CUSCO – CLOUD FOREST – BAMBOO LODGE

Starting early from Cusco we begin our 8 hour journey by private bus climbing up to the high mountain area at 3900 m (13,000 feet). We make a stop in Ninamarca, to see the pre-Inca cemetery, and in the colonial village of Paucartambo. Then we cross Acjanaco pass at 3850 m and descend the eastern slopes of the Andes through cloud forest with lush vegetation (ferns, orchids, bromeliads etc.). We enjoy spectacular views of the Andes and can see wildlife such as our national bird: the bright red Cock of the Rocks (Rupicola peruviana) showing his mating dance. Walking along the road we can see brilliantly colored Tanagers, Quetzals, Trogons, Tucanets and Hummingbirds as well as Hawks and possibly the first monkeys (Woolly Monkeys). In the late afternoon we arrive at Bamboo Lodge (900m), where we have dinner and spend the night.

Accommodation: Double rooms with private bathroom

BAMBOO LODGE – AMAZONIA LODGE

After an early breakfast we continue with our minibus: we pass the village of Pilcopata and cross the river to get to the small port of Atalaya (600 m). On the way we stop for some walks to observe birds and to visit a local orchid garden. Before reaching Atalaya we enjoy a great view of the river basin from a lookout point. At the port we embark on a 20 minute journey in a 15-meter motorized canoe down the Alto Madre de Dios River. Along the rocky banks of the river we have the opportunity to see wildlife such as Fasciated Tiger Herons, Kingfishers, Skimmers and some of Manu´s monkey species. In the afternoon we walk on the trails near Amazonia Lodge in search for monkeys and birds. We also visit a nearby lake. In the evening we can go caiman spotting or go on a night walk. We spend the night at Amazonia Lodge.

Accommodation: Double rooms with private bathroom

PARROT CLAY LICK AND TRAILS AROUND THE AMAZONIA LODGE

At dawn we travel downriver by boat to the parrot clay lick. This is a special place where parrots, parakeets and small macaws, including the Chestnut fronted Macaw and the rare Blue headed Macaw, come to eat minerals which they need for digestion. After the natural show we walk on the trails of Amazonia to see more animals and you have the opportunity to climb our 25 m observation tower for a spectacular view over the Alto Madre de Dios River. Later we can go fishing or have a bath in a creek near the lodge. Night at Amazonia Lodge. Optional night walk to see insects, frogs, snakes etc.

Accommodation: Double rooms with private bathroom

AMAZONIA TRAILS AND MACHUWASI LAKE

Today we have a second option for the parrot clay lick or we can explore some of our trails and climb the observation tower. Returning back to the lodge we can observe the hummingbirds and then have lunch. In the afternoon we explore a trail that takes us to an impressive Ceiba tree; then we continue by boat to visit Machuwasi Lake, on the opposite side of the river. We use a wooden raft to explore the lake and observe the abundant birdlife. With some luck we can also see capybaras here. Later we return to Amazonia Lodge by boat and go for an evening walk. With some luck we may see the rare Night Monkey, which is frequently spotted near the lodge.

Accommodation: Double rooms with private bathroom

AMAZONIA LODGE – CLOUD FOREST – CUSCO

After breakfast we take the boat back to Atalaya. Here our bus is waiting for us for our return trip through the cloud forest and over the Andes. We stop whenever we spot animals. We arrive in Cusco around 6 pm, and transfer you to your hotel.