Set out on a remarkable 5-day expedition from the historic city of Cusco to the stunning Manu Reserve and the captivating Pusharo Petroglyphs. This immersive journey offers a unique opportunity to explore Peru’s diverse ecosystems, encounter indigenous communities, and discover ancient rock carvings. Navigating the Madre de Dios River, you’ll learn about the lush rainforest while enjoying comfortable lodging and delectable meals. With a focus on safety and small group sizes, this adventure promises an unforgettable experience that delves into the heart of Peru’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. What secrets await you in this hidden corner of the Andes?
Key Points

- 5-day adventure exploring Manu Reserve and Pusharo Petroglyphs, starting from Cusco, with a price tag of $1,130 per person.
- Itinerary includes observing cloud forest flora and fauna, navigating Madre de Dios River, and hiking to the ancient Pusharo Petroglyphs.
- Tour offers culture through interactions with Matsigenka families and visits to Salvation Village and Machu Wasi lagoon.
- Guided by professional bilingual guides, with transportation, meals, and travel insurance included in the package.
- Tour not recommended for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or those with respiratory issues; strict prohibition of alcohol and drugs.
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Contents
- Key Points
- Tour Overview and Pricing
- Itinerary Highlights
- Included Services
- Participant Requirements
- Important Information
- River Navigation and Ethnic Interaction
- Pusharo Petroglyphs Hike
- Salvation Village and Bird Observation
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
- Is There Wi-Fi Available During the Tour?
- Can I Extend the Duration of the Tour?
- How Experienced Are the Tour Guides in the Manu Reserve?
- Are There Any Age Restrictions for Children on the Tour?
- Recap
- Our Top Picks in Cusco
- More 5-Day Experiences in Cusco
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Tour Overview and Pricing

The tour offers an exciting 5-day adventure in the Manu Reserve and Pusharo Petroglyphs region, priced from $1,130.00 per person.
Travelers can enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour and reserve their spot without paying today.
Accommodations are in lodges and camping tents, and the small group size is limited to 10 participants.
The tour features a live English and Spanish-speaking guide, and includes transportation, entrance fees, meals, and travel insurance.
Flexible booking options and pre-tour communication via WhatsApp ensure a smooth experience for guests.
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Itinerary Highlights

On the first day, guests travel from Cusco to the Cloud Forest, where they observe the diverse flora and fauna, including the vibrant Cock of the Rock bird.
The second day involves navigating the Madre de Dios River, visiting a parks checkpoint, learning about local ethnic groups, and interacting with Matsigenka families.
On the third day, guests hike to the Pusharo Petroglyphs, see representations of the Inca sun god, and enjoy a box lunch.
The fourth day features a visit to Salvation Village, optional swimming, and bird observation at the Machu Wasi lagoon.
Included Services

The tour package includes a professional bilingual guide, who accompanies participants throughout the journey.
Transportation is provided by bus and boat, allowing for seamless exploration of the Madre de Dios River and the surrounding regions.
Observation of the captivating Cock of the Rocks is also included, as well as entrance tickets to the Pusharo Petroglyphs and the Palotoa Teparo community.
Lodging is in comfortable lodges and camping tents, ensuring a well-rounded experience.
Plus, the package covers mineral water, food, a first aid kit, drinks, and travel insurance, ensuring a worry-free adventure.
Participant Requirements
Not all travelers may be suited for this excursion. Participants should be aware of certain requirements and restrictions.
For instance, the tour isn’t recommended for pregnant women, wheelchair users, individuals with respiratory issues, visually impaired people, those over 95 years, and people with insect allergies.
Plus, the following items are recommended to bring:
- Sunglasses and a sun hat
- Camera and charged smartphone
- Biodegradable insect repellent
Lastly, the use of alcohol and drugs is strictly prohibited during the tour.
These guidelines ensure the safety and enjoyment of all participants.
More Great Tours NearbyImportant Information
Ensuring correct contact information, including the country code, and having WhatsApp available are crucial for this tour.
Last-minute bookings require checking availability via email. Guests should expect a WhatsApp message one or two days before the tour to confirm the pickup time. This ensures seamless communication and coordination throughout the experience.
Participants are encouraged to save the tour operator’s contact information and keep their phones charged to stay connected.
Effective communication is vital for a successful and enjoyable journey through the Manu Reserve and Pusharo Petroglyphs.
River Navigation and Ethnic Interaction

On the second day, you will set out to navigate the Madre de Dios River, where they’ll make a stop at the park’s checkpoint. Here, they’ll learn about the local ethnic groups and have the opportunity to interact with Matsigenka families.
The experience promises to be both educational and immersive:
- Gain insights into the traditions and way of life of the indigenous communities.
- Engage in meaningful conversations and exchange cultural knowledge.
- Observe the daily activities and rituals of the Matsigenka people.
This intimate encounter with the local culture will undoubtedly enrich the overall Manu Reserve experience.
Pusharo Petroglyphs Hike

The Pusharo Petroglyphs hike offers participants a chance to explore the captivating Pusharo Petroglyphs. Participants will trek through the lush jungle to reach the site, where they’ll discover ancient rock carvings depicting representations of the Inca sun god. During the hike, a box lunch will be provided, allowing trekkers to refuel and take in the stunning natural surroundings. This excursion provides a unique opportunity to explore the rich cultural heritage of the region and gain a deeper understanding of the indigenous peoples who once inhabited these lands.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Duration | Approximately 4 hours |
| Difficulty | Moderate, with some challenging terrain |
| Highlights | Pusharo Petroglyphs, Inca sun god representations |
Salvation Village and Bird Observation

After exploring the Pusharo Petroglyphs, you will visit Salvation Village, where they can optionally take a refreshing swim.
The village offers an opportunity to observe the local birds at the Machu Wasi lagoon. Participants can expect to see:
- Vibrant hues of various bird species flitting among the lush vegetation
- The tranquil Machu Wasi lagoon reflecting the surrounding forest
- Friendly interactions with the Matsigenka people, learning about their way of life
Following this immersive experience, the tour will make an early return to San Pedro for a final observation of the captivating Cock of the Rock before heading back to Cusco.
Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
Participants can bring their own food and drinks, but the tour includes mineral water, meals, and beverages. Bringing additional snacks or packed lunches is allowed, as long as they are not alcoholic or illicit substances.
Is There Wi-Fi Available During the Tour?
The tour does not provide Wi-Fi access during the excursion. Participants should expect limited connectivity in the remote areas of the tour. Guests are advised to plan accordingly and use their devices sparingly to avoid disappointment.
Can I Extend the Duration of the Tour?
The tour duration can be extended, but this would require additional arrangements and fees. Customers should inquire with the tour operator about extending the tour length and any associated costs or logistics changes.
How Experienced Are the Tour Guides in the Manu Reserve?
The tour guides have extensive experience leading groups through the Manu Reserve. They’re highly knowledgeable about the region’s flora, fauna, and indigenous cultures, and provide engaging, informative commentary throughout the tour.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for Children on the Tour?
There are no specific age restrictions for children on the tour. However, the tour may not be suitable for young children as it involves activities that may be challenging for them. Parents should use their discretion when booking the tour with children.
From Cusco: Manu Reserve and Pusharo Petroglyphs | 5D4N
Recap
This 5-day adventure from Cusco to Manu Reserve and the Pusharo Petroglyphs offers a remarkable journey through Peru’s diverse ecosystems. Travelers will navigate the Madre de Dios River, engage with Matsigenka families, and hike to discover ancient rock carvings. With comfortable lodging and provided meals, this immersive experience showcases the region’s natural beauty and rich heritage, creating lasting memories for a small group of participants.
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