Manu National Park is essential for biodiversity conservation, as it is home to one of the highest concentrations of biological diversity in the world. This park is a refuge for thousands of species of plants, animals and microorganisms, many of which are endemic and endangered. Its richness is due to the variety of ecosystems it comprises, ranging from tropical forests to Andean mountains and swamp areas, allowing the coexistence of diverse species and contributing to ecological stability. In addition, Manu protects several endangered species, such as the jaguar and the giant otter, which is crucial to maintaining balance in their habitats. The park also serves as a natural laboratory for scientific research, providing valuable information on the ecology and evolution of species, as well as on the importance of conserving biodiversity.

Patrolling activities are carried out to prevent poaching and illegal logging, as well as environmental education programmes to raise awareness about the importance of conservation.

Yes, there are specific areas of the park that are known to be preferred habitats for certain species, and local guides can help identify these areas for spotting specific animals.

Among the most notable plants and trees in the Manu National Park are the ceiba, known for its imposing height and thick trunk; the rubber tree, famous for its latex production; the mahogany, appreciated for its high-quality wood; the cedar, another valuable wood species; and the aguaje, a palm tree whose fruits are consumed by both humans and local fauna. Also notable are the leche leche (Sapium glandulosum), a tree that produces a white latex used in the production of natural glues, and the sangre de grado (Croton lechleri), famous for its red resin with anti-inflammatory and healing properties. In addition, the achiote (Bixa orellana) is another significant plant in the park, whose seeds are used to obtain a natural red dye, highly valued in cooking and traditional medicine. Achiote is not only known for its culinary use, but also has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, being used in natural remedies to treat skin conditions and other health problems.The park is also home to a wide variety of medicinal plants used by indigenous communities, such as cat’s claw (Uncaria tomentosa), which is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, and chuchuhuasi (Maytenus laevis), used to relieve muscle pain. It is also home to a variety of tropical fruits, such as guava, wild mango, camu camu (rich in vitamin C) and copoazú, an Amazonian fruit similar to cacao. This plant wealth is not only essential for the park’s ecosystems, but is also crucial for local communities, which sustainably exploit these natural resources for both medicinal and economic use.

Yes, Manu National Park is known for having a healthy population of jaguars, although spotting them can be difficult due to their shy and secretive nature. However, jaguar sightings are more likely during the dry season, which runs from June to October, when water levels are lower, concentrating the animals around bodies of water. Additionally, jaguars are in their mating season during these months, which increases their activity and mobility, making them easier to observe while hunting or moving around their territory. Open areas, such as riverbanks and sandy beaches, are the best places to try to see them, as they often use these spaces to move or rest.

Manu National Park is home to over 1,025 bird species, including macaws, toucans, harpy eagles and many more. Among the 20 most common species are the blue-and-yellow macaw, scarlet macaw, green macaw, rainbow-billed toucan, white-breasted toucan, harpy eagle, pompadour cotinga, cock-of-the-rock, rufous-tailed jacamar, great horned owl, great tinamou, woodguan, tiger heron, Amazonian kingfisher, roseate spoonbill, pochard hawk, needle-billed duck, lined woodpecker, royal-crowned flycatcher and green ibis.

“In the Manu National Park you can see a wide variety of animals, among which you can find 1025 species of birds, 221 species of mammals, 1307 species of butterflies, 8 species of wild felines, 15 species of primates, 27 species of psittacidae, such as (parrots, macaws, parakeets, cockatoos and lovebirds, among others), 155 species of reptiles, 300 species of ants and more than 600 species of beetles. However, the sighting of all these species depends greatly on the location of the visiting area: Manu cultural or buffer zone (with more tourist access), Manu reserved zone or core zone (where controlled ecotourism is allowed) and Manu intangible zone intended for research (protected and without access for tourists).

Yes, many tour operators offer custom tours that can be tailored to visitors’ particular interests, whether it be bird watching, nature photography or any other specific focus.

Hiking is possible year-round in Manu National Park, although there are differences between the rainy and dry seasons. However, the best time to visit is usually during the dry season, which runs from May to October, when the trails are less muddy and visibility is better. This makes it easier to explore and allows you to fully enjoy the natural beauty of the park.

Yes, it is recommended to hire an experienced guide for hiking in Manu National Park. These guides know the area and the points of interest, as well as being experts in the secrets of the jungle. Their experience ensures the safety of visitors and enriches the experience, as they can provide valuable information about the flora and fauna of the park.

Hikes can include points of interest such as bird watching lookouts, waterfalls, hot springs, and archaeological sites of indigenous cultures.

Tours of a minimum of 3 days are offered, as well as longer tours with the option of observing many more animals and ecosystems in the jungle, adapted to the preferences and time availability of visitors.

The hikes traverse a variety of ecosystems, starting in mountain areas and then descending through dense rainforests, lagoons and rivers. This diversity of habitats allows visitors to experience the rich biodiversity of Manu National Park, observing different species of flora and fauna in their natural environment.

The length and difficulty of the hikes vary according to the area visited. In the Manu Cultural Area or buffer zone, the difficulty is medium; for the other areas, the terrain is mostly flat, making the difficulty low to medium. However, local guides can adapt the excursions according to the preferences and abilities of visitors, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the beauty of Manu National Park.

It all depends on the area of ​​visit, Manu cultural or buffer zone (with more tourist access), Manu reserved zone or core zone (where controlled ecotourism is allowed) and Manu intangible zone intended for research (protected and without access for tourists).”

Child and pet policies vary by property, so it’s important to check with the property before booking to ensure they meet your specific needs.

Within Manu National Park, most accommodations are geared toward providing an immersive experience in nature, so luxury services such as spas are not common. The infrastructure is simple and designed to minimize environmental impact, prioritizing sustainability and basic comfort rather than luxury.However, some lodges in the buffer zone offer relaxation alternatives, such as hammocks, fishing activities, swimming in rivers and streams, among others. These activities allow visitors to enjoy moments of relaxation in a unique natural environment. The Manu experience focuses primarily on wildlife viewing and connecting with nature, rather than typical spa-like wellness services.

Various measures are implemented in Manu National Park to ensure the safety of travellers, due to its remote location and the sensitivity of its ecosystems. The main actions include:

1. Access control and authorized guides: Entry to the park is regulated by the National Service of Natural Protected Areas of the State (SERNANP), and certified guides are required. Guides are trained to ensure safety and minimize environmental impact.
2. Established routes and permits: Access is only permitted to certain areas of the park, and travelers must follow authorized routes. Prior permission is required to enter strict conservation areas, ensuring that vulnerable ecosystems are not disturbed.
3. Rules of conduct: Visitors must comply with strict rules, such as not leaving waste, not feeding the animals and not interacting with wild species to preserve both the fauna and the safety of people.
4. Recommended vaccinations: Although no recent cases have been reported, vaccination against yellow fever and prophylaxis against malaria are recommended for those spending prolonged periods in the jungle, as a preventive measure.
5. Basic infrastructure: Although the park is quite remote and primitive in terms of infrastructure, campsites and lodges within the areas accessible to tourists have safety measures, such as first aid kits and communication equipment in case of emergencies.
6. Supervision and monitoring: Park ranger teams patrol areas open to tourism to monitor visitor activities and ensure compliance with regulations. In addition, environmental conditions are monitored to prevent risks such as fires or floods.

These measures are designed to protect both travelers and the fragile ecosystem of Manu National Park.

Yes, many operating companies offer a wide variety of food options to accommodate special dietary needs, such as vegetarianism, veganism or food allergies.

The park’s altitude varies from approximately 150 meters above sea level in the Manu River basin to over 4,000 meters in the surrounding mountains (acjanaco). This can affect visitors in terms of acclimatization and temperature.

There are no age restrictions to visit the park, but some activities may have minimum age requirements (4 to 5 years) due to safety considerations.

Transportation options include flights from Lima to Cusco or Lima to Puerto Maldonado, followed by a boat trip along the Madre de Dios River, check with your tour operator.

It is recommended to book a tour with a licensed tour operator, as this ensures a safe and well-organized experience, as well as helping to conserve the park.

Yes, you need to obtain a permit to enter the park, which can be arranged through authorized tour operators.

It is recommended to spend at least 3 to 8 days for a complete visit to Manu National Park, allowing you to explore different areas, participate in various activities, and therefore better spot animals. Everything will depend on the availability of time.

It is not necessary, because no cases have been reported, but a yellow fever vaccine is recommended if your stay in the jungle will be longer than 30 days.

Hiking is possible all year round in Manu National Park, although there are differences between the rainy and dry seasons. However, the best time to visit is usually during the dry season, which runs from May to October, when the trails are less muddy and animal sightings are better. This makes exploration easier and allows you to fully enjoy the natural beauty of the park.

Manu National Park is located in the southeast of Peru, covering the departments of Madre de Dios and Cusco. It is located in a region where the foothills of the Andes and the Amazon basin meet, which gives it great geographical and biological diversity. Its approximate geographical location is:

• Latitude: Between 11° and 13° South.
• Longitude: Between 71° and 73° West.

Yes, in the areas close to the Manu National Park and in the surrounding villages, there are some accommodation options outside the protected area, from simple accommodation to lodges, etc.

Accommodations are usually offered within tourist packages, offered by each Manu operating company.

Accommodations are usually strategically located near areas of interest such as interpretation centers, wildlife viewing points and access to hiking trails.