Best Optimized Tour in 3 Days - Discounted !!
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What's included
- Activities Listed in the Program
- Box Lunch
- Duffel Bags for Repacking
- English Speaking Guide
- First Aid Kit (Antivenom)
- Free Storage Room in Cusco
- Guadalupe Lodge (WiFi, Private Showers)
- Meals (according the itinerary)
- Purified Water to Refill
- Rubber Boots
- Snacks (Fresh Fruits, Cookies Juices )
- Transfer in City, Airport, Bus Station
- Transport (Air Conditioned Minivan or SUV)
- Alcoholic Drinks
- Binoculars (Available to rent)
- First Day Breakfast
- Single Supplement Upgrade
3 Days Amazon Tours
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.
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 y
ou 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:
- 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
Faqs
- Where does the Manu Short Trip 3 Days start and end? The Manu Short Trip 3 Days starts and ends in Cusco. From Cusco, you travel about 7 hours overland 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 limited time. The itinerary focuses on real nature experiences in cloud forest, lowland rainforest, river habitats, caves, and an oxbow lake, all chosen to maximize your chances of seeing wildlife.
- What kind of wildlife can I 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 with weather and season, but the route is selected for high biodiversity.
- What transportation is used during the Manu Short Trip 3 Days? During the Manu Short Trip 3 Days you travel overland from Cusco in comfortable vehicles such as a 4×4 SUV or minivan, and then by long, roofed motorized canoes on the river. The boats are equipped with life jackets, a roof for sun and rain protection, 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, inform the tour operator in advance so they can adapt the pace and activities when possible.
- What should I pack for the Manu Short Trip 3 Days? For the Manu Short Trip 3 Days, pack 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 runs 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, offer greener forest and very active ecosystems but also muddier and more slippery paths. Both seasons provide 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 and offers comfortable cabins with direct access to jungle trails, caves, river habitats, and night walks for a real nature experience.
- Day 1
- Day 2
- Day 3
Cusco - 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
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.
Guadalupe 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
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Travelicious Review
"Discover the Amazon's Hidden Treasures with our short tours from Cusco!" we are the most specialized tour operator in short guided tours along the Manu National Park. Click on the reviewer name to see the source"
More about this tour
Join us for a thrilling 3-day tour to Manu National Park, one of the most biodiverse regions in the world. Led by the experienced guides of Wild Watch Peru, this adventure is perfect for nature enthusiasts and wildlife explorers. Immerse yourself in the untouched beauty of the Amazon rainforest, home to countless species of birds, mammals, and plants.
Throughout the tour, you'll journey through pristine habitats, enjoy boat rides on serene rivers, and explore lush trails. Witness the captivating wildlife at clay licks and experience the rich biodiversity that makes Manu National Park a true natural treasure.
For detailed information about the itinerary, pricing, and travel tips, please download the attached PDF.
- Download the Full Itinerary
- Download the Packing List
- Download the Manu National Park
- Download our Private Policies & Terms 2025
User Reviews & Comments
Eloisa B.
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.
28 October, 2024
Jennie S.
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!
28 October, 2024
Polly Okeden
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!
16 October, 2024
Jorge V
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!
11 October, 2024
Andrew
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!
22 July, 2024
Helena F
It was a magical ride, guided by Ricardo :) We were super impressed by Ricardo’s fun positive attitude while he was explaining us all these amazing facts about the biodiverse paradise of Manu! I definitely recommend this trip for someone who doesn’t have a lot of time and still wants to have a taste of the Amazon. I hope to return for a much longer trip, deeper into the jungle 🦋
18 January, 2024
Hannah Ashlin Spano
The trip surpassed my expectations! We were both glad we went. Edwin did a great job as our guide. My favorite part was when he told us stories about his experiences in the jungle and times with crazy tourists over dinner. He had us all laughing. He also was really good at spotting animals.
30 December, 2023
Herbert Christen
Carlos war ein sehr angenehmer Führer, der auf unsere Wünsche einging und einen riesigen Erfahrungsschatz über Flora, Fauna und Lebensweise der Einwohner mitbrachte
6 December, 2023
Pèach Field
Edwin was a very attentive guide and showed us lots of wildlife. Manu was so different from Cusco and the Salkantay trek that we had just got back from.
21 November, 2023
Erynn
Loved our time! Such amazing tour guides Isaul and Caesar, they were so passionate about the jungle and excited to share with us. We had so much fun and such a great experience, definitely a highlight on our trip to Peru!
11 November, 2023
Alanna G
Me and my friend chose to do the Short trip - 3 days in Manu National Park. How can you not go into the Amazon when you're in South America and this was our perfect tour. We got collected from our hostel on the morning by Edwin and driver and they stayed with us the whole trip. Edwin was our guide and he was fabulous - he had great energy and nothing seemed to be too much trouble.
10 November, 2023
Kathy C
This was a great experience. Esau was extremely knowledgeable and took every opportunity to show us everything he could, maximizing the time and place. His enthusiasm for birds, monkeys, frogs, snakes, and spiders maintained a sense of fun and adventure. Thankfully we had plenty to see and explore, day and night. The food offered us unique tastes of the region, as the lodge offered a great place to shower and sleep.
20 October, 2023
Anaya_Namita
A friend and I did the 3-Day Manu Jungle Tour from Cusco. It was an experience I must say! The highlights are as follows: - Herbert's, our Wild Watch guide, knowledge, and love for nature were admirable, this included his ability to talk to monkeys - which resulted in him encouraging capuchins over to a tree near us on the last day so we had a clear view of them! So amazing! - Every day the food, cooked by Gloria, was fantastic! I have dietary requirements which she catered to seamlessly.
18 October, 2023
Alexei Adamovich
I'd like to thank Edwin for his attention, knowledge and friendliness! A person whom pleasure to communicate with. Of course, 3 day tour is a bit short to immerse yourself in jungle, but it's a fine option for ones who are short of time. And od course I should mention cousine at Guadalupe Lodge. To cut a long story short, that was a fine and balanced trip, after which you won't be exhausted :)
1 September, 2023
Sophie A
My friend and I had an incredible experience doing the Manu short 3 day park tour with Edwin Patel. The long journey was kept interesting with lots of food breaks and stops to see birds, where Edwin’s experience and knowledge spotted birds we never would have seen alone. He also made us feel safe and welcome on all the walks and we also enjoyed his company throughout.
16 August, 2023
Adrijan_V
Had an awesome experience with Edwin. He took great care of us, showed us so much. Would definitely go for even more days.
10 August, 2023
Sergeiv_Kabhik
I ended up with Wild Watch Peru, hands up the best experience in Perú so far, everything was well organized so guides speak fluent english Luis , the activities well Designed for wildlife viewing as booked a short tour I was expecting not to see much in terms of animals however I got to see wildlife even while driving in the mountains, deers, snake and monkeys.
20 July, 2023
Caroline_s
Our cook was Awesome. Our driver was Awesome. Our guide was beyond amazing. Our guide Herbert spent so much time showing us the jungle
12 June, 2023
Thomas Larkin & Charlotte Ion
This three day safari was wonderful. It's a long coach ride into Manu Park, but the scenery is beautiful and the guides stop whenever there are birds or other animals to spot. Our guide, Juan, was very knowledgeable and was keen to share his passion for the natural world. His enthusiasm was infectious and the fact he clearly loved his job so dearly made it nothing but a joy for us. The accommodation is comfortable and the food was great. We saw lots of monkeys and birds. Spiders and bats in the cave and on the way back went to a hummingbird sanctuary, which blew my mind. These creatures are just magical. We met a group that did the 5 day tour, which we didn't have time to do, but it sounded like they had a very adventurous trip indeed. Worth considering if you have the time to do so.
26 May, 2023
Tanim_I
This was overall a great trip, we saw lots of animals such as birds, a Capybara, etc. The tour guide also put in a lot of effort. The food and accommodation are ok, it's what you expect from somewhere remote. The opportunity to see the amazon, take a hike, and see animals that made things worth it. You should note its a 7 hr trip to and from Cusco.
16 May, 2023
Rachel Anson & Family
Seeing monkeys in the wild for the first time was incredible. Easu and Luis were our guides, very knowledgeable and passionate about the area and animals. The drivers were very experienced and safe. Stopped at the site of Inka funeral towers, and the beautiful town of Paucartambo. Day 2, riverboat ride, jungle walk, and raft trip looking for Cayman, but they were hiding. Saw beautiful birds, ants, and ant holes termite nests. The Hummingbird sanctuary was beautiful, and unexpectedly there was a snake under the decking. Sunset by the river with beautiful birds. Luis' bird and monkey imitations were phenomenal. Day 3, easily walk upriver to caves, bats, and huge spiders. Guadeloupe Lodge was very comfortable, the cooks prepared excellent food and Manuel also helped to make our stay enjoyable. Our son was on crutches and Luis was very thoughtful, adapting the itinerary slightly so he could join in. We were very pleased to support Wildwatchperu in their ethical environmental work and strongly recommend them. Thank you to you all for a trip of a lifetime.
13 April, 2023
Kaajal Patel
This experience was incredible. The drivers, staff, and guides are all incredibly knowledgeable and friendly. You get an authentic experience in Manu and the lodging / food is great as well. We saw a variety of animals / birds via the river boat, cloud forest, and rainforest exploration. We only did a 3 day trip but definitely recommend the 6 day experience if you have time for it. Herbert was really hospitable and shared a lot about Peruvian culture with us. Jose Luis (Pepe) was a great guide and shared a lot of interesting details about nature / Peru with us. Could not recommend more!
10 December, 2022
Connor C
This was fantastic experience. The owner, Hebert, is committed to conservation and is very knowledgeable about the Amazon region as he grew up there. He went above and beyond to give us a great experience in Peru. The guides, ours was Jose Luis, are very passionate about wildlife and are excellent at leading you through dense jungle and providing a truly adventurous experience. Highly highly recommend!
8 December, 2022
Mark B
We had booked the 3 day short trip. Although it’s quite a bit travelling, I found it well worth it. I just like the jungle and this time most of what we saw was lots of greens, followed by birds. Unfortunately not that many animals, we did spot some nightmonkeys, bats but mostly birds. The stay at the Guadeloupe lodge was nice and Hebert is a cool and nice guide. Very kind, helpful and knowledgeable!
10 November, 2022
JeepLady
Awesome Manu Short Trip 3D thanks to expert organizer Fredy and awesome tour guides Hebert, and Simon and Juan Jose, and the drivers and cooks! This is THE tour company to use for the best experience! They handled everything for us from the moment we arrived at the airport until we departed. Guadalupe Lodge and food were great-what a unique experience exploring the Amazon rainforest in hikes, boat ride, birdwatching, watching a sloth and monkeys at the Wildlife Rescue Center, and sleeping in the screened-in lodge cabin with the sound of the river and the birds. The people were friendly, experienced, knowledgeable; they took great care of us (long ride to the lodge but many waterfalls to enjoy on the way). A short time in Manu but a wonderful experience and memories :)
25 January, 2020
Brittany
My friends and I did the Manu Short Trip with Wild Watch Peru and had an interesting experience to say the least. Three days & 2 nights. The rainforest itself was beautiful and we did get to see a lot of gorgeous, brightly colored birds, different types of monkeys, cool plants & trees. Our guide, Simon, was really passionate about the jungle and had an eagle's eye & ear for finding wildlife for us to see.
16 January, 2020
Mike Engerud
I always knew Machu Picchu, the Sacred Valley and the Andes would be spectacular destinations, but adding Wild Watch Peru’s 3-day Manu Short Trip turned our nine-day Peru vacation into an adventure of a lifetime. From Hebert’s first email answering questions about the rain forest tour to our guide Ricardo’s sincere goodbye at the trip’s end, everyone at the company was thoughtful, professional, enthusiastic and knowledgeable. Wild Watch Peru set quite high expectations in terms of advertising comfort and sights; I can attest the roomy and comfortable transport (on land and water!), cozy lodge, delicious meals (including picnics!), beautiful scenery, and remarkable birdwatching are just a few details that exceeded our expectations.
15 May, 2019
Natalie Noiman & Claudio Braina
Our guide "Edwin" and transport picked us up from our hostel in Cusco early in the morning and drove us along the mountains and some Inca ruins, thumbs along the way for nice photo taking. He also recommended us to the very famous and tasty coffee at a Local restaurant in Paucamtambo Village where we visited the colonial bridge! He is very friendly and knowledgeable, with a good command of English, and he shared many interesting stories from the jungle with us! We are so grateful to Luis for adding such great memories to our visit and making the booking hassle-free and simple. He is an absolute expert, trustworthy, prompt in answering questions, and professional. I enthusiastically recommend giving him a call and booking one of his many outstanding tours!
10 October, 2018