Where does the Manu Short Trip 3 Days start and end?

The Manu Short Trip 3 Days usually starts and ends in Cusco. You travel about 7 hours overland from Cusco into the Manu region and then continue by motorized canoe along the river before returning to Cusco on the final day.

Is the Manu Short Trip 3 Days enough time to see wildlife?

Yes. The Manu Short Trip 3 Days is optimized for wildlife observation and designed to make the most of your time in the rainforest. The itinerary focuses on real nature experiences in cloud forest, lowland rainforest, river habitats, caves, and an oxbow lake, all of which offer excellent chances to see birds, monkeys, and other wildlife.

What kind of wildlife can I expect to see on the Manu Short Trip 3 Days?

On the Manu Short Trip 3 Days you may see woolly monkeys and other primates, capybaras, caimans, Hoatzins and many aquatic birds, bats and tailless whip scorpions in the caves, and, with some luck, giant river otters at the oxbow lake. Wildlife sightings vary according to weather, season, and natural conditions, but the route is chosen for high biodiversity.

What transportation is used during the Manu Short Trip 3 Days?

The Manu Short Trip 3 Days combines overland and river transportation. From Cusco into the Manu region, you travel in comfortable vehicles such as a 4×4 SUV or minivan. In the lowlands, you continue in long, roofed motorized canoes on the river to reach lodges, caves, and the oxbow lake. Boats are equipped with life jackets and a first-aid kit.

Is the Manu Short Trip 3 Days suitable for all fitness levels?

Most activities on the Manu Short Trip 3 Days are moderate and suitable for travelers with a basic level of fitness. However, rainforest trails can be muddy, uneven, and slippery, especially during the wet season. If you have mobility concerns or special requirements, you should inform the tour operator in advance so they can adjust the pace and activities when possible.

What should I pack for the Manu Short Trip 3 Days?

For the Manu Short Trip 3 Days, bring lightweight long-sleeve shirts and pants, a waterproof jacket or poncho, a hat or cap, sunglasses, sunscreen, insect repellent, a refillable water bottle, personal medications, and your camera or binoculars. Rubber boots are usually provided by the operator up to a certain shoe size.

When is the best time to take the Manu Short Trip 3 Days?

The Manu Short Trip 3 Days operates year-round. The drier months, typically from May to October, tend to have less rain and slightly easier trails. The wetter months, from November to April, bring greener forest and very active ecosystems but also muddier and more slippery paths. Both seasons offer good wildlife-viewing opportunities.

Where will I sleep during the Manu Short Trip 3 Days?

During the Manu Short Trip 3 Days, you spend two nights at Guadalupe Lodge in the Manu region. The lodge is set in a secluded forest location, offering comfortable cabins and direct access to jungle trails, caves, river habitats, and night walks for a real nature experience.

Manu Short Trip 3 Days

(5 Reviews)

Max Guests : 10 plus guide
Wifi (some lodges)
Discount on fixed dates
Early Booking Discounts

capybaras crossing the Alto Madre de dios River in Manu Park

Gallery

Detail

3 Days Amazon Tour (Manu, Peru)

Maximum Wildlife in Minimum Time

Our 3 days Amazon tour is built for travelers who want a real rainforest experience in Peru with the best possible wildlife time—not a rushed itinerary filled with cultural detours. Starting in Cusco, this program goes directly toward the Manu region, reaching genuine rainforest the same day. By avoiding backtracking, you spend more time on forest trails, river habitats, and oxbow lakes, where sightings are most likely.

If your goal is simple—see as much Amazon wildlife as possible in just three days—this 3 days Amazon tour in Peru is the right fit.

Price Includes

English Speaking Guide
Manu National Park Ticket
2 Nights Lodging (Guadalupe Lodge )
Overland Transport (Air Conditioned Minivan or SUV)
Activities Listed in the Program
Meals (according the program)
Purified Water to Refill
Duffel Bags for Repacking
Rubber Boots (Available on first lodge)
Roofed Motor Boat Transport
Transfer in City (only to accesible streets)
Storage Room in City
First Aid Kit (Antivenom)
WIFI (Lodge & few locations)

Price Excludes

Alcoholic Drinks
Binoculars
Day 1 Breakfast / Last Day Lunch
Single Supplement Rate
Wildlife Rescued Centre / Humminbird Garden Fee

What to Expect / Highlights

Experience a real rainforest adventure with our 3 days Amazon tour in Peru, a route specifically optimized for wildlife observation rather than cultural stops. This itinerary is carefully designed to make the most of your limited time, focusing every day on exploring the rainforest and finding wildlife instead of retracing routes or visiting non-nature attractions.

Travel from the high Andes to the Amazon basin in one epic route
Explore cloud forest packed with orchids, bromeliads, and epiphytes
Spot iconic birds like the Cock of the Rock, quetzals, and mountain toucans
Visit the caves and canyon near Guadalupe Lodge (bats, tailless whip scorpions)
Boat down the Madre de Dios River in a roofed motorized canoe
Explore Machuwasy Oxbow Lake (caimans, capybaras, hoatzins, primates)
At least 3 species of monkey; (Capuchin , Woolly and Squirrel monkey)
Enjoy guided nature walks timed for peak wildlife activity
Optional night walk for nocturnal wildlife
Extra Activities: Willdlife Rescued centre / Hummingbird Garden / Swimming

3 Days Amazon Tours from Cusco

Cusco is the gateway for this 3-day Amazon tour in Peru. From here, you travel around 7 – 8 hours overland (depending stops along the way) directly toward the Manu region, entering genuine, lush rainforest on the same day. By skipping time‑consuming cultural detours and avoiding backtracking, this tour takes you straight to the heart of the Amazon, where you can immerse yourself in primary forest, river habitats, and rich biodiversity.

If you want a real nature experience with maximum time in the jungle and the best possible chances to see wildlife in just three days, this Manu Jungle Tour has been purpose-built for you.

Highlights of the 3 Days Amazon Tour in Peru

Travel from the high Andes into the lush Amazon basin
Explore cloud forests rich in orchids, bromeliads, and epiphytes
Watch colorful birds such as the Cock of the Rock, quetzals, and mountain toucans
Visit the caves and canyon near Guadalupe Lodge to look for bats and tailless whip scorpions
Navigate the Madre de Dios River by motorized canoe
Explore the Machuwasy oxbow lake, home to caimans, capybaras, birds, and often giant river otters
Observe large flocks of Hoatzin birds at close range
Enjoy guided nature walks in diverse forest types, timed for peak wildlife activity

Overland Transportation from Cusco

To start your 3 days Amazon tour in Peru, you travel overland from Cusco into the Manu region:

Vehicles for small groups (up to 3 people): SUV
Vehicles for larger groups (4+ people): Comfortable Minivan

The Drive offers;

High Andean vistas
Cloud forest slopes covered in dense vegetation
Cascades and waterfalls along the route
Wildlife viewing laong the cloud forest (monkeys, quetzal , cock of the rock)

River Transportation – Madre de Dios River

Once in the lowlands, the tour continues by river:

Boat type: Motorized canoe (approx. 12–14 m long, 2 m wide), with roof for sun and rain protection
Safety: Life jackets and first-aid kit on board
Route: From Atalaya Port down the Madre de Dios River (around 2 hours)
Landscape: Evergreen rainforest, mountain foothills, and riverside vegetation

As you navigate the river, there are good chances to see:

Aquatic and shore birds
Amazon Wildlife in the reeds and riverbanks
Capybaras grazing near the water

Activities Included in the 3 Days Amazon Tour in Peru

Cloud Forest Wildlife

As you descend from the Andes toward Manu, you pass through lush cloud forests, some of the most biodiverse habitats on the planet:

Flora: Orchids, bromeliads, lichens, and other epiphytes thrive in the humid environment
Mammals: Woolly monkeys are frequently observed in the canopy
Birds:
- Cock of the Rock (Peru’s national bird), observed at special viewpoints
- Quetzals
- Mountain toucans
- Many other colorful species

Our guides and drivers know the best spots to maximize your chances of sightings and photography.

Caves and Canyon at Guadalupe Lodge

Just a short 10-minute walk from Guadalupe Lodge, you will visit:

A natural canyon carved by creek erosion
Caves and dark microhabitats where species have evolved in low light

Possible sightings include:

Bats
Tailless whip scorpions
On night walks (optional): dwarf caimans and the elusive water opossum (the only aquatic opossum in the Neotropics)

Notes:

Night exploration is optional, ideal for those who enjoy close contact with nocturnal wildlife
Waterproof or rubber boots are strongly recommended

Full-Day Boat Trip

One day is dedicated to a full river experienceand hikes

Depart from Atalaya River Port
Travel in a long, roofed motorized canoe ideal for fast-flowing rivers
Enjoy stretches of relaxing navigation, sometimes just floating gently along the current

During this boat trip you may:

See waterfalls and cascades entering the main river
Observe aquatic birds, waders, and riverine species
Spot capybaras and other mammals along the shores

.

Machuwasy Oxbow Lake Exploration

The Machuwasy oxbow lake is a classic wildlife hotspot along the Manu route:

Access: Private transportation to the trailhead, then a forest trail through dense riverine vegetation
Wildlife:
- Squirrel monkeys
- Dusky titi monkeys
- Amazonian birds
- Caimans
- Capybaras
- Occasional small river otters

At the lake, you can:

Sign in at the control post (entry fee covered by the operator)
Explore by traditional balsa wood rafts, maneuvered with long poles
Watch wildlife from the water at a slow, quiet pace

Tip: Bring a wide-brimmed hat or cap for sun protection while on the lake.

Hoatzin Kingdom

This area is known for large groups of the Hoatzin, one of the Amazon’s most unusual birds:

Hoatzins are tolerant of human presence, allowing close observation
Ideal conditions for photography: clear, bright shots of birds perched near the water
The lagoon environment itself is scenic and calm, perfect for quiet wildlife watching

Nature Walks and Forest Exploration

Guided walks are a key part of this 3 days Amazon tour in Peru:

Conducted mainly in the morning and afternoon, when wildlife is most active
Duration: typically a couple of hours, scheduled between meals
Adjusted based on:
- Weather conditions
- Trail conditions
- Group interests and physical condition

During these walks, your guide will:

Explain forest types, plant diversity, and animal behavior
Help you spot birds, mammals, insects, and unique plant species
Advise you on suitable clothing and gear for each outing

Tips for Visiting the Lake and Trails

The rainforest trails can be challenging at certain times of year:

Wet / high-water season: November to May
- Trails can be muddy and slippery
Dry season: Still humid, with occasional muddy areas

To keep you safe and comfortable:

- Rubber boots (wellies) are provided up to European size 45
- Guides will inform you about:
  - Trail conditions
  - Recommended clothing and gear
  - Best practices for moving quietly and safely in the forest

3 Days Amazon Tours

Accommodation – Guadalupe Lodge

During this 3 days Amazon tour in Peru, you spend two nights at Guadalupe Lodge, a jungle lodge in a secluded forest location:

Guadalupe Lodge - Amazon Wildlife Experiences — Guadalupe Lodge

Immersed in nature, away from urban noise
Comfortable cabins to relax between activities
Ideal base for:
- Night walks
- Cave visits
- Short forest explorations around the lodge
- walk along the palm forest to see; macaws, monkeys and reptiles

Guadalupe Lodge offers a memorable Amazon experience, combining wilderness with essential comforts.s

Amazon Tours

Itinerary

Day 1 Cusco - Cloudforest - Guadalupe Lodge

Pick up from your Hotel and airport in Cusco at 6:00 AM
Driving along the Manu Road and briefly stop at Oropesa “bread town”
Stop and guided visit along the Ninamarca pre-Incan burials
Breakfast at Paucartambo Village and a guided walk along the local market, the main square, the colonial bridge
Guided walk along the Manu Park border, talks about the ranger station illustrations, maps, etc
Guided walk along the waterfalls, cascades
Exploration of the cloud forest in search of interesting species; monkeys, cock of the rock, quetzals, mountain toucans
Briefly stop at the Local Market in Pilcopata town
Arrival at Guadalupe Lodge by mid-afternoon.
Visit the Canyon and caves to see bats, spiders, and scorpions.
Exploration of the palm forest trail to look for macaws and monkeys
Night walk in search of reptiles, spiders and amphibians

Day 2 Guadalupe Lodge - Machuhuasi Oxbow lake

Early morning breakfast at Guadalupe Lodge from 5:30 AM
Land transport to Atalaya Port for one hour, stop at the viewpoints
Motorboat ride up and downstream along the Alto Madre de Dios River
Guided walk along the riverine forest to look for monkeys, caymans, and birds
Exploration of the channels of the Machuhuasi Lagoon in search of aquatic birds, monkeys, and caymans
Walks towards the Giant Kapok tree and forest explorations
Boat drive to Atalaya and return to Guadalupe Lodge
Optional visit to the wildlife rescue center
Dinner at Guadalupe Lodge.

Day 3Guadalupe Lodge - Cusco

Exploration of the lodge garden, to learn about the medicinal plants: coca leaf, cacao, bamboo water, annatto, etc
Breakfast at Guadalupe Lodge
Journey back to Cusco, drive through the cloud forest, waterfalls, and wildlife search
Brief stop at Paucartambo Village for coffee
Arrival in Cusco approx 4 PM and drop off at your hotel in the city

Map

FAQ

Is Guadalupe Lodge a resort?

No. Guadalupe Lodge is an eco‑lodge focused on sustainability and rainforest immersion, not a resort. Because it’s in a remote jungle location, we provide comfortable basics rather than luxury amenities. The lodge is largely powered by solar panels, helping reduce fuel use and overall energy impact. Its main advantage is location: it’s set in excellent habitat and is designed for wildlife observation, often offering better nature access than many other lodges along the Manu route. If you are expecting luxury this lodge is not for you !

Where does the tour start and end?

The tour typically starts and ends in Cusco City . Pickup is usually available from the airport, bus terminal, or hotel in City (based on your operator’s policy).

Are Cusco transfers included in the tour price?

Yes. We include pickup and drop-off in Cusco city as part of your tour. (make sure your hotel is accesible for minivans)

What Amenities does the lodge has?

The Guadalupe Lodge offers; WIFI (during meal times), Electricity from 6:00 to 10:00 PM , Private toilets and Showers, Hot Shower depending of weather conditions.

Is it suitable for all fitness levels?

Mostly yes. Walks are moderate, but trails can be muddy and slippery, especially in wet season. Share mobility concerns so pace can be adjusted.

What time is pickup set in Cusco?

Pickup is usually between 5:00 and 6:00 AM. Please be ready outside your hotel or at the confirmed meeting point during this window, with luggage packed and easy to load

What happens if my hotel is in the Historic Center (Centro Histórico)?

If your hotel is within restricted streets, pickup will be arranged at a nearby accessible corner or main avenue to ensure an on-time departure. Plaza de Armas in Cusco in only open for minivans early in the morning to 6:00 AM

Do I have to wait along the street on departure morning?

Yes. To avoid delays and keep the group on schedule, please wait outside on the street (or at the agreed meeting point). This helps us load quickly and depart on time.

What’s your recommendation when booking a hotel in Cusco?

If door-to-door pickup is important, choose a hotel on wider, vehicle-accessible roads, outside the most restricted streets of the Historic Center and upper San Blas.

What Time is the tour ending ?

The Tour is ending by 4:00 PM unless unexpected delays (traffic , landslides)

Why can’t you pick me up at my hotel door?

Many Cusco streets are pedestrian-only or restricted to small vehicles, so larger minivans cannot legally or safely enter at certain times.

How will I know my exact pickup point?

Once you share your hotel address (during booking or briefing), we will confirm the nearest accessible meeting point, typically a few blocks away.

Is drop-off more complicated than pickup?

Often, yes. We return in the afternoon, when Cusco traffic can be chaotic, so drop-off may be arranged at the closest accessible point, not always your hotel door.

What if I change hotels last minute?

What if I have large luggage and my hotel is not accessible?

If your hotel is on a restricted street and you have large luggage, your guide will meet you at the confirmed meeting point and help you move your bags to the minivan. Please inform us in advance so we can plan timing and assistance.

What is the recommended flight out schedule ?

Our tours return by 4:00 PM so we highly recommend to book flights out from 7:00 PM

Is 3 days enough time to see wildlife?

Yes. The itinerary is wildlife-focused: cloud forest, lowland rainforest, river habitats, caves, and an oxbow lake, maximizing sightings in limited time.

What happens if the minivan doesn’t arrive at the given time?

Please wait—short delays can occur due to traffic, temporary street restrictions, trash collection, or another participant not being ready. If the delay is long, contact us via the emergency phone/WhatsApp provided. Otherwise +51 964 422 262 for emergency

When is departure earlier than usual?

Departure may be earlier if strikes, protests, parades, or road disruptions are expected. Leaving earlier helps us avoid blockades and protects the itinerary. We will notify you in advance with updated pickup details

Which areas are most likely to require an alternative meeting point?

Centro Histórico (restricted streets and pedestrian zones)
Upper San Blas neighborhood (steep, narrow, vehicle-limited streets)

Can I book if my flight lands the day of departure?

Yes, if your flight lands by 6:00 AM (latest 6:45 AM). You must be ready quickly for pickup. We recommend arriving the day before to reduce risk from flight delays and baggage issues.

Which streets should I avoid if I want door-to-door collection?

Door-to-door pickup is often not possible around:

Loreto
Tecsecocha
Pumacurco
Suecia
Procuradores
Waynapata
San Blas Neirbohood
Cuesta santa Ana

I have flight on the last day , can you drop me off at the airport ?

Yes, participants can be delivered at the airport on the return from the tour

How big are the tour groups?

Many rainforest tours run in small groups of maximmun 10 people to improve wildlife viewing and reduce environmental impact.

Can I request a guaranteed pickup at my hotel door?

Only if your hotel is on a fully accessible street for minivans. Otherwise, we will provide the closest safe meeting point.

What is the cancellation policy?

Cancellation policies vary by operator and season. Include a clear policy in your FAQ (e.g., deadlines for refunds, rescheduling terms, and no-show rules).

Are the excursions guided?

Yes—most activities are guided by a local professional guide/naturalist, often bilingual (commonly Spanish/English). If you need another language, you may have to request it in advance.

How far in advance should I book?

For high season (especially June–September) and for small-group or specific lodge options, booking weeks in advance is recommended. Last-minute options may still be possible depending on availability.

Is there Wi-Fi at the lodge?

Yes, its available on hours along the day !

I have other questions related my booking

Please consider visiting our main Faqs page;

What kind of wildlife can I see?

You may see woolly monkeys and other primates, capybaras, caimans, hoatzins, aquatic birds, bats, and sometimes snakes.

What transportation is used?

Transport includes a 4×4 SUV or minivan from Cusco, plus a roofed motorized canoe with life jackets and basic safety equipment.

What should I pack?

Bring light long sleeves and pants, rain jacket/poncho, hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, water bottle, personal meds, camera/binoculars. Rubber boots are provided.

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5 Reviews

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Andrew

Couple Traveller

Highly recommend! Our guide Jose Luis was very knowledgeable about the different plants and animals, always knowing exactly where to look. I was impressed after he found a camouflaged bird that even if you looked directly at it you wouldn’t notice. We found wandering spiders, tailless scorpions, monkeys, bullet ants, tarantula toucan, green boa, cock of the rock, and more birds and spiders than I can name! The driver stopped frequently to allow us to walk and look for animals and check out waterfalls, and we learned about the native tribes in the region and so much more! Definitely give it a go if you want to enjoy the amazon!

16 April, 2026

Eloisa B.

Couple Traveller

The three-day tour in Manu, in the Atalaya area, was very nice. Unfortunately the journey to and from Cusco by bus is long, but the experience was intense and complete. Alexis, our Guide, was very competent and attentive towards us. We spotted animals, he explained the biology of many species and shared a piece of his world, which remained in our hearts: the Peruvian jungle. We loved Guadalupe Lodge and also from the point of view of meals and travel there was great organization. My boyfriend and I shared the tour with another couple with whom we had a great time and the attention of the agency was personalized and targeted. A taste of the Amazon to explore in the future.

18 December, 2025

Jennie S.

Couple Traveller

What an amazing trip!!! Can’t recommend Edwin and Samwell enough. This was the highlight of our visit to Peru, something not to be missed! The accommodation was basic but did the trick. The days are long but worth it to see the wildlife and scenery. If you have the time this is a must!

5 September, 2024

Jorge V.

Couple Traveller

Vivimos una experiencia excelente y super recomendable. Paulina nos inspiró confianza para contratarlos y el resto del equipo (guía Alexis y conductor Felix) superaron nuestras expectativas! En el tour eramos solamente 4 personas, lo que significó una experiencia casi personalizada en cada salida con el guía. Además, el hecho de contar con guías locales, de la zona del Manu, enriquecio la experiencia vivida. Sin dudas lo recomendamos!

10 October, 2020

Polly Okeden

Group Traveller

Absolutely fantastic guide – one of the best guides I have had in all the tours i’ve done so far in Peru. Carlos was so friendly and had a great sense of humour- he made me feel very comfortable despite being a solo traveller, and had a great bond with the group. He was SO well informed about all things relating to the Amazon and was able to answer all of our questions and more. He shared so much fascinating information with us, I really learnt a lot. Thank you Carlos! Fantastic experience and a great taste of the Amazon – would love to come back and explore for longer next time!

20 June, 2019

Manu Short Trip 3 Days

Detail

3 Days Amazon Tour (Manu, Peru)

Maximum Wildlife in Minimum Time

What to Expect / Highlights

3 Days Amazon Tours from Cusco

Itinerary

Day 1 Cusco - Cloudforest - Guadalupe Lodge

Day 2 Guadalupe Lodge - Machuhuasi Oxbow lake

Day 3Guadalupe Lodge - Cusco

Map

FAQ

Is Guadalupe Lodge a resort?

Where does the tour start and end?

Are Cusco transfers included in the tour price?

What Amenities does the lodge has?

Is it suitable for all fitness levels?

What time is pickup set in Cusco?

What happens if my hotel is in the Historic Center (Centro Histórico)?

Do I have to wait along the street on departure morning?

What’s your recommendation when booking a hotel in Cusco?

What Time is the tour ending ?

Why can’t you pick me up at my hotel door?

How will I know my exact pickup point?

Is drop-off more complicated than pickup?

What if I change hotels last minute?

What if I have large luggage and my hotel is not accessible?

What is the recommended flight out schedule ?

Is 3 days enough time to see wildlife?

What happens if the minivan doesn’t arrive at the given time?

When is departure earlier than usual?

Which areas are most likely to require an alternative meeting point?

Can I book if my flight lands the day of departure?

Which streets should I avoid if I want door-to-door collection?

I have flight on the last day , can you drop me off at the airport ?

How big are the tour groups?

Can I request a guaranteed pickup at my hotel door?

What is the cancellation policy?

Are the excursions guided?

How far in advance should I book?

Is there Wi-Fi at the lodge?

I have other questions related my booking

What kind of wildlife can I see?

What transportation is used?

What should I pack?

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