Manu Hands-on Field 6D/7N

Itinerary

Day 1 – Cusco to Cloud Forest

Begin your journey from Cusco, stopping at Oropesa, renowned for its traditional bread, and the bird-rich Huacarpay Lagoon. Traverse the Andes, passing through Paucartambo and Acjanaco Pass, before descending into the cloud forest. Overnight at a cloud forest lodge, with the chance to observe the vibrant Andean Cock-of-the-Rock.

Day 2 – Into the Amazon Basin

Travel to Salvación, then embark on a short walk to board a motorised canoe down the Madre de Dios River to the Manu Learning Centre (MLC). Settle into your accommodation and explore the surrounding rainforest trails.

Days 3–4 – Conservation in Action

Participate in early morning clay lick monitoring to observe parrots and macaws. Engage in various conservation projects, including pitfall traps, butterfly surveys, and line transects, contributing to vital biodiversity research. Optional night walks offer a glimpse into the nocturnal life of the rainforest.

Day 5 – Community Engagement

Cross the river to the town of Salvación, visiting the Machuwasi wetland en route. Collaborate with local beneficiaries on sustainable initiatives like bio-gardens and agroforestry projects, fostering community development and environmental stewardship.

Day 6 – Return to Cusco

After breakfast, journey back to Cusco, reflecting on your immersive experience in the Manu Biosphere Reserve.

Accomodation

Your journey includes nights in two distinct rainforest lodges:

• Cock of the Rock Lodge (1 night): A welcoming ecolodge set in the cloud forest of the eastern Andes. (Please note: this lodge is not operated by Crees Manu.)
• Manu Learning Centre (MLC) (3 nights): Your rainforest home, and the heart of our conservation work.

The MLC is an eco-lodge recognised as a biological field station, designed to foster a deep connection with nature and a commitment to sustainability. Nestled in the heart of the rainforest and just steps from the Madre de Dios River, it is built with natural materials and powered by solar energy — offering a unique blend of comfort and low-impact living.

The MLC includes:

• Three freshly prepared meals per day, served in a communal dining area (dietary requirements accommodated)
• Chill-out spaces to read, reflect or simply listen to the forest
• Although we believe part of the immersive experience involves stepping away from technology, Wi-Fi access is available daily from 7 to 9 pm

You’ll sleep in one of our pods — private, thoughtfully designed cabins that open onto forest views.

Each pod includes:

• Twin or double shared rooms (single rooms available for a supplement)
• Mosquito nets and comfortable beds
• Private en-suite bathrooms with showers and flush toilets

What we expect from you

• Be kind. Get involved. Make yourself at home.