Food at Manu Lodges: Types of Food and Vegetarian/Vegan Options
Are you worried about what you’ll eat in the middle of the Amazon rainforest? It’s a perfectly valid concern. Many travelers imagine limited menus or little variety.
🌎 How Does Food Work in Manu?
In Manu National Park, lodges are located in remote areas.
Most offer:
- Full board (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
- Local Peruvian cuisine
- Fresh ingredients transported from Cusco or nearby towns
They aren’t urban gourmet restaurants, but the quality is often a pleasant surprise.
🍛 What Kind of Food Do They Serve?
🥣 Breakfast
- Fresh fruit
- Bread, butter, and jam
- Eggs (scrambled, omelet)
- Coffee, tea, or hot chocolate
🍲 Lunch and Dinner
- Generally a 2-3 course menu:
Portions are generous, designed for long hikes and excursions.
🌱 Are There Vegetarian and Vegan Options?
✔ Vegetarian
Very common if you let us know in advance.
Examples:
- Noodles with vegetables
- Rice with vegetables
- Vegetable omelet
- Meatless soups
✔ Vegan
Available at many lodges with prior notice.
Important:
- Inform us when booking.
- Specify if you avoid dairy, eggs, or other specific products.
📊 Budget Lodge vs. Superior Lodge
| Feature | Standard Lodge | Superior Lodge |
|---|---|---|
| Type of Food | Homemade Peruvian cuisine | Homemade + greater variety |
| Vegetarian Options | Yes | Yes |
| Vegan Options | With prior notice | With prior notice + more flexibility |
| Desserts | Basic | More elaborate |
🌦️ Logistical and Climatic Factors
In the jungle:
- High humidity
- Limited transportation
- Food availability depends on prior supplies
There is no altitude sickness in Manu, but the tour starts in Cusco, where slight acclimatization may occur.
🎒 Pro-Tips for Foreigners
Inform us of any restrictions in advance
- Allergies, celiac disease, and strict veganism must be reported beforehand.
Bring personal snacks
- Energy bars or nuts.
Do not drink tap water
- Drink only filtered or bottled water.
Be flexible
- Variety depends on Amazonian logistics.
Eat a light dinner before bed
- The humidity can make you feel heavier at night.
It’s not urban luxury, but it exceeds expectations for a remote environment.
