Tambopata & Lake Sandoval – 4 Days / 3 Nights
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Resumen
Introduction
Four days in Tambopata give you time to move between very different parts of the Amazon: riverbanks, primary forest, Lake Sandoval, the Chuncho clay lick and the upper forest canopy.
The route begins in Puerto Maldonado and heads toward the Tambopata River, close to the protected-area boundary. The first afternoon is spent walking through secondary and primary forest, where enormous trees, vines and thick vegetation form the setting for possible sightings of capuchins, squirrel monkeys and forest birds.
Day 2 starts before sunrise with one of the strongest wildlife activities on the route: Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick. Later, the program changes completely as you travel toward Lake Sandoval for quiet paddle-boat navigation and an evening search for caimans.
Day 3 is dedicated to the lake and surrounding forest, including giant river otter observation, large Amazon trees and a night walk.
The final day adds a more active pace with Monkey Island, kayaking, a 30-meter observation tower, a 120-meter suspension bridge and a 190-meter zipline.
With WildForest Peru, this program combines wildlife observation and physical activities without compressing everything into a single day.
Detalles del Tour
Trip Details
- Tour: Tambopata & Lake Sandoval
- Duration: 4 days / 3 nights
- Starting point: Puerto Maldonado
- Finishing point: Puerto Maldonado
- Reception: Puerto Maldonado airport or bus station
- Main route: Puerto Maldonado – Tambopata River – Lodge – Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick – Tambopata Reserve – Lake Sandoval – Madre de Dios River – Monkey Island – Canopy Activity Sector – Puerto Maldonado
- Accommodation: 3 lodge nights
- Ground transportation: Tourist vehicle
- River transportation: Motorized boat
- Lake transportation: Paddle canoe
- Additional water activity: Kayaking
- Observation tower: Approximately 30 m / 98 ft
- Suspension bridge: Approximately 120 m / 394 ft
- Zipline: Approximately 190 m / 623 ft
- Physical level: Moderate
- Walking: Short to moderate forest walks
- Terrain: Forest soil, roots, leaves and muddy sections after rain
- Climate: Warm and humid
- Meals included: 3 breakfasts, 4 lunches and 3 dinners
- Breakfast on Day 1: Not included
- Dinner on Day 4: Not included
- Guide: Specialized guide
- Group equipment: One pair of binoculars and one spotting scope
- Protected-area entrance: Included according to the scheduled program
- Adventure activity fees: Included
- Main focus: Wildlife, macaws, Lake Sandoval, forest walking, kayaking and canopy activities
Detailed Itinerary
Puerto Maldonado – Tambopata River – Lodge – Primary Forest
The program begins at approximately 10:00 AM with reception at the Puerto Maldonado airport or bus station.
Your WildForest Peru team coordinates the transfer and the first overland section of the route.
Transfer Toward the Tambopata River
At approximately 10:30 AM, we begin a road journey of around two hours toward the Tambopata River sector, close to the protected-area boundary.
Road conditions can change depending on recent rainfall.
Some sections may be:
- Unpaved
- Dusty during dry periods
- Muddy after rain
- Uneven
River Transfer to the Lodge
At the river, we board a motorized boat and continue toward the lodge.
The boat ride provides the first opportunity to watch the riverbanks and surrounding forest.
Possible sightings may include:
- River birds
- Parrots
- Monkeys
- Reptiles
- Other forest animals
The exact sequence between river arrival and lunch depends on the operating schedule.
Lunch
Lunch is included on Day 1.
After eating and settling in, the group prepares for the afternoon forest walk.
2:00 PM – Introduction to the Forest
We begin with a walk through secondary forest before continuing into areas of more mature vegetation.
This transition helps show how forest structure changes.
Secondary forest often contains younger vegetation and denser undergrowth, while mature forest can include:
- Larger trees
- Thick vines
- Lianas
- Buttress roots
- Higher canopy
The guide explains what can be seen along the route and watches for animal activity.
3:00 PM – Wildlife Observation Walk
The walk continues deeper through the forest.
Possible sightings mentioned in the original program include:
- Black capuchin monkeys
- Squirrel monkeys
- Forest birds
- Insects
- Other small mammals
Wildlife moves freely, so no species can be guaranteed.
The ground may contain roots, wet leaves and mud.
Travelers should walk slowly and follow the guide.
7:00 PM – Dinner
Dinner is served at the lodge.
Afterward, the group can rest before the very early departure scheduled for Day 2.
Day highlight: Moving from Puerto Maldonado into mature forest and spending the afternoon looking for monkeys beneath large Amazon trees.
Technical Details
- Reception: Approximately 10:00 AM
- Road departure: Approximately 10:30 AM
- Road journey: Around 2 hours according to the source program
- Transport: Ground vehicle and motorized boat
- Walking: Short to moderate forest walk
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate
- Terrain: Forest trail, roots, leaves and possible mud
- Climate: Warm and humid
- Meals: Lunch and dinner
- Breakfast: Not included
- Accommodation: Jungle lodge
Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick – Lake Sandoval – Caiman Search
Day 2 begins before sunrise.
5:00 AM – Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick
We begin the morning journey toward Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick.
Early departure is important because macaw and parrot activity is generally concentrated during the morning.
At the observation area, the group remains quiet while watching the surrounding trees and clay wall.
Possible species listed in the original program include:
- Red-and-green Macaw
- Scarlet Macaw
- Blue-and-yellow Macaw
- Other parrots and parakeets
Bird numbers can vary considerably.
Rain, wind, predators, noise and feeding behavior can change activity from one day to another.
8:15 AM – Breakfast at the Clay Lick
Breakfast is served near the observation sector.
This allows the group to remain close to the wildlife area during the morning.
Travelers should continue keeping voices low when birds are active.
Return to the Lodge
After the main observation period, we begin returning toward the lodge.
The river journey remains part of the wildlife activity.
The guide continues scanning:
- Riverbanks
- Beaches
- Tree branches
- Forest canopy
- Fallen trees
11:00 AM – Lunch
Lunch is served at the lodge.
Afterward, the group prepares to continue toward the Lake Sandoval sector.
1:00 PM – Protected-Area Registration
The itinerary includes registration at the corresponding control point before continuing into the scheduled Tambopata protected-area sector.
Travelers should follow all instructions from guides and park staff.
2:00 PM – Lake Sandoval by Paddle Canoe
We board paddle canoes and enter Lake Sandoval.
Without a motor, movement becomes slower and quieter.
The guide watches:
- Lake margins
- Overhanging branches
- Reeds
- Open water
- Fallen trees
Possible sightings may include:
- Herons
- Monkeys
- Parrots
- Water birds
- Turtles
- Caimans
- Other lake wildlife
3:00 PM – Arrival at the Lodge
We arrive at the lodge and settle into our rooms.
There is time to rest before the evening lake activity.
5:00 PM – Caiman Search
As daylight begins to fade, we return to the lake.
The guide searches the shoreline for caimans.
Observation depends on:
- Water level
- Weather
- Animal activity
- Visibility
Passengers should remain seated and follow guide instructions while navigating after sunset.
7:00 PM – Dinner
Dinner is served at the lodge.
Day highlight: Beginning the morning with macaws at Chuncho and finishing the day quietly searching for caimans around Lake Sandoval.
Technical Details
- Start: Approximately 5:00 AM
- Main morning activity: Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick
- Breakfast: Approximately 8:15 AM
- Lunch: Approximately 11:00 AM
- Protected-area registration: Approximately 1:00 PM
- Lake canoe: Approximately 2:00 PM
- Caiman search: Approximately 5:00 PM
- Transport: Motorized boat and paddle canoe
- Walking: Short access trails
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate
- Climate: Warm and humid
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
- Accommodation: Lodge near Lake Sandoval
Lake Sandoval – Giant River Otter Search – Giant Trees – Night Walk
The third day focuses almost entirely on Lake Sandoval and the surrounding forest.
5:00 AM – Early Morning Wildlife Walk
We begin early with approximately one hour of walking along forest trails.
The itinerary includes bird observation around palm areas along the way.
Macaws may be seen moving between feeding or resting areas depending on conditions.
The guide also watches for:
- Monkeys
- Forest birds
- Parrots
- Insects
- Other daytime animals
The ground may be damp and slippery.
7:00 AM – Breakfast
Breakfast is served after the early activity.
There is time to eat before returning to the lake.
9:00 AM – Giant River Otter Search
We board a small paddle boat and move across Lake Sandoval.
One of the principal wildlife targets is the giant river otter.
The guide looks for:
- Movement in open water
- Activity along the shoreline
- Vocalizations
- Groups moving between feeding areas
If otters are located, observation should take place from an appropriate distance.
Other possible sightings include:
- Black caimans
- Herons
- Jacanas
- Cormorants
- Parrots
- Monkeys
- Turtles
- Other water birds
12:00 PM – Lunch
Lunch is served around midday.
There is time to rest before the afternoon walk.
2:00 PM – Forest Walk and Giant Amazon Trees
We begin another walk through the forest.
The focus shifts toward several large tree species mentioned in the source itinerary:
- Kapok / Lupuna
- Shihuahuaco
- Brazil nut tree
These trees help show the scale and vertical structure of Amazon forest.
The guide may also point out:
- Vines
- Buttress roots
- Epiphytes
- Insects
- Animal tracks
- Feeding remains
- Forest birds
7:00 PM – Dinner
Dinner is served at the lodge.
Night Walk
After dinner, we head out for a guided night walk around the lodge.
The forest after dark can reveal animals that remain hidden during the daytime.
Possible sightings include:
- Night monkeys
- Frogs
- Spiders
- Insects
- Nocturnal birds
- Small mammals
Passengers must remain with the guide.
Wildlife should never be handled.
Day highlight: Searching Lake Sandoval for giant river otters before walking among some of the largest trees of the Amazon.
Technical Details
- Start: Approximately 5:00 AM
- Early forest walk: Approximately 1 hour
- Breakfast: Approximately 7:00 AM
- Otter search: Approximately 9:00 AM
- Lunch: Approximately 12:00 PM
- Forest walk: Approximately 2:00 PM
- Night walk: After dinner
- Transport: Paddle canoe
- Walking: Short to moderate forest walks
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate
- Terrain: Humid forest trails, roots and possible mud
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
- Accommodation: Lodge near Lake Sandoval
Monkey Island – Kayaking – Observation Tower – Suspension Bridge – Zipline – Puerto Maldonado
Breakfast is served at approximately 7:00 AM.
The final day changes pace and introduces several physical activities.
9:00 AM – Monkey Island
After breakfast, we begin a river journey of approximately 40 minutes along the Madre de Dios River toward Monkey Island.
Possible monkey species mentioned in the itinerary include:
- Capuchins
- Squirrel monkeys
- Tamarins
The guide watches branches and surrounding vegetation for movement.
Monkeys should never be fed, chased or touched.
11:00 AM – Kayaking
After the Monkey Island activity, we prepare for kayaking on the river.
Before entering the water, the guide provides instructions regarding:
- Paddling technique
- Entering and leaving the kayak
- Group positioning
- River behavior
- Basic safety procedures
Participants must remain with the group throughout the activity.
12:00 PM – Lunch
Lunch is served after the kayaking activity.
This is the fourth included lunch of the program.
There is time to rest before the canopy section.
2:00 PM – Observation Tower and Suspension Bridge
The group continues toward the canopy activity area.
The source program includes an approximately 30-meter / 98-foot observation tower.
From the upper section, travelers can look across the forest canopy.
The route also includes a 120-meter / 394-foot suspension bridge.
Travelers uncomfortable with heights should inform the guide before beginning.
3:00 PM – Zipline
The final scheduled activity is an approximately 190-meter / 623-foot zipline.
Operating staff provide instructions and check the required safety equipment before participation.
Travelers must follow instructions regarding:
- Harness use
- Helmet use
- Safety attachments
- Platform behavior
- Body position
- Waiting areas
Return to Puerto Maldonado
After completing the adventure circuit, the group begins the return journey.
Arrival in Puerto Maldonado is scheduled for approximately 7:00 PM.
The actual time can change depending on:
- Weather
- River conditions
- Activity duration
- Group pace
- Transportation conditions
Dinner is not included.
Day highlight: Moving from Monkey Island and kayaking to a 30-meter tower, long suspension bridge and 190-meter zipline before returning to Puerto Maldonado.
Technical Details
- Breakfast: Approximately 7:00 AM
- Monkey Island departure: Approximately 9:00 AM
- River journey: Approximately 40 minutes
- Kayaking: Approximately 11:00 AM
- Lunch: Approximately 12:00 PM
- Observation tower: Approximately 2:00 PM
- Tower height: Approximately 30 m / 98 ft
- Suspension bridge: Approximately 120 m / 394 ft
- Zipline: Approximately 190 m / 623 ft
- Zipline activity: Approximately 3:00 PM
- Return: Approximately 7:00 PM
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Meals: Breakfast and lunch
- Dinner: Not included
- Final destination: Puerto Maldonado
Pricing List
Private Service Prices
A private departure works particularly well for this itinerary because it combines wildlife observation with several physical activities.
A private group can coordinate photography time, walking pace and activity briefings more easily.
Suggested Private Rates
| Travelers | Suggested Price per Person |
|---|---|
| 2 travelers | US$ 620 |
| 3 travelers | US$ 510 |
| 4 travelers | US$ 445 |
| 5 travelers | US$ 405 |
| 6 travelers | US$ 375 |
Private Service Advantages
- Private specialized guide
- More individualized wildlife interpretation
- Walking pace adapted to your party
- Easier organization for families
- More time for photography when conditions permit
- Easier coordination around the clay lick
- More personalized kayak briefing
- Better coordination for travelers uncomfortable with heights
- Easier management of dietary requirements
- No need to adapt to unrelated travelers
- More flexibility during short wildlife stops
- Easier handling of photography equipment
Protected-area rules, safety requirements and operating conditions still apply.
Group Service Price
Suggested Group Rate
US$ 325 per person
Group Service Characteristics
- Recommended group size: 4–10 travelers
- Shared specialized guide
- Shared ground transportation
- Shared motorized boat
- Shared paddle canoes
- Shared kayaking activity
- Shared lodge accommodation
- Shared meal schedules
- Fixed departure times
- Group walking pace
- Travelers may come from different countries
- Wildlife stops are coordinated for the whole group
- Photography time must work for all participants
- Canopy activities follow fixed safety procedures
Suggested Optional Services
| Additional Service | Suggested Price |
|---|---|
| Single-room supplement | From US$ 90 |
| Personal binocular rental | US$ 20 |
| Private bird-focused guide | Quote before booking |
| Additional photography support | Quote before booking |
| Special dietary preparation | From US$ 20 per person |
Optional services must be requested in advance.
Recommendations
Recommendations
Several Days Before Travel
- Inform WildForest Peru about dietary requirements.
- Tell the reservations team about medical or mobility limitations.
- Inform us if you have serious discomfort with heights.
- Bring enough prescription medication for the complete trip.
- Test your walking shoes before travel.
- Charge cameras, phones and power banks.
- Prepare waterproof protection for electronics.
- Pack lightweight clothing suited to humid conditions.
- Keep luggage compact for the three-night stay.
At the Macaw Clay Lick
- Keep voices low.
- Avoid sudden movements.
- Remain within authorized observation areas.
- Follow guide instructions.
- Never feed birds.
- Do not approach the clay wall.
- Keep camera equipment organized.
- Avoid blocking other passengers’ view.
During Forest Walks
- Stay with the guide.
- Walk carefully around roots and muddy areas.
- Use insect repellent.
- Drink water regularly.
- Do not touch unfamiliar wildlife.
- Remain on established trails.
- Keep noise low.
- Carry all rubbish out of the forest.
On Lake Sandoval
- Follow instructions when entering the canoe.
- Remain seated when requested.
- Avoid sudden movements.
- Keep cameras secured.
- Keep voices low when animals are nearby.
- Never feed wildlife.
- Do not throw food into the lake.
During Kayaking
- Listen to the complete safety briefing.
- Remain with the group.
- Follow the assigned route.
- Protect electronics from water.
- Tell the guide if you are uncomfortable in the water.
- Follow instructions when entering and leaving the kayak.
During Canopy Activities
- Keep safety equipment correctly fitted.
- Follow staff instructions.
- Do not remove harnesses or helmets.
- Stay attached at required safety points.
- Secure loose objects.
- Tell staff immediately if you feel dizzy or uncomfortable.
- Do not proceed if you do not understand an instruction.
Included
Inclusions
- Reception at Puerto Maldonado airport or bus station
- Ground transportation according to the itinerary
- Motorized boat transportation on the Tambopata River sector
- Motorized boat transportation on the Madre de Dios River sector
- Scheduled protected-area entrance
- Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick activity
- Lake Sandoval activity
- Paddle canoe activities
- Caiman-search activity
- Giant river otter observation activity
- Forest walks
- Night walk
- Monkey Island activity
- Kayaking activity
- 30-meter observation tower activity
- 120-meter suspension bridge activity
- 190-meter zipline activity
- Scheduled adventure activity fees
- 3 nights of lodge accommodation
- 3 breakfasts
- 4 lunches
- 3 dinners
- Specialized guide
- One pair of binoculars per group
- One spotting scope per group
- Wildlife interpretation throughout the program
Not Included
Not Included
- Breakfast on Day 1
- Dinner on Day 4
- Additional meals not stated in the program
- Soft drinks
- Alcoholic beverages
- Souvenirs
- Tips for guide, driver, boat crew, lodge staff and adventure personnel
- Travel insurance
- Personal medical expenses
- Flights to or from Puerto Maldonado
- Personal binoculars
- Personal photography equipment
- Laundry
- Personal telephone or internet expenses
- Services not specifically listed as included
- Expenses resulting from traveler-requested changes
What to Bring
What to Bring
Clothing
- Lightweight long-sleeve shirts
- Lightweight trousers
- Quick-drying T-shirts
- Underwear for four days
- Walking socks
- Comfortable closed walking shoes
- Rain jacket or poncho
- Hat or cap
- Sleepwear
- Spare clothing
- Clothing suitable for kayaking
Avoid very loose clothing during zipline and suspension-bridge activities.
Personal Equipment
- Small backpack
- Reusable water bottle
- Headlamp
- Spare batteries
- Power bank
- Sunscreen
- Insect repellent
- Sunglasses
- Personal toiletries
- Small towel
- Hand sanitizer
- Personal medication
- Waterproof dry bag
- Zip bags for electronics
Wildlife and Photography
- Personal binoculars if preferred
- Camera
- Telephoto lens
- Spare camera batteries
- Additional memory cards
- Lens-cleaning cloth
- Waterproof camera protection
- Secure camera strap
Large professional photography equipment should be coordinated in advance because some items may not be practical during kayaking or zipline activities.
Documents and Money
- Passport or identification
- Travel insurance details
- Emergency contact information
- Cash in Peruvian soles
- Relevant medical information
Special Requirements
Contact WildForest Peru before booking if you require:
- Walking assistance
- Crutches
- Mobility equipment
- Specialized medical equipment
- Professional filming equipment
- Large photography systems
- Special dietary arrangements
- Other assistance that could affect boat, trail or canopy activities
Travel Guide
Travel Restrictions and Important Conditions
Weather
Rain can affect:
- Road conditions
- Forest trails
- River navigation
- Lake activities
- Macaw activity
- Wildlife observation
- Kayaking
- Observation tower access
- Suspension bridge use
- Zipline operation
- Return times
The operating team may modify or cancel individual activities when safety conditions require it.
Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick
Macaw and parrot activity cannot be guaranteed.
Bird numbers may be affected by:
- Rain
- Wind
- Predators
- Seasonal conditions
- Noise
- Feeding behavior
Travelers must follow observation rules and guide instructions.
Lake Sandoval Wildlife
Sightings of giant river otters, caimans, monkeys and other animals are not guaranteed.
Animals move freely and their behavior changes according to environmental conditions.
Giant River Otters
If giant river otters are located:
- Maintain an appropriate distance
- Remain quiet
- Never feed them
- Do not attempt to approach them
- Follow guide instructions
- Avoid disturbing family groups
Caiman Search
The evening activity increases the opportunity to look for caimans but does not guarantee sightings.
Passengers must remain seated when instructed during nighttime canoe navigation.
Night Walk
The night walk depends on weather and trail conditions.
Travelers should:
- Remain with the guide
- Use a headlamp
- Avoid touching wildlife
- Walk carefully
- Follow all instructions
River Conditions
Water level and current can change after rainfall.
Boat and kayak activities may need to be adjusted.
The guide and boat crew determine whether water activities can operate safely.
Observation Tower and Suspension Bridge
These activities involve height.
Travelers with:
- Severe fear of heights
- Vertigo
- Significant mobility limitations
- Certain cardiovascular conditions
- Certain respiratory conditions
should consider whether participation is appropriate.
Zipline
Participation depends on:
- Physical condition
- Equipment compatibility
- Weather
- Operator safety limits
- Ability to follow instructions
- Staff assessment
Operating staff have final authority regarding participation.
Physical Condition
Travelers should be comfortable with:
- Early departures
- Forest walking
- Warm and humid weather
- Mud and roots
- Boat transfers
- Paddle canoe navigation
- Night activities
- Kayaking
- Tower climbing
- Suspension bridges
- Ziplining
Older travelers and passengers with heart, respiratory, spinal, joint or significant mobility concerns should discuss the route with their physician before booking.
Lost or Damaged Personal Items
Rain, humidity and water activities can damage personal belongings.
Protect:
- Phones
- Cameras
- Passports
- Money
- Electronic equipment
Travelers remain responsible for their belongings throughout the program.
How to Book
HOW TO BOOK YOUR AMAZON RAINFOREST EXPEDITION WITH WILDFOREST PERU:
- Select Your Destination & Tour: Choose from our specialized expeditions in Manu Cultural Zone, Manu Reserved Zone, Tambopata National Reserve, Birdwatching, or Wildlife Photography tours.
- Contact Our Naturalist Planners: Click “Inquire / Book Now” or reach out directly via WhatsApp (+51 924 705 589) to confirm date availability and permit allocations.
- Provide Participant Details: Send full legal names, passport numbers, nationalities, and any special dietary requirements (vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free) or medical notes.
- Submit Deposit to Secure Permits: Make a secure online deposit using PayPal or major credit cards. Because SERNANP permits and exclusive eco-lodge spaces in Manu and Tambopata are limited, early deposits guarantee your departure.
- Receive Instant Confirmation Voucher: Our reservations desk will issue your official booking voucher with a complete packing list, meeting points, and pre-departure naturalist briefing details.
- Final Balance: The remaining balance can be settled online prior to departure or in Cusco / Puerto Maldonado at our operations office.
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Tambopata & Lake Sandoval – 4 Days / 3 Nights
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