WHY COMBINE MACHU PICCHU AND MANU?

Two Worlds. One Journey Through Peru.

Most Peru itineraries focus on either cultural attractions or the Amazon.

This journey combines both.

In the Andes

You’ll experience:

• Cusco’s Inca and colonial heritage
• the Sacred Valley
• Pisac
• Ollantaytambo
• the train journey to Aguas Calientes
• Machu Picchu

In the Amazon

You’ll travel through:

• Paucartambo
• the cloud forest
• the Alto Madre de Dios region
• Amazon rainforest
• Machuwasi Lagoon
• clay licks
• rainforest trails
• river environments

The result is a journey through dramatically different ecosystems and cultures in a single itinerary.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

MACHU PICCHU

Explore the legendary Inca citadel with a professional guide and discover its temples, terraces, plazas and remarkable stonework.

MANU NATIONAL PARK

Enter one of Peru’s most important protected natural areas and experience its extraordinary biodiversity.

SERNANP describes Manu as an immense protected area extending from the Andes into the Amazon and highlights its cloud forests, lowland rainforest, river ecosystems, birds, mammals and other wildlife.

CLOUD FOREST

Travel through one of the most dramatic transitions in Peru—from high Andean landscapes into warm, humid forest.

AMAZON RIVER JOURNEY

Travel by motorized boat along the Alto Madre de Dios River while watching for birds, turtles and other wildlife along the riverbanks.

PARROT CLAY LICK

Visit a clay lick where parrots gather to consume mineral-rich soil.

RAINFOREST WILDLIFE

Look for monkeys, colorful birds, caimans, insects, amphibians and other species with the help of your local/naturalist guides.

Wildlife sightings are never guaranteed. The rainforest is a wild ecosystem, and every visit is different.

THE ANDES TO THE AMAZON

One of the defining features of this trip is the dramatic change in altitude, temperature, vegetation and scenery as you travel from Cusco toward the Amazon lowlands.

AT A GLANCE

*Confirm the current price and inclusions before publishing.

WHO IS THIS TOUR FOR?

This itinerary is especially suitable for:

Nature lovers

For travelers who want more than archaeological sites and want to experience Peru’s extraordinary biodiversity.

First-time visitors to Peru

A convenient way to combine some of Peru’s most important cultural and natural destinations.

Couples

A varied itinerary combining culture, landscapes, wildlife and comfortable accommodation.

Families

Suitable for families who want a multi-destination Peru experience without a demanding multi-day trek.

Photographers & birdwatchers

The cloud forest and Amazon provide opportunities for landscape, wildlife and bird photography.

Culture & history travelers

Cusco, the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu provide a strong cultural component before the journey moves into the rainforest.

WHO SHOULD CONSIDER ANOTHER TOUR?

This itinerary may not be ideal if:

• you only have 2–3 days in Peru;
• you want a dedicated trekking expedition;
• you prefer luxury accommodation throughout;
• you dislike long road journeys;
• you are looking for a single-destination Amazon lodge experience;
• your main priority is hiking rather than wildlife and cultural exploration.

Prefer trekking?

Consider:

• Classic Inca Trail 4 Days
• Short Inca Trail 2 Days
• Salkantay Trek

Prefer a dedicated Amazon experience?

Ask us about our other Manu and Amazon itineraries.

9-DAY ITINERARY

DAY 1 — ARRIVAL IN CUSCO

Welcome to the Andes

Your journey begins in Cusco, the historic capital of the Inca Empire.

Our team welcomes you at Cusco Airport and transfers you to your hotel.

The first day is intentionally relaxed so you can rest after your flight and begin adjusting to Cusco’s altitude.

If you feel comfortable, take a gentle walk through the historic center and discover the fascinating combination of Inca stonework and Spanish colonial architecture.

Highlights

• Airport pickup
• Private transfer to hotel
• Cusco historic center
• Free time for acclimatization
• Pre-tour information

Accommodation: 3-star hotel in Cusco

Meals: None

DAY 2 — SACRED VALLEY OF THE INCAS → AGUAS CALIENTES

Discover the Sacred Valley Before Machu Picchu

After breakfast, travel into the Sacred Valley.

Depending on the confirmed itinerary, today’s experiences may include Awanacancha, Pisac and Ollantaytambo.

Explore archaeological sites, traditional Andean landscapes and local cultural traditions before continuing toward the train station.

Scenic Train to Aguas Calientes

Board the train toward Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu.

As the train follows the Urubamba Valley, the landscape gradually changes from high Andean mountains toward cloud forest.

Highlights

• Sacred Valley
• Awanacancha
• Pisac
• Pisac market
• Urubamba
• Ollantaytambo
• Scenic train
• Aguas Calientes

Accommodation: Hotel in Aguas Calientes

Meals: Breakfast in the hotel

DAY 3 — MACHU PICCHU → RETURN TO CUSCO

Discover the Lost City of the Incas

Today is one of the highlights of the journey.

After breakfast, travel by shuttle bus from Aguas Calientes toward Machu Picchu.

Your professional guide will lead you through the designated route associated with your entrance ticket.

Machu Picchu’s current visitor system consists of three circuits divided into ten routes, so the exact route should be stated according to the ticket purchased for your travel date.

What you’ll discover

• Inca temples
• agricultural terraces
• ceremonial spaces
• stone architecture
• spectacular mountain scenery
• the history and engineering of the Inca civilization

After your Machu Picchu visit, return to Aguas Calientes and board your train toward the Sacred Valley/Cusco according to the confirmed itinerary.

Highlights

• Machu Picchu
• Professional guided visit
• Aguas Calientes
• Scenic train
• Return to Cusco

Accommodation: Hotel in Cusco

Meals: Breakfast

DAY 4 — FREE DAY IN CUSCO

Explore Cusco at Your Own Pace

After Machu Picchu, enjoy a flexible day in Cusco.

Walk through the historic center, visit museums, explore local markets or simply relax.

Optional experience

Travelers looking for an additional adventure may request an optional excursion such as Rainbow Mountain, subject to availability and suitability.

Accommodation: Hotel in Cusco

Meals: Breakfast

DAY 5 — CUSCO → PAUCARTAMBO → CLOUD FOREST

From the Andes to the Edge of the Amazon

Today the landscape changes dramatically.

Leave Cusco and travel through the Andes toward Paucartambo and the cloud forest.

Along the route, visit Ninamarca, known for its pre-Inca funerary structures, before continuing toward Paucartambo.

As the road descends, the environment changes from high-altitude Andean landscapes to humid cloud forest.

This transition is one of the most spectacular parts of the journey.

Wildlife in the Cloud Forest

Keep your eyes open for:

• colorful birds;
• orchids;
• butterflies;
• monkeys;
• and, with luck, the Andean cock-of-the-rock.

Wildlife sightings depend on natural conditions and cannot be guaranteed.

Highlights

• Ninamarca
• Paucartambo
• Cloud forest
• Wildlife observation
• Cock-of-the-rock search
• Scenic Andean-to-Amazon transition

Accommodation: Bamboo Lodge or confirmed equivalent

Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner

DAY 6 — ATALAYA → ALTO MADRE DE DIOS RIVER → JUNGLE LODGE

Enter the Amazon

After breakfast, continue toward Atalaya, where your journey changes from road to river.

Board a motorized boat and travel along the Alto Madre de Dios River.

The rainforest becomes increasingly dominant as you move deeper into the Amazon environment.

Machuwasi Lagoon

Depending on the confirmed itinerary and local conditions, explore Machuwasi Lagoon and surrounding forest trails.

Your guide will help identify birds, monkeys, insects, amphibians and plant species.

Learn From the Forest

This is not simply wildlife watching.

Your naturalist guide can explain:

• rainforest ecosystems;
• medicinal plants;
• animal behavior;
• local uses of plants;
• relationships between rivers, forests and wildlife.

Highlights

• Atalaya
• Alto Madre de Dios River
• Motorized boat
• Machuwasi Lagoon
• Rainforest walk
• Wildlife observation

Accommodation: Pantiacolla Lodge or confirmed equivalent

Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner

DAY 7 — AMAZON WILDLIFE & PARROT CLAY LICK

A Day in the Rainforest

Today is dedicated to experiencing the Amazon environment.

One of the highlights is an early visit to a parrot clay lick, where parrots may gather to consume mineral-rich clay.

The spectacle depends on weather, season and wildlife behavior.

Continue Exploring

Walk through rainforest trails with your naturalist guide and look for:

• parrots;
• macaws;
• monkeys;
• caimans;
• tropical birds;
• butterflies;
• amphibians;
• insects.

Depending on the lodge and conditions, additional activities may include:

• night walks;
• caiman observation;
• fishing;
• swimming;
• jungle walks.

Important

Wildlife is wild. No responsible operator can guarantee that you will see a particular animal.

The objective is to experience the ecosystem responsibly while maximizing opportunities for observation.

Accommodation: Pantiacolla Lodge or confirmed equivalent

Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner

DAY 8 — AMAZON → CLOUD FOREST → CUSCO

From the Jungle Back to the Andes

After breakfast, begin your return journey.

Travel by boat toward Atalaya and continue by road through the cloud forest and Andean highlands.

This route offers a final opportunity to appreciate the extraordinary ecological transition between the Amazon Basin and the Andes.

Highlights

• Alto Madre de Dios River
• Cloud forest
• Mountain landscapes
• Wildlife observation
• Return to Cusco

Accommodation: Hotel in Cusco

Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner

DAY 9 — DEPARTURE FROM CUSCO

Until Your Next Peru Adventure

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before your scheduled transfer to Cusco Airport.

Your journey has taken you from:

Cusco → Sacred Valley → Machu Picchu → Cloud Forest → Amazon → Cusco

You leave Peru with two very different but equally extraordinary experiences:

the legacy of the Inca civilization and the biodiversity of the Amazon.

Meals: Breakfast

Airport transfer: Included

WHAT’S INCLUDED?

Transportation

• Private airport transfers in Cusco.
• Tourist transportation during the itinerary.
• Sacred Valley transportation.
• Scenic train to/from Machu Picchu according to the confirmed itinerary.
• Shuttle bus to Machu Picchu.
• Transportation between Cusco and Manu.
• Motorized boat transportation during the Amazon portion.

Machu Picchu

• Official Machu Picchu entrance ticket.
• Guided Machu Picchu visit.
• Bus transportation according to the confirmed itinerary.

Manu

• Entrance/permit fees included in the confirmed itinerary.
• Jungle excursions.
• Naturalist/local guide services.
• River transportation.
• Rainforest walks.
• Wildlife observation activities.

Accommodation

• 4 nights in Cusco.
• 1 night in Aguas Calientes.
• 3 nights in Amazon jungle lodges.

Accommodation: 3-star category hotels + jungle lodges.

Meals

According to the current itinerary:

• Breakfasts;
• selected lunches;
• dinners during the rainforest portion.

Please verify the final meal schedule before publishing.

Professional Guides

• English-speaking guide.
• Spanish-speaking guide.
• Naturalist guide during the Amazon portion.

WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED?

Unless specifically stated in your quotation:

• International flights.
• Domestic flights Lima–Cusco–Lima.
• Travel insurance.
• Personal expenses.
• Tips.
• Meals not specifically listed.
• Alcoholic beverages.
• Optional excursions.
• Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain permits.
• Additional hotel nights.
• Personal equipment.

Travel insurance is strongly recommended.

For a multi-region trip involving high-altitude destinations, road travel, rainforest excursions and river transportation, comprehensive travel insurance is a sensible precaution.

OPTIONAL MACHU PICCHU MOUNTAIN EXPERIENCES

Want More Adventure?

Depending on ticket availability, you may request an additional mountain experience.

Huayna Picchu

A steep mountain route providing spectacular views toward Machu Picchu and the surrounding mountains.

Machu Picchu Mountain

A longer panoramic climb with views over the archaeological sanctuary and surrounding Andes.

Important

Additional entrance permits are limited and must be reserved in advance.

The availability, route and entry conditions depend on the official ticket system for your travel date.

ACCOMMODATION

Comfort in the Andes. Immersion in the Amazon.

Cusco

San Agustin International Hotel or confirmed equivalent

A convenient base for exploring Cusco before and after the Amazon portion.

Aguas Calientes

Comfortable hotel accommodation near the gateway to Machu Picchu.

Amazon

Pantiacolla Lodge or confirmed equivalent

A rainforest setting designed to allow travelers to experience the Amazon environment while maintaining essential comfort.

Single Room

Single accommodation can be requested for an additional supplement.

Confirm the current supplement before publication.

HOW DIFFICULT IS THIS TOUR?

Easy to Moderate

This is not a dedicated trekking expedition.

However, travelers should be comfortable with:

• walking around archaeological sites;
• short rainforest hikes;
• uneven terrain;
• early departures;
• long road journeys;
• boat transportation;
• changing temperatures;
• spending time at Cusco’s altitude.

No previous trekking experience is required.

However, travelers should be in reasonable general health and consider the effects of altitude in Cusco.

THE ANDES–AMAZON TRANSITION

One of the Most Remarkable Parts of the Journey

Few Peru itineraries allow you to experience such dramatic ecological changes in such a short period.

At the beginning of your trip, you’ll be surrounded by:

high mountains → dry valleys → Inca terraces

Then the landscape changes:

cloud forest → waterfalls → orchids → tropical vegetation

And finally:

Amazon rainforest → rivers → lagoons → wildlife

SERNANP identifies Manu as a protected area extending from Andean environments through cloud forests into the Amazon lowlands, which is precisely what makes this route so compelling for travelers interested in biodiversity.

WILDLIFE YOU MAY ENCOUNTER

Manu is famous for extraordinary biodiversity.

Depending on the sector visited, season and natural conditions, travelers may have opportunities to observe:

Birds

• parrots;
• macaws;
• toucans;
• hummingbirds;
• tanagers;
• Andean cock-of-the-rock.

Mammals

• monkeys;
• capybara in suitable habitats;
• deer;
• giant river otters in appropriate sectors;
• other rainforest mammals.

Reptiles

• caimans;
• turtles;
• lizards.

Other wildlife

• butterflies;
• frogs;
• insects;
• orchids;
• medicinal plants.

SERNANP specifically highlights Manu’s extraordinary bird, mammal, amphibian, reptile, fish, tree and orchid diversity.

Important: Wildlife sightings are never guaranteed. We do not promise jaguar, giant otter, macaw or any other specific animal sighting.

This wording is better for trust than promising wildlife encounters.

BEST TIME FOR A MACHU PICCHU & MANU TOUR

Manu experiences different conditions from Machu Picchu and Cusco.

SERNANP currently lists April–November as the recommended general visiting season for Manu, with a rainy season from December to March.

Dry-season advantages

• generally more favorable conditions;
• better road and trail conditions;
• good wildlife observation opportunities;
• more comfortable rainforest travel.

Wet-season considerations

• heavier rainfall;
• muddy trails;
• more variable road conditions;
• river levels can change;
• weather can affect activities.

Our recommendation

If your priority is combining Machu Picchu + Manu wildlife, discuss your travel dates with our team before booking.

RESPONSIBLE TRAVEL IN MANU

Travel With Respect for the Rainforest

Manu is not a conventional tourist attraction.

It is a protected ecosystem of extraordinary ecological and cultural importance.

SERNANP recommends visitors:

• stay on marked trails;
• follow park-ranger instructions;
• avoid single-use plastics;
• respect wildlife;
• never feed or handle animals;
• avoid restricted areas;
• carry waste properly;
• support local economies;
• use authorized tourism operators where required.

Our responsibility

During the journey, we encourage travelers to:

Observe — Don’t disturb.

Photograph — Don’t manipulate.

Learn — Don’t exploit.

Travel — Leave no unnecessary trace.

TRAVEL WITH A LOCAL PERU TEAM

Why Book Your Andes & Amazon Journey With Us?

Machu Picchu and Manu require very different logistics.

That’s why local coordination matters.

Our team helps organize:

• Machu Picchu tickets;
• train reservations;
• hotels;
• private transfers;
• Sacred Valley logistics;
• Amazon transportation;
• jungle lodge arrangements;
• guides;
• permits and entrance fees included in the itinerary.

Machu Picchu Trips is part of SUNRISE PERU TREK Travel & Tours, a Cusco-based Peruvian travel operation specializing in Machu Picchu, trekking and Peru travel experiences.

Our approach is simple:

Clear information.

Local knowledge.

Personal assistance.

Carefully coordinated logistics.

BOOKING INFORMATION

How to Reserve Your Tour

Step 1 — Send us your dates

Tell us your preferred arrival and departure dates.

Step 2 — Confirm availability

We verify the availability of the required Machu Picchu tickets, accommodation, transportation and Amazon services.

Step 3 — Confirm your reservation

According to the current booking policy, a deposit is required to secure the reservation.

Current website policy: US$250 per person.

Confirm the amount before publishing.

Step 4 — Prepare for Peru

We send you the final itinerary, packing recommendations and important travel information.

Step 5 — Meet our team in Cusco

Your local team welcomes you and coordinates the beginning of your adventure.

IMPORTANT BOOKING NOTES

Machu Picchu Availability

Machu Picchu has controlled visitor capacity and designated circuits/routes. The exact entrance route depends on the ticket available for your travel date.

Manu Access

Certain areas and routes within Manu are regulated, and SERNANP provides an official list of authorized tourism operators for specific sectors.

Therefore:

Do not advertise guaranteed wildlife sightings or guaranteed specific Machu Picchu circuits unless the ticket has actually been confirmed.

WHAT TO PACK

Andes + Amazon Packing Essentials

Because this itinerary crosses very different climates, pack for both cool mountain conditions and warm, humid rainforest conditions.

Documents

• Passport
• Travel insurance
• Copies of important documents
• Emergency contact information

Andes

• Warm jacket
• Fleece
• Long pants
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Rain jacket
• Hat
• Sunglasses

Amazon

• Lightweight long-sleeve shirts
• Lightweight long pants
• Insect repellent
• Sun protection
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Small daypack

Wildlife

• Binoculars
• Camera
• Extra batteries/power bank
• Flashlight/headlamp

Personal

• Medication
• Toiletries
• Reusable water bottle
• Personal snacks

Machu Picchu Manu Rainforest Tour Prices

Price Per Person

All prices are per person and based on double or triple room occupancy.

Accommodation Upgrades

The standard package includes carefully selected 3-star hotels and comfortable jungle lodges.

Optional Upgrades

If you prefer higher-category accommodations, boutique hotels, or luxury lodges, we can customize your itinerary according to your travel style and budget.

Simply contact our travel specialists for a personalized quotation.

Single Room Supplement

Travelers requesting a private room can add:

• US$25 per night
• Total supplement for 5 hotel nights: US$125

Reservation is recommended.

Student & Child Discounts

We offer special savings for younger travelers.

Discount Available

• US$35 discount per person
• Valid for students and children under 18 years old.
• Passport or valid student identification required.

This makes the Machu Picchu Manu Rainforest Tour even more accessible for families and young adventurers.

Train Options to Machu Picchu

Your train journey through the Sacred Valley is one of the highlights of the trip. While all trains follow the same spectacular route, each category offers a different level of comfort and viewing experience.

Expedition Train – Best Value

The Expedition Train is perfect for travelers seeking comfort and affordability. Featuring comfortable seating and large windows, it provides an enjoyable journey through the stunning Andean landscapes.

Vistadome Train – Enhanced Scenic Experience

The Vistadome Train features panoramic windows that extend along the sides and roof of the carriage, allowing you to fully appreciate the breathtaking scenery on the way to Machu Picchu.

Vistadome Observatory Train – Premium Experience

For travelers seeking the ultimate rail experience, the Vistadome Observatory Train offers:

• Extra-large panoramic windows.
• Open-air observation carriage.
• Live cultural entertainment.
• Complimentary onboard services.
• Outstanding photography opportunities.

The journey becomes an unforgettable part of the adventure itself.

Why Our Prices Offer Outstanding Value

When comparing Peru tour packages, it is important to consider what is included. Many tours charge additional fees for transportation, entrance tickets, guides, and jungle excursions.

With our Machu Picchu Manu Rainforest Tour, most essential services are already included, allowing you to enjoy a seamless experience while benefiting from one of the most competitive prices on the market.

You are not simply booking a tour—you are securing a complete Andes and Amazon adventure led by experienced local professionals.

Reserve Your Space Today

The Machu Picchu Manu Rainforest Tour is one of our most popular multi-day Peru experiences, especially during the dry season from April to October.

Machu Picchu permits, train tickets, and lodge availability are limited. We strongly recommend booking in advance to secure your preferred travel dates and train category.

Experience the magic of Cusco, the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, and Manu National Park on one unforgettable journey at an exceptional price.

Travel Information – Machu Picchu Manu Rainforest Tour

The Machu Picchu Manu Rainforest Tour is an extraordinary journey through two of Peru’s most iconic regions: the majestic Andes and the pristine Amazon rainforest. This adventure combines ancient Inca history, breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and authentic cultural experiences, creating an unforgettable travel experience for nature lovers, history enthusiasts, families, couples, and adventure seekers alike.

Where Does the Tour Take Place?

From the Andes to the Amazon

Your adventure begins in Cusco, the historic capital of the Inca Empire and the gateway to some of Peru’s most spectacular destinations.

During the tour, you will explore:

• Cusco and its rich colonial and Inca heritage.
• The Sacred Valley of the Incas.
• The world-famous citadel of Machu Picchu.
• The cloud forests of Manu.
• Manu National Park is one of the most biodiverse places on Earth.

This unique combination makes the Machu Picchu Manu Rainforest Tour one of Peru’s most complete travel experiences.

Getting to Cusco

Your Gateway to Adventure

Most travelers arrive in Cusco via a domestic flight from Lima, Peru’s international hub.

Airport: Alejandro Velasco Astete Airport (CUZ)

Upon arrival, our team will greet you and provide a comfortable transfer to your hotel, ensuring a smooth start to your journey.

Best Time to Travel

When to Visit Machu Picchu and Manu

The Machu Picchu Manu Rainforest Tour operates year-round, but weather conditions vary depending on the season.

Dry Season (April to October)

• Clear mountain views.
• Excellent conditions for sightseeing.
• Ideal for visiting Machu Picchu.
• Great wildlife observation opportunities.

Green Season (November to March)

• Lush landscapes and vibrant vegetation.
• Fewer visitors at many attractions.
• Excellent photography opportunities.

Both seasons offer unique experiences and unforgettable scenery.

Climate & Weather

Expect Diverse Conditions

Because this tour travels through multiple ecosystems, the weather can change significantly throughout the journey.

Andes Region

• Cool mornings and evenings.
• Sunny days with strong UV exposure.
• Temperatures typically range from 5°C to 22°C (41°F to 72°F).

Amazon Rainforest

• Warm and humid climate.
• Temperatures between 22°C and 32°C (72°F to 90°F).
• Occasional tropical showers throughout the year.

Layered clothing is highly recommended.

Wildlife & Biodiversity

Explore One of the World’s Richest Ecosystems

A major highlight of the Machu Picchu Manu Rainforest Tour is the opportunity to experience Peru’s incredible biodiversity.

In Manu National Park, you may encounter:

• Colorful parrots and macaws.
• Monkeys and giant river otters.
• Caimans and countless bird species.
• Exotic butterflies and orchids.
• The elusive spectacled bear and other rare wildlife.

Every day in the rainforest offers exciting opportunities for wildlife observation and photography.

Culture & Responsible Travel

Travel with Respect

Throughout your journey, you’ll encounter traditional Andean communities and local cultures that have preserved their customs for generations.

We encourage all travelers to:

• Respect local traditions.
• Support local artisans and businesses.
• Follow the guide instructions.
• Protect natural environments.
• Leave no trace while exploring.

Responsible tourism helps preserve these extraordinary destinations for future generations.

Health & Safety Tips

Travel with Confidence

Your safety and comfort are our priorities throughout the Machu Picchu Manu Rainforest Tour.

Altitude Awareness

Cusco is located at 3,400 meters (11,155 ft) above sea level. To help acclimatize:

• Drink plenty of water.
• Rest upon arrival.
• Avoid excessive alcohol consumption.
• Eat light meals during your first day.

Rainforest Protection

While exploring Manu National Park:

• Use insect repellent regularly.
• Wear lightweight long-sleeve clothing.
• Follow your guide’s instructions during wildlife excursions.

Travel Insurance

We strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance that includes:

• Medical assistance.
• Emergency evacuation.
• Trip interruption coverage.
• Adventure travel activities.