Manú National Park Travel Guide

Discover the best hiking trails, outdoor adventures, cultural attractions, food and drink scene, and more in Manú National Park, Peru's ultimate destination for natural beauty.


A Comprehensive Tour Guide to Manú National Park

Welcome to Manú National Park, one of the most incredible destinations in South America! Located in the Madre de Dios region of Peru, Manú National Park offers a breathtaking array of natural beauty, cultural attractions, outdoor adventures, and much more. In this comprehensive tour guide, we will take you through everything you need to know about Manú National Park so you can make the most of your visit.

Introduction to Manú National Park

Manú National Park is an Amazonian wonderland, spanning over 17,000 square kilometers of protected land. The UNESCO-listed site is home to over 1000 bird species, 200 mammal species, and more than 10,000 plant species. The park also has a rich cultural history, with indigenous communities still living within the territory.

List of Places to Visit in Manú National Park

Manú National Park is vast, so it’s important to have a plan in place before you start your adventure. Here is a list of the top places to visit in Manú National Park:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Manú National Park Visitors Center: Learn more about the park’s history and its conservation efforts at this informative visitors center.
  • Matsiguenka Native Community: Visit this indigenous community to learn about their way of life and to purchase traditional handicrafts.

Natural Attractions of Manú National Park: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Boca Manu: A great spot for wildlife lovers, where visitors can observe caimans, monkeys, and a variety of bird species.
  • Manu River: Take a leisurely boat ride down the Manu River. Along the way, you’ll see stunning views of the surrounding rainforest and a variety of wildlife.
  • Macaw Clay Lick: A popular spot for bird watchers to catch a glimpse of brilliant macaws and parrots feasting on the mineral-rich clay.
  • Lake Cocha Salvador: Located deep in the jungle, this oxbow lake is an excellent place to observe black caimans, giant otters, and rare bird species.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Manú National Park

Manú National Park has a network of trails that wind through the lush rainforest, offering visitors the opportunity to see a variety of flora and fauna. Here are some of the park’s best hiking/biking routes:

  • Overnight Trip to Sunset Point: Hike to a viewpoint overlooking the forest canopy and watch the sunset for a truly magical experience.
  • Salvador Lake Trail: Follow this trail to the oxbow lake to observe incredible wildlife.
  • Puerto Arturo to Boca Manu: Take a multi-day trek along the Manu River, passing through indigenous communities and observing a wide range of tropical wildlife.

Best Things to Do in Manú National Park: Activities and Tours

Whether you’re a nature lover, adventure seeker, or culture buff, Manú National Park has something for everyone. Here are our top picks for things to do in the park:

  • Bird Watching: With over 1000 species of birds, Manú National Park is a paradise for bird watchers.
  • Canopy Walk: Get up close and personal with the rainforest canopy by taking a thrilling canopy walk.
  • Traditional Matsiguenka Medicine Tour: Take a tour led by a local guide to learn about traditional medicinal plants and their uses in Matsiguenka culture.

Week-Long Itinerary for Manú National Park

If you have a week to explore Manú National Park, here is a sample itinerary to help you make the most of your time:

Day Activities
Day 1 Arrive in Cusco and spend the day in the city
Day 2 Take a flight to Puerto Maldonado and drive to Manú National Park Visitors Center
Day 3 Hike to the Sunset Point viewpoint and watch the sunset
Day 4 Take a boat ride down the Manu River and observe wildlife
Day 5 Visit the Macaw Clay Lick and observe the colorful macaws feeding
Day 6 Take a traditional Matsiguenka medicine tour and learn about medicinal plants
Day 7 Return to Puerto Maldonado and fly back to Cusco

Food and Drink Scene of Manú National Park

Manú National Park may be in the middle of the jungle, but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy delicious food and drink. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Tacacho con Cecina: A traditional dish made from mashed bananas served with smoked pork.
  • Palometa: This local fish is served grilled with onions and peppers.

Local Beverages

  • Masato: A traditional drink made from fermented cassava.
  • Inca Kola: A popular Peruvian soda.

Where to Stay in Manú National Park: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Manú National Park has a variety of accommodation options, ranging from rustic lodges to luxurious eco-tourism resorts. Here are some of the best places to stay in the park:

  • Manu Wildlife Center: A luxurious eco-lodge located on the banks of the Manu River.
  • Cock-of-the-Rock Lodge: Located in the heart of the rainforest, this lodge offers an unforgettable wildlife experience.
  • Posada Amazonas: A rustic guesthouse that offers a unique cultural experience with local communities.

What to Buy in Manú National Park: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

When visiting Manú National Park, don’t forget to take home some souvenirs to remember your trip. Here are some of the best local products to bring home:

  • Handicrafts: Purchase intricate textiles and handicrafts made by local indigenous communities.
  • Natural Skincare Products: Many shops in Puerto Maldonado sell natural skincare products made from locally sourced ingredients.

Local Culture and Customs of Manú National Park

Manú National Park is home to several indigenous communities, including the Matsiguenka people. Visitors are encouraged to respect local customs and cultures.

Best Time to Visit Manú National Park

The best time to visit Manú National Park is during the dry season, which runs from May to October. This time of year offers the best wildlife viewing opportunities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Manú National Park

To ensure a safe and enjoyable trip to Manú National Park, here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind:

Do:

  • Respect local communities and customs.
  • Hire a local guide for hikes and tours.
  • Pack insect repellant and a rain jacket.

Don’t:

  • Feed wildlife.
  • Walk off designated trails.
  • Buy souvenirs made from wildlife products.

Safety and Health

Safety in Manú National Park

Manú National Park is a remote area and can be dangerous for inexperienced travelers. Visitors should always hire a local guide and avoid traveling alone.

Health in Manú National Park

Manú National Park is in a malaria zone, so visitors should take precautions when traveling to the area. It’s recommended to take anti-malarial medication and to use insect repellant.

Getting to Manú National Park: Transportation Options and Logistics

Getting to Manú National Park can be a bit of a challenge, but it’s definitely worth the effort. Here are your transportation options:

Airports Near Manú National Park

  • Puerto Maldonado International Airport

Bus Stations Near Manú National Park

  • Puerto Maldonado Bus Terminal

Other Options

  • It’s possible to drive or take a taxi to Puerto Maldonado from Cusco.

How to Get Around in Manú National Park

The best way to get around in Manú National Park is by hiring a local guide. Visitors can also take boat rides down the Manu River or hike along designated trails.

Where to Go Next from Manú National Park: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Manú National Park is just one incredible destination in Peru. Here are some other nearby destinations and excursions to add to your itinerary:

  • Inkaterra Canopy Walkway: A thrilling canopy walkway located near Puerto Maldonado.
  • Tambopata National Reserve: Another incredible rainforest reserve located near Manú National Park.
  • Cusco: This historic city is the gateway to Machu Picchu and is an unforgettable destination in its own right.

Conclusion

Manú National Park is truly an incredible destination that should be on every traveler’s bucket list. With its stunning natural beauty, cultural attractions, and outdoor adventures, there’s something for everyone. We hope this comprehensive tour guide has helped you plan your trip and make the most of your visit to Manú National Park.

Two red-and-green macaws in the national park Two red-and-green macaws in the national park