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Let's explore the Manu
EcoDrone View - Expanding the reach of our kids
EcoDrone View - Expanding the reach of o
Welcome to Wayqecha
Welcome to Wayqecha
It's about planting the seed of knowledge
It's about planting the seed of knowledg
Learning about the Andean Bear
Learning about the Andean Bear+20 more
Home›Experiences›Manu Road›Family Discovery Quest 5D · 4N
Signature ExpeditionsManu Road5D · 4N

Family Discovery Quest 5D · 4N

A family adventure from the cloud forest to the Amazon rainforest.

4.9· 10 reviewsWayqecha Lodge · Manu Bio-Lodge
from USD 2,380
per person · all inclusive
5D · 4N
Duration
~4.5h
From Cusco
2,900 to 400 m.a.s.l.
Altitude
Cloud forest
Ecosystem
All-in
Inclusive
Max 8
Group size
About this experience

A family adventure through Manu

An immersive Andes-Amazon expedition designed to create shared family memories. Travelling from cloud forest to lowland rainforest, parents and children experience a real adventure in one of Earth’s most vital biological corridors. The Mission: Children become environmental journalists and young researchers, taking an active leadership role in a continuous narrative of exploration and family connection. This is not a trip to simply observe the rainforest, but to understand it, feel it, and tell its story together.

  • EcoDroneView® & ForestWhisper® – Spatial canopy understanding.
  • Wildlife & Views – Andean Cock-of-the-Rock lek observation and the iconic Tres Cruces sunrise.
  • Expert Guidance – Science-led habitat reading with specialised guides and local scientists.
  • Immersive Stays – Wayqecha Cloud Forest Lodge & Manu Bio Station.
Day by day

What you'll experience

1
Into the Cloud
Cusco → Andes Crossing → Wayqecha
Early morning
Departure from Cusco
Private pick-up from Cusco, starting the scenic journey and crossing the majestic Andes.
Morning
Conservation Focus
Visit the Andean Bear Interpretation Centre and introduce EcoDroneView® for landscape-scale understanding.
Midday
The Canopy
Experience the high canopy walkway and engage the family in the hands-on Cloud Catcher Experiment.
Afternoon
Arrival
Check-in and a fresh lunch at Wayqecha Cloud Forest Lodge, followed by time to settle into the misty ecosystem.
Evening
Science Talk
A quiet evening reflection and research conversation to frame the expedition's storytelling mission.
Night
Rest
Dinner and rest at Wayqecha Lodge.
Wayqecha Lodge2,900 m.a.s.l.
Into the Cloud
EcoDrone View
2
Deep in the Reserve
Wayqecha → Manu Bio Station
Early morning
Field Journaling
Early morning birding session focusing on soundscapes and logging first entries in the kids' journals.
Morning
Downhill Journey
Travel along the famous Manu Road, watching the dramatic ecological transition unfold.
Midday
Lowland Arrival
Check-in and lunch at Manu Bio Station, stepping into the warmth of the deep Amazon.
Afternoon
Exploration
Guided trail walks and a thrilling cable-car river crossing to experience the forest from a new perspective.
Evening
Interactive Food
A fun hands-on visit to the organic garden followed by a family pizza-making session.
Night
Night Walk
Discover nocturnal wildlife using ForestWhisper® technology for soundscape awareness.
Manu Bio-Lodge500 m.a.s.l.
Deep in the Reserve
Exploring
3
Wetlands and Wildlife Research
Manu Bio Station → Machuwasi Wetland
Early morning
Wetland Departure
Early breakfast before heading out to explore the vibrant Machuwasi Wetland ecosystem.
Morning
Young Researchers
Balsa raft navigation across the wetland; children use EcoDroneView® for a panoramic conservation perspective.
Midday
Recharge
Return to Manu Bio Station for a fresh lunch and a midday rest.
Afternoon
Active Exploration
Guided trail walks combined with a fun stand-up paddle session on the calm water, followed by a visit to the Paco Breeding Project.
Evening
Meet the Scientists
Visit the biological laboratory for hands-on interviews with active rainforest researchers.
Night
Rest
Dinner and a short nocturnal walk to track local amphibian activity.
Manu Bio-Lodge500 m.a.s.l.
Wetlands and Wildlife Research
Wetlands
4
River Navigation and Communities
Manu Bio Station → Shintuya Community
Early morning
River Departure
Boxed breakfast on the move as the family boards a boat on the Alto Madre de Dios River.
Morning
Clay Lick Observation
A quiet stop to witness vibrant activity at the Mascoitania Parrot Clay Lick.
Midday
Cultural Exchange
Continue the river journey to the Shintuya Community for a meaningful local connection.
Afternoon
Rainforest Trek
A soft trek through the jungle to the hidden Shintuya Waterfalls, accompanied by a picnic lunch in nature.
Evening
Journaling & Media
Return to the lodge for a collaborative evening reflection, organising photos and sharing media discoveries
Night
Rest
Dinner and rest at Manu Bio Station.
Manu Bio-Lodge500 m.a.s.l.
River Navigation and Communities
Family
5
Return to Cusco
Manu Bio Station → Wayqecha → Cusco
Early morning
Lodge Harvest
Kids start the day collecting fresh eggs at the lodge, followed by a final family reflection session.
Morning
Retracing the Gradient
Breakfast at Manu Bio Station before starting the overland road journey back up to Wayqecha.
Midday
Farewell Lunch
A final celebratory farewell lunch at Wayqecha Lodge to toast the expedition.
Afternoon
Editorial Wrap-Up
Recording the family's summary reel—putting the environmental journalism mission into action.
Evening
Arrival in Cusco
Closing the overland journey from Wayqecha back to Cusco, concluding the expedition.
Return to Cusco
Bye Manu
Where you'll stay

Your base in the forest

Enjoy your stay in two of our lodges

Wayqecha Lodge
Night 1
Wayqecha Lodge
2,900 m.a.s.l.
The only cloud forest research station in Peru. Located at the gateway to Manu National Park. Maximum 24 guests.
Manu RoadResearch stationConservation NGO
View full lodge page
Manu Bio-Lodge
Night 2, 3 & 4
Manu Bio-Lodge
500 m.a.s.l.
A lodge with over 50km of trails to explore the diversity of the Amazon.
Manu RoadResearch stationConservation NGO
View full lodge page
What's covered

Included & not included

What's included
  • Private transport from/to Cusco
  • Room or private cabins, as described in the program
  • All meals | We have options for dietary restrictions
  • Hydration: water + coffee + tea
  • Rubber boots | We will ask for your size once you book
  • Guide | Experts prepared to guide groups of up to 8 people
  • Activities | All lodge activities are included
  • Entrance fees to the Parks and sites mentioned in the itinerary
  • Immersive Experience Package
Not included
  • Travel insurance (recommended)
  • Special or technical clothing
  • Other additional or after-hours transportation
  • Liquor or other products from our store
  • Gratuities for the guide and driver
  • Additional costs for delays beyond our control
  • Domestic or international air tickets
  • Accommodation in Cusco
IMMERSIVE TECHNOLOGY

A commitment to preserving the beauty of pristine nature

Designed for eco-travellers seeking adventure with purpose, we combine immersive technology, sustainable lodging, and a direct impact on local communities.

EcoDroneView®
01
EcoDroneView®
A journey beyond the trails, soaring above the canopy and exploring remote landscapes inaccessible by foot.
Only at Ecotone
ForestWhisper®
02
ForestWhisper®
Immerse yourself in the rainforest's enchanting sounds through premium 360° microphones and high-fidelity headphones.
Only at Ecotone
EcoSpecies Explorer®
03
EcoSpecies Explorer®
This comprehensive platform reveals all kinds of incredible species found in our conservation destinations. Live on iOS.
Only at Ecotone
See it before you live it

The experience, unfiltered

Let's explore the Manu
Let's explore the ManuOfficial film
EcoDrone View - Expanding the reach of our kids
EcoDrone View - Expanding the reach of o
Welcome to Wayqecha
Welcome to Wayqecha
It's about planting the seed of knowledge
It's about planting the seed of knowledg
Learning about the Andean Bear
Learning about the Andean Bear
Making friends, sharing moments+20See all
When to visit

Every month has something extraordinary

The Manu is alive year-round. Wildlife shifts with the season, not better or worse, just different. Every month is visible below.

January
Reptiles & amphibians.
February
Wild orchids.
March
Migrant species arriving.
April ★
Andean cock-of-the-rock leks (display sites).
May ★
Clearer light, great for images.
June ★★
Top window for spotting the andean bear.
July ★★
Exceptional birding.
August ★★
Puma and other mammals.
September ★★
Shifting light and young animals on the move.
October ★
Frogs and active streams.
November
Butterflies in massive numbers.
December
Orchids and bromeliads.
SEASON KEY
Peak ★★ — Strongest wildlife & weather window
Great ★ — Excellent; often fewer guests
Always worthwhile — Rewarding year-around
Traveller guide

Before you go

Everything international visitors need to know.

Entry requirements for Peru
Passport
Valid for at least 6 months beyond your travel dates. Keep a physical and digital copy.
Visa!
Most nationalities receive a free tourist visa on arrival for up to 90 days. Check with your embassy for current requirements.
Vaccinations
Yellow fever recommended. Hepatitis A & B, Typhoid, and Rabies advisable for jungle areas. Consult a travel health clinic at least 4 weeks before departure.
Travel insurance
Strongly recommended. Ensure your policy covers jungle activities, altitude, and medical evacuation from remote areas.
Packing list
Passport
Battery-powered head torch (flashlights)
Rain poncho or waterproof jacket
Bathing suit and towel
Personal Medication
Binoculars
Warm clothing for the road trip and cold nights
Light shoes for the indoor area
Long pants of light fabric and light colour & Trekking socks
Sunglasses & Cap
Pocket money
Lots of energy & Hunger for learning and new adventures
Long-sleeved shirts or t-shirts, made of light fabric
Sunscreen & Insect repellent
Small backpack for a daily excursion
Getting to Cusco
Flights to Cusco
Fly into Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport (CUZ). Direct flights from Lima (LIM) with LATAM and Avianca, ~1.5 hours. Lima connects to major international hubs.
Acclimatisation - important
Cusco sits at 3,400 m.a.s.l. We strongly recommend arriving 1–2 days before your experience starts. Rest, drink coca tea, avoid alcohol. Your departure at 4:30 AM means resting the day before is especially important.
Our pickup
We pick you up at 4:30–5:00 AM from your hotel or the main plaza in Cusco. Share your hotel name after booking and we'll confirm the exact time.
Before you book

Terms

Key things to know. For the complete legal text, use the full PDF. These bullets do not replace your booking agreement.

Cancellations made within 30 days of the travel date for individual bookings (FITs) will incur full penalties and be considered a "No Show." For Groups & Series, cancellations made within 45 days prior to travel will incur full penalties. Last-minute reservations received within forty-five (45) days before the arrival date must be 100% paid within the deadline designated by our reservations agent at the time of confirmation. (t)
Travel in remote rainforest environments requires operational flexibility. Ecotone reserves the right to adjust routes, activities, lodge sequencing, river navigation schedules, or departure timings due to weather conditions, river levels, conservation regulations, safety considerations, operational requirements, or force major events. Date changes requested by the client are subject to availability and may incur administrative fees. Requests made within 60 days prior to departure may be treated under the applicable cancellation policy. Our team will always seek the best possible alternative to preserve the quality, safety, and integrity of the experience.
Payments are collected via our authorised booking partner under their checkout terms. You may be asked for a deposit with the balance due by a stated date. Deposits may be non-refundable depending on the booking conditions. Prices are per person in the published currency unless otherwise stated. If we must cancel a departure due to operational reasons or force majeure, you’ll be offered a refund or reschedule per the full policy. Credit card payments may be subject to banking surcharges. International transfer fees are the responsibility of the client or agency.
Inclusions and exclusions for this program are listed in the “Includes & not included” section above. International flights, personal insurance, and discretionary tips are generally not included unless stated. Selected technologies such as EcoDroneView®, ForestWhisper®, and EcoSpecies Explorer® are included only where the programme explicitly says so.
Travel in remote rainforest environments involves physical activity, changing weather conditions, and limited infrastructure. Guests are responsible for assessing their own fitness and health conditions before travel. Some destinations operate in remote wilderness areas with limited medical access and extended evacuation times.
Comprehensive travel insurance including medical coverage, emergency evacuation, and trip interruption is strongly recommended for all travellers to safeguard your journey against unforeseen events.
You must follow your guide’s instructions, stay on designated paths where required, and declare relevant health issues before departure. Remote travel has inherent risk. To the extent permitted by law, Ecotone limits liability as set out in the full terms. No guarantee of any specific wildlife sightings can be made; nature shapes the real experience.
During the experience, photos and videos may be captured for promotional purposes. Guests who wish to opt out may do so by notifying the team in advance.
Download full terms (PDF)
Resources

Download & plan

Terms & Conditions
Legal · Full text · PDF
Download PDF
COMMON questions

Frequently asked questions

Everything else you might want to know before booking.

We believe nature is for everyone. Whether you are a seasoned adventurer or new to ecotourism, our experiences are designed to be inclusive and enriching. You'll have the opportunity to connect deeply with nature, from the lush rainforests to the diverse wildlife that inhabits these areas. However, it's important to note that our trips take you off the beaten path.
The night before departure, we will hold an online briefing to provide detailed information about the upcoming trip. This is an excellent opportunity to review the itinerary, answer any questions, and ensure you are fully prepared for our incredible immersive experience.
Our pickup and drop-off point is Cusco's Plaza Mayor, or a centrally located hotel in Cusco. If requested at least 3 days in advance, we can also arrange pickup from accommodations within a 5-minute drive of the plaza.
Yes! We need to coordinate this ahead of time, via email or at the briefing. Please note that your hotel may also offer this service.
Cloud forest & rainforest weather is unpredictable, light rain is common and part of the experience. Rubber boots and rain gear are provided. Some activities might change based on the weather.
Altitude can be a consideration on some of our routes, as all journeys begin in Cusco (3,400 m.a.s.l.) and road transfers may pass through elevations above 4,000 meters. However, most of our lodges and rainforest destinations are located at much lower elevations. Wayqecha, at 2,900 m.a.s.l., is the highest lodge we operate; the rest are generally below 900 m.a.s.l. We usually recommend spending 1–2 days acclimatising in Cusco before departure. The mountain roads can also be winding, so guests sensitive to motion sickness may wish to bring medication for the drive.
There is satellite WiFi available. Phone signal is unavailable at the lodge and in some areas during the road trip. We'll provide emergency satellite communication if needed.
Yes. Private departures are available for groups of 2–8 on any date, subject to lodge availability. Contact us via WhatsApp or email for private booking requests. A custom itinerary is also available through our Tailor Made program.
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Ready to take this adventure?

from USD 2,380per person

All inclusive · departure from Cusco · max 8 guests

RouteManu Road
Duration5D · 4N
Group size2 – 8 people
PickupCusco City
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Secure payment
Free cancellation*
Support conservation

By booking, you agree to our Terms & Conditions.