Tambopata Tour – Tambopata Eco Tours

On the first day of the 5 Day Tambopata Eco Tour, we embark on an exciting journey that introduces you to the heart of the Amazon. Our day is packed with adventure, nature, and wildlife, guided by an expert local guide who brings the forest to life.

Here’s what the day entails:

Upon your arrival at Puerto Maldonado Airport, we will welcome you and provide a transfer to our office. For those with large suitcases, there’s an option to leave them in our office, ensuring you’re equipped only with essentials for the journey ahead. 

Our adventure in the Amazon begins with a one-and-a-half-hour journey by road to Philadelphia port. Here, we will board a motorized boat, setting off towards our lodge nestled within the lush greenery of the Amazon. The boat ride itself is an invitation to witness the river’s vibrant life and the forest’s dense canopy.

In the afternoon, we delve into the jungle with an introductory walk. This trek allows us to appreciate the Amazon’s incredible biodiversity firsthand. You will be amazed by the variety of flora and fauna, from towering trees to the smallest insects, and possibly even capybaras, monkeys, and cayman lounging by the riverbanks.

As dusk falls, the Amazon transforms, revealing a different side of its character. We continue our exploration with a night walk along the jungle trails in search of nocturnal animals. Equipped with flashlights and led by our jungle pro, we may encounter insects, birds, snakes, mammals, and frogs in their natural habitat. This experience is thrilling and underscores the importance of the Amazon’s nocturnal ecosystem.

Throughout the day, we cover a distance that immerses you deeply into the Amazon’s essence. The highest altitude we reach is just above the river level, ensuring an accessible and enjoyable experience for all. The lowest altitude is at the riverbanks, where the boat ride begins. The level of difficulty for the first day is considered easy to moderate, suitable for most fitness levels.

Statistics of the first day:

• Distance covered: Varies, but includes significant exploration on foot and by boat.
• Highest altitude: Approximately 200 meters (656 feet) above sea level.
• Lowest altitude: Approximately 183 meters (600 feet) above sea level, at the riverbanks.
• Level of difficulty: Easy to moderate, suitable for most participants.

This first day of the Tambopata Eco Tour is designed to offer a comprehensive introduction to the Amazon. It promises adventure, wildlife sightings, and an unforgettable experience with nature. We absolutely recommend this tour for anyone eager to discover the Amazon’s wonders under the guidance of a local expert. Join us, and let the adventure begin!

On the second day of our 5 Day Tambopata Eco Tour, we greet the dawn with an exhilarating early morning venture to the Chuncho macaw clay lick, a highlight of our journey through the Amazon. This day promises a blend of breathtaking natural displays and immersive river experiences, guided by our seasoned local experts.

Here’s an overview of the day’s adventures:

We will wake up very early and embark on a 30-minute upriver journey by motorized boat to reach the Chuncho macaw clay lick. The boat ride offers an incredible opportunity to observe wildlife along the riverbanks. We’ll keep our eyes peeled for a variety of bird species, reptiles, mammals, and even the capybara, the largest rodent in the world. With a stroke of luck, we might also catch a glimpse of a jaguar (Panthera Onca) in its natural habitat.

Upon arrival at the Chuncho macaw clay lick, we will settle in a suitable location for breakfast. This setting allows us to witness one of nature’s most colorful spectacles: a large gathering of macaws, parrots, and parakeets. With favorable weather conditions, you’ll be amazed by the sight of hundreds of these vibrant birds in action, making for an unforgettable natural show.

After this mesmerizing experience, we will return to our lodge. Later, we’ll engage in a unique artisanal balsa raft activity on the river. This hands-on experience allows us to connect with the Amazon’s waterways in a traditional and eco-friendly manner.

Throughout the second day, we cover a range of environments, from the river to the rainforest. Here are some key statistics:

• Distance covered: Varies, including significant exploration by motorized boat and on foot around the clay lick and river.
• Highest altitude: Approximately 200 meters (656 feet) above sea level during our journey.
• Lowest altitude: River level, as we engage in activities both at the clay lick and on the balsa raft.
• Level of difficulty: Moderate, suitable for participants with a moderate level of fitness, due to the early start and the nature of the activities.

This day of the Tambopata Eco Tour is meticulously designed to showcase the Amazon’s avian biodiversity and offer hands-on experiences that deepen our connection with the natural world. We absolutely recommend this tour for anyone eager to witness the Amazon’s wildlife up close and engage in sustainable tourism practices under the guidance of knowledgeable local guides. Join us for an unforgettable adventure into the heart of the Amazon, where every moment is a discovery, and every activity brings you closer to nature’s wonders.

On the third day of our 5 Day Tambopata Eco Tour, we dive deeper into the heart of the Amazon to explore its unique ecosystems and remarkable wildlife. This day is filled with adventure, discovery, and the serene beauty of nature, all under the guidance of our experienced local guides.

Here’s a closer look at what this day has in store:

After enjoying breakfast at the lodge, we’ll embark on a 45-minute hike into the jungle to visit a mammal clay lick. This site is active year-round and attracts a wide array of mammals such as tapirs, peccaries, deer, and howler monkeys, who visit to ingest vital minerals. While the chance of sighting these animals is about 30%, the hike through the biodiverse jungle is an adventure in itself.

Following our return to the lodge for lunch, our journey takes us back to Puerto Maldonado city. Once there, we’ll continue our adventure to Sandoval Lake. We head to the port to board our motorized boat, traveling along the Madre de Dios river for approximately 30 minutes to reach the entrance of the Tambopata National Reserve.

A 3 km (about 2 miles) walk awaits us on a well-trodden path, taking around 45 minutes. This trek offers the opportunity to observe a vast array of birds, mammals, reptiles, and amphibians in their natural habitat. Upon reaching the shores of Sandoval Lake, we will switch to a rowing canoe, gliding through a forest of flooded palm trees. The highlight of the evening is witnessing a breathtaking sunset on Lake Sandoval, a truly unforgettable experience.

As night falls, our adventure continues with a caiman search. This thrilling activity allows us to spot these ancient reptiles in their natural environment, adding an exhilarating end to our day.

Statistics for the third day:

• Distance covered: Includes a 45-minute jungle hike, a 30-minute boat ride, and a 3 km (2 miles) walk to Sandoval Lake.
• Highest altitude: The hike and activities are conducted at low jungle elevations, generally not exceeding 300 meters (984 feet) above sea level.
• Lowest altitude: At the river and lake level, where much of the day’s activities take place.
• Level of difficulty: Moderate, due to the hiking and evening activities.

This day of the Tambopata Eco Tour is designed to immerse you fully in the Amazon’s natural wonders. We absolutely recommend this tour for those looking to explore the jungle’s diverse ecosystems and witness the wildlife up close. Join us for an unforgettable journey into the wild heart of the Amazon, guided by experts who share a deep passion for and knowledge of this incredible environment.

On the fourth day of the 5 Day Tambopata Eco Tour, we continue our immersive exploration of the Amazon’s rich ecosystems and diverse wildlife. This day is structured around unique natural experiences, from witnessing the majestic sunrise over Sandoval Lake to discovering the secrets of the Brazil nut forest. Guided by our knowledgeable local guides, each moment is an opportunity for discovery and connection with nature.

Here’s what we have planned:

Our day starts with an early morning visit to Sandoval Lake in a rowing canoe. This serene journey allows us to enjoy a beautiful sunrise amidst an array of wildlife. We’ll look out for the prehistoric Hoatzin bird, woodpeckers, toucans, tanagers, and various monkey species like the squirrel monkey, capuchin monkey, and red howler monkey.

The lake’s waters teem with fish, including piranhas and sardines, and we may also spot reptiles and majestic macaws in flight. A highlight of the morning is observing a family of giant otters, highly active at this time.

After returning to the lodge for breakfast, we’ll embark on a hike along a trail through the lush undergrowth of the primary jungle surrounding the lake. Our quest is to find giant trees, including various species of ceibas, which stand as silent sentinels of the forest.

In the afternoon, we start a walk from the lodge to an old Brazil nut forest. This forest has been harvested for decades, and you’ll experience a live demonstration of the sustainable harvest process of the rainforest’s only sustainably harvested product, from collection to transportation and commercialization.

To conclude the day, you will have the option to choose an excursion that interests you most, in coordination with your guide. This personalized approach ensures that your experience is tailored to your interests and desires.

Statistics for the fourth day:

• Distance covered: Includes multiple excursions by foot and canoe, tailored to encompass a broad range of ecosystems and wildlife habitats.
• Highest altitude: The day’s activities occur at low jungle elevations, generally not exceeding 300 meters (984 feet) above sea level.
• Lowest altitude: At the lake level during the canoe trip, where we experience the tranquility and biodiversity of Sandoval Lake.
• Level of difficulty: Moderate, considering the early start and the variety of activities planned.

This day of the Tambopata Eco Tour is designed to deepen your appreciation of the Amazon’s biodiversity and the sustainable practices that support its conservation. We absolutely recommend this tour for those eager to explore the jungle’s natural wonders and learn about the sustainable use of its resources. Join us for a day filled with adventure, education, and unforgettable natural beauty.

On the final day of our 5 Day Tambopata Eco Tour, we conclude our journey with experiences that highlight the Amazon’s vast biodiversity and offer a personal encounter with its indigenous cultures. This day combines adventure, education, and cultural exchange, ensuring that we leave the Amazon with a deep appreciation of its natural and human landscapes.

Here’s what we have in store:

Our day begins with an exhilarating adventure on a suspension bridge, elevated 45 meters above the ground. This unique vantage point allows us to witness the Amazon’s impressive biodiversity from above, offering a bird’s-eye view of the lush canopy and the life it sustains.

Following this canopy walk, we will visit a native family living on the banks of the Madre de Dios River. This visit provides a rare opportunity to engage with the local community, learn about their customs, and appreciate their crafts, textiles, and paintings. Interacting with the family offers insights into their daily lives and a chance to understand the Amazon from a cultural perspective.

As our time in the Amazon draws to a close, we say our goodbyes. After lunch, we will make our journey back to the city, heading to the airport or bus station for your return trip. This marks the end of our expedition, but the memories and connections made will last a lifetime.

Statistics for the fifth day:

• Distance covered: The day includes a canopy walk and a visit to a native family, with travel back to the city at the end of the day.
• Highest altitude: The canopy walkway sits at 45 meters (about 148 feet) above the ground, providing a unique perspective on the rainforest.
• Lowest altitude: The visit to the native family takes place at river level, offering a different but equally fascinating viewpoint.
• Level of difficulty: Easy to moderate, with the canopy walk providing an adventurous yet accessible experience for most participants.

This final day of the Tambopata Eco Tour is crafted to ensure that we leave with a holistic understanding of the Amazon, encompassing its ecological wonders and the rich cultural heritage of its people. We absolutely recommend this tour to anyone looking to explore the Amazon’s natural beauty and cultural depth. Join us for an unforgettable journey into the heart of one of the world’s most vital and vibrant ecosystems.