We set off from Cusco early in the morning in one of our comfortable vehicles, traveling through scenic valleys nestled between the Andes mountains and charming rural communities. Our first stop is the pre-Incan tombs of the Lupaca culture. Next, we visit Paucartambo, a lovely colonial town, where we’ll explore its fascinating museum. We’ll enjoy lunch in the lush cloud forest along the way.

As we continue our descent through the cloud forest, we’ll encounter a variety of endemic species, including the spectacled bear and the Peruvian national bird, the cock-of-the-rock, known for its unique courtship display. The forest is also home to orchids, bromeliads, and ferns, showcasing an array of stunning flora. We’ll marvel at the natural beauty throughout the day before reaching our cozy hostel in Manu National Park, Pilcopata Inn, where we’ll spend our first night.

After breakfast, we’ll set out on a morning hike through the lush forest, keeping an eye out for wildlife such as monkeys and vibrant birds. Our next stops include a visit to a coca plantation and a wildlife rescue center. We’ll then make our way to Puerto Atalaya, nestled along the Alto Madre de Dios River at 500 meters (1,640 feet) above sea level. From here, we’ll take a boat ride to marvel at the variety of bird species, including herons, vultures, and cormorants, as we journey toward the Amazon Manu Lodge.

Upon arrival at the lodge, we’ll have a refreshing swim in the river and enjoy a delicious lunch. In the afternoon, we’ll head to Lake Machuwasi for a raft exploration, where we might spot the prehistoric hoatzin and, with some luck, other wildlife like monkeys and capybaras. We’ll end our day back at the lodge, ready for a restful night surrounded by the beauty of the Manu region.

Early in the morning, we will board our boat and travel to the macaw clay lick. This location along the riverbank is frequented by various parrot species, including the blue-headed parrot, white-eyed parakeet, and chestnut-fronted macaw. The birds gather here to consume clay, which provides essential minerals and aids in digestion. After observing this fascinating natural event, we will return to the lodge for breakfast.

Following breakfast, we will undertake a 2 to 3-hour hike through the forest. We will then return to the lodge for lunch and have time to rest or swim in the river. In the afternoon, you may choose to go ziplining. Guests at Amazon Harpy Lodge can enjoy an exceptional view of the jungle while ziplining between high platforms. All equipment is of high quality and safety standards. For an added adventure, you can also rappel down from a height of 25 meters.

In the evening, we will take a nocturnal forest walk to search for insects and amphibians. We will conclude the day with a dinner at the lodge and an overnight stay.

After breakfast, we will board a boat to travel upstream to Atalaya. There, our vehicle will be ready to transport us back to Cusco. We will have lunch en route and anticipate arriving in Cusco between 5:30 pm and 6:30 pm.