Peru · Wildlife

7-Hour Lake Sandoval Wildlife Tour from Puerto Maldonado

7 Hours Round trip from Puerto Maldonado Moderate pace

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The journey

Trip highlights

01 Scenic boat ride along the Madre de Dios River
02 Guided rainforest hike in Tambopata National Reserve
03 Learn about the unique flora and fauna from an expert naturalist
04 Canoe across the serene waters of Lake Sandoval
05 Spot giant river otters, black caimans, monkeys, and exotic bird species

Discover the wonders of the Amazon on this 7-hour Lake Sandoval tour from Puerto Maldonado. Travel along the Madre de Dios River, hike through the rainforest in Tambopata National Reserve, and explore Lake Sandoval by canoe. Along the way, look for giant river otters, black caimans, monkeys, and vibrant birdlife, then enjoy breakfast by the lake surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of the Amazon.

Along the way, look for giant river otters, black caimans, monkeys, and vibrant birdlife, then enjoy breakfast by the lake surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of the Amazon.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 7 Hours

Tour type Shared

Activity level Moderate

Accommodation Not included

Transport Included

Wheelchair access No

Cities Puerto Maldonado, Tambopata National Reserve

Languages English, French, Spanish

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Puerto Maldonado to Lake Sandoval Rainforest Adventure

5:00 am - Pick-up from your hotel in Puerto Maldonado and a boat transfer (approx. 30 minutes) along the Madre de Dios River.
Entrance to Tambopata National Reserve: registration and the start of a rainforest hike (approx. 3 km / 1.5 hours).
Jungle walk: interpretation of flora and fauna along the trail, with chances to spot monkeys, birds, and butterflies.
Arrival at Lake Sandoval: board a canoe and explore the lake's calm waters, searching for giant river otters, black caimans, and various birdlife along the shoreline.
Breakfast by the lake, surrounded by the forest.
Morning canoe exploration: continue birdwatching and wildlife observation, including possible sightings of howler monkeys and squirrel monkeys.
12:00 pm - Return hike through the rainforest, followed by a boat ride back along the Madre de Dios River, and arrival at your hotel in Puerto Maldonado.

Where this trip takes you

Madre de Dios River, Tambopata National Reserve rainforest, Lake Sandoval by canoe

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map — Round trip from Puerto Maldonado 2 cities · 7 Hours

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

Hotel pick-up and drop-off (within Puerto Maldonado)
Boat transportation on the Madre de Dios River
Entrance fees to Tambopata National Reserve
Professional bilingual guide (Spanish/English)
Breakfast by the lake
Canoes and safety equipment
Bottled water

What's Not Included

Lunch and dinner
Personal expenses
Tips for the guide/crew (optional)

What to bring

Wear light clothing, comfortable hiking shoes, and a hat.
Bring insect repellent, sunscreen, and binoculars.
A camera with a zoom lens is strongly recommended.

Know before you go

This morning tour departs daily at 5:00 a.m. from Puerto Maldonado and returns by 12:00 p.m.
It is best visited between July and November when water levels are lower and wildlife is more concentrated around the lake.
Moderate physical condition is required (3 km walk each way).

Logistics