Discover Manu National Park, the Amazonian nature reserve in Peru! Explore its impressive biodiversity and magnificent landscapes for an unforgettable experience.
Explore the breathtaking Amazonian rainforest in Peru! Located in the basin of the Manu River, this sprawling reserve is renowned for its immense biodiversity and stunning natural beauty. Experience the unparalleled wildlife and nature of this amazing site for an once-in-a-lifetime adventure.
What is Manu National Park?
Established in 1973, is one of the most extensive and impressive nature reserves in the world. It covers an astonishing 17,163 square km of subtropical rainforest, home to an array of flora and fauna species such as giant otters, giant armadillo, jaguars, ant eaters, tapirs, capibaras, anacondas, ocelots and macaws. This immense park is located in Peru’s Cusco, Madre de Dios region and is divided into two distinct regions – the Cultural Zone and the Reserved Zone – both offering unique experiences in terms of wildlife viewing and exploration.
In one single hectare 250 different tree species were registered. On one single tree they found more ant species than the whole of England.
Manu National Park protects an abundance of tropical plants, including over 1000 species of trees and a variety of medicinal plants.
Alongside its diverse plant life, Manu is home to a variety of endemic wildlife. The park is recognized as one of the last refuges for wild jaguars in South America and serves as a safe haven for over 1000 species of birds, 132 reptiles, 158 amphibians and more than 200 mammals — including capuchin and spider monkeys. It’s also the only place on Earth with living specimens of some endangered native species like the Giant Armadillo and Giant Otter. And its wetlands are filled with attractive wildlife like caimans, anacondas, piranhas. With so much biodiversity packed into this remote corner of Peru, Manu National Park has something special to offer any nature-loving visitor!
Rich place with a high cultural diversity.
The Park is home to different ethnic groups that are protected by the Peruvian state.
The Tribes live with their original customs, language and activities. They continue to use, for example, the bow and arrow to hunt.
They preserve a great knowledge of the Amazon, its plants and animals with medicinal and nutritional properties.
What Wildlife is Found in Manu?
Manu is home to one of the most diverse wildlife populations in the world. (See description of species)
| Species | # Species in Manu | Percentage in Peru | Percentage in the World |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mammals | 228 | 44% | 3.9% |
| Birds | 1030 | 56% | 10.3% |
| Amphibians | 158 | 28% | 2.2% |
| Reptiles | 132 | 30% | 1.5% |
| Fish | 210 | 16% | 0.6% |
| Lepidoptera (moth) | 1006 | — | 1.1% |
| Arachnida | 498 | — | 1.2% |
| Trees | 1650 | — | — |
| Orchids | 720 | — | — |
When is The Best Time To Visit Manu National Park?
The best time to visit Manu depends on what you’re looking for, as the colors and wildlife vary throughout the year. If you’re looking for the most colorful blooms and lowest risk of rain, April through November are your best bet. On the other hand, if you want to witness the annual floods that fill the rivers and fuel animal populations, visit between December and March. Whether it’s a quick weekend getaway or a longer vacation, Manu National Park has something to offer any time of the year!
How Do You Get To Manu?
To get to the Park, most travelers start their journey in Cusco. The trip lasts approximately 7 hours through various valleys and ecosystems (from 3,400 m.a.s.l. – 11,155 feet to 400 m.a.s.l. – 1,312 feet where we can find a diversity of flora and fauna in each of them. The objective is to reach the Port of Atalaya from where we will start exploring the Madre de Dios River. The navigation time depends on the tour or program you have. Currently we offer tours of 3 days, 4 days, 5 days, 7 days, depending on your interest and available time we can organize your trip. From Cusco to the port of Atalaya we pass through interesting archaeological sites, traditional towns and spectacular landscapes.
What Activities Can You Do in Manu?
There are many activities to do in Manu, making it an ideal destination for a long vacation or a quick getaway. Nature lovers can explore the rainforest on various nature walks and tours, spotting exotic animals and birds along the way. Culture lovers can also enjoy exploring Inca ruins, archeological sites, and local towns displaying traditional arts and crafts. Also adventure seekers will also have plenty to keep them busy, from rafting on the Madre de Dios River to mountain biking. There is no shortage of things to do in Manu National Park!
For the Neotropic Peru Travel team it will be a pleasure to help you organize your trip to Manu, just contact us!
