The Heart of Biodiversity
Welcome to the Peruvian Amazon, home to one of the most biologically diverse ecosystems on the planet. This immersive 3-day expedition into the protected Tambopata National Reserve offers a profound connection with nature, perfectly balancing exhilarating high-canopy exploration with tranquil dugout canoe rides through pristine oxbow lakes.
Your journey begins the moment you navigate the Madre de Dios River, entering a world where over 540 bird species and a staggering, world-record 362 ant species thrive. You will hike exclusive jungle trails that snake between the roots of towering ancient trees and boldly venture out into the pitch-black rainforest on nocturnal safaris to seek out elusive caimans, owls, and nightjars. The undisputed highlight is navigating the glassy, palm-flanked waters of Lake Sandoval, where you will quietly paddle in search of red howler monkeys, black caimans, and the incredibly rare, highly endangered giant river otter. Complete your adventure by walking above the treetops on a breathtaking 30-meter-high canopy suspension bridge network.
Expedition Highlights
Lake Sandoval Canoeing
Glide through eerie mangroves onto a pristine oxbow lake to observe endangered giant river otters, macaws, and yellow-spotted side-neck turtles.
Canopy Walkway
Ascend to the rooftop of the rainforest. Walk across a sophisticated network of suspension bridges strung 30 meters (100 ft) above the forest floor.
River Night Watch
Cruise the Madre de Dios River under the cover of darkness, scanning the riverbanks with spotlights for nightjars, capybaras, and caimans.
Nocturnal Rainforest Trek
Venture into the deep jungle at night. Heighten your senses to discover the bizarre, ingenious creatures that only emerge after the sun sets.
Detailed Itinerary
The Tambopata Reserve
Amazon Altitude: 500 m / 1,640 ft
DAY 1: Arrival, Trails & River Night Watch
Arrival & The Trail System
Upon your arrival in Puerto Maldonado, we will transfer you to the lodge. After settling in, you will explore exclusive jungle trails that snake between the roots of towering ancient trees. This hike serves as a fascinating, immersive introduction to the rich ecosystems of the rainforest—a habitat boasting staggering biodiversity, including over 100 mammal species and a world-record 362 ant species.
River Night Watch
After dinner, you will board a motorized canoe to cruise the Madre de Dios River under the cover of darkness. As you navigate, you will scan the riverbanks in search of the wildlife that rules the night. Keep on the lookout for nightjars, owls, the world's largest rodent (capybaras), and the glowing eyes of caimans while learning about the curious behaviors of this nocturnal world.
Included Meals: Lunch, Dinner
DAY 2: Canopy Walkway & Lake Sandoval
The Exhilarating Canopy Walkway
Begin your day by ascending to the rooftop of the rainforest. Originally designed for scientific research, you will walk across a sophisticated network of seven suspension bridges strung between eight treetop observation platforms. At over 30 meters (100 feet) above the forest floor, you will enjoy an unforgettable bird's-eye view of the jungle stretching out infinitely beneath you.
Lake Sandoval Expedition
Next, you will hike a boardwalk jungle trail leading into the highly protected Tambopata National Reserve. Boarding a traditional dug-out canoe, you will paddle silently through eerie mangroves and glide out onto Lake Sandoval. This glassy, palm-flanked oxbow lake is home to thousands of bird species, anacondas, black caimans, red howler monkeys, and two elusive, highly endangered families of giant river otters.
Rainforest by Night
Boldly venture out on foot at night to discover the bizarre species that come alive under deep darkness. Wildlife activity vastly differs from day to night; as some creatures curl up to sleep, others emerge using ingenious adaptation mechanisms. Stroll quietly as your senses heighten to the mysterious sounds of nocturnal birds, insects, and amphibians rustling close by.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 3: Transfer back to Puerto Maldonado
Farewell to the Jungle
After enjoying a final jungle breakfast, you will check out at 10:00 AM. You may relax in the lodge’s restaurant lounge, listening to the sounds of the macaw parrots, before boarding your motorized canoe for the scenic return journey upriver to the city of Puerto Maldonado for your onward flight.
Included Meals: Breakfast. (Lunch is not included but can be arranged with advanced notice for an additional cost).
Inclusions & Prices
What's Included
- Airport pick-up and drop-off in Puerto Maldonado.
- Motorized canoe transfers via the Madre de Dios river.
- 2 Nights lodge accommodation in your selected room category.
- All guided excursions (Canopy Walkway, Night Safaris, Jungle Trails).
- Canoe expedition on Lake Sandoval.
- Professional English-speaking resident naturalist guide.
- Meals: 2 Breakfasts, 2 Lunches, and 2 Dinners.
- Tambopata National Reserve entrance fees.
Not Included
- Flights to and from Puerto Maldonado.
- Lunch on Day 3 (Departure day).
- Alcoholic beverages at the lodge.
- Gratuities for your naturalist guide and lodge staff (optional).
Essential Recommendations
- Packing Essentials: Bring light, breathable, long-sleeved clothing and trousers to protect against mosquitoes. A reliable flashlight/headlamp and strong insect repellent are absolutely mandatory.
- Footwear: The lodge provides rubber boots for muddy jungle trails, but you should bring comfortable walking shoes or sandals for wearing around the lodge.
- Vaccinations: While Puerto Maldonado is generally safe, the Yellow Fever vaccination is highly recommended for all travelers entering the Peruvian Amazon.