Frequently
asked questions
1.- What is the maximum group size on the camping trips?
The maximum size of the group is 10 people per guide. If we have more people (between 11 and 14) we send two guides. If there are more than 14 people we split the group into two independent groups – both with their own boats, guides, cooks and program. The only time they spend together is on the first and second day on the lodges like Rainforest Lodge and Bonanza Lodge.
2.- What facilities are there at the campsites, for example, for washing and for toilet facilities, and is the tour luxury?
We find it important to minimize our impact as much as possible. Therefore, we do not promote this as a luxury tour. On the contrary, you may encounter some physical hardships such as heat, humidity, biting insects, plus basic washing and toilet facilities.
Jaguar EcoLodge offers clean private toilets, freshwater showers, and a spacious dining area. We also provide a laundry area and a well-maintained garden, with wildlife in the surrounding environment.
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3.- What type of boats are used for the tours?
The boats are metalmade and feature reclining seats. Life jackets are also provided. The boat has a roof for protection against sun and rain, although rain may still enter from sides while the boat is in movement. In rainy weather, we provide long plastic rain covers for additional protection.
4.- Is all drinking water provided?
We provide mineral water for drinking and brushing your teeth. Please bring your own water for the first day, as the tap water at our lodges is not safe for drinking. We recommend taking water bottles for refilling.
5.- What is the food like?
Our meals are not all typical Peruvian food, neither normal typical tourist food. It is food that lasts in the heat and humidity of the tropical rainforest. For breakfasts there are fruit salads, omelets, scrambled eggs, pancakes etc. The lunches include juices, since it is usually hot at that time of the day, and the dinners feature soups (the great Peruvian soups!), a main course with meat for the first part of the tour and beans or lentils for the second part (since meat cannot been kept cool for a long time) and desserts of fresh fruits or puddings etc. We don’t offer beer nor any alcohol drinks.
We can offer you special diets, such as vegetarian, vegan or any kind of diet according your request.
6.- How is the camouflaged house (hide) or Tapir clay lick?
This is a long wooden made platform, this has a roof, stairs with handrails, at about 6 meters high from the ground. This hide or blind is located in the middle of the jungle, there are no bathroom, and we use the bushes for pee. And because is considered as wildlife area, we do have some local regulations, like not smoking, not use deet, stay in silence, for sleep we provide mattresses and mosquito nets.
7.- Why do I need a sleeping bag?
You need to bring sleeping bag for the night, when you sleep at the camouflaged house, (light sleeping bags or a simple blanked) because the warm weather.
8.- How is the weather during the trip?
The first night, we spent at Rainforest Lodge at 600m, where temperatures are about 25 degrees Celsius. In Manu’s lowland forest, the temperature at night is normally around 27 degrees Celsius and during the day about 32 to 36 degrees Celsius. However, cold winds from Patagonia may reach Manu National Park and the temperature may lower to about 10 degrees Celsius. These “friajes” are more common during the southern hemisphere’s wintertime (between April and the end of June).
9.- Is there a lot of walking?
There is not a lot of walking in the sense of going far. All walking is done slowly. This is because most of what you find in a rainforest is vegetation and to be able to pick out the animals you have to take your time to look around, and listen as well. During your trip to Manu National park, walking is very important in order to find animals. In the Reserved Zone there are trails around the lodges that can last 3 hours maximum. Finally night walks can be added to most days depending on the lodge area and the activities.
10.- Should I take a malaria prophylaxis?
Yes, it is generally recommended to take malaria prophylaxis when visiting Manu National Park. While the risk of contracting malaria is relatively low, especially in certain areas of the park, it’s still advisable to take precautions. Consult with a healthcare professional for specific recommendations based on your health and the duration of your stay. Additionally, using insect repellent and wearing long sleeves in the evenings can further reduce your risk.