Manu Amazon trips and tours

WHO WE ARE: The owners/operators of Adventure Specialists Peruvian adventure program represent a highly skilled staff of professionals. U.S.based Adventure Specialists and Peru’s Manu Expeditions teamed up in the early 1980s to offer a tantalizing variety of exciting and unusual backcountry excursions. Gary Ziegler, founder of Adventure Specialists, has a far flung history which includes a Ph.D in archaeology, archaeological expeditions into remote Peru and Mexico, work for National Geographic, museums and universities. Gary has been organizing and leading expeditions and groups in Peru since 1964. His accomplishments include the first ascent of seven high ice peaks and the discovery of new archaeological sites. He led the first group to bicycle to Machu Picchu in 1982. In June, 2000, he co-directed and led an expedition documentary film production in Peru for the Discovery Channel. Recently, Gary led a mapping/excavation team for a National Geographic expedition and was co-leader of the team that discovered the Inca site of Cota Coca

MANU EXPEDITIONS BIRD WATCHING TRIPS
Manu Expeditions is the leading company in Peru and Bolivia specialized in catering for serious bird watchers. Co-owner Barry Walker is the author of "A Field Guide to the Birds of Machu Picchu.. We run bird-watching trips throughout the coast, highlands and rain forests of Peru and Bolivia. Our leaders for these trips are experienced neo-tropical birders and have many years experience in these countries and know where to find the more sought after and difficult to find species. If you would like us to send you a sample of bird-watching trips we have, and do, run successfully, please let us know and we will forward the relevant information. We always have a few trips a year for specialized birders that individual person may join.

ABOUT TRIPS TO MANU BIOSPHERE RESERVE

Our fixed departures leave on Sundays (6 and 9 days) and Fridays (4 days) should you require a private or customized trip for your group, we can of course organize a trip to fit your requirements. For example, you may want spend 5 days in Manu and fly both ways. On the first fixed departure of each month days three and four will be spent at the Machiguenga Lodge instead of our camp at Cocha Salvador. The lodge is across the river from our camp and gives the opportunity to experience an aspect of Manu otherwise neglected. See details above.

ABOUT OUR SAFARI CAMP AT COCHA SALVADOR

Manu Expeditions, with permission of the Manu park authorities, manages a Safari camp deep in Manu. It’s not camping in the real sense. There are flush toilets and showers, large spacious screened dining and kitchen facilities where our camp chefs prepare all meals. Tents are walk in hermetically sealed safari-style tents with mosquito nets erected on raised and roofed wooden platforms, completely bug proof, with cots, bedside tables and mosquito nets. This is indeed a great tented camp experience as far into Manu as is permitted by the authorities.

THE COMPLETE MANU BIOSPHERE RESERVE EXPERIENCE
9 DAYS (6 nights lodge +2 nights safari camp)

THIS TRIP IS THE COMPLETE MANU EXPERIENCE IN THE SENSE THAT WE VISIT ALL POINTS OF INTEREST FROM THE MANU MACAW LICK TO THE OX-BOW LAKES OF THE RESERVED ZONE OF THE MANU BIOSPHERE RESERVE. A GREAT COMBINATION OF LODGES AND COMFORTABLE CAMPS.

DAY ONE:
Leaving Cusco after breakfast we travel through traditional Quechua communities and through the spectacular eastern ranges of the Andes to the village of Paucartambo, passing snow-peaks and small Andean farmsteads. We will have time here to look around this picturesque village and visit local craftsmen famous for their production of masks used in local festivals. We then ascend to the last pass overlooking the Amazon Basin and begin the breath taking descent from 3500 meters to 1600 meters above sea-level to our comfortable lodge in the orchid laden Cloud Forest. This is a spectacular journey passing cascading waterfalls and multicolored birds along the way. In the late afternoon, we'll walk into the lodge to the sounds of Quetzals, Trogons and Gray-breasted Wood-Wrens. Night at Cock-of-the-Rock Lodge. L:D:

DAY TWO :
Pre- breakfast walk to a nearby spot in the Cloud Forest where the strange and beautiful Cocks-of-the-Rock display at dawn. This is a wonderful sight as up to 25 bright red-orange males dance and sing attempting to attract the favors of the duller, burgundy colored females. After visiting this lek we return to the Lodge for a leisurely breakfast and continue in our all terrain bus to the Madre de Dios River and our motorized dugouts and we begin our journey down the river, past the last folds of the Andes, to it's confluence with the Manu River. We’ll pass settlements and native communities during the trip. Just before we get to the village of Boca Manu we pass the native community of Diamante. Their culture is Piro and this is the largest settlement in the area. There is a small handcraft shop here, which offers hand painted fabrics, necklaces of seeds native to the region and a small selection of weavings and ceramics. A stop here must be pre-arranged through your guide. Passing the village of Boca Manu we arrive at to-nights destination -a small, locally built and managed lodge. The lodge is across the river from the tiny airstrip of Boca Manu. The two species of Tamarin monkeys are here -the Saddleback and Emperor. The latter with their long, white moustaches are a rare and precious sight. There is a trail system we can explore if time permits. B:L:D

DAY THREE :
Well fed and rested we leave Boca Manu, leaving the relatively clean waters of the Madre de Dios behind, we enter the clay laden waters of the Manu River. With a brief stop at the park ranger station at Limonal to present our permits we travel for about five hours up the Manu. Beaches, especially in the dry season, are loaded with nesting birds and feeding Herons, Egrets, Orinoco Geese, Terns and Skimmers to name but a few. Some beaches will host sunning White and Black Caimans (South American relatives of the Alligators) and breeding Side-necked Turtles. Hundreds of Sand-colored Nightjars roost during the day on logs and beaches and there is a chance of encountering a sunning Jaguar - the worlds third largest cat. In 2001 one in three of our trips saw Jaguar in Manu. We will see some species of primate on this river trip, possibly Red Howler Monkeys or the smaller Squirrel Monkeys. After having lunched by the river we arrive at our Safari Camp (or Casa Machiguenga) near the lake of Cocha Salvador. We'll have the afternoon to explore some of the trails through the pristine rainforest in the area. A visit to the lake of Cocha Otorongo is planned, where observation piers and a 20 meter observation tower in the rainforest canopy overlooking the lake are available for observing wildlife. We will also be on the lookout for a large family of Giant Otters that inhabit this lake. Before or after dinner an optional excursion into the forest at night is available with your guide in search of nocturnal creatures. The lakes are full of eye-shine of the large Black Caiman and if we are lucky we may encounter an Olingo Kinkajou or even an Ocelot on the trails. Certainly the night time noise of tree frogs and insects in the forest is an experience not to be forgotten. Night at Cocha Salvador Safari Camp. The camp is really not a camp. There are flush toilet and shower facilities and large walk-in tents on raised roofed wooden platforms with cots for sleeping. B:L:D

Note: The first fixed departure of each month will stay at the Casa Machiguenga Lodge.

DAY FOUR :
After breakfast we'll spend the morning at the lake of Cocha Salvador. Some of the time will be spent canoeing the lake on a floating platform observing ox-bow lake animal life from the water. We may encounter an Agami Heron or a Sungrebe and Brown Cappuchin Monkeys are usually feeding on fruits nearby. Specially constructed piers that jut out into the lake enable us to look for a family of Giant Otters that live here. These, the world’s largest fresh water carnivores, remain common only in Manu, having been hunted to extinction throughout most of their former range. Each animal consumes between 4 and 5 kilos of fish daily and often they can be seen eating large fish on logs at the lakeside. The rest of the day will be spent walking the trails in the area in search of some of the 13 species of Monkey found in the forest here. Your guide will explain some of the basics of rain forest ecosystems and point out some of the medicinal plants of the area used by local, indigenous groups. We may cross paths with a group of Peccaries - a species of wild boar found here. A late afternoon swim in the river near the camp as the sun sets . Night at Cocha Salvador Safari Camp. B:L:D.

Note:The first fixed departure of each month will stay at the Machiguenga Lodge.

DAY FIVE :
Today we'll walk from camp for 4-5 hours through the forest to Cocha Otorongo. We may encounter troops of Monkeys. This is a particularly good trail for Woolly and Black Spider Monkeys. We'll pay special attention to the plant life on this walk and take it slowly listening for the rustle of vegetation or the soft sound of fruits falling to the rainforest floor that may betray the presence of animals or large birds. We'll be met at the river by our cook with a picnic lunch and then board our motorized dugout for the 4 hour trip down river to Boca Manu for the night. The river trip may hold surprises and we'll be attentive for any wildlife on the beaches. Night at the lodge at Boca Manu. B:L:D

DAY SIX :
Leaving the lodge we'll head down the Madre de Dios River for two hours to the comfortable lodge facility near the Macaw Clay Lick - Manu Wildlife Center. This strategically located lodge facility is jointly owned and run by Manu Expeditions and a local conservation group and is a base for scientific research in the area and a center for visitors wanting to explore the rainforest. We should arrive in time for lunch and a shower (hot water) and get to meet whichever researchers are onsite. The afternoon is set aside to relax or, if you want, to explore a trail through the untouched forest to a lookout point on a cliff over the river to watch roosting flights of Parrots and Macaws as the sun sets. Manu Wildlife Center has a canopy platform and an observation tower. The canopy platform is accessible via a staircase so everyone can get to enjoy the rainforest canopy. Those who wish can participate in a night walk with your guide in search of nocturnal animals. Night at Manu Wildlife Center. B:L;D

IMPORTANT NOTE: IF YOU ARE TAKING THE 9 DAY TRIP, AND CONTINUING ON TO MANU WILDLIFE CENTER, A DELAY MAY OCCUR AT THE BOCA MANU AIRSTRIP EN ROUTE AS SOME OF YOUR TRAVELLING COMPANIONS MAY BE TAKING THE 6 DAY OPTION AND FLYING TO CUSCO.

DAY SEVEN:
Early start to-day for the Macaw Clay Lick. This is truly one of the world’s great wildlife spectacles as hundreds of Parrots and their larger relatives, the Macaws, congregate at this traditional locality to eat the mineral rich clay that is essential to their digestion. We'll use a floating blind to get close to the birds. The noise alone is incredible and the sight of these brightly colored birds at the lick is a sight not to be forgotten. As the lick slows down in mid morning we'll head for Cocha Blanco, an old ox-bow lake, in search of a family of Giant Otters that live there, and canoe around the lake on our floating platform looking for other wildlife. After a leisurely lunch at the lodge we'll explore other trails in search of
Emperor and Saddleback Tamarins, and we have seen the rare Goeldi's Monkey repeatedly in this area. Night at the Manu Wildlife Center B:L:D

DAY EIGHT:
A full day to explore the forest and trails around the lodge. We'll be on the lookout for Monk Saki - an uncommon and rarely seen monkey of the tierra firme forest that is occasionally seen here. We'll explore trails where groups of Manakins, perhaps the most enigmatic of neo-tropical birds, perform their strange mating dances and walk to one of our blinds at a large mammal lick where Guans and forest Parakeets and Parrot lets come for clay. Here too, groups of Black Spider Monkeys visit on occasions for clay to help their digestion. Those who wish will return with the guide to the lodge in the late afternoon however there is an opportunity to stay at the lick after dark until midnight to see what nocturnal creatures come to the lick. Tapirs, the largest South American land mammal are frequent visitors with up to 12 animals visiting in one night. We watch them from the comfort of mosquito nets and mattresses from our specially constructed blind. Other nocturnal creatures are always possible. Night at the Manu Wildlife Center. B:L:D

DAY NINE:
After breakfast we head upriver (about 2 hours) to the small airstrip at Boca Manu. Early morning flocks of birds pass over the boat, and we may see a Capybara, the world’s largest rodent. Arriving at the airstrip we board our aircraft for the 35 minute flight over seemingly endless rainforest and then over the Andes, passing glaciers and snow peaks to the ancient Inca capital of Cusco where our staff will be waiting to take you to your hotel. B:

THIS IS A FIXED DEPARTURE TRIP AND LEAVES EVERY SUNDAY THROUGHOUT THE YEAR EXCEPT FOR THE MONTHS OF JANUARY, FEBRUARY AND MARCH WHEN ONLY THE FIRST SUNDAY OF EACH MONTH IS A SCHEDULED DEPARTURE

MANU BIOSPHERE RESERVE ADVENTURE
6 DAYS (3 nights lodge + 2 nights safari camp)

DAY ONE:
Leaving Cusco after breakfast we travel through traditional Quechua communities and through the spectacular eastern ranges of the Andes to the village of Paucartambo, passing snow-peaks and small Andean farmsteads. We will have time here to look around this picturesque village and visit local craftsmen famous for their production of masks used in local festivals. We then ascend to the last pass overlooking the Amazon Basin and begin the breath taking descent from 3500 meters to 1600 meters above sea-level to our comfortable lodge in the orchid laden Cloud Forest. This is a spectacular journey passing cascading waterfalls and multicolored birds along the way. In the late afternoon, we'll walk into the lodge to the sounds of Quetzals, Trogons and Gray-breasted Wood-wrens. Night at Cock-of-the-Rock Lodge. L:D:
DAY TWO :
Pre- breakfast walk to a nearby spot in the Cloud Forest where the strange and beautiful Cocks-of-the-Rock display at dawn. This is a wonderful sight as up to 25 bright red-orange males dance and sing attempting to attract the favors of the duller, burgundy colored females. After visiting this lek we return to the Lodge for a leisurely breakfast and continue in our all terrain bus to the Madre de Dios River and our motorized dugouts and we begin our journey down the river, past the last folds of the Andes, to it's confluence with the Manu River. We’ll pass settlements and native communities during the trip. Just before we get to the village of Boca Manu we pass the native community of Diamante. Their culture is Piro and this is the largest settlement in the area. There is a small handcraft shop here, which offers hand painted fabrics, necklaces of seeds native to the region and a small selection of weavings and ceramics. A stop here must be pre-arranged through your guide. Passing the village of Boca Manu we arrive at to-nights destination -a small, locally built and managed lodge. The lodge is across the river from the tiny airstrip of Boca Manu. The two species of Tamarin monkeys are here -the Saddleback and Emperor. The latter with their long, white moustaches are a rare and precious sight. There is a trail system we can explore if time permits. B:L:D

DAY THREE :
Well fed and rested we leave Boca Manu, leaving the relatively clean waters of the Madre de Dios behind, we enter the clay laden waters of the Manu River. With a brief stop at the park ranger station at Limonal to present our permits we travel for about five hours up the Manu. Beaches, especially in the dry season, are loaded with nesting birds and feeding Herons, Egrets, Orinoco Geese, Terns and Skimmers to name but a few. Some beaches will
host sunning White and Black Caimans (South American relatives of the Alligators) and breeding Side-necked Turtles. Hundreds of Sand-colored Nightjars roost during the day on logs and beaches and there is a chance of encountering a sunning Jaguar - the worlds third largest cat. In 1999 one in three of our trips saw Jaguar in Manu. We will see some species of primate on this river trip, possibly Red Howler Monkeys or the smaller Squirrel Monkeys. After having lunched by the river we arrive at our Safari Camp near the lake of Cocha Salvador. We'll have the afternoon to explore some of the trails through the pristine rainforest in the area. A visit to the lake of Cocha Otorongo is planned, where observation piers and a 20 meter observation tower in the rainforest canopy overlooking the lake are available for observing wildlife. We will also be on the lookout for a large family of Giant Otters that inhabit this lake. Before or after dinner an optional excursion into the forest at night is available with your guide in search of nocturnal creatures. The lakes are full of eye-shine of the large Black Caiman and if we are lucky we may encounter an Olingo Kinkajou or even an Ocelot on the trails. Certainly the night-time noise of tree frogs and insects in the forest is an experience not to be forgotten. Night at Cocha Salvador Safari Camp. The camp is really not a camp. There are flush toilet and shower facilities and large walk-in tents on raised roofed wooden platforms with cots for sleeping B:L:D

Note:The first fixed departure of each month will stay at the Casa Machiguenga Lodge.

DAY FOUR :
After breakfast we'll spend the morning at the lake of Cocha Salvador. Some of the time will be spent canoeing the lake on a floating platform observing ox-bow lake animal life from the water. We may encounter an Agami Heron or a Sungrebe and Brown Cappuchin Monkeys are usually feeding on fruits nearby. Specially constructed piers that jut out into the lake enable us to look for a family of Giant Otters that live here. These, the worlds largest freshwater carnivores, remain common only in Manu, having been hunted to extinction throughout most of their former range. Each animal consumes between 4 and 5 kilos of fish daily and often they can be seen eating large fish on logs at the lakeside. The rest of the day will be spent walking the trails in the area in search of some of the 13 species of Monkey found in the forest here. Your guide will explain some of the basics of rainforest ecosystems and point out some of the medicinal plants of the area used by local, indigenous groups. We may cross paths with a group of Peccaries - a species of wild boar found here. A late afternoon swim in the river near the camp as the sun sets. Night at Cocha Salvador Safari Camp. B:L:D.

Note:The first fixed departure of each month will stay at the Machiguenga Lodge.

DAY FIVE :
Today we'll walk from camp for 4-5 hours through the forest to Cocha Otorongo. We may encounter troops of Monkeys. This is a particularly good trail for Woolly and Spider Monkeys. We'll pay special attention to the plant life on this walk and take it slowly listening for the rustle of vegetation or the soft sound of fruits falling to the rainforest floor that may betray the presence of animals or large birds. We'll be met at the river by our cook with a picnic lunch and then board our motorized dugout for the 4 hour trip down river to Boca Manu for the night. The river trip may hold surprises and we'll be attentive for any wildlife on the beaches. Night in the lodge at Boca Manu.. B:L:D

DAY SIX : This morning we have time to explore the small trail system at the lodge before heading across the river to the tiny airstrip of Boca Manu. On arrival at the strip we board our aircraft for the 35 minute flight to Cusco. First we fly over seemingly endless rainforest and then past snow peaks and glaciers to Cusco, where our staff will be waiting to take you to your hotel. B:
THIS IS A FIXED DEPARTURE TRIP AND LEAVES EVERY SUNDAY THROUGHOUT THE YEAR EXCEPT FOR THE MONTHS OF JANUARY, FEBRUARY AND MARCH, WHEN ONLY THE FIRST SUNDAY OF EACH MONTH IS A SCHEDULED DEPARTURE.

The first fixed departure of each month, day three and four will be spent at the Machiguenga Lodge instead of our camp at Cocha Salvador. The lodge is across the river from our camp and gives the opportunity to experience an aspect of Manu otherwise neglected. See details above.
Rated Easy: 4 DAYS (3 nights lodge)

THIS PROGRAM IS DESIGNED FOR VISITORS TO THE MANU AREA WITH LIMITED TIME AVAILABLE AND WHO WANT TO MAXIMISE THEIR RAINFOREST EXPERIENCE IN PERU. THIS AREA OF FOREST AND LAKES HAS A HIGHER DIVERSITY OF LIFE THAN THE MANU RIVER ITSELF.

This trip has two major wildlife attractions – the Macaw lick and the worlds only know Tapir lick where in the comfort of mattresses and mosquito nets you may watch the largest of all South American Land Mammals visit mineral lick

DAY ONE :
We pick you up at your hotel in Cusco and drive to the airport for the 35 minute flight to a small airstrip cut into the rainforest at Boca Manu. On arrival at the airport you will be met by your rainforest guide. Our motorized dugout will take you on the two hour (approx) trip down the Madre de Dios River to the Manu Wildlife Center, a strategically located lodge owned by Manu Expeditions and a local conservation group. On the river journey we will see our first Amazonian wildlife and riverside birds such as Skimmers, Terns, Herons, Egrets and Orinoco Geese. We should arrive at the lodge for lunch and meet some of the visiting biologists working here. In the afternoon we explore a trail that leads out to a lookout point high above the river to watch roosting flights of Parrots as the sun sets, and we may encounter a troop of monkeys in the forest. Those who wish can do a night walk with the guide in search of nocturnal inhabitants of the forest. Night Manu Wildlife Center. L:D

DAY TWO:
Early start to-day for the Macaw Clay Lick. This is truly one of the world’s great wildlife spectacles as hundreds of Parrots and their larger relatives, the Macaws, congregate at this traditional locality to eat the mineral rich clay that is essential to their digestion. We'll use a floating blind to get close to the birds. The noise alone is incredible and the sight of these brightly colored birds at the lick is a sight not to be forgotten. As the lick slows down in midmorning we'll head for Cocha Blanco, an old, ox-bow lake, in search of a family of Giant Otters that live there, and canoe around the lake on our floating platform looking for other wildlife. After a leisurely lunch at the lodge we'll explore other trails in search of Emperor and Saddleback Tamarins, and we have seen the rare Goeldi's Monkey repeatedly in this area. Night at the Manu Wildlife Center B:L:D

DAY THREE:
Full day to explore the forest and trails around the lodge. We'll be on the lookout for Monk Saki - an uncommon and rarely seen monkey of the tierra firme forest that is occasionally seen here. We'll explore trails where groups of Manakins , perhaps the most enigmatic of neo-tropical birds, perform their strange mating dances and walk to one of our blinds at a large mammal lick where Guans and forest Parakeets and Parrotlets come for clay. Here too, groups of Black Spider Monkeys visit on occasions for clay to help their digestion. Those who wish will return with the guide to the lodge in the late afternoon, however there is an opportunity to stay at the lick after dark until midnight to see what nocturnal creatures come to the lick. Tapirs, the largest South American land mammal are frequent visitors with up to 12 animals visiting in one night Other nocturnal creatures are always possible. Night at the Manu Wildlife Center. B:L:D

DAY FOUR:
After breakfast we head upriver (about 2 hours) to the small airstrip at Boca Manu. Early morning flocks of birds pass over the boat, and we may see a Capybara, the world’s largest rodent. Arriving at the airstrip, we board our aircraft for the 35 minute flight over seemingly endless rainforest and then over the Andes, passing glaciers and snow peaks to the ancient Inca capital of Cusco where our staff will be waiting to take you to your hotel. B:

THIS IS A FIXED DEPARTURE TRIP AND LEAVES EVERY FRIDAY EVERY MONTH OF THE YEAR.

ABOUT OUR NATURAL HISTORY GUIDES

TINO AUCCA
Tino holds a biology degree from San Antonio Abad University in Cusco. He speaks English and Quechua as well as Spanish. Tino is much sought after as a field worker for international biological expeditions and spends his time between research and leading trips into Manu. Tino works on and is director of conservation projects concerning endangered remnant high Andean woodlands and has assisted many major expeditions such as the Smithsonian Institute and National Geographic Expeditions and has worked on several environmental impact studies. Tino is also the Peruvian representative of the Neo-tropical Bird Club and is known for his knowledge of Quechua customs, medicinal plants and high Andean bird communities. One of the most experienced Manu guides he has also studied Giant Otters in Manu extensively.

JESSICA BERTRAM
Jessica was born and raised in Bremen, Germany, and has been a resident in Peru since 1994. She is married to a Peruvian and speaks Spanish, English, German and Quechua fluently. She has been working as a guide in Manu and along trails in the Vilcamaba mountains since 1995 and has a profound knowledge of the rainforests and mountains of Peru. Jessica is particularly interested in the indigenous peoples of Manu, and has many friends amongst the Machiguenga and Piro native communities and often visits them. Jessica has worked on documentary film shoots concerning indigenous groups and is often found helping and promoting responsible development of local peoples when not leading rainforest trips.

ARTURO PALOMINO
Arturo holds a biology degree from San Antonio Abad University in Cusco and he is 28 years old. Arturo has worked on eco-tourism and conservation projects and studied in the Tambopata/Candamo National Park in Peru, specifically as an ornithologist. He has worked as a park ranger in the Machu Picchu Historical Sanctuary and on environmental issues within. Arturo, when not leading our rainforest tours, is a research fellow at the Cusco University, a member of the Neo-tropical Bird Club and enjoys being out in the field, participating in research projects, and showing visitors to Peru the natural wonders and wildlife Peru has to offer

FACTS CONCERNING MANU WILDLIFE CENTER.

INTRODUCTION ; The Manu Wildlife Center is a 44 bed lodge located on the Madre de Dios river only 90 minutes by motorized dugout canoe from the Boca Manu airstrip at the confluence of the Manu and Alto Madre de Dios rivers. It is owned by Manu Expeditions (Expediciones Manu), and the Selva Sur Conservation Group, a non-profit, non-government organization involved in rainforest conservation projects.

LOCATION: Manu Wildlife Center is a privately owned rainforest reserve which forms part of the Manu Biosphere Reserve. It is located in the Cultural Reserved Zone, set aside for indigenous Amazonian p

ACCESS: Eight and eighteen seater Beechcraft, Cessna or Twin Otter planes fly from the Cusco international airport to Boca Manu. The flight takes about 40 minutes. From here comfortable motorized dugouts are used for the 2 hour trip to the Manu Wildlife Center. Alternatively, a longer and more adventurous journey can be made by road and river from Cusco. In this trip you visit other important areas of Manu on your way to Manu Wildlife Center. See our 9 day program.

FACILITIES:Manu Wildlife Center consists of 22 double bungalows built in the style of, and using the same materials as the local Machiguenga indigenous communities. Local wood, bamboo and palm fronds for roofing are used. All materials used have been sustainably harvested or brought in from distant areas. For example, the wood used in the construction is collected from the river as, each rainy season, hundreds of trees are washed into the river as it cuts its ever-changing course. On an average every three or four years the river actually enters the lodge towards the end of the wet season (around March) therefore all the bungalows are raised and connected to each other and the rest of the lodge facilities by gravel walkways. Each room has good quality foam mattresses and all beds have cotton sheets and quilts (best for hot tropical conditions). Although all the rooms are screened with imported insect netting, beds are furnished with individual mosquito nets. Furniture includes bedside tables and writing tables. The bungalows are arranged around a pleasant and well planned Amazonian garden with plants and shrubs that attract birds, butterflies and mammals. All bungalows are private and separated from each other for privacy and all have large windows facing the forest and garden. All the 22 bungalows boast private toilet and shower facilities. Hot and cold water is always available and all toilet facilities are flush. The dining area is separate from the other facilities but close to all bungalows and the nearby kitchen area. Food is good and wholesome not gourmet, and we use a variety of fresh vegetables, fruits, grains and meats in our menu. Our cooks are used to providing for vegetarian diets. There is a separate bar and lounge area which is located a short distance from the dining area. A variety of cold non-alcoholic and alcoholic beverages are always available here .

RESEARCH AND LOCAL COMMUNITIES
Manu Wildlife Center frequently has onsite researchers and scientists - we are proud to sponsor their research. As a lodge we actively promote and give a helping hand to students and post-graduates who do various kinds of scientific research in the area. These scientists are always happy to share their knowledge and expertise with visiting guests. The lodge relies heavily on workers from the local Machiguenga and Piro communities and provides jobs and training that help better the standard of living in the local villages without prejudicing their ideal-or idealistic life-style. We offer them choice and opportunity that, prior to tourism, did not exist.

WILDLIFE AND RAIN FOREST
The lodge is strategically located in an area of forest that counts on the highest diversity of micro-habitats in the Manu area. This means that there are more species of animals, birds, reptiles and insects than elsewhere in Manu. Tierra-firme, transitional floodplain, varzea and bamboo forest is found close to the lodge plus succesional willow and cane stands on beaches and river islands, resulting in the highest bio-diversity in the Manu area . An astounding 550 species of birds have been recorded around the lodge.. The Blanquillo Macaw and Parrot lick is only 25 minutes away by river and we use floating blinds to get you close to this amazing wildlife spectacle, where up to 200 Macaws and many hundreds of their smaller relatives come to eat clay essential to their digestion. There are 4 ox-bow lakes in the area and we have floating platforms so that access to the lakes ensures that all lakeside fauna can be readily observed. There are 3 families of the endangered Giant Otters on these lakes and small streams. About an hours walk through the forest is a large mammal lick where Tapirs, the largest South American land mammal, regularly come for minerals. At night Brocket Deer and other animals share this necessary ingredient to the digestive system. There is a large, raised blind here equipped with mattresses and mosquito nets for those who want to spend the night in comfort observing these nocturnal creatures. During the day several species of small forest Parakeets and Parrotlets as well as Guans, Curassows and Black Spider Monkeys regularly visit the lick. Canopy access is easy at Manu Wildlife Center, we have a canopy tower strategically placed at a flowering canopy tree that attracts Monkeys, Hummingbirds, Toucans, Parrots and a host of other creatures. Access to this tower is by a harness and rope

The Machiguenga Project
Our conservation interests lie not only in the flora and fauna of this natural sanctuary. When its secrets were recognized in 1973 and Manu was declared a National Park, there was already an active and established culture of indigenous Machiguenga people who go back for centuries as an integral ingredient of the region and often took a backseat as tourism developed in Manu, despite being the ‘true owners’ of the forest. In 1996 a project was initiated by the native communities of Yombebato and Tayakome, in conjunction with a non-government organization from Germany, to establish a rustic lodge based on Machiguenga construction techniques and lifestyles in the Cocha Salvador area, deep in Manu. Accommodations are simple rooms with beds and mosquito nets, rustic furniture and communal dining areas. More than adequate toilet and shower facilities are on hand. The object of this project is to give the visitor the opportunity to learn about and understand not only the natural wonders of Manu but also the cultural history and traditions of its inhabitants. In 1999 the lodge, Casa Machiguenga, received its first guests but there is still much to be done before the full potential is realized and the aims and dreams of these quiet, gentle people to become included in, and benefit from, the attraction that Manu offers, are achieved. This, after all, is their home. For this reason, Manu Expeditions, in agreement with the Machiguenga communities, will use the Casa Machiguenga in the first fixed departure of each month. As a alternative to staying at our safari camp at Cocha Salvador we will be using the Machiguenga Lodge. This agreement means the visitor will benefit in experiencing an aspect of the magic of Manu they otherwise would not have been exposed to. At the same time they will be assisting in an essential aspect in the long term preservation of Manu and helping native Amerindian communities, enter the ever shrinking world without losing their cultural values. Manu Expeditions guides will be co-leading with Machiguenga’s on future trips so that we can learn from these indigenous peoples and benefit from their encyclopedic knowledge of medicinal plants and other wonders. In return, the Machiguengas will get to learn something about us, our culture and learn the language skills necessary if they are to take visitors into their forest. There are also two static canopy platform in large canopy emergents that are accessed by a metal, spiral stairway that anyone can use at any time. It is the only accessible canopy platform of it's kind in Peru. Studies have been made for the possibility of constructing a canopy walkway.

CLIMATE AND CONDITIONS

The Amazon basin rain forest is hot and humid all year around with little variation from midsummer (December) and midwinter (June) due to Peru being only 12 degrees south of the Equator. Daytime temperatures regularly reach into the mid-thirties celsius. In midwinter (June to mid-September) however, cold wind movements from the Patagonian plains move far enough north to affect the southern edge of the Amazon. These infrequent weather movements, known locally as "friajes", last from one to three days and temperatures at night can drop as low as 10C. We recommend you pack a sweater or light jacket "just in case". Manu is a rainforest, even if it is a dry rainforest as rainforests go, and as such rain may be encountered at any time of year, however during the "dry season" from May to October there is a lot less than in the "wet season" from late November to April. A trip to Manu is feasible any month of the year. In the Andes and Cusco area, and especially on the horse-supported treks, temperatures can drop below zero at some of our high altitude camps and on occasions we have encountered snow. Mornings are generally warm and sunny, with temperatures in the mid 20'sC and some cloud in the afternoons. Precipitation patterns in the mountains are the same as for Manu. Anyone who is in good general health can participate on a Manu or Andes trip. Biting insects are present in Manu, but less bothersome than mosquitoes in North America or midges in Scotland. Our overland vehicles are specially designed for the tough terrain and river transport is by roofed motorized dug-outs. Life jackets are provided and spare outboards are always taken as backup. In the mountains, all our gear is carried by mules, and saddle ponies are provided for everyone so you can ride or hike as you like. Manu is isolated (there are un-contacted Amerindian groups just a few hours away) as are the majority of our horse-supported treks, and we do our best to make your trip as comfortable and interesting as possible. As in any remote area, a positive attitude and willingness to accept the unexpected as part of the experience, is essential.

MEDICAL MATTERS

Health: Malaria prophylactics and yellow fever vaccination recommended. While none are mandatory for entering Peru, and no official is likely to demand to see proof of your vaccination against any disease, some protection is recommended. Consult your physician or local travelers' clinic for the latest recom-mendations. For general travel, vaccinations or boosters against tetanus, typhoid/diphtheria, Hepatitis A, and polio are commonly advised. The World Health Organization does not recommend vaccination against cholera

What is included on your trip to Peru?

Manu Fixed Departures
Bi-lingual biologist/naturalist guides.
Experienced cooks, camp and field staff.
All terrestrial and fluvial transport.
Light aircraft flights.
All food from breakfast on day 01 to breakfast on the final day.
Drinking water at all times
All lodge accommodations where relevant.
National Park entrance fees.
One visit to the Macaw lick (4 and 9 day trips).
Transfer to and from hotel in Cusco.

Not included :
Bottled drinks except water or where provided with meals.
Optional tips to staff
Items of a personal nature e.g. laundry.
Hotel in Cusco. (can be arranged if required)
Excess baggage charges

Not included :
Lima –Cusco- Lima flights (can be arranged on request)
Hotels or airport transfers in Lima (can be arranged on request)
Sleeping bag. (Can be hired in Cusco by pre-arrangement)
Airport tax (at present $4 USD internal and $25 USD international)
Bottled drinks except water or where provided with meals.
Optional tips to staff
Items of a personal nature e.g. laundry.
Excess baggage charges

RECOMMENDED PACKING LIST FOR TRIPS TO THE MANU BIOSPHERE RESERVE
IMPORTANT NOTE: YOU WILL BE ASKED BY YOUR GUIDE TO USE DRAB CLOTHING IN THE FOREST SO AS NOT TO SCARE THE WILDLIFE

DUFFEL BAG OR FRAMELESS BACK-PACK IS BEST.
DAY PACK
2-4 PAIRS OF LOOSE FITTING LIGHTWEIGHT LONG COTTON TROUSERS.
SHORTS FOR LODGE AREAS
SWIM WEAR. *** (OPTIONAL)
LONG SLEEVED COTTON SHIRTS.
2 PAIRS OF BOOTS OR RUNNING SHOES.
RUBBERBOOTS (WELLINGTON BOOTS) Trails can be muddy. (Boots can be bought in Cusco for $10 USD on arrival if packing space is a problem)
SWEATSHIRT OR LIGHTWEIGHT JACKET.
RAIN PONCHO AND MINI-UMBRELLA
HAT FOR SUN PROTECTION ON BOATS
PERSONAL TOILETERIES
BIODEGRADABLE SOAP ***
INSECT REPELLENT WITH HIGH DEET CONTENT
HIGH FACTOR SUNSCREEN
LIP BALM
PERSONAL MEDICATION. AFTERBITE.
SUNGLASSSES
A GOOD FLASHLIGHT (TORCH) AND SPARE BATTERIES AND BULB.
POCKET KNIFE
CAMERA. 400ASA FILM FOR PHOTOGRAPHY IN THE FOREST (OPTIONAL
BINOCULARS FOR WILDLIFE VIEWING 8 OR 10 x MAGNIFICATION
ZIPLOC BAGS AND GARBAGE BAGS FOR CLOTHES ETC.
WATER BOTTLE
VALID PASSPORT OR PHOTOCOPY
MALARIA PILLS AND YELLOW FEVER VACCINATIONS REC.

IF YOU NOTE : WE PROVIDE BEDDING FOR THE SAFARI CAMPS AND CASA MACHIGUENGA BUT YOU MAY BRING YOUR OWN PREFER. NOTE: DRAB CLOTHING IS BEST FOR THE RAINFOREST WALKS FOR WILDLIFE VIEWING

ABOUT OUR CAMPSITES
For those of you who may be put off by the idea of camping, let us explain how it works. On treks the tents we use are sold as 4 person tents and we use them for two people only. Singles are available on request. There will be a large dining tent in the mountains with folding tables and chairs. In the rainforest, safari camp tents are walk-in with cots. Cold picnic lunches and full three course dinners with alcoholic beverages and a constant supply of snacks are provided. There will be a crew of cooks
and camp helpers. The main aim of this is that you spend as little time "camping" and as much time as possible enjoying the rainforest, mountains and wildlife.

ABOUT OUR GUIDES
All our tours to the rainforest of the Manu Biosphere Reserve are led by experienced guides who are either Peruvian or other nationalities with many years experience in Perú. All guides have a background in ecology or field biology and are familiar with the ecosystem and the flora and fauna that exist here. Our guides speak English and Spanish. Translators can be provided for other nationalities on request. For larger private groups, two guides accompany groups to maximize our animal finding capability. Fixed Departures are limited to 10 participants so that you see more wildlife and receive personal attention from the guide. In the case of specialist bird-watching groups, a very experienced neo-tropical bird guide accompanies all groups. Our horse supported treks are accompanied by a team of wranglers and horse handlers and the guides are experienced in the backcountry, culture, archeology and history of Perú.

FLIGHTS TO/FROM BOCA MANU
The airline accepts no more than 15 kilos per person in total including carry on baggage, any extra weight the passenger has to pay $1.5 per extra kilo. If passengers expect to take more than 15 kilos on the plane, PLEASE ADVISE US WELL IN ADVANCE. We are not responsible if the flight is canceled due to weather conditions - this does happen sporadically during the rainy season (November to April) - that is why we suggest that you plan on an extra day in Cusco at the end of your Manu trip and not plan on any flight connection to Lima the same day that you leave Boca Manu.

ABOUT CANCELATIONS OF FLIGHTS FROM BOCA MANU.
If the flight to Cusco is cancelled due to weather conditions and you have to stay in Boca Manu:

A.-If you are on our 6 day trip, you must stay in the Boca Manu Lodge with our boat crew and fly the following day, as the guide has to continue with the rest of the group that is taking the 9 days trip to Manu Wildlife Center

B.-If you are on our 4 or 9 day trip, you must stay at the nearby Boca Manu Lodge with your guide and pay the lodge directly.

TRAVEL INSURANCE
We highly recommend purchasing travel insurance when you book. This can reimburse you if you need to cancel last minute due to sickness or other emergencies.
AIR: We recommend Earl Fox at Taylor Travel 800/530-8828; or for
international calls: 719/636-3871; fax: 719/636-3879; email: "Earl Fox"
<earlf.taylor@wspan.com> Total of all flights from your home if you live in
the US, approximately $1000 or less.

RESERVATIONS: Call or e-mail us to answer your questions, check availability and make a reservation. Carefully read the application/contract form for details about payment, cancellation, refunds and legal responsibilities.
Bear Basin Ranch (summer) 719 783-2076 FAX 719 783-2076.
Our winter office in Colorado Springs Dec-April 719 630-7195 (phone and FAX)
As we are primarily outdoors and leading trips, we do not maintain
a regularly staffed office. We do however, check the answering machine and

E- MAIL : info@adventurespecialist.org