Physical Level

Easy

Trip Style

Max Altitude

Group Size

INQUIRY ABOUT THIS TREK

3-day escape into Manu National Park from Cusco (3,399 meters / 11,152 feet) feels like the perfect introduction. I’m fascinated by the sheer scale of Manu; it’s a massive, thriving part of the world’s largest rainforest, stretching over 1.5 million hectares. The landscape rises dramatically from 150 meters to 4,200 meters above sea level—a truly epic change in topography.

I’ve read that the park is home to Quechua-speaking communities and Amazonian tribes who have lived here for generations, many untouched by the modern world. It’s this blend of vibrant culture and raw, untouched nature that I’m craving. In 1987, UNESCO declared Manu a world heritage site, and I’m desperate to see why.

Itinerary

DAY 1:

Andean Highlands to Amazonian Beginnings

The adventure would kick off with an early 6:00 AM pickup from my hotel in Cusco. I’d settle into a private vehicle for the incredible drive along the South Valley, watching the landscape transform from high Andes to lush Amazon.

The first stop is planned for Ninamarca to see the ancient, pre-Inca funeral towers—a perfect dose of history to start the trip. Then, it’s on to Paucartambo (2,906 meters / 9,534 feet), a folkloric colonial town. I imagine it as a picturesque place with its white-washed church and locals dressed in colorful, traditional clothing, still speaking Quechua.

From there, the journey climbs to a viewpoint in Tres Cruces for what I hope will be a panoramic, jaw-dropping view of the Amazon basin. After that, we’ll begin the descent into Manu National Park. The trip truly begins with a short hike on a trail where I’m hoping to spot Peru’s national bird, the stunning Andean Cock-of-the-Rock, and maybe even a few species of monkeys. After exploring the cloud forest, we’d head to Paradise Lodge for the night. An ensuite room and a delicious local dinner sound like the perfect end to an epic day.

DAY 2:

River Adventures and Jungle Immersion

I’d wake up to a typical Amazonian breakfast before heading out on a journey through tropical farms to the Atalaya boat pier. This is where the river adventure starts—a motorboat ride on the Madre de Dios River to the Soga De Oro Lodge, which I hear is beautifully nestled in the rainforest. I can’t wait to be on the water, keeping my eyes peeled for giant river otters, caimans, and maybe, if I’m incredibly lucky, a jaguar on the riverbanks.

After checking into the lodge, a three-hour guided hike along a nearby trail is on the agenda. I want a local expert to give me a closer look at the incredible flora and fauna of Manu. We’d return to the lodge for an authentic Amazonian lunch.

The afternoon plan is to visit the Palotoa River for a refreshing dip in its clear waters. From there, we’d take a traditional wooden balsa raft for more wildlife spotting along the riverbanks. After dinner back at the lodge, there’s a short night tour planned to find caimans, which sounds both thrilling and a little spooky.

DAY 3:

The Thundering Macaw Clay Lick and Return to Cusco

This day starts with what I believe will be the ultimate highlight of the trip. We’ll leave early to visit the Macaw Clay Lick. I’ve seen photos, but I can’t imagine what it’s like to witness hundreds of vibrant macaws and parrots descending to eat the mineral-rich clay. They say the clay helps them flush out toxins—it’s a thundering, colorful, and completely natural spectacle that is firmly at the top of my must-see list.

Afterward, we’d head back to the lodge for breakfast before checking out. Then, it’s a boat ride back to the Atalaya port to meet our driver for the return journey to Cusco.

Inclusions

Hassle-free transfers – Door-to-door pickup/drop-off from your Cusco hotel in a private vehicle.
Expert bilingual guide – Native guide fluent in English/Spanish, with deep knowledge of flora, fauna, and indigenous cultures.
Comprehensive transportation – Includes private land transfers + covered motorboat with life jackets.
All entrance fees – National park admission, indigenous community visits, and special reserves.
Full meals – 3 authentic Amazonian meals daily (vegetarian/allergy options available upon request).
Safety equipment – First-aid kit, emergency satellite phone, and purified drinking water.
Accommodation – Eco-lodge stay with mosquito-netted beds (based on tour package).
Jungle activities – Guided night walks, wildlife spotting, and indigenous village experiences.

Alcoholic/specialty beverages – Beyond basic included drinks.
Tips for guides/crew – Recommended: 10-15 PEN per day for guides, 5-10 PEN for boat crew.
Souvenirs & artisan crafts – Handmade items from local communities.
Optional experiences – Canoe rentals, extra village donations, or premium jungle cocktails.
Travel insurance – Highly recommended for remote areas.
Laundry services – Available at lodges for a fee.

Photo Gallery

What to Bring

Mosquito defense – DEET-based repellent (40%+ concentration) + permethrin-treated clothing.
Protective clothing – Lightweight long-sleeved shirts & quick-dry trousers (earth tones recommended).
Footwear system – Sturdy hiking boots + rubber boots (provided in rainy season) + camp sandals.
Rain gear – Compact waterproof poncho or jacket (Amazon rainfall is unpredictable).
Water essentials – Swimwear + quick-dry microfiber towel.
Wildlife viewing – Waterproof binoculars (8×42) + camera with telephoto lens/dry bag.
Health kit – Personal meds, antihistamines, rehydration salts, and diarrhea prevention.
Jungle extras:
- Headlamp with red light mode (for night walks)
- Reusable water bottle (avoid single-use plastic)
- Zip-lock bags for electronics/document protection
- Compact binoculars (for canopy wildlife spotting)
Cash – 200-400 PEN in small bills (no ATMs in remote areas).
Documents – Passport + waterproof copy, yellow fever vaccination certificate (if applicable).

About ISIC Card

Valid Student ID for Classic Inca Trail Hike and Machu Picchu

To qualify for the student discount on Inca Trail Permits, travelers must meet the following requirements:

Age Limit: Students must be 25 years old or younger at the time of entering the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu. Those over 25 years old cannot enter as a student.
ID Requirements: The student ID must include:
- The name of the university
- The student’s name and photo
- A valid expiration date
ISIC CARD: This card type is no longer valid anymore

Invalid Student IDs for the Inca Trail Discount

Student IDs will not be accepted for the discount under the following conditions:

The traveler is older than 25
The ID is expired
The ID does not have an expiration date
ISIC cards are not valid for obtaining the student discount for Inca Trail permits.

This information is crucial for travelers seeking to benefit from discounted permits for the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu.

Why to Choose

Why choose “Cusco Tours”?

“Cusco Tours” is a 100% Peruvian-owned tour operator based in Cusco, with extensive experience in hiking, adventure tours, and customized travel packages. As a completely local company, we’re dedicated to providing travelers with authentic, high-quality experiences.

Our vision as a local company is to deliver personalized travel and hiking journeys, managed exclusively by experienced local professionals, with a strong focus on HIGH-QUALITY and PERSONALIZED SERVICE.

We are proud of our reputation as a travel agency that upholds RESPONSIBLE and SUSTAINABLE practices benefiting both the environment and local communities.

We treat our team like family and ensure they receive fair wages. We are incredibly proud of each member of our team! Their dedication makes it possible for us to provide the top-notch service that our many travelers appreciate.

At “Cusco Tours,” we understand that our reputation and the feedback from our travelers are essential for gaining the trust of future adventurers. You can check out honest reviews from our guests on TripAdvisor, Facebook, and Google to see why we’re a reliable choice for creating your Peruvian adventure.

Small Group Travel

To ensure a more personalized experience at “Cusco Tours,” we keep our group sizes to a maximum of 8 travelers. This approach allows us to offer a tailored experience, unlike companies that operate with larger groups.

About Our Tour Guides

Our guides are our pride. They’re highly knowledgeable and professional, fluent in English, and deeply passionate about Inca culture and history. Each guide is committed to ongoing personal and professional development, allowing them to share accurate insights and fascinating theories about Andean heritage. They are friendly, athletic, and well-educated, with backgrounds in Archaeology, Tourism, Botany, History, or Anthropology.

Our Inca Trail Porters

Hiking with “Cusco Tours” ensures a fulfilling experience. Our porters are here to make your journey comfortable and memorable. They carry your equipment, prepare meals, set up camps, and attend to your needs so you can relax and enjoy the adventure. Along the way, you’ll connect with local people, explore stunning sites, and discover historic Inca villages.

We provide our porters with essential equipment at no cost: jackets, sun hats, warm hats, shirts, pants, hiking boots, comfortable bags, canteens, back support belts, sleeping bags, mattresses, and travel insurance. Our porters come from remote communities, and by hiring them, we help improve their economic conditions and support their children’s education. We treat our porters like family!

Our Team and Equipment

Our team—guides, cooks, porters, muleteers—and our equipment make “Cusco Tours” stand out from the competition. During our hikes, we provide:

Our Tents: We use 4-season EUREKA Timberline tents, designed for four but used by two for extra comfort and storage. They include a small vestibule for boots and poles.
Foam Mats: Insulate you from the ground for added warmth.
Air Mattresses: Available to rent for $20 USD.
Kitchen and Dining Tents: Serve as a common area during meals, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
Tables and Chairs: Set up in the dining area, adapted for varying weather.
Travel Bags: Provided the night before the trek.
Additional Items: We offer pillows, rain covers for backpacks, survival shirts, and portable toilets during the trek.

Our Commitment to Social Responsibility

“Cusco Tours” is committed to giving back to isolated communities. We support social projects and prioritize hiring local staff.

We are proud to support local communities not only by providing employment but also by offering assistance to their families. This holistic approach benefits our employees from the Peruvian Andes and their loved ones, strengthening our connection to the local heritage.

Faqs

What is a Manu 3-Day Tour?

A Manu 3-Day Tour typically offers a concise journey into the Manu rainforest, focusing on wildlife observation and experiencing the jungle environment. These tours aim to provide a foundational understanding of the Amazon’s biodiversity within a limited timeframe.

What should I wear for a Manu 3-Day Tour?

For a Manu 3-Day Tour, wear lightweight, long-sleeaved shirts and pants to protect from insects and sun. Waterproof outerwear is recommended. Sturdy, closed-toe walking shoes or rubber boots are necessary for jungle trails. A hat and sunglasses are also advisable for your Manu 3-Day Tour.

How long does a Manu 3-Day Tour last?

As the name implies, a Manu 3-Day Tour lasts for three days and two nights. This duration allows for concentrated exploration of accessible areas within Manu National Park’s cultural or reserved zones, depending on the itinerary.

Is altitude sickness a concern for a Manu 3-Day Tour?

Altitude sickness is generally not a direct concern during the jungle portion of a Manu 3-Day Tour, as Manu is at a lower elevation. However, travel to and from Manu often involves passing through high-altitude areas like Cusco, so acclimatization there is recommended before your Manu 3-Day Tour.

What are the main attractions on a Manu 3-Day Tour?

The main attractions on a Manu 3-Day Tour involve wildlife viewing opportunities. These can include spotting various monkey species, diverse birds, and occasionally capybaras or caimans. Night walks to observe nocturnal creatures are also common on a Manu 3-Day Tour.

Do Manu 3-Day Tours include meals?

Yes, meals are typically included and provided by the lodge or campsite throughout your Manu 3-Day Tour. Food is generally prepared with local ingredients in a hearty, simple style, suitable for jungle conditions.

What transportation is used during a Manu 3-Day Tour?

Transportation for a Manu 3-Day Tour primarily involves motorized canoes for river travel within the jungle. Ground transport, usually by van or bus, is used for the initial journey from Cusco to the river access point for your Manu 3-Day Tour.

Are guides provided for Manu 3-Day Tours?

Yes, professional naturalist guides are an integral part of nearly all Manu 3-Day Tours. They provide expertise on the flora, fauna, and ecosystem, enhancing the educational aspect of your Manu 3-Day Tour.

What documents do I need for a Manu 3-Day Tour?

For a Manu 3-Day Tour, you will need your original passport. Your tour operator will typically handle any necessary permits for entry into specific zones of Manu National Park.

Can I combine a Manu 3-Day Tour with other destinations?

A Manu 3-Day Tour focuses specifically on the jungle experience. While it does not combine with other Sacred Valley sites, it serves as a distinct wilderness adventure that travelers often undertake as a separate part of their larger trip to Peru.

Travel Guide

Getting There for Your Manu 3-Day Tour

A Manu 3-Day Jungle Expedition typically begins with travel from Cusco. This usually involves a combination of ground transport and river travel to reach the designated lodge or campsite within the Manu Reserved Zone or Cultural Zone, depending on the specific 3-Day Manu Adventure itinerary.

Recommended Season for Your Manu 3-Day Trip

The dry season, from May to October, is generally the most suitable time for a Manu 3-Day Rainforest Journey. During these months, river levels are lower, making some areas more accessible, and wildlife observation opportunities can be enhanced for your Manu 3-Day Trip.

Physical Readiness for a Manu 3-Day Excursion

A Manu 3-Day Jungle Expedition involves walks through varied terrain, which can include muddy or uneven trails. A basic level of physical fitness is required to fully participate in the activities planned for your Manu 3-Day Nature Tour.

Health Advice for Your Manu 3-Day Adventure

Consult a healthcare professional regarding recommended vaccinations for jungle travel, such as yellow fever. Insect repellent is essential for a Manu 3-Day Jungle Expedition to protect against mosquito bites. Malaria prophylaxis may also be considered, depending on the specific areas visited during your Manu 3-Day Adventure.

What to Wear for Your Manu 3-Day Expedition

For a Manu 3-Day Jungle Expedition, wear lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and trousers to protect against insects and sun exposure. Waterproof clothing is advisable. Comfortable, closed-toe walking shoes or boots suitable for jungle conditions are necessary. A hat and sunglasses are also recommended for your Manu 3-Day Rainforest Journey.

Documentation Needed for Your Manu 3-Day Experience

For your Manu 3-Day Jungle Expedition, carry your original passport. If specific permits are required for entry into certain zones of Manu, ensure your tour operator has arranged these in advance.

Local Transportation on Your Manu 3-Day Journey

During a Manu 3-Day Jungle Expedition, primary transportation within the jungle involves motorized canoes along rivers and lakes. Short walks on designated trails are also part of the itinerary.

Key Attractions on Your Manu 3-Day Safari

A Manu 3-Day Jungle Expedition focuses on wildlife observation and experiencing the rainforest environment. Activities often include:

Birdwatching
Spotting monkeys and other mammals
Night walks to observe nocturnal species
Visits to oxbow lakes for giant otter sightings

Food and Beverages on Your Manu 3-Day Tour

Meals on a Manu 3-Day Jungle Expedition are typically provided by the lodge or campsite. Food is usually prepared with local ingredients, often in a simple but hearty style. Bottled water is generally supplied.

Local Markets During Your Manu 3-Day Visit

Given the remote nature of a Manu 3-Day Jungle Expedition, access to local markets is not a typical component of the itinerary. Supplies are usually brought in by the tour operators.

Safety Guidelines for Your Manu 3-Day Trip

Follow all instructions from your Manu 3-Day Jungle Expedition guide. Stay on designated trails. Do not approach wildlife. Be aware of your surroundings, especially regarding insects and potential natural hazards.

Internet Availability on Your Manu 3-Day Expedition

Internet access is generally very limited or unavailable during a Manu 3-Day Jungle Expedition. Expect to be disconnected from mobile networks and Wi-Fi services during the majority of your time in Manu.

Manu Jungle Tours from Cusco 3 Days