Tambopata Tours Puerto Maldonado (4 Days)

At dawn, before breakfast, we will set out to explore the depths of the Amazon rainforest, immersing ourselves in its lush greenery and abundant wildlife. Towering ceiba and shihuahuaco trees will rise above us as we navigate the winding trails, their ancient trunks bearing witness to centuries of life in this untouched ecosystem.

After a 40-minute walk, we will reach the mammal clay lick, a unique natural site where a variety of animals gather to feed on the mineral-rich mud. Here, we may encounter tapirs, peccaries, deer, agoutis, howler monkeys, and spider monkeys, either arriving alone or in groups to consume the clay, which aids digestion and helps eliminate toxins. The chances of spotting these fascinating creatures are around 60%, making the journey well worth the effort.

Following our morning adventure, we will return to the lodge for a hearty breakfast before making our way back to Puerto Maldonado. From there, our journey continues toward the breathtaking Lake Sandoval. Upon arrival in the city, we will head to the Pluvial Port, where we will board a motorized boat and set off down the Madre de Dios River. The river’s winding course will lead us to the control and surveillance post, where our entrance into the Tambopata National Reserve will be registered.

Trekking Through the Amazon: A Journey Into Wildlife and Lush Rainforest

From this point, we will embark on a 3-kilometer (2-mile) trek, which will take approximately 45 minutes. As we walk, we will be surrounded by the incredible beauty of the Amazon, where towering trees, medicinal plants, and lush vegetation create a thriving habitat for a wide range of wildlife.

Along the way, we may encounter vibrant birds such as eagles and woodpeckers, as well as several species of monkeys, including howler monkeys, squirrel monkeys, and capuchin monkeys. The forest is also home to deer, peccaries, sloths, and anteaters, adding to the sense of adventure.

Lake Sandoval: A Canoe Journey Through Tranquility, Wildlife, and Amazonian Sunsets

Upon reaching the shores of Lake Sandoval, we will be greeted by a stunning sight—tall palm trees lining the water’s edge, their reflections shimmering on the lake’s surface. Here, we will board wooden canoes and paddle across the calm, mirror-like waters, absorbing the tranquility and scenic beauty that define this extraordinary location. As we make our way toward the lodge, we will have time to take in the breathtaking landscape and observe the lake’s thriving ecosystem.

After a brief rest, we will set out on another canoe excursion, this time focusing on the diverse wildlife that inhabits the lake and its surroundings. Unlike the creatures found deep within the rainforest, Lake Sandoval is home to aquatic species such as taricayas (water turtles), black caimans, white caimans, and the elusive giant otter. We will also spot kingfishers and a variety of tanagers, their vibrant plumage adding splashes of color to the tranquil setting.

As the day draws to a close, we will witness one of the most spectacular moments of our journey—the sunset over Lake Sandoval. The sky will be painted in brilliant shades of gold and crimson, its reflection merging with the crystal-clear waters to create a scene of pure serenity. As darkness falls, we will remain on the lake, drifting in complete silence as we search for caimans. Nighttime offers the best opportunity to spot these elusive reptiles, as their eyes reflect the moonlight, making them easier to locate. With only the sounds of the Amazon surrounding us, we will savor the magic of this moment before returning to the lodge for the night.

At dawn, we will set out on a canoe excursion to witness the magic of sunrise over Lake Sandoval. As the first light of day illuminates the calm waters, we will glide silently across the lake, searching for one of its most remarkable inhabitants—the giant otter (Pteronura brasiliensis). These large, piscivorous mustelids, known for their playful yet skillful hunting techniques, roam the lake in closely bonded families. This early morning hour is the best time to observe them in action as they fish, communicate, and navigate their protected habitat. Lake Sandoval provides a crucial sanctuary for these endangered mammals, making this sighting a rare and unforgettable experience.

After returning to the lodge for breakfast, we will embark on an ethnobotanical walk through the primary rainforestsurrounding the lake. As we follow a shaded trail beneath the towering canopy, our expert guide will introduce us to the rich biodiversity of the Amazon, sharing insights into the medicinal plants, ancient trees, and intricate ecosystems that sustain life in this region. Along the way, we may encounter monkeys swinging through the treetops, colorful birds flitting between branches, and a fascinating variety of insects hidden among the foliage.

As our journey comes to an end, we will prepare for the return trip to Puerto Maldonado. A final boat ride across the Madre de Dios River will mark the end of our Amazonian adventure before we head to the airport or bus terminal for departure. Though we will leave the rainforest behind, the memories of its breathtaking landscapes and extraordinary wildlife will stay with us long after the journey ends.