Hello all,

We've begun planning our Peruvian adventure, and I was hoping someone who's been to the Manu Wildlife Center can answer this question.

We're planning on doing the 4 d / 3 n program at Center. I'm curious what time the plane arrives back at Cusco on the fourth day?

I'm trying to decide if it's realistic to plan to transfer to a flight to go elsewhere. Thanks!! Cheers, Carrie

It's been four years ago for me, but I remember the flight out being quite early in the morning. But really, it's only the center or the tour operator that arranged your trip who could tell you for sure. Don't base your decision on my experience.

Most flights in and out of Cusco are in the morning or very early afternoon because of winds and weather. If your flight from Manu gets back too late in the morning, there might not be much to choose from for connecting flights.

My husband and I were there last October. There were 3 groups returning up river to the air strip and flying back to Cusco that day. The first group left very early. Ours was supposed to the 3rd group, arriving back to Cusco around 1:00 or so, but our boat passed the 2nd one, which had broken down halfway up the river. So we ended up taking their plane, which arrived moments before we docked. Our guide talked the pilots into taking our group immediately, even though it was a different local airline from the one our tickets were for. So we arrived in Cusco about noon. Be warned though - you need to keep your plans loose. Because of heavy fog, we were lucky to make it out of Cusco to fly to the airstrip that serves Manu; our flight was delayed several hours and we were actually taken from the airport back to our hotels to wait. So despite being picked up at the hotel at 6:00 the morning we left for Manu, the flight didn't leave til about noon. During all this, we heard tales that these flights are often canceled for the day. Such is travel though, and Manu was terrific in many ways. Bottom line though - I wouldn't schedule anything else for that day.

BE SURE TO TAKE TWO SETS OF EXTRA BATTERIES FOR YOUR FLASHLIGHTS. You're really screwed if your batteries die - you'd be amazed how much you need your flashlight, as excursions begin early in the morning and you're trying to dress in the dark. They do give you candles, but you can't point a candle into your rucksack to find things. You'll find you're running your flashlight more than you expected to.

Another helpful hint - pack your clothes in plastic bags that close securely to keep them dry. In that humidity, everything you bring will be damp otherwise.

Also, they provide never-ending baskets of Chips Ahoy and crackers like Ritz. If these aren't your favs, bring something else you prefer. These snacks supplement the meals and are dessert for the tapir trek, and you'll find you actually do partake in them.

It's an amazing experience, especially if you're into unusual birds. Even if you're not now, you will find them fascinating. Happy travels - Claire

DoctorCarrie - How funny - was just now reading your post about Cambodia and recognized your name. Unfortunately, the Peru forum doesn't attract the huge numbers of posters (and their fun bantering) like Asia does (rhkkmk and gpanda). At any rate, thanks for your Thai/Cambodia trip report. Let me know if I can help with anything else on Peru. Claire

My favorite Fodor's board has always been South Africa - all sorts of fun people there and they were invaluable in helping me plan my last trip there!

Thanks so much for the Manu information, Claire - it's very helpful! Cheers, Carrie

We just got back from Manu in September and I will echo the other posts regarding not making flight plans the same day. We stayed the last night in Cusco and flew out the next morning. Our flight to Manu was delayed on the way out due to the weather. Also you might consider the longer Manu trip if you can. It is difficult to get there and having the extra time was really terrific.