We embark on an early start at 5:30 am for a thrilling 10-hour journey with guided stops from Cusco, ascending to the highest point at an altitude of 4000 meters above sea level. Along the way, we make captivating stops, such as the Chullpas of Ninamarca, a Pre-Inca cemetery. We then descend into the inter-Andean valleys to the town of Paucartambo, a place steeped in history and known as the Folkloric Capital of Peru, situated at 2950 meters above sea level. After exploring this charming town, we head towards Acjanaco at 3560 meters above sea level, the entry point to Manu National Park (UNESCO). From this point, we descend into the Cloud Forest, where we embark on invigorating hikes to observe a plethora of orchids and colorful birds such as Quetzals, Toucans, and Multicolored Tanagers. In San Pedro, a strategic site to observe Peru’s National Bird, the “Cock-of-the-Rock,” we visit the LEK where these vibrant birds perform a mesmerizing mating ritual with jumps and enchanting calls. With some luck, we may also spot the first species of mammals, including monkeys and the Spectacled Bear. We continue our journey to our lodging, “Bambu Lodge.”

In the early morning, after a delicious breakfast, we continue our journey with our bus to the town of Atalaya. Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to observe the rich flora and fauna of the region. In Atalaya, we board our motorized boat and navigate the Alto Madre de Dios River for approximately 30 minutes to reach the “Soga de Oro Lodge.” At our lodge, we embark on guided walks along a trail circuit, in search of animals such as monkeys, birds, and peccaries. After lunch, we visit a small lagoon called “Machuwasi” and explore the lagoon in traditional Amazonian canoes, as well as the trails surrounding the lagoon. Here, we may encounter the prehistoric bird known as the Hoatzin or Shansho, capybaras, and if we’re lucky, we may even spot a caiman. We spend the night at our lodge, “Soga de Oro.” There is also an optional night walk available for those interested in observing spiders, insects, frogs, snakes, and more.

We set off very early in the morning and embark on a 40-minute boat journey to the Macaw Clay Lick, where colorful parrots gather to consume the mineral-rich clay that detoxifies their bodies. Here, we can observe the vibrant activity of up to six species of parrots and macaws using our binoculars and telescopes. After breakfast, we explore the trails once again in search of monkeys and birds, and visit the giant tree known as the ceiba pentandra. During our trek, our guide shares fascinating insights about ethno-botany and medicinal plants. After lunch, we have the option to go fishing or take a refreshing swim in the river. We spend the night at Soga de Oro Lodge. There is also an optional night walk available for those interested in observing insects, frogs, snakes, and more.

After breakfast at our lodge, we board the boat back to Atalaya, where our bus awaits. For those who appreciate flora, we can visit the local botanical garden, home to approximately 200 species of orchids. We then continue our return journey to Cusco, making stops in the Cloud Forest in case we encounter any animals or birds not seen on the first day. We arrive around 5:00 pm and transfer to the hotel.