Peru - Manu vs Puerto Malonado?

Question

Someone told me that Puerto Malonado has become a bit of a concrete town designed for tourists and has lost some of its natural feel thus making Manu a more rustic and attractive destination. Can anyone confirm or rubbish this?

Answer 1

I went to Manu this summer and would highly recommend it.  It was beautiful and so much fun.  I would recommend going with Inka Natura tour group.  They have you stay in lodges that are perfect for the middle of the jungle, are hospitable with very knowledgeable tour guides, and serve excellent Peruvian food. If you do go to Peru and Manu I would also urge you to hike the Inka trail to Macchu Picchu.  It was one of the best experiences of my life. I hope you end up in Peru and have an amazing trip!

PS. I also want to add that Manu is the most pristine and protected are of rain forest in the world. If you go to any rain forest type environment I would definitely say go to Manu.

Answer 2

Puerto Maldonado is the capital city of the Madre de Dios Province. As a town, it's not that great, rather it is the jungle lodges near Puerto Maldonando that are of interest.

Manu, on the other hand, is a protected region of the jungle.

So, if you want adventure and are willing to rough it up a little more to see the raw jungle, the go to Manu. If you want a taste of the jungle, but don't really want to "rough it up" then visit one of the jungle lodges near Puerto Maldonado.