Peru has 15 National Parks in different regions, with very different characteristics.
Manu National Park is a protected area in the Amazon rainforest located in southeastern Peru. It was created by law on May 29, 1973 and this past May 29, 2023 has just celebrated 50 years of creation, covers an area of over 1.7 million hectares (4.2 million acres) and is home to an incredible diversity of flora and fauna including many endangered species, the Giant Otter (Pteronura brasiliensis), the Jaguar (Pantera onca), the giant armadillo (Priodontes maximus), the Maquisapa Monkey (Ateles chamek), and many others.
The Manu National Park is located between two major regions of Peru: Cusco and Madre de Dios, starts at an altitude of 4,000 m.a.s.l. where grasslands predominate and its unique and exclusive biodiversity at that elevation, descending to the cloud forest at 2,000 meters above sea level. We find a very different ecosystem where we find a different variety of flora and fauna, where the Spectacled Bear, the Cock of the Rock, (Rupicula peruviana) the bird with many fans in Peru, officially not recognized as the national bird of Peru, the Crested Quetzal (Pharomachrus antisianus) and Golden-headed Quetzal, (Pharomachrus auriceps) and capuchin and gray monkeys.
And we continue with the descent to the Amazon plain of 200 meters above sea level where we will be surrounded by majestic trees over 40 meters high, and meandering rivers creating horseshoe lakes, where the famous fish such as piranhas and giant river otters, anacondas, tapirs, ronsocos and the famous jaguar predominate.
The park is one of the most biodiverse areas on the planet, with more than 20,000 species of plants, 1,025 species of birds and 221 species of mammals, including jaguars, giant otters and several species of monkeys, 1,307 species of butterflies, 15 species of monkeys, 27 species of parrots and macaws, 155 species of reptiles, 300 species of ants and 650 species of lizards.
Manu National Park is also home to several indigenous communities, including the Matsiguenka, Mashcopiros and Yine peoples, who have lived in the area for thousands of years and continue to maintain their traditional way of life.
What activities can we do in Manu National Park?
Our visitors to the Manu National Park can participate in various activities, such as guided walks inside the forest and understand the dynamics and functioning between all biotic beings, understand their interaction with each other and that one is indispensable to the other for their survival, and also identify the species of flora in general and their uses that have and had in many years for the benefit of its inhabitants, can also participate in night activities as wildlife activity changes within the forest, where we will have opportunities to see insects of innumerable variety, arachnids, amphibians, birds like owls, nocturnal mammals such as jaguars, opossums, nocturnal monkeys.
And one of the activities that is developing more and more is bird watching and bird watching as Peru is currently the second country with more fun birds in the world after Colombia, it is also possible to visit indigenous communities and learn about their culture and way of life.
Due to its remote location and its status as a protected area, access to Manu National Park is limited, and visitors must go with an Authorized Agency which will provide them with a certified and experienced guide to make their experience in Manu National Park memorable and unforgettable. It is important to choose a reputable tour operator that follows sustainable tourism practices and prioritizes the protection of the park’s delicate ecosystem.
Eco Peru Tours has highly experienced logistical staff with over 15 years of experience.
Overall, a visit to Manu National Park can be a unique and unforgettable experience for those interested in exploring the natural and cultural wonders of the Amazon rainforest.
Birdwatching: An Amazing Experience in Manu National Park
Manu National Park is recognized as one of the most biodiverse places on the planet. Here, more than 1,000 species of birds are waiting to be discovered in their natural habitat. From majestic eagles and colorful macaws to small, vibrant hummingbirds, every corner of this park will surprise you with fascinating encounters.
Exploring the Amazon rainforest of Manu National Park is an adventure full of excitement. As you walk along trails surrounded by lush vegetation, you will hear the melodic songs of the birds and marvel at their vibrant plumage. Specialized guides will accompany you on this experience, sharing their knowledge and helping you identify the most outstanding species.
The diversity of birds in Manu National Park is simply amazing. You will be able to observe emblematic species such as the harpy eagle, the scarlet macaw and the hoatzin, as well as a great variety of toucans, parrots, hummingbirds and aquatic birds. Each sighting will be a unique experience and will leave you breathless.
In addition to bird watching, Manu National Park also gives you the opportunity to see other forms of wildlife. You will be able to observe playful monkeys jumping through the trees, watch the elegance of river dolphins swimming in the rivers and, if you are lucky, even spot jaguars and tapirs in their natural environment.
If you want to live the unique experience of bird watching in Manu National Park you can book with us from our website or you can write to info@ecoperutours.com.