Manu National Park, simply speaking, is the epitome of natural wonders in Peru. The remote location of Manu has helped to conserve the most exotic landscapes, plants and animals of the Amazonian jungles.
So are you planning to visit Manu but don’t know what to expect? If you answered yes, this complete first-timer guide to the Manu National Park will help you know everything about it.
It is quite the journey you have to take just to reach Manu because of its remote location. To travel to Manu National Park from Cusco, take a bus to Atalaya, which takes more than ten hours, and then arrange for an eight-hour boat ride to Boca Manu.
To get to Manu entrance from Boca Manu, you must travel for an additional 8–7 hours. This journey could appear exhausting for someone visiting Peru for the first time. However, once the true wildlife adventure starts, it will be worth it!
Manu is home to many ecological zones ranging from tropical rainforests to wet grasslands at an elevation of 4000 meters above sea level. Therefore, it also provides a home to thousands of plant and animal species, some of which are only endemic to Peru.
According to reports, Manu is home to more than 15,000 plant species or 10% of all vascular plants in the world. For those who enjoy spending their free time roaming through lush vegetation and discovering the depths of dense jungles and lush canopies, this place will be a true paradise.
Manu is also a great place to go wildlife watching. According to reports, it is home to over 200 mammal and fish species, 140 amphibians, 100 reptile species, and 1000 bird species!
Black Caiman, Jaguars, Pumas, Giant River Otters, Tapirs, Giant Anteaters, and several types of monkeys like the Howler Monkey, Marmoset Monkeys, and Spider Monkeys are some of the most commonly observed animals in this area.
If you are planning to visit the Manu National Park you will be staying for at least 3 nights there. Many lodges are available for rent, and while they lack the most luxuries every basic necessity is cared for given its remote location. Some of the most popular lodges you can check out are Manu Wildlife Center and Manu Paradise Lodge.
A visit to the Manu National Park is not all about comfort. You should therefore be well-equipped for any situation, including having a lot of clothes and suitable shoes. Since you will be carrying your backpack most of the time when hiking in Manu, make sure to pack a lightweight one.
Wear loose, comfortable clothing, but it’s also a good idea to pack long pants and long-sleeved shirts. The greatest solution for blending in with nature will be to wear dark-coloured clothing. Along with these things, remember to include sunscreen, sunglasses, hats, raincoats, and ponchos.
Wear suitable hiking shoes, and bring extra pairs of socks. Other essentials are reusable water bottles, insect repellents, cameras, batteries, and flashlights.