It covers an area of 2 million square hectares of a territory rich in species of flora and fauna, with a variety of Andean, high Andean, tropical and subtropical habitats. This natural paradise recognized by UNESCO as a World Biosphere Reserve; It is home to the greatest biological diversity in protected rainforest areas and several endemic species of the cloud forest.
Here with a forest still intact, we can still observe in their natural habitat species in eminent danger of extinction such as: the Giant River Otter (Pteronurabrasiliensis), Black Caiman (Melanosuchus Niger), the majestic Jaguar (Pantera onca), the rare Bear of Spectacled Spectacles (Tremarctosornatus), and other animals such as Tapir, Tigrillo, thirteen species of primates, and more than a thousand species of birds, including 7 species of macaws (Ara Sp.)
On the other hand, this reserve is home to 10% of the world’s plant species, including the finest wood trees and countless species of medicinal plants that are just being cataloged and put at the service of science. In one hectare of Manu forest there can be up to 220 species of trees, while in one of the same size in Europe or the United States, there are only 20.
We will leave the city of Cusco early in the morning in our tourist transportation. We will cross interesting inter-Andean valleys and picturesque peasant communities. We will visit Paucartambo, a picturesque colonial town and its interesting museum. Lunch en route. We continue towards the Cloud Forest, an area very rich in endemic species such as the Spectacled Bear and the Cock of the Rock, orchids, bromeliads, ferns, lichens, etc. observing nature and then we continue to our lodge where we will spend our first night comfortably installed.
Early in the morning, we will look for the interesting Cock of the Rock, Peru’s national bird that performs a unique courtship ritual. After breakfast we continue to the town of Pilcopata*, then to the port of Atalaya, a place located on the banks of the Alto Madre de Dios River, at 700 meters above sea level from where we will begin the descent by boat to observe the enormous diversity of existing bird species, such as herons. , vultures, cormorants, etc. until we reach our lodge “Erika”. We will walk along the interesting trails of this transitional point between high jungle and low jungle where the guide will search, show and explain the interesting diversity of wildlife in the surroundings. Overnight at the hostel. Those who wish can do the activity of a night walk to observe insects and amphibians.
We will have a morning walk where the guide will search, show and explain the interesting diversity of wildlife in the surroundings. We will board our boat to cross the river and walk 30 minutes along a path to observe and talk about interesting flora such as sensitive plants, heliconias, fruit bowls, etc. until we reach the Machuwasi lagoon where we will paddle in rustic canoes to observe birds such as the primitive hoatzin, with luck alligators, monkeys and capybaras. Night walk around our lodge to observe insects and amphibians.
Early in the morning we will board our boat to go to the clay lick, where different species of parrots such as the blue-headed parrot, white-eyed parakeet and possibly the Maracano macaw, among others, come down every morning to extract clay for their dietary balance.
Completing this activity we will return to our hostel to pack up and board the boat to Puerto de Atalaya, here we board our bus to return to Cusco. Our lunch will be halfway through the route. We will be arriving in Cusco at approximately 7:30 p.m.
It is recommended to wear comfortable and sturdy hiking shoes, preferably waterproof, that offer good grip and support for varied terrain.
Yes, it is advisable to bring personal medications, as well as insect repellent, sunscreen, sanitary towels, biodegradable soap and other personal hygiene items.
It is recommended to wear light, breathable clothing for the day, and additional layers for the night when temperatures may drop. It is also important to wear comfortable, quick-drying clothing, as well as waterproof clothing in case of rain.
For adventure activities such as boating and canopy, it is recommended to wear clothing suitable for getting wet, shoes that can get wet, sunglasses, sunscreen and a waterproof camera if you want to capture the exciting moments.
For bird watching and wildlife photography, it is advisable to bring binoculars, a camera with zoom lenses, and neutral-colored clothing so as not to scare the birds and animals. It is also important to carry a small backpack to transport the equipment.
There are specialized bilingual guides, safety equipment for activities such as canoeing and canopy, a first aid kit, and detailed information is provided on what to bring and how to prepare for activities in the jungle.