Trip Itinerary
TRIP ITINERARY
Arrival in Puerto Maldonado, Jungle Lodge, Canopy Adventure, Monkey Island, and Caiman Safari
Your Tambopata National Reserve Tour begins with your arrival in Puerto Maldonado, where our team will meet you at the airport or bus terminal and assist you with a brief registration. Any luggage you do not need during the tour can be safely stored at our office, allowing you to travel lighter and more comfortably into the jungle.
Before heading to the lodge, you may have a short opportunity to visit the Plaza Grau viewpoint, where you can enjoy a beautiful view of the confluence of the Madre de Dios and Tambopata Rivers — a perfect first glimpse of the Amazon region.
Next, you will travel to the Port of Capitanía, where you will board a motorized canoe for a scenic 40-minute boat ride along the Madre de Dios River to the Amazon Garden Lodge, your home for the next two nights. Upon arrival, you will be welcomed with a refreshing tropical fruit drink and shown to your comfortable private bungalow surrounded by rainforest.
Your first activity in the jungle is a guided walk to the canopy walkway and suspension bridge, where you will discover the rich plant and animal life of the Amazon from above. After that, you will enjoy an exciting zip-line adventure, including a full safety briefing and all necessary equipment. This activity offers a thrilling first contact with the jungle landscape.
After lunch and some time to relax, the adventure continues in the afternoon with a kayak excursion on the Madre de Dios River. With a safety support boat accompanying the group, you will paddle toward the famous Monkey Island, a natural river island where several species of monkeys live freely. This is one of the best opportunities to observe monkeys up close in a beautiful natural setting.
At sunset, you return to the lodge and enjoy dinner before heading out once more for a night boat safari. During this excursion, your guide will use a spotlight to search for caimans along the riverbanks, as well as other nocturnal wildlife such as birds, capybaras, and creatures active after dark.
Day 1 Summary
- Meals included: Lunch and dinner
- Accommodation: Private bungalow at Amazon Garden Lodge
- Main activities: Canopy walkway, zip line, kayak to Monkey Island, night caiman safari
- Weather: Warm and tropical
Sandoval Lake Exploration inside the Tambopata National Reserve
After breakfast, you will dedicate the entire day to exploring one of the most beautiful and wildlife-rich areas of the Peruvian Amazon: Sandoval Lake, located inside the Tambopata National Reserve.
The day begins with a short 10-minute boat ride along the river to the entrance of the reserve, followed by a guided 3-kilometer jungle walk of about 45 minutes through primary rainforest. Along the trail, your guide will explain the flora and fauna of the region and help you spot birds, insects, reptiles, and other Amazon wildlife.
Once you arrive at Sandoval Lake, you may have the chance to swim in the lake before boarding a paddle boat to explore its calm waters. This area is one of the best places in the reserve to observe giant river otters, one of the most iconic and endangered animals of the Amazon. You may also see hoatzins, cormorants, anhingas, black caimans, and many species of tropical birds.
A traditional jungle lunch will be served during the visit, and the afternoon will continue with more wildlife observation, photography, and exploration of the lake before returning to the lodge.
Day 2 Summary
- Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
- Accommodation: Amazon Garden Lodge
- Main activities: Guided hike to Sandoval Lake, paddle boat exploration, giant river otter observation, birdwatching
- Entrance fees: Included
Parrot Clay Lick at Dawn and Return to Puerto Maldonado
Your final day begins very early, with a 4:30 AM boat departure from the lodge. You will travel for approximately 1.5 hours along the Madre de Dios River to reach the famous Cachuela parrot clay lick, one of the most impressive wildlife spectacles in the Amazon.
Arriving around 6:00 AM, you will position yourselves at a safe distance to watch as hundreds of colorful parrots begin to gather on the mineral-rich clay wall. Species commonly seen here include blue-headed parrots, aurora parakeets, and sometimes even macaws. These birds feed on the clay as part of their natural diet, and the sight of them arriving in large, noisy flocks against the backdrop of the sunrise is truly unforgettable.
After spending time enjoying this extraordinary natural event, you will return to the lodge for a final breakfast. Then you will take the boat back to Puerto Maldonado, followed by your transfer to the airport or bus terminal, marking the end of your 3-day Amazon adventure.
Day 3 Summary
- Meals included: Breakfast
- Main activity: Dawn visit to the Cachuela parrot clay lick
- Return: Boat transfer to Puerto Maldonado + transfer to the airport or bus terminal
Tour Inclusions
Inclusions
Included
- Pre-tour briefing at the lodge office or hotel
Before the tour begins, you will receive a complete pre-tour briefing either at the lodge office or at your hotel. During this briefing, our team will explain the full itinerary day by day, provide practical recommendations, answer your questions, and help you prepare properly for your Amazon adventure.
- Private land and river transportation
All transportation included in the program is fully organized by our team. This covers your transfers between Puerto Maldonado airport or bus terminal and the Amazon Garden Lodge, as well as all river transportation during the tour. Travel on the Madre de Dios River is done in a private motorized boat, allowing for a comfortable and efficient journey into the jungle.
- Professional certified bilingual naturalist guide (English and Spanish)
A professional bilingual naturalist guide will accompany you throughout the entire 3-day tour. Your guide will lead all excursions, explain the flora and fauna of the Amazon, help identify wildlife, and ensure the group’s safety and comfort at all times. This expert guidance makes the experience much richer, more educational, and more enjoyable.
- Professional chef
A dedicated professional chef is in charge of preparing your meals during the tour. All food is cooked fresh using quality local ingredients, with the goal of providing nutritious, tasty, and well-balanced meals during your stay in the jungle.
- All meals from Day 1 lunch to Day 3 breakfast
The tour includes all meals starting with lunch on Day 1 and ending with breakfast on Day 3. This includes:
- 🍽️ Day 1: Lunch and dinner included
🍳 Day 2: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included
🥐 Day 3: Breakfast included - 🥗 Vegetarian meal options are available at no extra cost. If you have any dietary preference or food restriction, please let us know at the time of booking.
- Two nights accommodation at Amazon Garden Lodge
You will stay for 2 nights at Amazon Garden Lodge, surrounded by the rainforest. Accommodation is provided in private wooden tropical bungalows with traditional thatched roofs, designed to give you comfort while staying close to nature. Each bungalow includes a private bathroom and private shower, offering a comfortable and authentic jungle lodge experience.
- All activity inclusions
The following activities are included in the tour and are fully organized as part of the program:
- 🌿 Canopy walkway and zip line (190 m + 160 m): Experience the Amazon from above as you walk through the canopy and enjoy an exciting zip-line adventure over the jungle.
- 🛶 Kayak expedition on the Madre de Dios River: Paddle along the river and enjoy a unique perspective of the rainforest and its wildlife.
- 🐒 Monkey Island visit: Visit the famous Monkey Island, where you may observe different monkey species in a natural environment.
- 🌙 Nocturnal caiman safari by boat: Explore the river after dark and look for caimans and other nocturnal wildlife with your guide.
- 🏞️ Sandoval Lake guided hike and paddle boat: Discover one of the most beautiful lakes in the Peruvian Amazon, with excellent opportunities for wildlife observation.
- 🦜 Dawn parrot clay lick at Cachuela: Witness one of the most colorful natural spectacles in the Amazon as parrots gather at the clay lick early in the morning.
- All entrance fees
All entrance fees required for the tour are included in the price. This covers entry to the Tambopata National Reserve, Sandoval Lake, and all other sites visited during the itinerary.
- Purified mineral water
Purified mineral water is provided throughout the tour to help you stay hydrated during your jungle activities and excursions.
- First aid kit
A first aid kit is available at all times during the tour for basic assistance in case of minor health issues or emergencies.
Not Included
- International and domestic airfares and airport taxes
Flights and airport taxes are not included in the tour price. Travel between Cusco and Puerto Maldonado, or from any other city, must be arranged separately by the traveler.
- Additional nights due to flight cancellations or delays
If you need extra hotel nights before or after the tour due to delayed or canceled flights, these additional expenses are not included in the package.
- Alcoholic beverages and soft drinks
Alcoholic drinks, sodas, and other soft drinks are not included. These may be available for purchase at the lodge if needed. Purified drinking water is included throughout the tour.
- Personal expenses
Any personal purchases, such as souvenirs, handicrafts, snacks, or other extra items, are not included in the price of the tour.
- Gratuities
Tips for your guide, chef, and boat crew are not included. Tipping is completely optional, but it is always appreciated if you are happy with the service.
- Personal travel insurance
Travel insurance is not included. We strongly recommend purchasing comprehensive personal travel insurance before your trip, especially for medical emergencies, delays, or unexpected changes in travel plans.
- Personal medication
You should bring your own personal medication, prescriptions, and any personal first aid items you may need during the tour.
What to Pack
What to Pack
To make the most of your Tambopata National Reserve Tour, it is important to pack light but smart. The Amazon climate is warm, humid, and often rainy, so bringing the right clothing and personal items will help you stay comfortable throughout the tour.
Required Documents
Please bring your original passport, as it is required for registration in Puerto Maldonado and at all reserve entry points. We also recommend carrying:
- Printed or digital copies of your passport
- A copy of your travel insurance
- Your airline tickets or travel confirmation
- Any relevant vaccination certificates, if applicable
Keep your important documents in a waterproof pouch or zip bag to protect them from humidity and rain.
Clothing
The Amazon is hot and humid during the day, but early mornings, boat rides, and some evenings can feel cooler. We recommend packing:
- Lightweight long-sleeved shirts for protection from insects and sun
- Lightweight long trousers for jungle walks
- 2 to 3 t-shirts
- 2 pairs of shorts
- 2 pairs of zip-off trousers or lightweight trekking pants
- 1 pair of comfortable hiking pants
- Thermal underwear or an extra warm layer for cooler mornings
- A fleece or warm top
- A light waterproof or windproof jacket
- Swimwear for Sandoval Lake or river swimming
- A small quick-dry towel
Choose light, breathable, and quick-drying fabrics whenever possible.
Footwear
Good footwear is very important for comfort and safety during the tour. We recommend bringing:
- Sturdy hiking boots or trail shoes with good grip and ankle support for jungle walks
- Sport sandals or flip-flops for relaxing at the lodge
- Extra pairs of comfortable socks
Your footwear should be suitable for muddy trails, humid conditions, and light hiking.
Sun and Insect Protection
Protection from the sun and insects is essential in the Amazon. Please bring:
- Insect repellent with at least 25% DEET
- High-SPF sunscreen
- A sun hat or cap
- Sunglasses with UV protection
Insect repellent is one of the most important items for this tour. Apply it generously and reapply during the day, especially before jungle walks and evening activities.
Equipment and Personal Gear
To stay prepared during excursions, we recommend bringing:
- A headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries
- A camera or smartphone for photos and videos
- Extra memory cards, power bank, or spare batteries
- Binoculars for wildlife observation, if you have them
- A reusable water bottle
- A rain poncho
- Waterproof bags or dry bags to protect electronics and personal belongings
A headlamp is especially useful for the pre-dawn departure on Day 3 and for night activities such as the caiman safari.
Health and Personal Care
For your comfort and safety, we recommend bringing:
- Your personal medication
- A small personal first aid kit
- Pain relievers
- Antihistamines
- Anti-diarrheal tablets
- Oral rehydration salts or powder
- Blister pads or bandages
- Biodegradable toiletries
- Toilet paper
- Wet wipes
- Hand sanitizer
Even though a first aid kit is available during the tour, it is always better to bring your own basic personal items and medications.
Money and Personal Expenses
Bring some cash in small denominations for:
- Soft drinks
- Personal purchases
- Handicrafts or souvenirs
- Voluntary tips for your guide and support staff
We also recommend using a money belt or secure pouch for your cash, passport, and important belongings.
Final Recommendation
Pack only what you really need and keep your luggage practical and easy to manage. The right equipment will make your Tambopata Amazon experience much more comfortable, safe, and enjoyable.
Prices
Pricing
Tambopata National Reserve 3 Days / 2 Nights – Prices
Starting price: USD 230 per person
This is the lowest available rate shown on the website. Final pricing depends on the traveler category.
Rates
- Adult: USD 250 per person
- Child: USD 230 per person
- Student: USD 230 per person
Student Pricing Requirements
The student rate is only available for travelers who meet the official Peruvian government requirements.
To qualify, the student must provide:
- An original university-issued student ID
- Full name
- Student photo
- University name
- Printed expiration date
- Be under 25 years old
ISIC cards are not accepted.
Certificates, digital cards, and other documents are also not valid.
To request student pricing, travelers must send clear photos of both sides of their student ID to:
info@machupicchuteam.com
at the time of booking.
Addons & Upgrades
How to Book
Faqs and Travel Guide
Frequently Asked Questions TAMBOPATA NATIONAL RESERVE TOUR 3 DAYS / 2 NIGHTS FROM PUERTO MALDONADO
1. Where is the Tambopata National Reserve located?
The Tambopata National Reserve is located in southeastern Peru, near Puerto Maldonado in the Madre de Dios region. It is one of the most biodiverse and best-protected areas of the Peruvian Amazon.
2. What is included in the Tambopata 3-Day Tour?
The tour includes private land and river transportation, 2 nights at Amazon Garden Lodge, all meals from Day 1 lunch to Day 3 breakfast, a professional bilingual naturalist guide, a dedicated chef, all scheduled activities, entrance fees, purified water, and a first aid kit.
3. How do I get to Tambopata from Cusco?
The most common way is to take a 30-minute flight from Cusco to Puerto Maldonado. You can also travel by overnight bus, which usually takes around 10 to 12 hours. Once you arrive in Puerto Maldonado, our team will meet you and organize all remaining transfers.
4. What activities are included in the tour?
This Tambopata National Reserve Tour 3D/2N includes a variety of Amazon activities such as:
- Canopy walkway and zip line
- Kayak expedition on the Madre de Dios River
- Monkey Island visit
- Nocturnal caiman safari
- Sandoval Lake guided hike and paddle boat exploration
- Dawn visit to the parrot clay lick at Cachuela
5. What wildlife can I expect to see?
Tambopata is one of the best places in Peru for Amazon wildlife observation. Depending on the season and luck, you may see monkeys, giant river otters, caimans, parrots, macaws, capybaras, toucans, tropical birds, butterflies, and many other rainforest species.
6. What is special about Sandoval Lake?
Sandoval Lake is one of the most beautiful and famous lakes in the Tambopata National Reserve. It is especially known for being one of the best places to observe giant river otters, as well as many species of birds and other Amazon animals in a peaceful natural setting.
7. Is the tour physically demanding?
The tour involves moderate physical activity, but it is suitable for most travelers in good general health. The main walk is the 3-kilometer hike to Sandoval Lake, which is relatively flat and takes about 45 minutes. No special trekking experience is required.
8. What should I bring for the tour?
We recommend bringing:
- Original passport
- Lightweight long-sleeved clothing
- Comfortable hiking shoes
- Insect repellent
- Sunscreen
- Hat and sunglasses
- Rain poncho
- Reusable water bottle
- Headlamp
- Personal medication
- Camera or smartphone
- Some cash for personal expenses
9. Is there internet or phone signal at the lodge?
In general, internet and phone signal are limited or unavailable at the lodge. This is part of the Amazon experience and gives travelers the chance to disconnect from daily routines and fully enjoy the rainforest.
10. What is the best time of year to visit Tambopata?
The tour runs all year round. The dry season from May to October usually offers drier trails and easier wildlife viewing, while the rainy season from November to April brings greener landscapes and a more lush jungle atmosphere. Both seasons offer an excellent Amazon experience.
Travel Guide
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Why Choose Machupicchu Team
Why Choose Machupicchu Team
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