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 Reserved Zone 6 Days Tour

(5 Reviews)

Max Guests : 8 plus guide
Wifi (some lodges)
Discount on fixed dates
Early Booking Discounts

Gallery

Detail

Manu Reserved Zone Express 6 days

Welcome to the amazing 6-day exploration of Manu National Park! This is an incredible opportunity to explore the largest and most biodiverse rainforest in the world. It’s also home to some of the world’s most iconic and endangered species such as the jaguar, giant river otter, and giant anteater. On this 6-day exploration, you’ll get to experience the beauty and diversity of the Amazon in all its glory. From trekking through the lush jungle to spotting wildlife up close, to learning about the indigenous people, this is sure to be an unforgettable adventure. So get ready for a once-in-a-lifetime journey of discovery!

Price Includes

English Speaking Guide
Manu National Park Ticket
5 Nights Lodging (Guadalupe Lodge - El Dorado Lodge - Casa Matsiguenka)
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

What to Expect / Highlights

A Manu Reserved Zone Tour is the best way to experience the most protected, wildlife-rich sector of Manu National Park in Peru. Designed for travelers who want deep Amazon immersion in a limited timeframe, this journey (typically 5 to 8 days) takes you from Cusco into one of the most biodiverse rainforests on Earth—where access is restricted, human impact is minimal, and wildlife encounters are exceptional.

If your goal is authentic Amazon exploration, fewer crowds, and higher chances of seeing rare species, a Manu Reserved Zone Tour offers the ultimate rainforest adventure.

Giant kapok trees dominate Manu’s ancient rainforest canopy.
Untouched rainforest walks on pristine trails with expert guides.
Primary forest wildlife spotting by motorboat along riverbanks.
True remoteness: isolated Amazon wilderness, far from crowds.
Predator chances: black caiman, jaguar, anaconda, giant otters.
Salvador Lake navigation: breathtaking scenery and calm waters.
Up to eight monkey species; fourteen recorded in Manu.
Andes, cloud forest, and lowland rainforest in one tour.
Respect indigenous territories, including nearby uncontacted groups.
Boat navigation: easy, relaxing wildlife viewing in remote rainforest.

Manu Reserved Zone Express Tour

Discover the untouched wonders of the Amazon Rainforest in just under a week with our exclusive Manu Reserved Zone Express Tour—designed for adventurous travelers eager to explore some of the most pristine and remote areas of Manu National Park.

Your journey begins in Cusco, where you’ll embark on a scenic overland expedition, descending through cloud forests and into the heart of the jungle. From there, a thrilling motorboat ride along the Madre de Dios River whisks you deep into the rainforest, where biodiversity flourishes and time seems to stand still.

manu reserved zone tours - macaw clay lick — Jaguar at the Manu River Banks

Why Choose a Manu Reserved Zone Tour?

The Manu Reserved Zone is strictly regulated to protect its ecosystems. Because only authorized operators can enter, the experience is more exclusive—and the wildlife viewing is often far better than in more accessible Amazon regions.

Top Reasons Travelers Book a Manu Reserved Zone Tour

Highest wildlife density in Manu National Park
Remote primary rainforest with limited human presence
Expert naturalist guides for birds, mammals, and rainforest ecology
Access to iconic Amazon highlights like oxbow lakes, canopy towers, and clay licks
Ideal for travelers focused on wildlife photography, birdwatching, and nature expeditions

Manu Reserved Zone Tour Overview: Cusco to the Amazon

Most Manu Reserved Zone Tour itineraries begin in Cusco, crossing multiple ecosystems in just a few days.

Typical Travel Route

Overland journey from Cusco through the Andes
Descent into the cloud forest (excellent for birds and scenery)
Arrival to river ports and transition to motorboat travel
Entry into the Reserved Zone via Limonal Ranger Station (official control point)
Exploration by river and trail with overnight stays in remote jungle lodges

Because the Reserved Zone is only reachable by boat and requires permits and licensed guides, a Manu Reserved Zone Tour includes more logistics and support than standard tours—making it smoother, safer, and far more productive for wildlife viewing.

What You Can See on a Manu Reserved Zone Tour (Wildlife Highlights)

A well-planned Manu Reserved Zone Tour targets both riverbanks and forest interiors, increasing your chances of spotting rare Amazon species.

Signature Wildlife of the Reserved Zone

Jaguar (best chances along riverbanks during early morning and late afternoon)
Giant river otter (often seen at oxbow lakes)
Black caiman, anaconda, and other reptiles
Tapir, capybara, and wild cats
Multiple monkey species including tamarins and capuchins
Extraordinary birdlife: macaws, parrots, toucans, and raptors

Wildlife sightings vary seasonally, but the Reserved Zone remains the top area in Manu for consistent, high-quality encounters.

Best Places to Visit on a Manu Reserved Zone Tour

Salvador Oxbow Lake (Cocha Salvador)

This is one of the most famous stops on a Manu Reserved Zone Tour. The lake is explored quietly on paddle-powered catamarans, making it ideal for close wildlife observation. Common sightings include:

Giant river otters
Black caimans
Monkeys and abundant birdlife

Access is scheduled through the Limonal Ranger Station, helping keep the area protected and wildlife undisturbed.

Otorongo Lake Canopy Tower

(Not operational due uncontated tribes report)

A canopy tower visit adds a unique perspective to your Manu Reserved Zone Tour. From above the forest, you can scan the canopy for birds and spot movement that’s easy to miss from the ground—perfect for birdwatchers and photographers.

Primary Rainforest Trails (Varzea & Terra Firme)

A Manu Reserved Zone Tour includes walks through pristine forest types:

Varzea forest (seasonally flooded)
Terra firme forest (higher ground with towering trees, including Brazil nut)

These trails highlight the “true Amazon” feel—ancient, dense, and largely untouched.

Macaw Clay Licks

Clay licks are a signature experience on a Manu Reserved Zone Tour, where parrots and macaws gather to feed on mineral-rich clay. Depending on season and itinerary, visits may be arranged near key ranger and lodge areas (restrictions apply to some locations due to protected zones).

manu reserved zone tour - macaw clay lick casa matsiguenka — Macaw clay lick at Casa Matsigueka

Manu River Wildlife Navigation

River time is not just transportation—it’s a core part of a Manu Reserved Zone Tour. Boat navigation can produce some of the best sightings of the trip, especially:

Early morning
Late afternoon
After rainfall Dry season typically provides clearer visibility along beaches and riverbanks.

Where You Stay on a Manu Reserved Zone Tour:

Casa Matsiguenka

Many itineraries include Casa Matsiguenka Lodge, a remote, solar-powered lodge inside Manu National Park, managed with participation from Matsiguenka Indigenous communities.

A stay here supports conservation-focused tourism and provides a strategic base for exploring lakes, trails, and river corridors within the Reserved Zone.

Manu Reserved Zone Tour vs. Cultural Zone: What’s the Difference?

Travelers often compare a Manu Reserved Zone Tour with trips to the Cultural Zone.

Key Differences

Access: Reserved Zone is restricted (must go with an authorized operator); Cultural Zone is more flexible
Wildlife: Reserved Zone has higher wildlife density and more rare species
Experience: Reserved Zone is deeper wilderness; Cultural Zone offers more community interaction and easier logistics

If your priority is wildlife and untouched rainforest, the Manu Reserved Zone Tour is the better choice.

Who Is a Manu Reserved Zone Tour Best For?

A Manu Reserved Zone Tour is ideal for:

Wildlife lovers seeking rare species and high biodiversity
Birdwatchers and photographers who want the best viewing opportunities
Travelers who want remote, protected Amazon landscapes
Nature-focused visitors who prefer guided interpretation by specialists

Book Your Manu Reserved Zone Tour

A Manu Reserved Zone Tour is one of Peru’s most rewarding nature experiences—remote rivers, oxbow lakes, macaw clay licks, canopy views, and primary rainforest teeming with life.

Itinerary

Day 1 Cusco - Cloudforest - Guadalupe Lodge

Your Manu Road journey begins with a pickup in Cusco and a drive through dry inner-mountain valleys, offering a glimpse into local life. You’ll stop to explore the pre-Inca tombs at Ninamarca and see the colonial bridge in the village of Paucartambo. As you ascend to the Acjanaco Pass, the gateway to Manu National Park, the landscape dramatically transforms from dry valleys to lush, misty cloud forests. This environment is ideal for birdwatching, and you’ll have the chance to spot a variety of species, including the Andean Cock-of-the-Rock and possibly woolly monkeys. The tour concludes with an overnight stay at Guadalupe Lodge. Here, you can take a trail through the swamp forest to look for capuchin and night monkeys and observe birds like macaws and woodpeckers at dusk.

Day 2 Guadalupe Lodge - Atalaya Port - Casa Matsiguenka

The tour starts with an early departure to the Atalaya port, where you’ll board a roofed boat. You’ll travel down the Alto Madre de Dios River, transitioning from mountainous scenery to the dense rainforest. Along the way, you’ll have excellent opportunities to spot numerous colorful birds like macaws, toucans, and parrots, as well as wildlife such as capybaras and monkeys. After about five hours, you’ll reach the confluence of the Manu River and check in at the Limonal ranger station. The journey up the Manu River will be for 4 hours (total about 9 hours navigation) that offers a rare chance to see a jaguar. As you continue, you’ll be immersed in a highly active environment, with countless swallows and butterflies. The day ends at the Casa Matsigueka lodge, where you’ll stay for two nights. Optional night walks are available.

Day 3Casa Matsiguenka (Lake Exploration , Trails , Macaw Clay Lick)

On this day, you will spend the better part of your time exploring the wilderness of Manu. The main activity is a visit to Salvador oxbow lake, famous for its population of Giant Otters. You’ll use a floating catamaran to comfortably observe these playful animals, as well as a variety of lake-edge birds, including the unique Hoatzin, herons, and colorful macaws. In addition to the lake, you’ll hike the forest trails around the lodge, looking for different species of monkeys, such as white-fronted capuchins and pygmy marmosets. During the midday, the tour includes a trek through a Terraza Forest, which is home to Brazil nut trees and other species, to reach a macaw clay lick where you can watch red and green macaws. The day concludes with an overnight stay at the Casa Machiguenga lodge. Note that the visit to the lake is subject to availability.

Day 4 Casa Machiguenga– El Dorado Lodge

The morning begins with a boat trip down the Manu River. You’ll stop to hike a trail for a closer look at the pristine forest, with the chance to see some of the area’s largest kapok trees. The boat trip continues to be a great opportunity to spot wildlife, including various birds on sandbars, sunning turtles, and possibly the elusive Jaguar. After about four hours, you’ll reach the Limonal ranger station for a brief stop. Lunch will be served on the boat, and you’ll arrive at the Dorado Lodge in the mid-afternoon. This gives you time to explore the surroundings, with an optional night walk available depending on the group’s wishes.

Please note, due to reports of uncontacted groups moving on the right side of the Manu River, you will not be visiting the Otorongo oxbow lake and tower to avoid any potential encounters.

Day 5El Dorado Lodge - Guadalupe Lodge

In the morning, you’ll visit a Macaw Clay Lick near the lodge to watch parrots, parakeets, and medium-sized macaws consume minerals. Afterward, you’ll begin the five-hour boat trip back to Atalaya Port on the Upper Madre de Dios River. This journey provides a final opportunity to spot capybaras and various raptors, vultures, and eagles. Upon reaching Atalaya, you’ll take a one-hour overland trip to Guadalupe Lodge, where you’ll have time for an optional night walk.

Day 6Guadalupe Lodge - Cusco

Your last morning begins with a pre-breakfast walk through the foothill forest, where you can look for Wooly and Capuchin monkeys and other emblematic birds like macaws and toucans. The loop trail also includes a visit to caves and canyons to see nocturnal animals such as spiders, scorpions, and bats (flashlights are needed). After the walk, you’ll have breakfast, pack up, and begin the drive back to Cusco. The return journey offers more opportunities for wildlife sightings and impressive views of the cloud forest and its waterfalls. You are scheduled to arrive in Cusco around 4 p.m.

Map

FAQ

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 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

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 and only around the lodge

I have other questions related my booking

Please consider visiting our main Faqs page;

Download Info

The Download Files tab provides travelers with easy access to all essential documents related to the Tambopata Rainforest tour. Organized in a simple PDF format, this section ensures that you can quickly view, save, and print the information you need for your journey.

Price

From$990$950

Booking Form

Enquiry Form

Proceed Booking

Save To Wish List

104

5 Reviews

Sort By:RatingDate

Adam Kaplan

Solo Traveller

5/5 experience, made exemplary by our experienced guide Ricardo (Ricky). The 6 day trip to Manu Reserve zone, with 2 nights at Casa Matsiguenka (tourists can only spend a maximum of 2 nights within the park for conservation reasons), while it has significant travel times (which is well warned by the company), provides nature lovers a fantastic experience to visit a fairly untouched area of the Amazon basin, giving you a real feel for the jungle. The on ground team was incredibly helpful, prompt in their communications, and on arrival/payment in their office, I was given an in-depth run through of the plan and ample time to have any of my questions answered

14 August, 2025

Fiona D

Couple Traveller

We did the 5N/6D Manu reserved zone tour with the amazing Ricky as our guide. Long journeys involved but did lots of wildlife spotting from the boat. Two days inside reserved zone great for seeing the giant otters and many different monkeys and birds. Ricky was very knowledgeable about everything and able to impersonate many different animal and bird calls. He tailored the programme well. Accommodation all basic but comfortable and food plentiful.

10 July, 2024

Amir Singh D

Solo Traveller

A real, rustic, and raw experience of the Amazon. We experienced life and accommodation “local style” and saw a ton of wildlife. Ricky was highly knowledgeable, entertaining, and took brilliant care of us. He is an expert and his experiences and stories were good fun

10 November, 2023

Brenton Anthony

Family Traveller

We did the 6-day Manu Reserved Zone tour. This experience was seriously 10/10. Our guide, Esau, was simply incredible. His English was perfect and he grew up in Manu so I think he knows literally every single animal, tree and sound in the jungle! I have no idea how he spotted some of the wildlife. We saw so much wildlife (see pics) thanks to Esau’s expert knowledge. It is quite a long journey to get deep into Manu (bus and then boat) but definitely worth getting to the reserved zone. A special mention to the food on the trip too – so good! We never went hungry and the quality was amazing considering the remoteness. There was always snacks too. I would highly recommend this as well as Esau as a guide.

4 April, 2023

Robert S

Couple Traveller

For a very reasonable price, my husband and I had a private tour of one of the most pristine ecosystems on the planet, the Manu Reserve. We saw caimans, sloths, 7 varieties of monkeys, the Cock-in-the-Rock, tapirs, macaws, more magnificent butterflies than you can imagine, and much more. Our tour guide, Esau, was remarkable – so knowledgeable and accommodating. Every question we asked – and we asked many – was answered and then some. The food was delicious and more than we could possibly eat. The journey to get into the Reserve is long but we thought of it as part of the adventure…even when our van got stuck in the mud. I was impressed with how our entire crew worked tirelessly. They catered to our every need. Be prepared for lots of bugs and heat, but it’s worth the journey. Bring a good pair of binoculars, a camera, mosquito repellent, sunscreen, and a hat. – written by Robert’s wife

12 December, 2022

Manu Reserved Zone 6 Days Tour

Detail

Manu Reserved Zone Express 6 days

What to Expect / Highlights

Manu Reserved Zone Express Tour

Itinerary

Day 1 Cusco - Cloudforest - Guadalupe Lodge

Day 2 Guadalupe Lodge - Atalaya Port - Casa Matsiguenka

Day 3Casa Matsiguenka (Lake Exploration , Trails , Macaw Clay Lick)

Day 4 Casa Machiguenga– El Dorado Lodge

Day 5El Dorado Lodge - Guadalupe Lodge

Day 6Guadalupe Lodge - Cusco

Map

FAQ

Where does the tour start and end?

Are Cusco transfers included in the tour price?

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 ?

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

Download Info

Proceed Booking

Adding item to wishlist requires an account

Book With Confidence

Need Help?

Related Tours

An Avian Odyssey of 10 Days – Manu National Park

Manu Wildlife Immersion 5 Days

Manu Park Extreme Wildlife 7 Days

Adam Kaplan

Fiona D

Amir Singh D

Brenton Anthony

Robert S