MANU CULTURAL

First Day on Manu cultural: CUSCO TO SAN PEDRO
We take a 9 hours bus trip from the city of Cusco ascending to the high mountain area at 4200 m.a.s.l. (14,000 feet). After a short stop in Ninamarca to see the pre-Inca cemetery, and Paucartambo village, we descend the eastern slopes of the Andes through the cloud forest with lush vegetation (ferns, orchids, etc.) to the lowland rainforest on the Madre de Dios and Manu Rivers. You will enjoy spectacular views of the Andes and may see wildlife such as our national bird, the cock of the rocks (rupicola peruviana) inside a hiding place next to the lake, brilliantly colored, besides tanagers and hummingbirds and with some luck the first monkeys, as e.g. the wooly monkey. We spend the night in a lodge in San Pedro cloudforest( 1500m).

Second Day on Manu cultural: SAN PEDRO LODGE: Early in the morning we have another opportunity to observe the cock of the rocks at the lek. After the breakfast we walk along the road increasing with our list of flora and fauna. We will travel for 2.5 hours by bus to Atalaya, at 500 m. Here we embark on a half hour journey in a 15-meter motorized canoe down the Alto Madre de Dios River. We have the opportunity to see wildlife along the rocky banks of the river, such as the fasciated tiger herons, purplish jays, king vultures and some of the 13 species of monkeys that live in Manu. In the afternoon we walk on the trails around the lodge. Optional night walk to see Caimans on the lake. We spend the night at Lodge.

Third Day on Manu cultural: PARROT CLAY LICK AND EXPLORING: Very early in the morning we go to see the parrot clay lick, this is a special place where parrots, parakeets and small macaws go to eat minerals which help them with digestion. After the natural show we walk on the trails or we can go fishing at the river. The night is spent at the lodge. Optional night walk ( to see insects, frogs, snakes etc.).

Fourth Day on Manu cultural: MANU TO CUSCO: This morning offers another opportunity for the observation of the Manu Cloud Forest's wildlife. After breakfast you will take our bus back to the Acjanaco Pass and down to Paucartambo. On our journey back to Cusco you can enjoy once more the variety of landscapes Perù offers. Arrival in Cusco in the afternoon.

What is included on Manu Cultural:

· Bus Cusco to San Pedro to Cusco.

· Specialized and bilingual guide.

· Meals 4/ L 3/ D 4/B

· Camping equipment, 01 in San Pedro or Lodge.

· 02 nights in Atalaya Lodge, meals (vegetarian option).

· First aid kit including anti-ophidian shots.

· All land and river transportation.

· Safety box for values and storage for luggage.

What doesn`t included on Manu Cultural:

· Airport taxes.

· Lodging in Cusco.

What you need to bring/carry on Manu Cultural:

· Binoculars, camera and films (ASA 200 and 400 for the inner forest).

· Warm clothing, long sleeve shirts and long pants (cotton) wide brim hat and sun glasses for sunny days.

· 100% waterproof rain gear (long poncho or rain wear).

· Insect repellent (at least 50% Deet), sunscreen lotion.

· One pair of lightweight ankle height boots and sandals.

· Flashlight, enough batteries (alkaline) and bulbs. Towel, swimming suit, Personal medicines and/or supplies (liquid for contact lenses for example) a day pack and one back pack or duffel bag of luggage.

Daily departures to Manu Cultural.

Minimum 2 participants sharing service for the tour, Manu Cultural.

Manu Tips

Manu Location: Manu Biosphere Reserve is located in the departments of Cusco and Madre de Dios, in the extreme southwest of Peru. It consists of three areas: Manu Cultural Zone, Manu Reserved Zone and Manu National Park. Visitors may only visit Manu Cultural Zone and Manu Reserved Zone.

Manu Weather forecast: The best time to visit the Manu reserve is between May and October, when there is less rain in Manu. During those months there is intense sun and Manu temperatures, are above 35 degrees C. This is high tourist season in Manu, so it is advisable to make reservations early.

Manu How to Get There: There are three possible ways to Manu. The first leaves Cusco to Manu by highway, passing picturesque Andean villages until arriving at Tres Cruces (4000 meters above sea level). The descent begins from there to Manu, after which it is necessary to travel by boat along the Alto Madre de Dios and Manu Rivers. This route will take two full days.

A second route to Manu is by air. It is possible by air-taxi in Cusco and take a 30-minute flight to the airport at Boca Manu. Then travel continues in trip for the river Manu Rivers by boat the for four hours. The third access route is by river, starting from Puerto Maldonado. It is the longest and the least recommended.

Manu Lodging: There is only one place to stay in the Reserved Zone. Manu Lodge is located on the banks of the Juarez pampa. It offers the accommodations and service of a good hotel. An alternative is to camp on one of the many beaches along Manu River, an experience without equal for those who wish to have closer contact with the wildlife of the region.

Manu Cultural 4 days - 3 nights: PRICES 2010

Price per person : US. $ 419.oo

Price per Student : US. $ 409.oo