Comparison of Manu vs Iquitos vs Puerto Maldonado as Jungle Destinations
Don’t know which Amazonian destination to choose in Peru? It’s normal: Manu, Iquitos, and Puerto Maldonado offer very different experiences. In this guide, you’ll discover real prices, key differences, advantages, disadvantages, and practical tips to make the best decision without wasting time searching elsewhere.
🌎 What is each destination and what kind of experience does it offer?
🐆 Manu National Park
Manu is one of the most biodiverse areas on the planet. It’s ideal for travelers seeking a more remote, profound, and authentic experience.
- Ideal profile: adventurers, nature photographers, travelers seeking total disconnection.
- Access: from Cusco (by land + boat).
- Difficulty level: moderate to challenging.
🌊 Iquitos
Iquitos is the largest city in the world inaccessible by road. It’s the gateway to the northern Amazon and offers everything from comfortable lodges to luxury cruises.
- Ideal profile: travelers seeking comfort and a variety of options.
- Access: direct flight from Lima.
- Level: Easy.
🦜 Puerto Maldonado
Located in the Tambopata region, it combines good biodiversity with easy access.
- Ideal for: Those visiting Cusco/Machu Picchu who want to add jungle to their itinerary without long journeys.
- Access: Flight or bus from Cusco/Lima.
- Level: Easy to moderate.
📊 Comparison Chart
| Destination | Average Price (3–4 days) | Difficulty | Ideal Duration | Best Season |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Manu | USD 450 – 900 | Moderate | 4–6 days | May – October |
| Iquitos | USD 350 – 1,200 | Easy | 3–5 days | June – November |
| Puerto Maldonado | USD 300 – 750 | Easy–Moderate | 3–4 days | May – October |
💰 What’s Included and What’s Not Included
🐆 Manu National Park
Includes:
- Transportation
- Naturalist guide
- Basic or intermediate accommodation
- Full meals
- Excursions
Doesn’t include:
- International/domestic flight
- Tips
- Alcoholic beverages
👉 Usually requires more days, which increases the total cost.
🌊 Iquitos National Park
Includes:
- All meals
- Guided excursions
- In some cases: kayaking, fishing, night hikes
Doesn’t include:
- Flight Lima–Iquitos
- City tours
- Premium activities (luxury cruises are separate)
👉 Wider price range: from budget to ultra-luxury.
🦜 Puerto Maldonado
Includes:
- Comfortable lodge
- Excursions to clay licks and canopy tours
- Bilingual guide
Does not include:
- Domestic flight
- Additional conservation fees (depending on the lodge)
👉 Excellent value for money.
🧭 How to Choose Based on Your Traveler Profile?
- Looking for extreme biodiversity and real adventure: Manu
- Prefer comfort and easy access: Iquitos
- Want something practical to combine with Cusco: Puerto Maldonado
🌦️ Requirements and Practical Considerations
- No mandatory vaccinations, but yellow fever vaccination is recommended.
- There is no altitude sickness (it’s in the Amazon region).
- Travel insurance is recommended.
- Valid passport (minimum 6 months).
🎒 Pro-Tips for Foreign Tourists
Climate
- The rainforest is humid year-round (25–32°C). Pack lightweight, long-sleeved clothing.
Mosquitoes
- Repellent with 30–50% DEET is essential.
Season
- Dry (May–October): Best for hiking.
- Rainy (November–April): Best for boating and greener landscapes.
Essential Equipment
- Waterproof boots
- Headlamp
- Power bank
- Waterproof bag
Connectivity
- In Manu, it’s almost nonexistent. In Iquitos and Puerto Maldonado, there’s limited Wi-Fi in lodges.
If you’re looking for the wildest and most biodiverse experience in Peru, choose Manu.
If you prioritize accessibility and comfortable options, Iquitos is ideal.
