Tambopata National Reserve & Sandoval Lake 4D/3N

Duration

4D/3N

Difficulty

Easy

Group

from 2 to 8 people

Recommended Age

All ages

The Tambopata National Reserve is one of the most biodiverse regions on the planet—a sanctuary where each moment reveals another layer of nature’s masterpiece. Over four unforgettable days, you will immerse yourself in the vibrant pulse of the Amazon: from the mirrored waters of Sandoval Lake to the towering trees of the rainforest, from the dawn calls of macaws to the glittering eyes of nocturnal creatures.

This extended itinerary allows you to slow down, explore further, and connect more deeply with this living Eden.

Spend your days navigating rivers, trekking jungle trails, and observing wildlife in its natural habitat. Your nights will be filled with the mysterious sounds of the forest, far from the bustle of the modern world. This is more than a trip—it’s a life-changing encounter with the Amazon’s incredible diversity.

Itinerary

What you will do and explore with us

Day 1

Arrival in Puerto Maldonado | Lodge in the Jungle

Reception & Transfer
Upon your arrival in Puerto Maldonado—whether at the airport or bus terminal—you will be warmly welcomed by your expert guide. A brief orientation will prepare you for the exciting days ahead before transferring to the nearby port.
Boat Ride to the Lodge
Board a motorized canoe and navigate along the serene waters of the Madre de Dios River, the gateway to the Amazon. As you travel, keep your eyes open for herons gliding above the riverbanks, kingfishers diving for prey, and perhaps even capybaras resting on the shores. The journey offers your first immersive views of the rainforest’s lush vegetation and vibrant wildlife.
Check-in & Lunch
Upon arrival at your jungle lodge, settle into your comfortable accommodations, designed to blend harmoniously with the natural environment. Then, savor a typical Amazonian lunch prepared with fresh local ingredients—an introduction to the region’s unique flavors.
Afternoon Rainforest Walk
Accompanied by your guide, set out on a guided exploration of nearby forest trails. Learn to identify medicinal plants, marvel at the size of towering ceiba and shihuahuaco trees, and discover the intricate ecosystems that sustain countless species of flora and fauna. Your guide will share insights into the traditional uses of plants and the interconnectedness of life in the rainforest.
Night Safari by Boat
After dinner, embark on an evening river expedition in search of the Amazon’s nocturnal residents. With the aid of spotlights, watch for the glowing eyes of black caimans, listen to the symphony of frogs, and catch glimpses of night birds and other creatures that awaken under the cover of darkness.

Day 2

Sandoval Lake & Nocturnal Walk

Early Breakfast
Begin the day at dawn with a hearty breakfast, fueling up for an unforgettable wildlife adventure. Early mornings are prime time in the Amazon, when the forest is alive with bird calls, rustling leaves, and the stirring of animals beginning their daily activities.
Trek to Sandoval Lake
Travel a short distance by boat to the trailhead, where you’ll embark on a 3 km (1.8 mile) hike through the heart of the Tambopata National Reserve. As you walk, your guide will point out hidden details of the rainforest—camouflaged insects, medicinal plants, and perhaps even the distant calls of howler monkeys. The trail leads to the shores of Sandoval Lake, a pristine oxbow lake formed centuries ago when the river changed its course.
Canoe Ride
Board a wooden canoe and glide across the calm, mirror-like waters of Sandoval Lake. Here, you’ll have the chance to observe giant river otters hunting in family groups, red howler monkeys moving among the treetops, hoatzins perched near the shore, and colorful macaws flying overhead. The stillness of the lake and the abundance of life make this one of the Amazon’s most enchanting experiences.
Return & Lunch
Make your way back to the lodge, where a freshly prepared Amazonian meal awaits. Enjoy some time to relax, rest in a hammock, or simply soak in the sounds of the surrounding rainforest.
Night Walk in the Jungle
After nightfall, set out with your guide for a nocturnal exploration of the jungle. Equipped with flashlights, you’ll discover creatures that are rarely seen during the day—tarantulas emerging from their burrows, brightly colored frogs calling in the darkness, and perhaps even night birds or snakes on the move. This immersive experience reveals the rainforest’s mysterious and fascinating after-dark world.

Day 3

Macaw Clay Lick & Jungle Exploration

Pre-dawn Departure
Before sunrise, set out by boat along the tranquil river to reach one of the Amazon’s most remarkable spectacles—the macaw clay lick. As the first light of day touches the canopy, you’ll witness hundreds of parrots, parakeets, and macaws gathering on the riverbank to feed on the mineral-rich clay. This daily ritual not only creates a stunning display of vibrant colors and fluttering wings but also offers incredible photographic opportunities. Your guide will explain the ecological significance of this behavior and help identify the different species present.
Return for Breakfast
After soaking in this extraordinary wildlife encounter, return to the lodge for a freshly prepared breakfast. Enjoy the tranquil morning atmosphere as the rainforest comes fully alive, with the calls of howler monkeys in the distance and the hum of insects surrounding you.
Optional Activities
Depending on weather conditions and your lodge’s location, you may spend the late morning exploring additional jungle trails, climbing a canopy viewpoint for panoramic views over the forest, or visiting smaller oxbow lakes hidden within the reserve. These optional adventures provide further chances to spot monkeys, toucans, or even elusive mammals like the giant anteater.
Farewell Dinner
In the evening, gather for your final Amazonian dinner—a celebration of the adventures and discoveries made over the past days. As night falls, the sounds of the jungle will once again surround you, a reminder of the rich biodiversity and untamed beauty of the rainforest.

Day 4

Morning in the Jungle | Return to Puerto Maldonado

Optional Sunrise Outing
For those eager to savor one last wildlife encounter, rise before dawn for an optional early-morning excursion. The soft golden light reveals a different side of the Amazon, with toucans, macaws, parrots, and other early risers filling the air with their vibrant colors and calls. Your guide will help you spot and identify species while you enjoy the peaceful stillness of the waking forest.
Breakfast & Check-out
Return to the lodge for a hearty breakfast, taking a final moment to relax in the serene setting. As you finish your meal, say farewell to your hosts and perhaps snap a few last photos of the lodge’s lush surroundings.
Return Boat Ride
Board the motorized canoe for your journey back along the Madre de Dios River, retracing the route that first welcomed you to the rainforest. Keep your eyes open—wildlife sightings are still possible along the way. Upon arrival in Puerto Maldonado, your guide will accompany you to the airport or bus terminal for your onward travel, marking the end of your unforgettable Amazon adventure.

Includes

Round-trip transfers from/to Puerto Maldonado airport or bus terminal.
Motorized canoe transportation.
Accommodation in a jungle lodge (private room with bathroom).
All meals (from lunch on Day 1 to breakfast on Day 4).
Excursions as per itinerary.
Professional bilingual naturalist guide.
Entrance fees to Tambopata National Reserve.

Not Included

Flights or bus tickets to/from Puerto Maldonado.
Extra drinks, snacks, or alcoholic beverages.
Personal expenses and tips.

Recommendations

Wear lightweight clothing and long sleeves for protection.
Bring insect repellent with DEET, sunscreen, and a hat.
Waterproof your belongings.
Wear comfortable hiking shoes.
Carry a reusable water bottle.

Why travel with GreaTours Perú?

Every day, our specialists create personalized experiences tailored to each traveler’s profile, desires, and budget. These passionate professionals create experiences that are delivered on-site through a local network of concierges and privileged contacts. These tailor-made trips are flexible and include a wide range of premium services (VIP lounges, 24/7 assistance, travel diary, app, mobile Wi-Fi, table reservations, etc.).

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