From Cusco: Manu - Tambopata - Puerto Maldonado Tour 8D/7N

This 8-day/7-night tour through Peru’s Manu National Park, Tambopata National Reserve, and the Amazon region promises an unforgettable adventure. Departing from Cusco, travelers will explore the charming town of Paucartambo, experience thrilling river tubing, and spot diverse wildlife before staying at the remote Casa Matsiguenka Lodge. The highlight? Witnessing the remarkable spectacle of hundreds of macaws at the clay lick. But the journey doesn’t end there. Participants will also have the chance to observe elusive jaguars in their natural habitat, leaving them with lasting memories of this incredible Amazonian expedition.

Key Points

Key Points:

Embark on an 8-day/7-night adventure from Cusco to explore the picturesque town of Paucartambo, the Amazon rainforest, and the Tambopata National Reserve.
Experience the thrill of river tubing and witness diverse wildlife, including colorful birds and monkeys, during your immersion in the lush Amazon ecosystem.
Stay at the rustic but comfortable Casa Matsiguenka Lodge, and go on a guided night walk to search for nocturnal creatures.
Observe the elusive jaguar, the apex predator of the Amazon, during a nighttime expedition at Cocha Salvador Lake and the Boca Manu eco-lodge.
Marvel at the remarkable spectacle of hundreds of macaws congregating at the Collpa Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick and observe the elusive tapirs at the Tapir Clay Lick.

Depart Cusco and Explore Paucartambo

The tour begins with a 4 am departure from Cusco, offering travelers a chance to explore the picturesque town of Paucartambo along the way.

This quaint Andean town is known for its vibrant colonial architecture and rich cultural heritage. Visitors can wander through the charming streets, visit the local market, and admire the impressive Paucartambo Church.

After the stop in Paucartambo, the journey continues with a scenic boat ride, providing opportunities to spot diverse wildlife along the way.

Travelers will then settle into a cozy tree house, setting the stage for an immersive Amazon adventure in the days to come.

Adventure in the Amazon and River Tubing

On the second day, travelers embark on a full-day adventure in the Amazon, where they’ve the opportunity to experience the thrill of river tubing.

Floating on the gentle currents of the river, they’ll enjoy the lush, verdant landscape and keep an eye out for the diverse wildlife that calls this region home. From colorful birds soaring overhead to monkeys swinging from the trees, the Amazon’s vibrant ecosystem is on full display.

After the river tubing, there’s time to explore the surrounding forests and soak in the tranquility of this captivating environment before returning to the tree house for the evening.

Motorboat Ride and Casa Matsiguenka Lodge

After a day of adventure in the Amazon, travelers embark on a motorboat ride on the third day, transporting them to the Casa Matsiguenka Lodge.

From the boat, they’ll have the chance to spot more wildlife along the river’s edge before arriving at their serene riverside accommodations.

At the Casa Matsiguenka Lodge, they’ll stay in rustic but comfortable rooms, surrounded by the sights and sounds of the jungle.

As night falls, they’ll venture out on a guided night walk, searching for nocturnal creatures and soaking in the tranquility of the Amazon.

This day provides a chance to take in the local culture and environment, setting the stage for the adventures to come.

Cocha Salvador Lake and Jaguar Night

In the Manu – Tambopata – Puerto Maldonado tour, visiting Cocha Salvador Lake provides travelers a chance to observe a diverse array of wildlife, including an opportunity to spot the elusive jaguar during a nighttime expedition.

The Jaguar Night Expedition is an exciting experience where guests may get a glimpse of these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.

The tour includes:

Observing the lake’s diverse ecosystem and its inhabitants, such as colorful birds, monkeys, and aquatic life.
Listening to the sounds of the jungle at night and keeping an eye out for the telltale glowing eyes of jaguars.
Learning about the conservation efforts in the region and the importance of protecting these vital Amazon ecosystems.

Jaguar Spotting and Eco-lodge at Boca Manu

Typically, participants eagerly anticipate the opportunity to spot jaguars, the elusive apex predators of the Amazon, during their visit to the Boca Manu eco-lodge.

As the group travels to this remote location, they’ll be on the lookout for signs of the majestic cats, hoping to catch a glimpse of their powerful presence.

The eco-lodge itself offers a comfortable and immersive experience, allowing visitors to fully embrace the natural wonders of the surrounding environment.

With the guidance of experienced local guides, the group will explore the area, searching for jaguars and other fascinating wildlife that call this region home.

The chance to witness these magnificent animals in their natural habitat is undoubtedly a highlight of the entire Manu-Tambopata-Puerto Maldonado tour.

Tambopata Collpa De Macaw Chuncho National Reserve

From the Boca Manu eco-lodge, the tour continues to the Tambopata Collpa de Macaw Chuncho National Reserve, where participants can witness the remarkable spectacle of hundreds of vibrant macaws congregating at the clay lick. This natural phenomenon is a must-see for nature enthusiasts, offering a chance to observe the macaws’ behaviors and interactions up close.

The tour also includes:

An alligator night experience, where visitors can observe these fascinating reptiles in their natural habitat.
A visit to the Tapir clay lick, where these elusive mammals come to consume the nutrient-rich soil.
A storytelling session around the bonfire, providing a cultural and educational component to the experience.

Collpa Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick and Tapir Clay Lick

Visiting the Collpa Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick and Tapir Clay Lick offers travelers a unique opportunity to witness two of the Amazon’s most captivating natural phenomena.

At the macaw clay lick, hundreds of vibrant macaws congregate to consume the nutrient-rich soil, providing a mesmerizing display of color and activity.

The nearby tapir clay lick, meanwhile, draws these elusive mammals to the same type of mineral-rich soil, offering a rare chance to observe their behavior in their natural habitat.

Guests can witness the macaws and tapirs from carefully positioned viewing platforms, allowing for unobstructed views and exceptional photography opportunities.

This experience provides a deep connection to the Amazon’s biodiversity and the remarkable adaptations of its wildlife.

Return to Puerto Maldonado

After the unforgettable experiences at the Collpa Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick and Tapir Clay Lick, the tour winds down as participants return to Puerto Maldonado, the final destination of their Amazon adventure.

From the eco-lodge, the group boards a motorboat for the journey back. Along the way, they’ll:

Enjoy a final glimpse of the lush, biodiverse rainforest scenery.
Keep an eye out for any last wildlife sightings, like birds, monkeys, or maybe even a jaguar.

Once in Puerto Maldonado, the tour concludes, leaving participants with memories that will last a lifetime.

Participants will reflect on the incredible journey they’ve embarked on, filled with incredible natural wonders and culture.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are the Age Requirements for This Tour?

The tour has no age restrictions, though it may not be suitable for very young children. Participants of all ages are welcome, but parents should consider the physical demands of the activities when booking for children.

Can I Request a Vegetarian or Gluten-Free Menu?

The tour offers flexible meal options, including vegetarian and gluten-free menus, to accommodate various dietary needs. Guests can simply inform the tour operator of their preferences when booking to ensure their requirements are met during the journey.

Is It Possible to Extend the Tour by a Few Days?

Yes, it’s possible to extend the tour by a few days. Travelers can speak with the tour operator to request an extended itinerary and get a customized quote. This allows more time to explore the Amazon region.

What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Tour?

The maximum group size for this 8-day/7-night Cusco to Manu – Tambopata – Puerto Maldonado tour is not explicitly stated. However, the tour is likely designed for small groups to provide a more personalized and immersive Amazon experience.

Can I Bring My Own Camera Equipment on the Activities?

Yes, guests are encouraged to bring their own camera equipment to fully capture the diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes encountered during the activities. All camera gear must be lightweight and easily portable for the various boat rides and jungle treks.

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