic services). Remote areas require evacuation planning.

Do I need vaccines or malaria pills?

Health recommendations depend on your doctor and itinerary. For Amazon travel, many travelers consider:

  • Yellow Fever vaccine (often recommended for lowland jungle; get it at least 10 days before travel)
  • Malaria prophylaxis (risk varies; consult a travel clinic) Prevention is essential: long sleeves, repellent, and mosquito nets (provided where needed).

Can I swim in rivers?

Only if your guide confirms it is safe for that exact location and season. Always follow guide instructions.

Are snakes common? Should I worry?

Snakes are rare to see, but present. Stay on trails, wear proper footwear (no sandals on hikes), use a flashlight at night, and keep distance if seen. Your guide is trained in safety protocols.

Other dangereous animals—what should I know?

  • Peccaries: give them space; stay calm and quiet.
  • Jaguars: extremely rare; if seen, stay calm and follow guide instructions.
  • Insects (chiggers, mosquitoes): use repellent and protective clothing.

Should I bring cash?

Yes. Once leaving Cusco, ATMs are limited or unavailable. Bring small bills in soles for personal expenses (snacks, drinks, tips, toilets, souvenirs).

Is there Wi‑Fi/electricity?

Varies by lodge and location. Some lodges have limited electricity hours (often evening) and occasional Wi‑Fi.

How many people are in a group?

Most trips run with small groups (2–8 travelers) when possible. Some transport may be shared to reduce cost and fuel use.

Are there age restrictions?

Most tours: minimum age 8 (minors must travel with an adult). Family trips may accept younger children depending on the itinerary.

I’m traveling solo—can I join?

Yes. Many guests join as solo travelers.

Will I pay a single supplement?

If you’re solo, we usually match you with a same-gender roommate. Private rooms may be available for an extra fee (single supplement) depending on the trip.

Can you handle dietary requirements?

Yes—tell us during booking (allergies, vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, etc.). We’ll do our best to accommodate.

Is it mandatory to pick up the duffel bag for tour into the Reserved Zone?

Yes. For Manu longer  tours, it’s mandatory to repack into our duffel bags to reduce volume They’re designed for easier transport by vehicle/boat and help keep luggage organized and protected. 

Is it mandatory to pick up the duffel bag for short tours?

Its Optional, travellers can take their own luggage as long as are not big suitcases 

When and where do I pick up the duffel bag?

You can pick it up in Cusco before departure (usually the day before). We’ll confirm the exact time and location after your booking.

Can you store my suitcase in Cusco while I’m in Manu?

Yes. We can store your main luggage in Cusco while you travel with the duffel bag. Ask us in advance so we can confirm space.

Is hotel pick-up and drop-off included?

It depends on your hotel location. Pick-up/drop-off is usually included for hotels in vehicle-accessible streets within the pick-up zone for your program.

Are all transfers included?

Not always. Some transfers depend on your itinerary and your hotel’s accessibility. If your accommodation is outside the pick-up zone or hard to reach, we may assign a meeting point.

What if my hotel is on a pedestrian street?

If your street is pedestrian-only or not accessible for a minivan, we will send you a nearby alternative meeting point (easy to find) and the exact meeting time. (Avoid the San Blas upper area and some other locations)

What time is pick-up in Cusco?

Pick-up is usually between 5:00 AM and 6:00 AM, depending on your program, group size, and logistics. We confirm your exact pick-up time the day before departure.

What is the food like?

Meals are designed for rainforest conditions (fresh, practical, and nutritious). Expect hearty breakfasts, lighter lunches, and warm dinners (soups, mains, fruit/dessert).

Is drinking water provided?

Yes during the tour (mineral/purified water). For Day 1, please bring your own bottle for the first part of the journey.

Which lodges do you use?

This depends on your itinerary. Common examples include:

  • Guadalupe Lodge (foothill forest, private bathrooms, limited electricity hours, Wi‑Fi may be available)
  • Casa Matsiguenka (community lodge near Manu River; shared facilities; excellent wildlife setting; used on Reserved Zone programs)

Do I have to carry my luggage?

Generally no. Staff assist with loading/unloading at boats and lodges. You may carry your own bag if you prefer, but it’s not required.

Do I need a sleeping bag or mosquito net?

Mosquito nets are provided where needed. Sleeping bags are only needed on specific camping itineraries—check your Trip Notes.

What should I know about tipping guides and staff in Peru?

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. If you’d like to tip, it’s best to:

  • Tip guides separately from lodge staff (when applicable)
  • Tip based on service quality and trip length We can provide a recommended range depending on the size of your group and days in the jungle.

Can I bring a drone in Manu?

Drone rules vary by protected area and local regulations, and many reserves restrict drones due to wildlife disturbance and community privacy. In many cases, drones are not allowed or require specific permissions. Ask us before your trip and we’ll confirm what’s permitted for your route.

Is Manu suitable for families with children or older travelers?

Manu can work very well for families and older travelers if the itinerary matches comfort and stamina. For example:

  • Shorter walks, more boat-based wildlife viewing
  • Lodges with private rooms and easier access
  • Slower pace and extra rest time Tell us ages and preferences and we’ll recommend a suitable trip.

Can you accommodate vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or allergy-friendly meals?

Yes—with advance notice. Many dietary needs can be accommodated (vegetarian, vegan, no fish, no nuts, etc.). Please share:

  • Allergies (severity and triggers)
  • Preferences and restrictions
  • Any medical dietary requirements In remote regions, flexibility helps, but our team will do its best to keep you safe and well-fed.

What are the bathrooms like during the tour?

Bathroom standards vary by location:

  • Lodges often have toilets and showers (sometimes cold/warm water depending on the area)
  • In more remote areas, facilities may be simpler We’ll brief you each day so you know what to expect and can plan comfortably.

What kind of accommodations can I expect?

Depending on your tour, accommodations may include:

  • Simple eco-lodges with private or shared bathrooms
  • Comfortable beds with mosquito nets
  • Dining areas with freshly prepared meals
  • Hot water may be limited in remote areas We choose places that balance comfort, cleanliness, safety, and proximity to wildlife hotspots.

What wildlife can I realistically see in Manu?

The Wildlife sighting highly depends of the type of tour booked in aregular short tour, the following animals can be seen (not always guaranteed)

  • Macaws and parrots (often at clay licks or nearby guadalupe lodge)
  • Monkeys (howlers, squirrel monkeys, capuchins)
  • Caimans, river turtles
  • Colorful frogs and insects
  • Capybaras

How physically demanding are Manu jungle tours?

Manu tours are typically moderate. Expect:

  • Early starts (wildlife is most active at dawn)
  • Walks on forest trails (often humid and muddy)
  • Boat travel (hours on the river, seated)
  • Basic facilities in remote areas You don’t need to be an athlete, but being comfortable walking 2–4 hours at a slow pace is helpful. We can recommend the best itinerary based on your fitness and comfort level.