Day 1 Cusco - Ninamarca - Paucartambo - Cloud Forest - Pilcopata
We will pick you up from your hotel at 6:00 am, in our private bus. As we travel southeast from Cusco, we will journey through the mountains until we reach an elevation of 4,200 meters above sea level. At this point, we will visit the Chullpas de Ninamarca, a pre-Inca cemetery. Following our brief visit, we will continue our journey, passing through various Andean villages, until we arrive at the town of Paucartambo, renowned as the folkloric capital. This charming town features incredible colonial houses and a historic stone bridge.
As we continue our journey, we will arrive at the lower region, where we can observe a shift in vegetation as we pass through jungle villages inhabited by individuals dedicated to cultivating bananas, papayas, and other local fruits. In the afternoon, we will proceed on our designated bus, traversing some ravines, which will provide us with a "Safari" experience in the headwaters of the Amazon. By sunset, we will reach our destination, Paraiso Lodge, where we will enjoy a delightful dinner and spend the night in comfort.
Day 2 Pilcopata - Lake Machuwasi – Shintuya Hot Springs - Coco’s House
In the morning, prior to breakfast, we will take a visit to the beaches of the Tono River, where we can relish the soothing sounds of nature. Following a delightful breakfast, we will embark on a one-hour drive to the town of Salvacion. Once there, we will explore Lake Machuwasi, where we will have the opportunity to board a raft. During our hour on the lake, we will observe a diverse array of bird species, including chickadees, cardinals, coral parrots, cormorants, horned warblers, flocks of green parrots, and the distinctive sounds of the jungle. We may even spot puffins perched in the treetops. After our hour of exploration, we will return to our bus to continue our journey.
We will proceed to the Shintuya Native Community, where our boat will be prepared to transport us to the Shintuya Hot Spring. Following this, we will transfer to a motorboat for a 20-minute journey along the lower reaches of the Alto Madre de Dios River. To access the hot spring, we will embark on a 45-minute walk. We will also have the chance to swim and leap from cliffs at the Petroleo Stream waterfall. Upon our return to the hot springs, we can unwind in the handcrafted pools filled with warm water.
Following our delightful experience at this remarkable location, we will proceed with our river journey until we arrive at the town of Itahuania. There, a bus will be prepared to take us to our comfortable retreat, Coco's House, where we will spend two nights. This will provide us the opportunity to explore each day and possibly observe a variety of monkeys, mammals, and the wonders of a pristine jungle, adorned with towering trees and an impressive array of plants. May this adventure invigorate your spirit!
Day 3 Coco’s House – Tambo Blanquillo
We will embark on a journey along the newly constructed road leading to Boca Manu. Upon our arrival, a prearranged motorized boat will be ready to transport us to the Tambo Blanquillo Private Reserve.
During the boat ride, we will have the chance to appreciate the abundant wildlife along the riverbank and experience the beauty of this natural paradise.
Once we reach the Tambo Blanquillo Private Reserve, we will fully immerse ourselves in the area's rich bio diversity. The reserve provides an exceptional backdrop for nature exploration and wildlife observation. As we settle into this secluded and pristine location, we will delight in the sights and sounds of the surrounding environment, preparing ourselves for further adventures in this remarkable region of nature.
DAY 4 Macaws Clay Lick - Cocha Camungo
In the early morning, we will make our way to the macaw clay lick. The Blanquillo clay lick is a remarkable natural attraction that draws visitors from around the globe. Each morning, as the fog dissipates and sunlight streams through the canopy, macaws, parrots, and various other bird species gather at the lick to partake in its mineral-rich clay. We will travel by boat and then embark on a hike to the lick, where we will patiently await bird activity. During this time, we will have the opportunity to observe the birds and enjoy breakfast in the hide as we wait for the activity to resume.
Following our activities, we will return to Tambo Blanquillo Lodge, where a delightful lunch prepared by our chef awaits us in the Manu rainforest.
In the afternoon, We will embark on an exploration of Camungo's Oxbow Lake, which is home to giant otters, kingfishers, flycatchers, and rare neo tropical birds, including the vibrant agami heron. Our journey will include a cruise on a paddle-powered catamaran, providing a stable platform for capturing invaluable photographs as we glide gracefully across the water.
Following our visit to the lake, we will proceed to the Camungo Observation Tower, the tallest structure in the Peruvian Amazon, standing at 50 meters above the forest floor. This tower, constructed next to a 400-year-old Ceiba tree, has been designed to ensure it does not impede the tree's growth. From the observation point, we will have the opportunity to observe jacamars hunting, monkeys swinging through the treetops, and mixed flocks of up to 100 bird species passing by.
Following this thrilling day of exploration, we will return to the lodge to unwind and savor a delightful dinner. The tranquil environment and the sounds of the rainforest will create an ideal atmosphere for relaxation and contemplation of the day's experiences.
DAY 5 Blanco Oxbow Lake - Coco’s House
In the morning, following breakfast, we will embark on a boat ride to Blanco Oxbow Lake. This brief 10-minute journey often reveals glimpses of peccaries and other mammals along the riverbanks. Guests frequently enjoy breathtaking views of jaguars resting and basking in the morning sun after their nocturnal hunts.
Upon arrival at the lake, we will paddle one of our catamarans (each lake has its own!) and navigate through waters inhabited by giant otters, caimans, and other top predators. This lake is renowned for its exceptional bird life, with over 600 species visiting its shores!
We will explore the lake aboard a rowing catamaran, which offers a stable platform for capturing invaluable photographs as we glide effortlessly through the water.
Following our excursion on the lake, we will return up the Madre de Dios River. During the boat trip, we will enjoy our box lunch and have the chance to observe the abundant wildlife along the riverbank. Upon arriving at Boca Manu, our bus will be waiting to take us to our hostel, Coco’s House, which is a two-hour journey.
Day 6 Coco’s House - Parrot Licking Clay - Cloud Forest - Cusco
In the early morning, we will return to the city of Cusco. However, our first stop will be at the parrot clay lick, where, each morning, hundreds of parrots gather to consume clay from the rocks. This mineral helps to eliminate toxins from their digestive systems, which they typically balance with seeds and fruits. After experiencing this remarkable natural event, we will proceed to the Dos Loritos rescue center, where you will have the chance to observe various species of birds and mammals that have been rescued and rehabilitated for their return to the wild. As we continue our journey, we will pause in the cloud forest for a box lunch, allowing you to admire the stunning landscapes of mountains adorned with lush vegetation and waterfalls. In the afternoon, we will arrive in the city of Cusco and arrange for your transfer to the hotel.