Discover wildlife, support local families, protect the rainforest.
Learn MoreErika lodge is a living family legacy in the heart of the Amazon. More than a business, it began as a place of life and connection with nature. Founded in the 1960s by the Gerlach family and cared for by them for three decades, it has been lovingly stewarded by the Yallico family for the past 36 years. As foresters and conservationists, we have protected these forests from exploitation and strengthened them through natural regeneration, preserving a vibrant, ever-renewing ecosystem where visitors can experience birdsong, ancient trees, and the quiet rhythm of the rainforest.
Since welcoming its first travelers in 1964, Erika Lodge has been an open home for visitors from around the world. We offer more than accommodation: we invite guests into a well-preserved natural refuge, rich in biodiversity and rooted in authenticity. By staying at Erika Lodge, you directly support the protection of around 500 hectares of Amazon forest, helping fund a resident forest ranger and ongoing conservation efforts. Our vision is simple and enduring—to remain a place of encounter, learning, and rest, guided by family values and a deep commitment to truly sustainable tourism.
From planning to your return home, we tailor each step. Travel with locals who know the forest’s rhythms and stories.
A small team of guides and specialists who grew up in the region.
Trips that fund conservation and respect local communities and cultures.
Sleep to rainforest sounds, wake to scarlet macaws, and stay with families who protect Manu.
Your payment goes straight to families maintaining forest guardianship.
Low-impact outings at dawn/dusk maximize sightings without stressing habitats.
Clean rooms, mosquito nets, filtered water, and great home cooking.
From Lima (LIM) or another transport hub, connect to Cusco (CUZ). Starting your journey from Cusco is easier and safer than approaching Erika Lodge via Madre de Dios. This is due to better road infrastructure, more frequent services, and simpler logistics.
From Cusco's main bus terminal you can take bus or colectivo to Atalaya (via Pilcopata), or ask any reputable agency around the Plaza de Armas to arrange a private transfer. Travel times vary with weather and road condition (expect a 8-10 hour journey). Cash is useful for snacks and bathroom stops, carry a light jacket for the cloud forest pass and insect repellent for the rainforest.
From Atalaya, take a motorized boat through the Alto Madre de Dios river. This stretch skirts Manu's buffer zone with great rainforest scenery and wildlife chances. The boat ride to Erika typically takes ~1-2 hours depending on the river level. Disembark at Erika's river landing and follow a short trail to the lodge. Check in and relax, you've made it!
From Lima (LIM) or another transport hub, connect to Cusco (CUZ). Starting your journey from Cusco is easier and safer than approaching Erika Lodge via Madre de Dios. This is due to better road infrastructure, more frequent services, and simpler logistics.
