Manu Jungle Tour 3 Days

From US$270 per person

Inquiry

Trip Details

Max Altitude 4,000 m / 13,123 ft (Acjanaco Pass, Manu Road)

Trip Length 3 Days

Group Size Min 2 – Max 10 Persons

Physical Level Easy

Trip Style Hiking

Lodging Type Eco-lodge

Manu National Park Tours

The Amazon Manu Biosphere Reserve is one of the most biodiverse protected areas on the planet. This 3-day expedition descends from the historic town of Paucartambo through lush cloud forest into the vibrant rainforest, reaching Pilcopata for a night at a scenic lodge. Day two continues by boat along the Madre de Dios River to the comfortable Paititi Lodge.

During the river journey, travelers have the unique opportunity to spot exotic wildlife and enjoy the breathtaking flora and fauna thriving along the riverbanks. The grand finale of this expedition comes on the third day with a visit to the parrot clay lick, where guests witness an unforgettable natural spectacle of sounds and colors before beginning the return journey by boat and bus back to Cusco.

Overview

Trip Summary

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Cusco to Ninamarca, Paucartambo & Pilcopata Lodge

Convenient morning pick-up from your hotel (5:30 – 6:00 a.m.). Travel via private transport through the scenic cloud forest, stopping at the Ninamarca funerary towers and the colonial town of Paucartambo, and spotting the iconic Cock-of-the-Rock. Enjoy lunch and dinner before spending the night at a comfortable lodge in Pilcopata.

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Pilcopata to Atalaya Port, Paititi Lodge & Machuwasi Lake

Morning journey to Port Atalaya to board our private motorized boat. Arrive at Paititi Lodge, enjoy full regional meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner), and explore Machuwasi Lake on a traditional catamaran raft. Finish the day with an optional night walk.

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Parrot Clay Lick, Cloud Forest & Return to Cusco

Early morning boat ride to witness the spectacular parrot clay lick. Enjoy a fresh breakfast and lunch before heading back to Atalaya and Pilcopata, concluding your Amazonian journey back in Cusco.

Highlights

✦ Spectacular Clay Licks

Witness hundreds of colorful parrots and macaws gathering for mineral-rich clay in their natural habitat.

✦ Top-Tier Equipment & Guidance

Explore alongside expert specialized guides equipped with high-reach telescopes and binoculars for crisp wildlife viewing.

✦ Full Professional Crew & Safety

Travel completely stress-free with all entrance tickets included, first aid kits, full safety gear, and a dedicated staff (boat driver, crew, and professional chef).

✦ Fresh Jungle Catering

High-quality, freshly prepared meals (2 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 2 dinners), mineral water, and snacks included throughout the tour, with vegetarian and vegan options available.

✦ Complimentary Night Walk

Join an exciting, optional night excursion after dark to experience the Amazon’s nocturnal wildlife up close.

Itinerary

DAY 1: Cusco to Ninamarca, Paucartambo & Pilcopata Lodge

Your Amazon adventure begins with an early departure from Cusco, journeying through Andean archaeological sites and the misty cloud forest before descending into the rainforest lowlands of Manu National Park.

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Hotel Pick-Up in Cusco (5:30 AM – 6:00 AM)

Your Amazonian expedition begins early in the morning with a convenient private pickup from your hotel in Cusco (3,400 m / 11,152 ft). You will board a comfortable, private bus as we leave the Andean capital behind and head toward the spectacular Southern Valley.

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Historical Exploration: Ninamarca & Paucartambo

Our first stop brings us to the impressive Funerary Towers, or Chullpas, of Ninamarca, at an altitude of 3,750 meters (12,303 feet), where you will explore these ancient archaeological treasures. Afterward, we make a brief stop in the charming folkloric town of Paucartambo (2,906 m / 9,534 ft) to appreciate its historic colonial bridge and timeless atmosphere.

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Manu National Park Gateway & Cloud Forest Descent

Next, we ascend to the Acjanaco sector, sitting at a breathtaking 4,000 meters (13,123 feet), which officially marks the entrance to the legendary Manu National Park. From here, we begin our dramatic descent into the mysterious cloud forest — an enchanting ecosystem teeming with pristine wild flora, including exotic orchids, heliconias, and primitive ferns.

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Wildlife Spotting & Arrival at Pilcopata Lodge

During an immersive nature walk, you will have the unique opportunity to witness the fascinating courtship dance of Peru’s national bird, the vibrant Cock-of-the-Rock. Keep your camera ready to spot exotic Trogons and Quetzals, or even the rare Spectacled Bear. In the afternoon, we arrive at the picturesque village of Pilcopata (550 m / 1,804 ft), settling into our cozy lodge with private bathrooms and showers.

DAY 1 Technical Specifications

Total Distance: 250 km by private bus
Hiking Time: 1-2 hours (short cloud forest walks, Cock-of-the-Rock viewing)
Maximum Altitude: 4,000 m / 13,123 ft (Acjanaco Pass, Manu Road)
Places to Visit: Ninamarca Funerary Towers, Paucartambo, Acjanaco Pass (Manu National Park entrance)

DAY 2: Pilcopata to Atalaya Port, Paititi Lodge & Machuwasi Lake

Today takes you deeper into the rainforest by boat, arriving at Paititi Lodge and exploring the wildlife-rich waters of Machuwasi Lake.

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Private Drive to Atalaya Port & River Navigation

After a delicious fresh breakfast, we continue our journey with a 45-minute drive to the river port of Atalaya, descending to an altitude of 490 meters above sea level. From Atalaya, we board our private motorized boat for a scenic 30-minute cruise along the river to reach Paititi Lodge, an excellent opportunity to observe native wildlife roaming freely along the banks.

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Arrival at Paititi Lodge & Jungle Lunch

Upon arrival at Paititi Lodge, you will settle into comfortable, authentic rooms equipped with private bathrooms and showers. A freshly prepared lunch featuring local flavors will be served at the lodge, allowing you to unwind and take in the peaceful rainforest surroundings.

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Machuwasi Lake Exploration by Traditional Catamaran

In the afternoon, we head into the wilderness to explore the pristine Machuwasi Lake (Cocha Machuwasi), navigating the calm waters on a traditional catamaran raft — perfect for spotting the prehistoric-looking Shansho (Hoatzin), monkeys, reptiles, dwarf caimans, and, with a bit of luck, the capybara.

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Optional Night Trekking & Evening Relaxation

As darkness falls, the Amazon transforms completely. We offer an exciting optional Night Trekking program for those eager to experience the rainforest after hours. Afterward, we return to the comfort of Paititi Lodge for a peaceful night’s rest.

DAY 2 Technical Specifications

Total Distance: 45-min private drive to Atalaya Port + 30-min private boat to Paititi Lodge
Hiking Time: 1-2 hours (lodge trails and Machuwasi Lake raft exploration)
Maximum Altitude: 490 m / 1,608 ft (Atalaya Port)
Places to Visit: Paititi Lodge, Machuwasi Lake

DAY 3: Parrot Clay Lick, Cloud Forest & Return to Cusco

Your final day features an unforgettable encounter with hundreds of parrots at the clay lick, followed by the scenic return journey through the cloud forest back to Cusco.

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Morning Boat Expedition: Parrot Clay Lick Experience

Our final day begins early with a scenic 45-minute boat ride to the spectacular parrot clay lick, a natural mineral-rich cliffside. Here, you will witness an astonishing wildlife gathering as 3 to 4 different species of green parrots arrive in large numbers to feed on natural salts and minerals. After this fascinating spectacle, we enjoy a fresh breakfast before continuing our journey.

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Overland Journey: From the Amazon to the Andes

We say goodbye to our river vessel at Atalaya Port and transition to our private bus. Our return route takes us back through Pilcopata (550 m / 1,804 ft), Patria, and Chontachaca, driving up once again through the mystical cloud forest, offering one final chance to admire the mist-shrouded jungle canopy.

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Arrival in Cusco (6:30 PM – 7:00 PM)

As we leave the lush valleys and ascend back into the high Andes, we estimate arriving in the Imperial City of Cusco between 6:30 p.m. and 7:00 p.m., dropped off safely near the historical center, bringing this unforgettable 3-day Manu adventure to its successful completion.

DAY 3 Technical Specifications

Total Distance: 45-min boat to clay lick + 250 km return (boat & bus, 6-7 hours) to Cusco
Hiking Time: Minimal — early morning boat ride to the clay lick, mostly a transit day
Maximum Altitude: 3,400 m / 11,154 ft (arrival in Cusco)
Places to Visit: Green Parrot Clay Lick, Atalaya Port

Inclusions

What's Included in Manu Jungle Tour 3 Days

Transportation

Private Ground Transportation: Comfortable private land transportation for all overland transfers throughout the expedition.
Private River Transportation: Private river transport via motorized boat for all scheduled navigation.

Guidance & Wildlife Viewing

Specialized Guidance: Professional, certified English-speaking guide specializing in Amazonian biodiversity and cultural heritage.
Optics for Wildlife: High-reach telescope and professional binoculars provided for crisp, close-up wildlife viewing.
Professional Crew: Full assistance from a dedicated field staff, including an experienced driver, boat crew, and professional chef.

Meals & Accommodation

Jungle Catering: Fresh and high-quality meals (2 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 2 dinners) along with daily snacks and fresh mineral water.
Lodge Accommodations: Comfortable jungle lodges equipped with private bathrooms and solar panel stations to recharge your device batteries.

Safety, Permits & Extras

Safety Equipment: Full field safety gear, including a certified first-aid kit and life jackets for river navigation.
Entrance Tickets: All admission fees and entrance tickets covered for Manu National Park and scheduled regional attractions.
Night Walks: Complimentary, optional guided night walks to experience the active nocturnal life of the Amazon rainforest.
Trekking Gear: A pair of durable rubber hiking boots (botas de jebe) provided for comfort and traction on muddy rainforest trails.

What's Not Included in Manu Jungle Tour 3 Days

First-Day Breakfast: The morning meal on Day 1 is not included, as the tour begins early with hotel pickups.
First-Day Beverages & Water: Alcoholic drinks, soft drinks, and bottled water during the first day of the expedition are not covered.
Travel Insurance: Personal medical, emergency, or baggage insurance is not included.
Tips: Gratuities for the expert guides, drivers, boat crew, and professional chefs are completely optional and not included in the tour package.

Prices

Amazon Tour Manu 3D-2N — 2026-2027 Group Prices

Amazon Tour Manu 3D-2N pricing includes your professional guide, private land and river transport, jungle lodge accommodation, and all listed meals.

Category	Price per Person
Adult	$289.00 USD
Student	$270.00 USD
Minor	$270.00 USD

Discount Policy

Minors: The minor rate applies automatically to children aged 3 to 17 years old by presenting a valid passport copy upon booking.
University Students: Students up to 25 years old can also qualify for this special rate by sending a clear photo of their official university ID card to info@andeanmoments.com. Once verified, we will email an exclusive discount code to complete the online reservation.

Example of a valid physical student ID card — Example of an accepted physical student ID

Packing List

Essential

Water Bottle

Sunblock

Insect Repellent (10% DEET)

Personal Medications

Personal Care Products

Extra Cash

Clothing

Lightweight windbreaker

Waterproof Rain Jacket or Poncho

Sun Hat / Cap

vented safari shirt

quick dry t-shirt

lightweight quick-dry pants

Sandals

Swimwear

Equipment

Binoculars

Headlamp / Flashlight

Quick-Dry Towel

Travel Guide

Why Book Our 3 Day Amazon Tour?

Finding the perfect short getaway to the rainforest can be challenging. Our specialized 3 day Amazon tour is meticulously designed for travelers who want an immersive, high-quality wildlife experience within an optimized timeframe, ensuring you discover the core wonders of Manu National Park without missing a single detail.

Smart and Optimized Itinerary

This specific 3 day Amazon tour maximizes every hour of your trip. We travel directly through the cloud forest down to our lowland eco lodge, allowing you to enjoy boat navigation, lake exploration, and wildlife spotting even on a shorter schedule.

Expert Spotting and Professional Optics

Our expert native guides know exactly where exotic birds and mammals hide. With the help of professional binoculars and high-reach telescopes provided on the tour, you will get crystal-clear views of prehistoric Hoatzin birds and active monkeys.

Comfortable and Safe Rainforest Base

Relax at our cozy jungle lodges featuring private bathrooms and showers. Our field staff handles all meals with fresh regional catering, letting you focus entirely on your jungle walks and optional nocturnal safaris.

All-Inclusive Field Logistics

From early morning hotel pickups in Cusco to freshly prepared regional catering by a dedicated professional chef, we handle every detail. All entrance tickets to scheduled attractions, private land transport, and motorized boat transfers are fully covered. To learn more about the global conservation status of this pristine biome, visit the official UNESCO Manu National Park page, or check current availability on our Contact and Booking page.

Health & Vaccination Notice

Vaccinations are not mandatory for administrative entry to the region, but a yellow fever vaccine is highly recommended for your personal safety. We advise consulting your local physician or a travel health clinic at least ten days prior to your departure to Peru.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions About the Manu Jungle Tour 3 Days

Is there internet or phone signal during the Manu tour

No, phone signal and internet connectivity are unavailable once we deeply enter the Manu cloud forest and lowland jungle. This tour is an excellent opportunity to fully disconnect and immerse yourself in nature. Our crew carries communication devices for safety and emergencies.

Can I charge my phone and camera batteries at the lodges

Yes, both Pilcopata Lodge and Paititi Lodge feature eco-friendly solar-powered charging stations. Electricity is usually available for a few hours in the evening, so we highly recommend bringing an extra power bank or additional camera batteries just in case.

What is the luggage limit for this Amazon expedition

Due to space regulations on our private motorized river boats, we kindly request a maximum luggage weight of 10-12 kg (22-26 lbs) per person. You can safely store your large suitcases or extra items at your hotel in Cusco free of charge before the tour begins.

Do you accommodate vegetarian, vegan, or allergy-restricted diets

Absolutely! Our professional chef can cater to all dietary preferences, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and specific food allergies. Please make sure to inform us about any special dietary restrictions at the time of your booking so we can prepare our fresh jungle menu accordingly.

What are the accommodations and room configurations like

Our selected jungle lodges offer comfortable, clean, and authentic rooms built with traditional local materials. Every room comes with its own private bathroom and hot/cold shower facilities. We offer single, matrimonial, double, and triple room arrangements based on your group size.

Are mosquitoes a major problem during the hikes

Mosquitoes and small insects are a natural part of the rich Amazon ecosystem. However, you can easily protect yourself by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long trousers, and applying an insect repellent containing at least 10% DEET. Keeping your skin covered during hikes is the best protection.

Is this Manu tour suitable for children or seniors

This tour is rated as easy-to-moderate and is open to families and travelers of various ages in good health. The walks are leisurely and focused on wildlife observation rather than intense physical trekking. However, the first day involves long driving distances, and the humidity can be tiring for very young children.

How safe is the boat ride on the river

River transport is completely safe. Our private motorized boats are specifically built for local river conditions and are maneuvered by licensed, highly experienced indigenous boat captains. Additionally, high-quality life jackets are provided and are mandatory for all passengers during navigation.

Do I need to buy my own rubber hiking boots for the trip

No, you do not need to buy them. We provide a pair of durable rubber hiking boots (botas de jebe) to all our passengers for maximum safety and cleanliness on muddy jungle trails. Please make sure to share your correct shoe size with us during the booking process.

What happens if there is heavy rain during our itinerary

Rain is a frequent occurrence in the rainforest. Our tours operate normally during standard tropical rain showers, and wildlife sightings can still be excellent. If extreme weather conditions pose a safety risk, our professional guide and crew will adapt the schedule or trail routes to protect our guests while ensuring a great experience.

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