Manu National Park

Parque Nacional del Manu

One of the most biodiverse protected areas on Earth, spanning from cloud forests to lowland rainforest with restricted access to preserve its pristine condition. Only accessible with special permits and tour operators, it's the ultimate destination for serious naturalists.

Things to do

• Macaw Clay Lick Observation — Watch hundreds of macaws and parrots gather at riverside clay deposits to consume mineral-rich clay, typically best viewed at dawn from dedicated hides.
• Manu Lodge Rainforest Walks — Guided treks through primary rainforest canopy and understory near the main lodge to spot jaguars, pumas, giant otters, and countless bird species.
• Cocha Salvador Oxbow Lake Exploration — Paddle a motorized canoe through this oxbow lake to observe caimans, anacondas, pink river dolphins, and over 400 bird species in their natural habitat.
• Cloud Forest Trekking — Hike through the upper elevations of Manu's cloud forest zone to encounter endemic species including harpy eagles, spectacled bears, and rare mountain birds.
• Night Wildlife Spotting — Evening canoe trips and forest walks using flashlights to locate nocturnal creatures such as caimans, tree frogs, owls, and tarantulas.
• Uncontacted Indigenous Territory Observation — Carefully supervised visits to the buffer zones near settlements of isolated indigenous groups, conducted with utmost respect for their autonomy and privacy.

Food to try

• Grilled Piranha — Freshwater piranha caught from the Manu River, seasoned simply and grilled whole, served with lime and local cassava.
• Paca Stew — A protein-rich dish made from paca (a large forest rodent), cooked slowly with plantains, yams, and regional spices in a clay pot.
• Fresh River Fish with Yuca — Local varieties of catfish and other river species prepared with minimal seasoning to highlight the flavor, accompanied by boiled cassava root.
• Ceviche de Paiche — The giant Amazonian fish paiche prepared as ceviche with citrus, onion, and local peppers when fresh catch is available at research stations.
• Forest Fruit Drinks — Refreshing beverages made from native Amazonian fruits like camu-camu, açaí, and aguaje, often blended with river water or condensed milk.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect Indigenous Autonomy — Do not attempt to contact or photograph uncontacted indigenous groups; all permitted viewing is heavily controlled and guides enforce strict distance and observation protocols.
• Follow Park Rules Strictly — Manu maintains restricted access deliberately—stay only on marked trails, follow your guide absolutely, and understand that violations result in immediate removal and potential legal consequences.
• Hire Specialized Naturalist Guides — Local guides from the Manu region possess irreplaceable knowledge of wildlife behavior, plant identification, and safe navigation; tip them appropriately and listen carefully to their expertise.
• Minimal Waste and Leave No Trace — Pack out all non-biodegradable items, avoid loud noises, use biodegradable soap only, and understand that Manu's preservation depends on visitor restraint and environmental consciousness.