MACHU PICCHU TREK

Birding Manu National Park – Manu Birding Lodge

Lima

5 / 5. 2

Duration

16 Days

Difficulty

Medium

About this tour

Explore the Wonders of Manu Biosphere Reserve – Exclusive Luxury Adventure

Operated by Machupicchu Trek – Over 30 Years of Expertise

Discover the heart of Peru’s Amazon with a fully immersive, luxury experience in the Manu Biosphere Reserve, one of the most biodiverse and pristine ecosystems in the world. This adventure is designed for travelers seeking nature, wildlife, and authentic cultural encounters in a safe, comfortable, and expertly guided environment.

Why Choose This Manu Adventure

  • Personalized Luxury Tours: Private or small-group itineraries tailored to your interests.

  • Expert Naturalist Guides: Certified professionals with deep knowledge of rainforest ecology, wildlife, and indigenous culture.

  • 24/7 Support: Our dedicated operations team ensures seamless logistics, safety, and comfort throughout your journey.

  • Exclusive Access: Explore remote areas of the Manu Biosphere Reserve for rare wildlife encounters.

  • Eco-Friendly & Comfortable Lodges: Stay in accommodations designed for sustainability without sacrificing comfort.

What You Will Experience

Unparalleled Wildlife Encounters

Observe rare and iconic species in their natural habitats:

  • Spectacled Bears

  • Andean Cock-of-the-Rock

  • Giant Otters

  • Over 1,000 species of birds

Immersive Natural Landscapes

Journey through misty cloud forests, lush tropical rainforest, winding rivers, and hidden waterfalls, guided by experts who bring the ecosystem to life.

Cultural Immersion

Visit indigenous communities to learn about local traditions, sustainable practices, and the profound connection these communities maintain with the rainforest.

Practical Information for Travelers

  • Duration: Typically 5–7 days, including travel from Cusco or Lima

  • Difficulty Level: Moderate; includes walking on rainforest trails and uneven terrain

  • Best Season to Visit: April to October (dry season, optimal for wildlife observation)

  • Recommended Gear: Lightweight clothing, insect repellent, rain jacket, binoculars, camera, sunscreen, and sturdy hiking shoes

  • Accommodation: Eco-lodges and jungle lodges offering premium comfort in natural surroundings

  • Health & Safety: Guided by professional naturalists, with first aid kits and 24/7 operational support

Why This Tour Stands Out

  • Private or Small Groups: Personalized attention and flexible itineraries

  • Expert Guidance: Deep knowledge of Manu’s flora, fauna, and cultural heritage

  • Luxury & Comfort: High-end eco-lodges, curated experiences, and seamless logistics

  • Exclusive Wildlife Access: Encounter rare species in their untouched habitats

  • Reliable & Secure: Over 30 years of experience ensuring safety, service, and unforgettable memories

Tour Itinerary

16-Day Manu Biosphere Reserve & Birding Adventure
Day 0: Arrival
Upon arrival in Lima, depending on your flight schedule, you will either transfer to your Lima hotel or connect onward to Cusco.
Day 1: Cusco → Wayqecha Biological Station (2,950 m)
Early morning departure for birding through the scenic intermontane valleys. Stop along the route to observe species such as:
  • Creamy-crested Spinetail
  • Chestnut-breasted Mountain-Finch
  • Cinereous Conebill
  • Golden-billed Saltator
  • Band-tailed Seedeater
  • Peruvian and Ash-breasted Sierra-Finches
At higher elevations, encounter:
  • Mountain Caracara
  • Shining Sunbeam
  • Bar-winged Cinclodes
  • Puna Thistletail
Overnight stay at Wayqecha Biological Station.
Day 2: Wayqecha → Cock-of-the-Rock Lodge
Morning birding for species including:
  • Crimson-mantled Woodpecker
  • Blue-banded Toucanet
  • Gould’s Inca
  • Chestnut-breasted Coronet
Explore mixed flocks for woodcreepers, flycatchers, tyrannulets, and tanagers. Two-night stay at Cock-of-the-Rock Lodge.
Day 3: Cock-of-the-Rock Lodge (Lower Manu Cloud Forest, 1,400 m)
Witness the spectacular Andean Cock-of-the-Rock lek. Target specialties include:
  • Black-billed Treehunter
  • Slaty Gnateater
  • Cinnamon-faced Tyrannulet
  • Versicoloured Barbet
Birding in the lower cloud forest for additional species. Overnight at Cock-of-the-Rock Lodge.
Day 4: Lower Manu Road → Amazonia Lodge
Descend the Manu Road, birding for:
  • Military Macaw
  • Peruvian Piedtail
  • Chestnut-backed Antshrike
Explore upper tropical forests and cross the Alto Madre de Dios River to arrive at Amazonia Lodge. Overnight stay.
Day 5: Amazonia Lodge (500 m)
Birding in varied habitats around the lodge for species such as:
  • Blue-headed Macaw
  • Rufous-crested Coquette
  • Bluish-fronted Jacamar
Potential sightings of Giant Otters. Overnight at Amazonia Lodge.
Day 6: Parrot Clay Lick → Hummingbird Lodge
Visit the Parrot Clay Lick, observing:
  • Chestnut-fronted Macaw
  • Blue-headed Macaw
Travel by motorized canoe along the Madre de Dios River to Hummingbird Lodge, birding en route. Overnight at Hummingbird Lodge.
Day 7: Birding at Hummingbird Lodge
Explore surrounding trails for:
  • Festive Coquette
  • Flammulated Pygmy-Tyrant
  • Large-headed Flatbill
Bamboo forest birding includes:
  • Bamboo Antshrike
  • Yellow-breasted Warbling-Antbird
Overnight at Hummingbird Lodge.
Day 8: Hummingbird Lodge → Matsiguenka Lodge (Manu Reserve Zone)
Continue the river journey into Manu National Park, observing:
  • Black Skimmers
  • Sand-colored Nighthawks
  • Orinoco Goose
Two-night stay at Matsiguenka Lodge.
Day 9: Birding at Salvador Oxbow Lake
Explore virgin rainforest surrounding the lodge. Visit Salvador Oxbow Lake for lakeside species and potential Giant Otter sightings. Search for forest birds, primates, and other wildlife. Overnight at Matsiguenka Lodge.
Day 10: Reserve Zone → Amazon Wildlife Center Lodge
Continue birding in Manu National Park. Travel along the Manu River to Amazon Wildlife Center Lodge, observing riverside birds and raptors. Overnight at Amazon Wildlife Center Lodge (base for three nights).
Day 11: Macaw Clay Lick & AWC Trails
Early morning visit to the Macaw Clay Lick for a spectacular display of parrots and macaws. Explore trails around the lodge and optionally visit a large mammal clay lick.
Day 12: Blanco Oxbow Lake & Tapir Clay Lick
Morning visit to Blanco Oxbow Lake for additional bird species. Explore a large mammal clay lick, with potential sightings of Tapir and Jaguar. Night birding for nocturnal species.
Day 13: Amazon Wildlife Center & Manakin Leks
Bird along the extensive trail systems, searching for forest specialists and rarer species. Optional visit to the large mammal clay lick. Night birding for nocturnal wildlife.
Day 14: Canopy Tower → Puerto Maldonado City
Early morning at the canopy tower for high-canopy species. Continue down the Madre de Dios River for riverside birds. Transfer by bus to Puerto Maldonado, birding along the way. Overnight at a comfortable hotel.
Day 15: Puerto Maldonado → Lima
Morning birding near the airport and along the road to Cusco. Capture any last species before a midday flight to Lima. Overnight in Lima.
Day 16: Departure from Lima
Transfer to the airport for your international flight home.
If you want, I can also create a luxury brochure-style version of this itinerary that:
  • Highlights exclusive lodges and accommodations
  • Emphasizes private guides, VIP services, and personalized birding experiences
  • Uses premium, polished language for elite travelers
Do you want me to do that next?

What’s Included and What’s Not Included in This Tour?

What’s Included in Your Manu Biosphere Reserve Adventure

  • All Lodging: Comfortable accommodations in eco-lodges and jungle lodges, combining sustainability with premium comfort. Each lodge is carefully selected to provide an authentic experience immersed in nature.

  • All Meals: Enjoy fresh, locally-sourced cuisine, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Special dietary requirements can be accommodated upon request.

  • Transportation: Private ground and river transportation throughout your itinerary, ensuring safe, comfortable, and seamless travel between sites.

  • Expert Bilingual Bird Guide: Learn from a certified avian and wildlife specialist, fluent in English and Spanish, providing insightful commentary on the rainforest’s incredible biodiversity.

  • Hotel Transfers: Private pick-ups and drop-offs at all airports and accommodations for a hassle-free experience.

  • Entrance Fees: All reserve access fees are included, guaranteeing you a smooth and fully authorized visit to the Manu Biosphere Reserve.

 

Additional Info about Birding Manu National Park – Manu Birding Lodge

Essential Recommendations for Travelers

To make the most of your Manu adventure, we recommend:

  • Clothing: Lightweight, moisture-wicking clothing, long sleeves and pants for insect protection, and a rain jacket for sudden showers.

  • Footwear: Comfortable hiking shoes with good grip for forest trails.

  • Equipment: Binoculars, camera, insect repellent, sunscreen, and a refillable water bottle.

  • Health & Safety: Machupicchu Trek provides 24/7 support, professional guides, and first aid kits for your peace of mind.

  • Season & Wildlife Watching: April to October is ideal for dry weather and better wildlife observation. Early mornings often offer the best birdwatching opportunities.

  • Personal Items: Light backpack for day trips, personal medications, and any preferred snacks or energy bars.

Why Travelers Love This Experience

  • Fully Guided & Private: Tailored attention for small groups or private parties.

  • Expert Knowledge: Guides are passionate about wildlife, culture, and local history, ensuring an educational and engaging journey.

  • Seamless Experience: Transportation, meals, lodging, and logistics handled professionally from start to finish.

  • Immersive Nature: Access to pristine ecosystems rarely visited by tourists, with opportunities to see rare wildlife and exotic birds in their natural habitats.

Tour Price

$4,915.00

per person

If you have questions about the Tour, please call us to customize your adventure and learn more making your trip a once-in-a-life experience.
Pay a 50% deposit now and the rest when you arrive in Peru.
Select Group Size

Birding Manu National Park – Manu Birding Lodge Tour Information

Tour Location

Peru

Languages Support

Spanish & English

Packing list

Sleeping bag

Insect repellent

Cash & cards

Medications & first‑aid

Toiletries

Headlamp

Hat & gloves

Snacks

Water bottle

Sun protection

Rain gear

Layered clothing

Comfortable hiking boots

Travel insurance

Passport & ID

Your trusted tour operator in Machu Picchu

At Machu Picchu Trek, we bring a local touch to every adventure. Our company is 100% Peruvian-owned. This unique perspective ensures ethical treatment of our staff and a deep connection to the culture and history of the region.

Our Machu Picchu team is equipped with satellite phones for 24/7 emergency support. Safety is our top priority, and we provide oxygen tanks and first aid kits on every trek. You can trust our experienced guides to lead you with care and expertise.

We offer seamless service, including hotel-to-hotel pickups and drop-offs in Cusco. Every detail is designed to make your trek comfortable and stress-free.

Choosing Machu Picchu Trek means supporting a company with an industry-leading safety record and a commitment to excellence. Let our team show you the beauty of Machu Picchu while ensuring your journey is unforgettable.

 

Gerardo Diaz
Gerardo Diaz
December 25, 2025

Excelente servicio y atención

Muy bien todo, los guías saben mucho y te explican muchas cosas. Te esperan y te tienen paciencia. Puedes confiar en que las cosas se hacen completamente honestas y que pagas por una experiencia muy grata.

Bernardo Diaz
Bernardo Diaz
December 25, 2025

Excelente servicio

Muy buen tour guiado, los guías saben muchísimo y te contestan cualquier pregunta que tengas, son muy amigables y tienen todo muy bien organizado. Son muy pacientes y en verdad vale la pena.

Consumer
Consumer
May 24, 2025

Machu Picchu experience

Amazing experience from the first beginning the communication was great and the activities were well explained. One of the best trips I’ve ever experienced.

Paula Toscano
Paula Toscano
May 23, 2025

I loved it

I loved it! Everything is very organized, amazing schedules for activities, too much fun!

Johana Ortega Rojas
Johana Ortega Rojas
May 23, 2025

An Unforgettable Experience at Machu Picchu!

Machu Picchu Trek made my trip an absolutely incredible experience. From the first contact, their team was professional, friendly, and attentive to every detail. The planning was flawless, and the guides were exceptional, sharing their deep knowledge about the history and culture of this magical place.The tour was perfectly organized, striking an ideal balance between adventure and comfort. I loved how much they cared about our safety and the environment. Every moment was special, from the breathtaking views to the delicious meals prepared during the tour.I highly recommend Machu Picchu Trek to anyone looking to explore this unique destination with a reliable and passionate company. Thank you for making this dream come true!

Karen Young-Castro
Karen Young-Castro
May 18, 2025

A Truly Unforgettable Experience – Salkantay Trek (6 Days / 5 Nights)

We were incredibly lucky to be the very first guests of 2025 with Machupicchu Trek — and what an unforgettable experience it was. From start to finish, this trek was thoughtfully planned, deeply personal, and absolutely seamless. We did the 6-day/5-night Salkantay Trek and felt like we were treated to a private, custom-curated experience unlike anything we’ve seen other companies provide.Our guide George made the trip extraordinary — his deep knowledge, energy, spirit, and genuine care turned our trek into something truly meaningful. He didn’t just lead us; he brought the entire experience to life. Every moment felt intentional and special, and by the end of the trip, George felt like family. We already miss him!Our amazing chef Santiago prepared incredible meals for us every single day. I’m someone who gets sick easily while traveling, and my cousin has multiple food allergies — but neither of us had even the slightest issue. Santiago’s food was delicious, nourishing, and prepared with great care and attention to detail. It truly added to our sense of well-being on the trail.Gladys, our warm and welcoming coordinator, greeted us at the Marriott when we arrived and ensured everything ran smoothly. The entire team — including our fantastic porters — were professional, kind, and full of fun and good energy. They worked so hard behind the scenes to make sure everything was perfect, and it absolutely was.Because of this team’s knowledge and dedication, we experienced Machu Picchu in a way most travelers never get to. If you’re considering this journey, do not hesitate — this is the company to choose. They pour their hearts into every detail and it shows. Thank you, Alexis, George, Santiago, Gladys, Juan, and the whole team — you’ve given us memories we’ll carry for a lifetime.With deepest gratitude, Karen & Alexandra

Amber Fiala
Amber Fiala
January 20, 2025

Highly recommend Juan

Highly recommend Juan! He is an excellent guide and we learned so much. My family of 6 loved the tours and would love to come back. Thank you, Juan! We will be sharing your business information with our friends.

Matthew Arsenault
Matthew Arsenault
December 28, 2024

Amazing 6 day private tour of Cusco area with our group of 13

Amazing 6 day private tour of Cusco, Sacred Valley and Macchu Picchu with Juan from Macchupicchutrek. Our group of 13 had a great time visiting sites and also the best restaurants! Very flexible and we learned so much about this beautiful country. Highly recommend!!!

Irfan Mirza
Irfan Mirza
December 28, 2024

Amazing tour exploring all parts of…

Amazing tour exploring all parts of Peru 🇵🇪. Our tour guide Juan from Machupicchutrek was incredibly knowledgeable, patient and accommodating, especially considering we were a group of 13 people. Just when you thought a site or destination couldn’t get better, it did! Surpassed all our expectations (especially difficult for a family with different interests who LOVE to travel throughout the world)! Recommend 100000%

Moises Ortega
Moises Ortega
May 2, 2024

ciertamente Juan es el mejor guía…

ciertamente Juan es el mejor guía turístico, tiene el mayor conocimiento en la historia de Perú, es exageradamente amable, honesto y paciente, es bilingüe. 100% recomendando 5⭐️ Juan estamos agradecido con tu excelente servicio.

Yeidy Perez
Yeidy Perez
May 2, 2024

El mejor guía que encontrarán.

Sumamente responsable, vasto conocimientos y siempre dispuesto a complacer nuestros gustos y deseos.

Jesenia Vega
Jesenia Vega
May 2, 2024

Una experiencia única

Una experiencia única. El guía muy atento amable, explica las historias al detalle. 100% lo recomiendo.💕🇵🇪

Arelis Méndez
Arelis Méndez
May 2, 2024

El mejor guía de todo Perú!!

El mejor guía de todo Perú!!! Añai 🙏🏼

Christian Estela
Christian Estela
May 2, 2024

Juan es un excelente guía

Juan es un excelente guía , amable y honesto Excelente servicio🥇

Alejandra
Alejandra
May 1, 2024

The best option for traveling

My experience with MachuPicchuTrek on the Salkantay Premium Private Trek tour was simply exceptional. From the moment we began our adventure, the punctuality and dedication of the operators were evident. Every detail was carefully planned to give me an unforgettable experience.The landscapes that unfolded before my eyes were simply breathtaking.The level of personalized attention I received throughout the tour was unparalleled. The guides were always willing to share their knowledge and passion for the region, which further enriched my experience.In summary, the Salkantay Premium Private Trek tour with MachuPicchuTrek not only met, but exceeded all my expectations. "I definitely recommend this experience to anyone looking for an unforgettable adventure in one of the most incredible places in the world.

Miguel Castillo
Miguel Castillo
April 29, 2024

Efficient and fair price

I usually don't leave reviews, but I gotta say that this company is just amazing. From the beginning of my booking, until I departed from Cusco, they were so attentive. Alex, who is the owner of Machupicchutrek was on top of everything. He was texting us, promptly answering my calls as needed. I traveled with my child 5 years old and they gave me a piece of mind as he was able to get me a babysitter, who assisted me in this journey. Thank you all for your dedication and care for my family. I will recommend you to all my friends and family.

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