Manu Reserve Zone and Blanquillo Macaw Clay Lick to Pto Maldonado
8D/7N
- Departure
From Cusco returns to Cusco
- when
From March to December
- Difficulty
Easy to Moderate
- type
Group Service Private service
- wheater
Group Service Private service
overview
This is a comprehensive itinerary designed to explore the diverse ecosystems of Manu National Park. The journey encompasses various ecological zones, including the mountainous regions, the high Amazon jungle, and the lowland areas rich in biodiversity. Key highlights of the tour include visits to the Mammals Clay Lick and the Macaw Clay Licks, as well as exploration of Cocha Salvador and Cocha Otorongo, where visitors can observe unique wildlife. The itinerary includes a three-night stay at the confortable Jaguar Ecolodge, providing a comfortable and immersive experience in the heart of the rainforest. The adventure begins with a scenic bus ride from Cusco to Atalaya port, followed by an exciting boat navigation along the Madre de Dios River and the Manu River. During the tour, participants will have the opportunity to visit the Pakitza Range station, known for its exceptional biodiversity and research initiatives. Additionally, the journey will feature a stop at the Tambo Blanquillo Macaw Clay Lick, where guests can witness large flocks of vibrant Macaws feeding on the mineral-rich clay. The expedition concludes with a return to Puerto Maldonado, offering a final chance to reflect on the incredible natural wonders encountered throughout the journey.
daily summary
Day 1
Cusco – Rainforest Lodge
Our adventure begins in the exciting Jungle of Manu ; we will pick you up around 4 :30AM from your hotels in Cusco in our private transport. The first part of our excursion will take us through the majestic Andean mountains and afterward, we will pass throught town of Huancarani them we travel to Paucartambo, a small traditional town which is know for its folklore. At midmorning, we will arrive at Acjanacu the entrance of Manu National Park here we will do a short hike exploring the Puna Grassland Paramo this place is considered as the continental divide there we might see the Andean Fox, Gray-tailed Deer and in a lucky day we might encounter the Andean Bear (Tremarctos ornatus). We will continue in our transport down throught Manu Road stopping at different ecosystems and ecological levels that contains waterfalls, open gaps, epiphytic forest and wonderfull views. Eventually we will come to the home of the exotic Peruvian National Bird, the “Andean Cock of the Rock” you will be amazed by the spectacle in the Lek, we do have changes to see Gray Woolly Monkey and many others exotic birds like Blue-banded Tucanet, Golden-headed Quetzal, Crested Quetzal. After that we continue driving to Rainforest Lodge where we will spend our first night. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Highlights:
- Explore the Ecological Zones of Manu Road: Discover the diverse ecological levels, including the enchanting Elfinwood Forest, the majestic Mountain Forest, and the lush Cloud Forest.
- Visit the Andean Cock-of-the-Rock Lek: Experience the vibrant display of the Andean Cock-of-the-Rock, Peru’s national bird, in its natural habitat within the Cloud Forest.
- Birdwatching and Scenic Views: Engage in birdwatching as you search for a variety of species, including tanagers, toucans, barbets, hummingbirds, quetzals, trogons, motmots, woodpeckers, and hawks. Enjoy breathtaking views of the cloud forest, where you can witness the stunning interplay of fog and mist in the landscape’s natural scenery.
Day 2
Rainforest Lodge – Bonanza Ecological Reserve - Tapir Clay Lick
Very early in the morning we will depart to Atalaya port, on the way we will make a stop to sighting birds such Hummingbirds, Aracari Toucans, Amazonian Umbrella Bird. Later we will begin the boating part of our journey in river excursion on the Madre de Dios River a tributary of the famous Amazon River.We will make a stop at the natural hot springs to have bath and relax, travelling by boat exist chances to see the famous Capybaras (worl’s largest rodents), Red Howler Monkeys, Rosiate Spoonbills, river scavengers like King Vulture, Caracaras, river Owls etc. After midday we will arrive to Bonanza Lodge after enjoying a short break we will start trekking through the jungle to hear the natural sounds of animals and see Monkeys like Dusky-titi Monkey, Brown Cappuchins. We will spend the night at our Tapirs Clay Lick this Camouflage House is strategically located near to the Mammal’s Clay Lick where we will have the opportunity to see the Brazilian Tapir, Red Brocket Deer, and Porcupines during the night time. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Highlights:
- Hummingbird Garden: In this enchanting garden, visitors can observe a variety of hummingbird species, including the Rufous-crested Coquette, Buff-tailed Sicklebill, White-necked Jacobin, and Gould’s Jewelfront. The vibrant colors and agile movements of these birds create a mesmerizing experience for nature enthusiasts.
- Natural Hot Springs: Immerse yourself in authentic hot springs nestled within the lush surroundings of nature. These mineral-rich pools not only provide relaxation but also attract butterflies that come to lick the minerals from the rocks, creating a unique and tranquil atmosphere.
- Tapir Clay Lick: Experience the excitement of wildlife viewing at the Tapir Clay Lick, where a sheltered wooden platform offers a prime vantage point. Here, you can observe a variety of mammals, including Brazilian Tapirs, Red-brocket Deer, bicolored porcupines, and bats, particularly during the evening hours when these fascinating creatures come to feed on the mineral-rich clay.
Day 3
Bonanza Ecological Reserve – Jaguar Ecolodge (Reserve Zone)
Very early in the morning, leaving the relatively clean waters of the Madre de Dios River behind and enter the clay-laden waters of the Manu River with a brief stop at the park ranger station at Limonal to present permits. We will travel by boat (five hours) upstream Manu River which specially in dry season, are loaded with nesting birds and feeding Herons, Egrets, Orinoco Geese, Terns and Skimmers to name but a few. Some beaches will host sunning White and Black Caimans (Melanosuchus niger), South American relatives of the Alligators and the breeding Yellow-spotted River Turtles (Podocnemis unifilis), hundreds of Sand-colored Nightjars roost during the day on logs and beaches and there is a chance of encountering a stunning Jaguar (Panthera onca), the world’s third largest cat. We will see some species of primates on this river trip, possibly Red Howler Monkeys, Squirrel Monkeys, Tamarins monkeys. We’ll have the afternoon to explore some of the trails through the rainforest in the area. Before or after dinner you will have chance to go on an optional night walk with your guide in search of nocturnal creatures. We will spend the night at Jaguar Ecolodge a new lodge run by Amazon Wildlife Peru. There are confortable facilities available, carefully implemented with fine furniture, spacious rooms and bathrooms with single, double and king sized beds, covered with mosquitos nets. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Highlights:
- Stunning Boat Ride: Enjoy a breathtaking journey along the Madre de Dios and Manu Rivers. Navigate winding waterways while taking in the vibrant ecosystems and colorful riverbanks. Watch for wildlife, including caimans, turtles, monkeys, various bird species, and capybaras along the shores.
- Indigenous Communities: Along the banks of the Madre de Dios River, there is a chance to glimpse uncontacted indigenous people, specifically the Mashco Piro tribe, who inhabit this remote region of the Amazon.
Explore the forest at night: At night, the tropical rainforest transforms into a mystical realm. Moonlight dances through the trees, illuminating bioluminescent fungi while insects come alive, including spiders, tarantulas, stick insects, frogs, snakes, and other arthropods. Each step reveals nature’s wonders, deepening appreciation for the beauty and interconnectedness of all living things.
Day 4
Jaguar Ecolodge – Cocha Salvador
After breakfast, we will spend the morning at the lake of Cocha Salvador. We plan to paddle across the lake on a floating platform (catamaran) observing the animal life on the lake. We may encounter the Agami Heron (Agamia agami), Hoatzin, Osprey, Sungrebe, and there are also Spider monkey, Brown Capuchin monkeys, White-fronted Capuchin monkeys, who are usually feeding on fruits nearby and therefore are relatively easy to sight. A specially constructed platform that looks out to the lake, enable us to look for a family of Giant Otters (Pteronura brasiliensis the world’s largest freshwater carnivores) that lives here. This Otters are found in large families in Manu and each animal consumes between 4 and 5 kilos of fish per day. So with that in mind it’s most likely that they can be seen eating large fish on logs at the lakeside. After that we will continue exploring the forest where we may encounter troops of monkeys guide will explain about medicinal plants and about different ecosystems, lifestyles them we can enjoy the sunset night walks are available for herping activities. Night at Jaguar Ecolodge Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Highlights:
- Explore Cocha Salvador: Discover the Salvador oxbow lakes by paddling in a comfortable catamaran for a closer look at the endangered giant otters and black caimans. Abundant birdlife can be found along the shores, and a glimpse of the emperor tamarin monkey (Saguinus imperator) would be a rare delight. Along the banks of the Cocha, you may also encounter various wildlife, including capuchins, squirrels, and spider monkeys.
- Macaw Clay Lick: Just a 20-minute walk from Jaguar Ecolodge, the Macaw Clay Lick offers a spectacular display of avian life. As the day begins, you can witness parrots and parakeets arriving to partake in this natural phenomenon. Later in the day, the vibrant scarlet-red and green macaws make their appearance at the clay lick, although their arrival may vary depending on weather conditions.
- Pristine Primary Forest: The trails surrounding Jaguar Ecolodge lead you through pristine primary forest, providing a fascinating opportunity to learn about the intricate interactions between flora and fauna. As you explore, you’ll discover various plant species and their roles in the ecosystem, as well as the wildlife that depends on them for survival.
Day 5
Jaguar Ecolodge – Cocha Otorongo
After breakfast we will be leaving from the lodge to explore for about 4 to 5 hours through the forest to Cocha Otorongo. We may be lucky enough encounter groups of monkey this is a particularily good trail for Woolly monkey, Black Spider monkey and Red Howler monkey. We’ll pay special attention to the plant life on this walk and take it slowly listening for the rustle of vegetation or the soft sound of fruits falling to the rainforest floor that may betray the presence of animals or large birds. A visit to the lake of Cocha Otorongo is planned, where observation piers and a 20-meter observation tower in the rainforest canopy overlooking the lake are available for observing wildlife. We will also be on the lookout for a large family of Giant Otters that inhabit this lake them nights walk is available for searching night frogs. We will spend the night at Jaguar Ecolodge. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Highlights:
- Explore Cocha Otorongo: This area features unique habitats for endangered giant otters and black caimans, with trails that allow for excellent observation of woolly monkeys. Metal towers provide stunning views of the lake and diverse bird species, including toucans, kingfishers, and macaws. The forest’s ecological layering, from emergent trees to the forest floor, is also noteworthy.
- Macaw Clay Lick: A 20-minute walk from Jaguar Ecolodge, this site showcases vibrant birdlife. Early in the day, parrots and parakeets gather, followed by the arrival of scarlet-red and green macaws, which varies with weather conditions.
- Pristine Primary Forest: Trails around Jaguar Ecolodge lead through untouched primary forest, offering insights into the interactions between flora and fauna. Visitors can learn about various plant species and the wildlife that relies on them.
Day 6
Jaguar Ecolodge - Pakitza – Tambo Blanquillo
Early in the morning, we will head to the Pakitza Ranger Station, known as one of the first biological stations established for scientific studies in Manu. The boat trip upriver to Pakitza may bring surprises. Once there, we will explore its complex trail system, revealing the forest’s natural beauty with every turn. We might even spot a group of Tamarin monkeys, the smallest monkeys in the world. Please be aware of your surroundings, as they could sneak up behind you.
In the afternoon, we will visit another trail system with distinct characteristics. Our guide will explain the native plants in the area that can be used as traditional medicines. We will then continue our journey by boat for approximately six hours downriver to Tambo Blanquillo for the night. This river trip may also present surprises, and we will remain vigilant for wildlife on the beaches, including the famous Jaguar, one of the jungle’s highlights. We will spend the night at Tambo Blanquillo Lodge. Breasfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Highlights:
- Exploration of Pakitza Ranger Station: Discover one of the first biological stations in Manu while navigating a complex network of trails rich in biodiversity. This area serves as a critical site for ecological research, highlighting the importance of habitat conservation and the study of species interactions within the Amazon rainforest ecosystem.
- Jaguar and Wildlife Spotting: Stay alert during the boat trip and trail explorations for unique wildlife, including the elusive Emperor Tamarin monkeys and the iconic Jaguar. These species play vital roles in their ecosystems as apex predators and indicators of environmental health, showcasing the importance of predator-prey dynamics and biodiversity.
- Traditional Medicinal Plant Presentation: Learn about native flora and their uses in traditional medicine from our knowledgeable guide during the afternoon trail visit. This presentation emphasizes the significance of ethnobotany, showcasing how indigenous communities utilize plant biodiversity for health and healing.
Day 7
Blanquillo Macaw Clay Lick – Puerto Maldonado
Very early in the morning, we will travel by boat to the Macaw Clay Lick, a special place where flocks of parakeets, parrots, and macaws come daily to consume the nutritious clay found along the riverbank. We will stay at a camouflaged hideout, which is a bird lover’s paradise, allowing you to see and hear many species. However, this activity is highly weather-dependent. After this, we will take our motorized boat downriver to Boca Colorado. From there, we will travel by bus to Puerto Maldonado and spend the night in a comfortable hotel.Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Highlights:
- Blanquillo Macaw Clay Lick: is a remarkable natural site found in tropical rainforests, where macaws and other birds gather to consume clay from riverbanks and cliffs. This behavior helps detoxify seeds and fruits, as the clay contains minerals that aid digestion and neutralize toxins. Species such as scarlet macaws, red-and-green macaws, and various parrots and parakeets can be observed here, including the charming orange-cheeked parrot, mealy parrot, and yellow-crowned parrot, among others. The colorful display of birds, especially in the early morning, makes it a popular destination for birdwatching and ecotourism; however, the spectacle is dependent on weather conditions.
- Stunning final boat ride: Enjoy a scenic and relaxing boat ride downriver to Puerto Colorado, where you may spot diverse wildlife, including birds and aquatic species, along the way. After your journey, transfer by bus to Puerto Maldonado for an overnight stay.
Day 8
Puerto Maldonado – Cusco or Lima
After breakfast we transfer you to the airport in Puerto Maldonado, from where you cab take a flight to Cusco (45 minutes) or Lima (2 hours) flights to Lima where you can connect at the same airport for International flight. Most people will take the flight from Puerto Maldonado to Lima connecting from there to international flight. The flight is not included in the price of the programm. Breakfast
Tour Includes:
- Private boat and bus
- Rubber boots, rain poncho and duffle bag for personal belongings
- Matrassess and Mosquitos nets in the Camouflage House
- All accommodations and Lodges
- Bilingual guide from the jungle
- Mineral water all the time
- First aid kit (include Antidote for snakes bites)
- 3 meals per day included vegetarian, vegan option
- Midmorning snacks
- Professional cook
- Entrance to Cock of the Rock (Lek)
- Entrance to the Hot Spring
- Entrance to Bonanza Ecological Reserve
- Entrance fee to Manu National Park
- Entrance to Blanquillo Macaw Clay Lick
What you need to take:
- Light sleeping bag or sheet
- Repellent with a minimum of 30% to 40% DEET
- Good binocular 10 x 42 (you can rent with us good quality binoculars)
- Camera with extra batteries, if you like taking pictures take telephoto lens of 400mm
- Flashlight with extra batteries
- Sun lotion
- Pocket money
- Daypack
- Water bottle
- Sun hat
- Sandals with strapp
- Swimming suit
- Small towel
- Extra toilet paper,
- Shampoo and soap
- Long-sleeved T-shirt
- Thick socks
- Dark color clothes