Located in the heart of the Tambopata National Reserve, Sandoval Lake is one of the most fascinating natural settings in the Peruvian Amazon. This full-day tour invites you to discover a unique ecosystem where biodiversity, tranquility, and scenic beauty combine for an unforgettable experience.

The adventure begins with a guided hike through pristine rainforest, where every step reveals the sounds, scents, and species unique to one of the richest habitats on the planet. Upon reaching the lake, you will navigate by canoe across calm waters, surrounded by palm trees and perfect reflections that create a magical atmosphere.

Throughout the journey, you will have the opportunity to observe wildlife in its natural environment, such as monkeys, exotic birds, caimans, and—if luck is on your side—the iconic Amazonian Giant River Otters. All of this is accompanied by an expert guide who will help you interpret every detail of the surroundings.

The experience is complemented by a traditional Amazonian lunch, prepared with local ingredients, allowing you to savor the essence of the region.

Ideal for travelers with limited time looking for an authentic experience, this tour combines trekking, navigation, wildlife observation, and local culture into a single day, achieving a deep connection with nature in one of Tambopata’s most emblematic destinations.

☀️Day 1: Puerto Maldonado – Tambopata National Reserve – Sandoval Lake – Return

• Hotel Pick-up and Departure

The adventure begins at the Puerto Maldonado Main Square (Plaza de Armas), a strategic meeting point to start the day. After a brief introduction from the guide, we transfer to the river dock to board our boat bound for the Tambopata National Reserve.

• Navigation on the Madre de Dios River

We will enjoy a 30-minute boat ride, observing the landscape shift from urban areas to deep jungle. Along the way, it is common to spot riverside birds like herons and cormorants. The guide will share fascinating facts about the importance of this river, which acts as the main artery of biodiversity in the region.

• Trek into the Amazon Jungle

Once at the Reserve’s checkpoint, we begin a hike of approximately 1.5 hours (3 km / 1.8 miles) along a trail shaded by ancient trees. Keep your eyes peeled: this is the ideal time to find sloths, squirrel monkeys, capuchins, and brilliant Blue Morpho butterflies, while the guide explains the secrets of Amazonian natural medicine.

• Canoe Trip on Sandoval Lake

Reaching the shores of the lake, we leave motors behind to board wooden rowboats. You will navigate in total silence so as not to disturb the wildlife. This mirror of water, surrounded by Aguajales (palm swamps), is home to the Giant River Otter, black caimans, and the prehistoric Hoatzin bird (Shansho). For many, the peace of the lake is the best part of the trip.

• Picnic Lunch by the Lake

We will enjoy a regional lunch (box lunch) with a privileged view of the lake. It is the perfect time to rest, hydrate, and capture the best photographs of the landscape before continuing our exploration of the lake’s edges.

• Exploration and Wildlife Observation

We continue navigating the lake’s perimeter to maximize our chances of spotting fauna. The guide will use their expert sight to point out hidden animals among the palm trees and aquatic vegetation.

• Return through Amazonian Trails

In the mid-afternoon, we begin the return hike along the same trail. The jungle atmosphere changes as the sun goes down, offering new opportunities to observe diurnal animals returning to their shelters or birds beginning their evening rituals.

• Return to Puerto Maldonado

Upon reaching the dock, we take the boat back to Puerto Maldonado, navigating while contemplating the Amazonian sunset reflected on the Madre de Dios River. Estimated arrival is around 5:30 p.m.

✅ What’s included in the Tour?

🧭 Transportation and transfers

• 🛶 Motorized boat transfer along the Madre de Dios River to the entrance of the Tambopata National Reserve.

• 🚶 Guided 3 km hike (round trip) along the official access trails to Sandoval Lake.

• 🛶 Motorized boat return to Puerto Maldonado at the end of the day.

🏕️ Service and assistance

• 👨‍🏫 Specialized local guide in Amazonian flora, fauna, and ecology.

• 📣 Educational explanations and environmental interpretation during the trek and navigation.

• 📍 Permanent assistance and accompaniment throughout the entire tour.

• 🆘 First aid kit on the boat and in the lodge area.

🍽️ Food and Rest

• 🍛 Typical Amazonian lunch at the lodge area, prepared with fresh ingredients and local recipes.

🌿 Activities and Experiences

• 🥾 Interpretive walk through the Amazon jungle (possibility of spotting monkeys, birds, reptiles, and flora).

• 🦜 Observation of tropical birds and wildlife in their natural habitat.

• 📸 Photography opportunities during the trek and navigation.

• 🌅 Direct contact with the Amazonian ecosystem: sounds, aromas, and biodiversity.

❌ What’s not included?

✈️ External Transportation

• ❌ National or international flights to/from Puerto Maldonado.

• ❌ Transfer from your accommodation to the meeting point (inquire if you wish to add this service).

🧴 Personal Items and Equipment

• ❌ Insect repellent (recommended with DEET or natural formula).

• ❌ Ecological and biodegradable sunscreen.

• ❌ Suitable jungle clothing: long pants, shirts, sturdy footwear, rain poncho, etc.

• ❌ Flashlight or headlamp (in case of cloudy weather or low light).

• ❌ Camera or binoculars (optional but recommended)

📶 Additional Services

• ❌ Internet connection or mobile signal (no coverage in the reserve).

• ❌ Portable chargers or extra batteries (we suggest bringing a power bank).

• ❌ Wi-Fi in the reserve area (traveling disconnected is recommended).

💼 Other Aspects

• ❌ Personal travel or medical insurance (recommended to purchase before the tour).

• ❌ Voluntary tips for the guide, kitchen staff, or boat crew.

• ❌ Alcoholic beverages or snacks outside of the included lunch.

• ❌ Additional activities not described in the itinerary.

🌟 Recommendations

🎒 What to pack in your backpacka

• 🎒 Small daypack: to carry essentials during walks and navigation.

• 👕 Lightweight long-sleeved shirts: protects from sun, mosquitoes, and branches.

• 👖 Long pants (preferably quick-drying).

• 🧦 High, comfortable socks: ideal if using rubber boots.

• 🧢 Wide-brimmed hat or cap: sun protection

• 🧥 Rain poncho or jacket: indispensable, especially between November and March.

• 🥾 Trekking shoes or sturdy boots: the trail can be wet or muddy.

• 🩱 Swimwear and microfiber towel: if you decide to swim in the lake (in safe zones).

• 🦟 Insect repellent.

• 🧴 biodegradable sunscreen.

• 🔦 Flashlight or headlamp, in case the tour extends into areas of low light.

• 💧 Reusable water bottle.

• 📸 Camera or phone with extra battery/power bank.

• 🔋Power bank, if you want to keep your devices charged.

• 📖Notebook, binoculars, or a wildlife guide if you enjoy birdwatching.

🧠 Practical Tips and Behavior

• 🚫 Avoid strong scents: Do not use perfumes or strong lotions, as they attract insects or scare away wildlife.

• 📵 Disconnect to connect: There is no signal in the jungle—enjoy the digital detox!

• 🐾 Respect the animals: Do not touch or feed wild animals.

• 🗣️ Follow the guide: Always stay on the path and follow the naturalist’s instructions

• 🍽️ Waste management: Carry your trash back with you; the jungle has no urban waste systems.

• 🧼 Cash: Bring some cash if you wish to leave tips or buy local crafts afterward.

• 🕷️ Do not enter unauthorized areas: there are delicate or dangerous animals and plants.

• 🎁 Bring cash if you wish to tip the guide or purchase local crafts afterward.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

📅 Can this tour be done all year round?

Yes, Sandoval Lake can be visited year-round. However, in the dry season (April to October), the weather is more stable and there is less mud. In the rainy season (November to March), the jungle is more vibrant and green, though humidity and rain are more frequent.

What animals can be seen during the tour?

With some luck, you may see:

1. 🐒 Capuchin, Howler, and Squirrel monkeys.

2. 🐊 black and white caimans.

3. 🦦 Giant River Otters.

4. 🦜 Tropical birds like Hoatzins, herons, and macaws.

5. 🦋 Blue Morpho butterflies and various reptiles.

🧼 Where is lunch served?

Lunch is served at a lodge located near Sandoval Lake. We offer Amazonian dishes like Juane, fresh salads, and local fruit juices. Vegetarian and vegan options are available if requested in advance.

🚶 Is the hike to the lake difficult?

The walk is 3 kilometers (about 1 hour) over flat terrain. It is not technically difficult, but it can be muddy during the rainy season. The guide adapts the pace to the group.

🛶 Is it safe to navigate in a canoe?

Yes, the traditional canoes are stable and operated by experienced guides. Life jackets are provided for your safety. The lake waters are very calm.

📶 Is there internet or cell phone service on the tour?

No. Once we enter the Tambopata National Reserve, there is no coverage. It’s an ideal place to disconnect from digital devices and reconnect with nature.

💉 Do I need vaccinations?

It is not mandatory, but the Yellow Fever vaccine is recommended for Amazonian travel. Consult your doctor before your trip.

🧳 Can I bring my full luggage?

It is not necessary. We recommend bringing only a small daypack. Your large luggage can be stored safely at your hotel in Puerto Maldonado or at our office.