Peruvian Amazon Excursion - Manu Wildlife Centre
Basic jungle lodge
Wednesdays and Saturdays from Cusco
6 days, 5 nights
A remarkable 5-day expedition through cloud forest and lowland rainforest on the fringes of the Manú biosphere.
Itinerary
A stunning 9 hour drive over two Andean chains at 4000m above sea level, before dexcending into the cloud forest. Overnight at the Cock-of-the-Rock Lodge.
Next day rise early to spot the Andean cock-of-therock dancing. (Sep - Nov optimum time, sightings are rare Apr - May). Continue 3-4 hours by road and canoe to arrive at Amazonia Lodge, overnight..
Take a short hike before boating to the Manú Wildlife Centre, stopping en route at local Piro Indian village. 6-7 hours later arrive at the lodge, where you can explore the trails. 12 species of primate have been identified. Overnight.
Rise before dawn to watch the spectacular morning display at the macaw clay lick (activity at the clay lick is dependent on fine weather and there are fewer birds May - July). Walk along forest trails in the afternoon, and absorb the activity of the forest from a 34m observation platform. Evening excursion to the Amazon’s largest tapir clay lick, watching the nocturnal activities from a screened platform. Overnight.
Visit Blanco Oxbow Lake to see hoatzins and waterfowl and to search for giant otters. Evening excursion by boat to spot caiman.
The following day, fly from Boca Manú airstrip to Cusco.
The lodges are basic; Manú Wildlife Centre has 22 double bungalows with en suite showers but no electricity - there are kerosene lamps and a generator you can use to recharge cameras.
Our comment
"A particularly good choice of trip for birders. Around 550 species have been logged near Manú Wildlife Centre." |