Itinerario Completo

Photographic Tour in the Manu Amazon – 5 Unforgettable Days

The Manu Photography Tour Immerse yourself in one of the most biodiverse regions on Earth through the lens of your camera. This photographic expedition through the Manu jungle is perfect for lovers of photography, nature, and wildlife.

From the Andes to the depths of the Peruvian Amazon, you’ll encounter fascinating bird species, elusive mammals, breathtaking landscapes, and remarkable cultural experiences.

Day 1: The Manu Photography Tour  from Cusco – Paucartambo – Cloud Forest – Rainforest Lodge

We begin our journey early, picking up travelers in Cusco at 4:30 a.m. We travel toward Manu National Park, passing through stunning Andean scenery. Along the way, we stop in the picturesque town of Paucartambo, known for its colonial architecture and rich cultural traditions.

Climbing higher, we reach the Acjanaco viewpoint—the official gateway to Manu—where a short hike through the puna grasslands reveals opportunities to spot Andean foxes, grey deer, and, if lucky, the elusive spectacled bear.

Descending into the cloud forest, we enter a world of lush vegetation and vibrant birdlife. Here, we hope to

photograph the Andean Cock-of-the-Rock performing its famous courtship display. Other possible sightings include

the blue-banded toucanet, golden-headed quetzal, and woolly monkey. We conclude the day at Rainforest Lodge, where we spend the night.

Day 2:  The Manu Photography Tour and Rainforest Lodge – Puerto Atalaya – Madre de Dios River – Tambo Blanquillo Lodge

After breakfast, we head to Puerto Atalaya to begin our boat journey down the Madre de Dios River. Along the way, we capture images of hummingbirds, Aracari toucans, and the intriguing Amazonian umbrellabird.

From the river, the Amazon reveals its incredible diversity—capybaras grazing along the banks, howler monkeys in the canopy, roseate spoonbills wading in the shallows, king vultures soaring overhead, and the striking Caracara.

We pause for a soothing soak in natural hot springs before continuing to Tambo Blanquillo Lodge. After settling in,

we enjoy a twilight walk to listen to the jungle’s evening chorus and look for owls, dusky titi monkeys, and other nocturnal species. Dinner and overnight at the lodge.

Day 3:  The Manu Photography Tour to  Macaw Clay Lick – Cocha Blanco Lake – Night Walk

At dawn, we visit one of the Amazon’s top bird photography locations: the Blanquillo Macaw Clay Lick. From a well-

camouflaged blind, we photograph parrots, parakeets, and brilliantly colored scarlet, blue, and yellow macaws as they gather to feed on mineral-rich clay—an essential part of their diet.

In the afternoon, we explore Cocha Blanco, an oxbow lake, aboard a catamaran. The calm waters offer the chance to

photograph giant river otters, spider monkeys, agami herons, kingfishers, and many other species. As night falls, we take a guided walk in search of nocturnal wildlife—frogs, insects, and spiders revealed under the beam of flashlights.

Day 4: Tambo Blanquillo – Rainforest Lodge – Sunset Walk

The morning offers another opportunity to photograph white caimans, turtles, capybaras, and—if fortune favors us—even a jaguar along the riverbank.

By mid-afternoon, we return to Rainforest Lodge. Enjoy free time to relax, review your photos, or take a short sunset

walk. The golden light of dusk creates a perfect atmosphere for capturing the jungle’s textures and moods. Dinner and optional night walk included.

Day 5: Parrot Clay Lick – Return to Cusco

We wrap up our adventure with a final visit to a nearby parrot clay lick, just 20 minutes from the lodge. As the sun

rises, the sky fills with a dazzling array of green, blue, and yellow feathers—an unforgettable finale for bird enthusiasts.

After breakfast, we return by boat to Puerto Atalaya and continue by private vehicle back to Cusco, arriving between

7:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. This marks the end of a truly transformative photographic journey through the heart of the Peruvian Amazon.

Qué Incluye

What’s Included in the Explorer Blanquillo Photography Tour?

This tour is designed to offer a safe, comfortable, and enriching experience in the heart of Manu National Park, with all essential services covered:

 Included:

•  Private ground transportation to and from Cusco
  Breakfast on the first day of the tour
  Private boat transportation along the Madre de Dios and Manu Rivers
  Professional naturalist guides, experts in photography and biodiversity
  Three full meals per day + snacks
  4 nights accommodation in comfortable lodges integrated into the Amazon environment
  Excellent kitchen service and personalized attention
  First aid kits available on board and at the lodges
  Bottled drinking water throughout the trip
  Official entrance fee to Manu National Park

Qué No Incluye

• Flights and airport departure taxes.
  Travel insurance.
  Vaccinations.
  Breakfast on the first day and dinner on the last day.
  Drinks (except water).
  Tips for local staff.

What you need to bring with you on the tour

• Mosquito repellent (minimum DEET 35 recommended).
  Original passport for identification.
  Long-sleeved shirts and comfortable long pants for protection.
  Cotton socks (to tuck into pants to prevent bites).
  Comfortable walking shoes and sandals for different terrains.
  Rain gear (poncho or jacket).
  Swimsuit for the hot springs.
  Binoculars (available for rent) and camera (with charger).
  Plastic bags to protect your clothes and camera.
  Hat for protection from sun and rain.
  Toiletries, small towel and toilet paper.
  Antibacterial gel, sunscreen and sunglasses.
  Flashlight with spare bulbs and batteries.
  Bottle of water (minimum 1 liter).
  Cash (soles) for drinks, souvenirs or tips.

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