photography Manu Reserved Natural Paradise  9 D/8N

Embark on an immersive 9-day expedition through the heart of the Peruvian Amazon. This journey takes you from the Andean highlands of Cusco, through the cloud forests, and deep into the Manu Biosphere Reserve. Highlights include:

• Andean Cock-of-the-Rock displays in the cloud forest
• Macaw clay licks in Blanquillo
• Giant river otters in oxbow lakes
• Night walks to observe nocturnal wildlife
• Cultural interactions with indigenous communities

This itinerary offers unparalleled opportunities for wildlife photography, birdwatching, and experiencing the rich biodiversity of one of the world's most pristine rainforests.

 Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Cusco – Paucartambo – Wayqecha Lodge

• Morning: Depart Cusco, stopping at Huacarpay Lake to observe high-Andean bird species.
• Afternoon: Continue to the colonial town of Paucartambo, then ascend to the Acjanaco Pass (3,560 m), the gateway to Manu National Park.
• Evening: Descend into the cloud forest, arriving at the lodge.
• Activities: Birdwatching en route, including chances to see the Andean Flicker, Mountain Caracara, and Puna Ibis.
• Overnight: Wayqecha Lodge.

 
 Birdwatching Photography Checklist:

• Camera & Lens:
  • DSLR or Mirrorless Camera (fast autofocus and high FPS)
  • Telephoto Lens (200mm–500mm or 100mm–400mm)
  • Tripod or Monopod for stability (especially in low light)
  • Memory Cards (high-speed cards, as burst shots are common)
  • Extra Camera Batteries (cold temperatures can drain them quickly)
• Camera Settings:
  • Shutter Speed: 1/2000 sec or faster (birds in flight)
  • Aperture: f/4–f/5.6 for a shallow depth of field (blurry backgrounds)
  • ISO: Keep it low (ISO 400–800) unless the light is low, then go higher (adjust for grain)
• Other Equipment:
  • Lens Cleaning Kit (to avoid dust or water spots)
  • Polarizing Filter (to cut down on reflections and enhance colors)
  • Binoculars for spotting birds in the distance
  • Notebook or Bird Guide (for identifying species)

Day 2: Wayqecha Lodge – Biological station

• Morning: Visit a Cock-of-the-Rock lek to witness the males' vibrant courtship displays.
• Afternoon: Continue to Atalaya Port, then navigate the Alto Madre de Dios River by boat to the lodge.
• Activities: Observe species like the Andean Motmot, King vulture, and various hummingbirds.
• Overnight: Biological station Lodge.

• Andean Cock-of-the-Rock: Known for its vibrant red plumage, this striking bird is a symbol of the cloud forest.
• Golden-headed Quetzal: A flash of brilliant color in the dense foliage.
• Hummingbirds: Countless species, each more beautiful than the last, darting among the flowers and mist.
• Toucan Barbets: With their bright beaks and dynamic personalities, they are a favorite for bird photographers.
  
   Photography Checklist :
• Clothing & Essentials:
  • Comfortable Robber boots (for wet, muddy terrain)
  • Lightweight rain jacket (weather in the cloud forest is unpredictable)
  • Hat or sunglasses (for sun protection in clear weather)
  • Binoculars (to spot birds and plan your shots)
  • Notebook or field guide (to identify birds and note behavior)
  • Water bottle and snacks (staying hydrated is key)
• Special Items for Birdwatching:
  • Bird identification guide or an app (for quick reference)
  • Sound recording device (to capture calls or make notes of bird species)
  • Birding scope (if you prefer not to use your camera lens for close-ups)

 Additional Notes:The cloud forest is a photographer's dream, offering rich opportunities for both macro photography (small insects, plants, or dew-covered leaves) and wildlife photography. Be patient and take your time: the forest is full of surprises, and often the best shots come when you least expect them.

Day 3:Biological Station– Hummingbird Lodge

• Morning: Depart by boat along the Madre de Dios River, entering deeper into the rainforest.
• Afternoon: Arrive at Cocha Otorongo, located within the Manu Reserved Zone.
• Activities: Explore the area, with opportunities to see Giant River Otters, Black Caimans, and various bird species.
• Overnight: Hummimbird lodge.

 Tips for Bird Photography:

• Be Patient: Birds often appear unexpectedly, so keep your camera ready. A long lens (300mm or more) is ideal for capturing them in detail without disturbing their natural habitat.
• Use Burst Mode: Birds are quick movers, so using a burst mode (continuous shooting) will help you get the perfect shot as they take flight or land.
• Good Lighting: The early morning and late afternoon provide soft, warm light, ideal for capturing birds in action.
• Backgrounds: Look for birds against natural backdrops, such as clear skies, bright flowers, or distant mountain ridgelines.

 Birdwatching Photography Checklist:

1. Camera Gear:
   • DSLR or mirrorless camera
   • Telephoto lens (300mm or more) for close-up shots
   • Tripod (for stability, especially in low light)
   • Extra batteries and memory cards
   • Lens cleaning kit (dust can be an issue in the high-altitude environment)
2. Birdwatching Gear:
   • Binoculars (for spotting birds at a distance)
   • Bird field guide (for identifying species along the way)
   • Notebook to record bird sightings and notes about their behavior
   • Waterproof backpack (to protect your camera gear from unexpected rain)
3. Best Birdwatching Times:
   • Early Morning: Birds are most active, especially around sunrise.
   • Late Afternoon: As the sun sets, many birds return to their roosts, offering a great opportunity for stunning silhouettes.

Day 4: Hummingbird Lodge– Cocha Salvador – Matsiguenka Lodge

Morning: Visit Cocha Salvador, another oxbow lake known for its rich biodiversity.

• Afternoon: Hike through pristine rainforest trails, observing monkeys, birds, and other wildlife.
• Evening: Arrive at the Matsiguenka Lodge, managed by the indigenous Matsiguenka community.
• Overnight: Matsiguenka Lodge.

Day 5: Matsiguenka Lodge – Boca Manu – Blanquillo Lodge

• Morning: Begin the return journey by boat to Boca Manu.
• Afternoon: Continue to Blanquillo Lodge, located near the renowned macaw clay licks.
• Activities: Wildlife observation along the riverbanks, including Capybaras, Caimans, and diverse bird species.
• Overnight: Blanquillo Lodge.

 Best Areas to Spot Birds:

• Early morning (best light and activity)
• Around water sources like streams or waterfalls
• Flowering plants attracting hummingbirds

Day 6: Blanquillo – Macaw Clay Lick – Camungo Oxbow Lake

• Morning: Visit the Blanquillo Macaw Clay Lick to witness hundreds of macaws and parrots feeding on mineral-rich clay.
• Afternoon: Explore Camungo Oxbow Lake by catamaran, with opportunities to see Giant River Otters, Hoatzins, and various waterfowl.
• Evening: Optional night walk to observe nocturnal wildlife.
• Overnight: Blanquillo Lodge.

Photography Tips:

• Lighting: Early morning and late afternoon offer soft, golden light that enhances the colors of the birds and surrounding flora. Aim to capture birds in flight during the early hours for crisp, well-lit shots.
• Behavioral Shots: Focus on bird interactions—feeding, preening, or flying—these add dynamic interest to your shots.

Day 7: Blanquillo – Manu Learning Centre

• Morning: Depart for the Manu Learning Centre, a hub for conservation and research.
• Afternoon: Participate in educational activities and learn about ongoing conservation projects.
• Activities: Engage with researchers, explore trails, and observe wildlife in regenerating forest areas.
• Overnight: Manu Learning Centre.

Day 8: Blanquillo – Colorado – Puerto Maldonado.

After enjoying a delicious breakfast, we will board the boat to Puerto Colorado, a journey that will take approximately 3 hours. From there, we will continue our journey by vehicle to Puerto Carlo, then we will take the vehicle that will take us to Puerto Maldonado where we will spend the night.

Day 9: Puerto Maldonado-Fly out 

On our last day after enjoying breakfast we will transfer to the airport At this point if you wish, you can take a flight to Cusco (45 minutes) or to Lima (2 hours); the flight is not included in the program.

INCLUDED

Information

• Transportation: All ground and river transport from Cusco through the Manu Biosphere Reserve, including motorized canoes and private vehicles.
• Accommodation: Stays at eco-lodges and biological stations such as Wayqecha Biological Station, , and 
• Hummingbird Lodge
• Meals: Full board (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) throughout the tour.
• Photographer Guided: Services of experienced English-speaking birding guides with expertise in the region's avifauna.
• Birding Equipment: Use of spotting scopes and field guides to enhance birdwatching experiences.
• Entrance Fees: All necessary permits and entrance fees to reserves and protected areas within Manu National Park.
• Activities: Scheduled birdwatching excursions, including visits to macaw clay licks and oxbow lakes.

Others Info:
Group Size1 – 8 Guests
Experience | Difficulty

• Beginner, amateur, enthusiast and semi-pro photographers
• DSLR, mirrorless, compact or iPhone cameras
• Moderate schedule
• Travel by car or minibus
• Moderate elevation changes and lots of walking and hiking (none of our adventures have difficult hikes)
• (non-photographers also welcome)

Includes

• 9 Days
• Travel, landscape, nature, wildlife and people photography
• Professional photographer | guide
• Photo walks & discussions
• Small group size (1-8 guests)
• Lodge,
• Breakfasts
• All Meals
• National Park Permits
• Local transportation

Accommodations

​Notable Wildlife Highlights

Throughout the journey, you may encounter:

• Birds: Andean Cock-of-the-Rock, Blue-and-Yellow Macaw, Scarlet Macaw, Hoatzin, Amazonian Umbrellabird, Harpy Eagle.
  
• Mammals: Giant River Otter, Capybara, Howler Monkey, Spider Monkey, Tapir, Jaguar (rare).
  
• Reptiles: Black Caiman, Spectacled Caiman, Anaconda (rare).
  

Price Based Per Person:2025

1 people : US$
2 people : US$
3 people: US$
4 people : US$
5 people : US$
6 people : US$
7+ people : US$