SUMMARY
Visit the Peruvian Jungle 2 days
Discover Lake Sandoval Peru Jungle: Visit the Peruvian Jungle -A Perfect Family Adventure in the Heart of the Amazon Jungle .
Discover the Magic of Sandoval Lake in Tambopata National Reserve: A Short Yet Unforgettable Amazon Adventure
A trip to Sandoval Lake, nestled within the Tambopata National Reserve in the Peruvian Amazon, is the perfect gateway for travelers seeking an authentic rainforest experience without the need for an extended expedition. This compact yet enriching tour offers a deep connection with nature in just a few days, making it ideal for adventurers with limited time.
Visit the Peruvian Jungle From the moment you set foot on the trail that leads through the dense jungle to the lake, the journey becomes more than just a hike —
it’s an immersive experience. Visitors will trek through pristine rainforest, observe the unique flora and fauna, and listen to the symphony of wildlife that calls this ecosystem home. Along the way, guides often point out howler monkeys, vibrant macaws, toucans, giant river otters, and even black caimans that live in and around the lake.
Lake Sandoval is one of the most pristine and biodiverse destinations in the Amazon, making it an ideal location for a family vacation surrounded by the captivating flora and fauna of the Peruvian rainforest. Nestled in the heart of the Tambopata National Reserve, this untouched natural sanctuary offers an unparalleled opportunity to observe wildlife up close and uncover the secrets of the jungle that have remained hidden for centuries.
Visit the Peruvian Jungle Rainforest Amazon Sandoval Lake .
- Location: Southern Peru, Madre de Dios Department, Puerto Maldonado
- Type of service: Private or Group
- Start Point : Pick-up from the Hotel/Aiport or Bus Terminal in Puerto Maldonado
- Ending Point: Drop off the Hotel/Airport or Bus Terminal in Puerto Maldonado
- Departure: Every Day
- Activities: night trips bird whatching
- Altitude: 182 – m.a.s.l.
- Best time to visit:March – November
- Accomodation : 1night in OurLodge rivate Room with Mosquito Nets, Private Showers and Bathrooms .
- Meals: 1 Breakfast /1 Lunch /1 Dinner
- Entrance Fee to reserved .
- Tour Guides & , Professional bilingual local guide (well-equipped with guiding gear)
- Minimum of participants: 2
- Maximum of participants: 8
OVERVIEW
Day 1: Visit the Peruvian Jungle – Puerto Maldonado to Sandoval Lake Reserve .
Pick-up from Puerto Maldonado airport/coach terminal and transfer to the tour office.
Leave large baggage at the office and proceed with a backpack.
Transfer to a local port and board a motorboat down the Madre de Dios River.
Observation of wildlife along the river.
Trekking for 3 km to reach Sandoval Lake Reserve, followed by a canoe ride to the lodge.
Lunch at the lodge followed by a canoe ride on the lake to observe its inhabitants.
Return to the lodge for dinner and an evening caiman observation.
Overnight stay at the lodge.
Day 2: Visit the Peruvian Jungle- Sandoval Lake Reserve to Puerto Maldonado
Early morning attempt to see the giant otters and sunrise.
Cross Sandoval Lake Reserve to visit the Macaw palm tree .
Return trek of 3 km to reach the Madre de Dios River.
Boat transfer back to Puerto Maldonado.
Transfer to the airport or bus stations for departure.
NOTE
The return on the last day depends on your flight schedule. We have to be at the Puerto Maldonado Airport 2 hours before. To register or check in your return flight ticket
Once you reach the serene waters of Sandoval Lake, a peaceful canoe ride allows for intimate encounters with wildlife and panoramic views of the surrounding jungle mirrored on the lake’s surface.
Sunrise and sunset are especially magical times here, often revealing a flurry of bird activity and golden light filtering through the treetops.
This tour is ideal for eco-travelers, photographers, and anyone curious about the Amazon’s vast biodiversity — all in a manageable timeframe that fits into most Peru travel itineraries.
Whether you’re continuing to Cusco and Machu Picchu or returning from the Sacred Valley, a detour to Sandoval Lake offers a refreshing contrast and memorable insight into the world’s most iconic rainforest.
Explore the Rich Flora and Fauna of Lake Sandoval
A trip to Lake Sandoval is more than just a getaway; it’s a journey that immerses you in the raw beauty of the Amazon. The lake is teeming with life, providing the chance to spot rare species such as giant river otters, known for their playful nature, and the elusive red howler monkeys, whose calls echo through the trees.
As you glide through the water in a traditional canoe, you’ll encounter a diverse array of wildlife, including colorful macaws and caimans hunting along the shore.
The surrounding forest is home to hundreds of species of birds, mammals, reptiles, and plants, many of which are
native to this unique ecosystem. This area is a true biodiversity hotspot, offering an unforgettable glimpse into the extraordinary variety of life that thrives here.
A Family-Friendly Wildlife Adventure
This Lake Sandoval tour is perfect for families seeking to connect with nature.
The gentle canoe ride across the lake, paired with easy walks through the jungle, makes it an accessible experience for travelers of all ages.
Whether you’re watching monkeys play or learning about the medicinal plants of the rainforest, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
ITINERARY
2-Day Peruvian Jungle Adventure: Explore Lake Sandoval Reserve – Into the Heart of the Amazon
Perfect for nature lovers, photographers, and adventurers alike, this 2-day Lake Sandoval tour is your gateway to one of the most biodiverse places on Earth—the Peruvian Amazon. Departing from Puerto Maldonado, this immersive jungle experience offers rare wildlife sightings, lush rainforest treks, and unforgettable canoe rides.
Day 1: From Puerto Maldonado to Lake Sandoval – A Jungle Expedition Begins
Your journey kicks off in Puerto Maldonado, the gateway city to the Amazon. Whether you arrive by air or bus, our team will greet you and escort you to our local office, where you can safely store excess luggage. Pro tip: Pack a small, waterproof backpack with essentials like insect repellent, sunscreen, light clothing, and your camera!
River Cruise & Jungle Trek to Lake Sandoval
From the port, we set off on a scenic motorboat ride down the Madre de Dios River—an exciting introduction to the Amazon Basin. As you cruise the waters, scan the riverbanks for playful monkeys, basking turtles, stealthy caimans, and vibrant bird species like herons and kingfishers.
After a brief checkpoint stop, we begin a 3-kilometer guided walk (about 1.5 hours) deep into the rainforest. The jungle trail is alive with the sounds of cicadas, the rustle of monkeys overhead, and the occasional butterfly fluttering by. At the end of the trail lies a tranquil canoe ride across the pristine Lake Sandoval, where your eco-lodge awaits.
Wildlife Encounters & Sunset Caiman Safari
After lunch and a short rest at the lodge, we venture onto the lake in hand-paddled canoes, gliding silently to observe the rich wildlife. Be on the lookout for:
- Giant river otters
- Black caimans
- Hoatzins (shanshos) – a bird species believed to be prehistoric
- Monkeys, macaws, and more
As dusk falls, we embark on an evening caiman observation tour. Guided by our expert naturalist, we explore the behaviors and survival strategies of these nocturnal reptiles. After this thrilling night excursion, return to the lodge for a freshly prepared dinner and a restful night under the Amazon sky.
Day 2: Dawn on the Lake & the Macaw Palm Lick Experience
The second day begins early, with the chance to see giant otters and other early risers along the lake. Morning light enhances the jungle’s beauty and activity—ideal for photography and quiet reflection.
Visit the Macaw Palm Tree
Next, we take a short 20-minute hike to a remarkable natural site: the Macaw Palm Lick. Here, you’ll witness a spectacular display as macaws and parrots gather on special palm trees to eat the mineral-rich clay. This clay helps them digest toxic seeds and unripe fruits they consume in the wild—a rare and scientifically fascinating behavior.
You might spot:
- Scarlet Macaws
- Blue-and-Yellow Macaws
- Mealy Parrots
- Yellow-Crowned Parrots
This colorful spectacle offers one of the best opportunities for birdwatching and photography in the region.
Return to Puerto Maldonado
After the birdwatching session, we walk back through the forest to the river and board our motorboat to return to Puerto Maldonado. From there, you’ll be transported to your hotel, airport, or bus terminal, concluding your 2-day Amazon adventure with a heart full of memories and a camera full of spectacular shots.
Why Choose This Tour?
Immersive nature experience in the Tambopata National Reserve
- Excellent wildlife photography opportunities
- Expert naturalist guides to enhance your understanding of the Amazon ecosystem
- Low-impact, eco-friendly canoe rides
- Stress-free logistics from Puerto Maldonado airport or bus station
Travel Tips
- Wear long sleeves and light pants to protect against mosquitoes.
- Bring binoculars for birdwatching.
- A flashlight or headlamp is useful for nighttime activities.
INCLUDED (NOT)
Included in the Tour :
- A professional Naturalist Tour Guide;
- Motorboat transportation;
- Meals: 1x Breakfast, 1x Lunch, 1x Dinner and drinking water lodge (Please note: vegetarian option upon request for no extra cost!);
- Accommodation: 1 nights in lodge;
- First aid kit,
- Radio communications;
- Rubber boots.
Not included in the Tour .
- Any flight nor airport departure taxes;
- Travel insurance;
- Vaccination;
- Breakfast on the first day and last day Lunch;
- Drinks;
- Tips to local staff.
- Entrance fee to the Sandoval Lake Reserve;
What You Need to Bring in the Tour .
- Mosquito repellent (DEET 35 recommended as a MINIMUM),
- Original passport,
- Small backpack,
- Long sleeved cotton shirts (preferably green coloured),
- Long cotton trousers,
- Cotton long socks (to be put into your trousers),
- Comfortable walking shoes,
- Sandals or light shoes,
- Rain gear (e.g. rain poncho),
- Swimsuit;
- Binoculars (we also rent it),
- Camera and its charger,
- Plastic bags to be used for clothes and a camera,
- A hat as a protection against the Sun or rain,
- Toiletries,
- Small towel,
- Toilet paper,
- Sunscreen,
- Sunglasses,
- Flashlight (with spare bulb and batteries),
- A bottled water (1 litre as a minimum),
- Pocket money (Soles) to buy some beverages and souvenirs as well as to tip.
GALLERY LODGE
Things to Do at Lake Sandoval
Wildlife Watching: Spot giant river otters, red howler monkeys, toucan species, and other remarkable wildlife.
Canoeing: Glide across the serene waters of Lake Sandoval for an up-close view of the unique ecosystem.
Hiking: Embark on guided walks through the rainforest, discovering the diverse flora and fauna along the way.
Night Walks: Experience the jungle after dark as you search for nocturnal creatures like the night monkey and frogs.
Cultural Insights: Learn about the local indigenous cultures and their deep connection with the rainforest environment.
Why Choose Lake Sandoval for Your Next Family Vacation?
Lake Sandoval is more than just a travel destination—it’s an experience that creates lifelong memories. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, an adventure seeker, or simply looking to disconnect and immerse yourself in the wilderness, this tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness one of the world’s most vibrant and diverse ecosystems. The abundant wildlife, peaceful surroundings, and family-friendly activities make it an unforgettable destination for travelers of all kinds.
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FAQs - FREE INFO
Biodiversity Highlights:
The sheer variety of life here is staggering, making it one of the most diverse ecosystems on the planet:
- 632 bird species, including macaws, toucans, and harpy eagles.
- 170 species of mammals, such as jaguars, capybaras, tapirs, and several species of monkeys.
- 1,200 butterfly species, coloring the forest with vibrant wings.
- 20,000 species of plants, from towering ceibas to medicinal herbs.
- 103 amphibian species, thriving in the rainforest’s humid microclimates.
- 104 reptile species, including snakes, lizards, and caimans.
- 180 fish species, many of which are found in the rivers and oxbow lakes of the region.
Why Visit?
Whether you’re taking a canoe ride across Sandoval Lake, hiking through jungle trails in the Tambopata National Reserve, or simply listening to the sounds of the Amazon at night, this rainforest offers a once-in-a-lifetime connection to nature. It’s not only a hotspot for biodiversity but also a living classroom for conservation and sustainability.
