Sandoval Lake 3 Days: Tambopata Amazon Tour

There are places you simply visit… and others you feel deeply.

The Peruvian Amazon is one of them.

This Lake Sandoval journey has been designed for travelers who want to disconnect from everyday noise and reconnect with nature in its purest form. You will navigate the Madre de Dios River, walk among gigantic trees, observe wildlife in freedom, and wake up to the sounds of the most biodiverse rainforest on the planet.

During these 3 days, you will enjoy an authentic experience in Puerto Maldonado, combining soft adventure, comfort, and moments that will remain forever in your memory.

Ideal for travelers looking to complement their trip to Machu Picchu and Cusco with a different experience in the Madre de Dios rainforest.

Trip Summary

Destination: Puerto Maldonado – Lake Sandoval – Tambopata National Reserve
Duration: 3 Days / 2 Nights
Experience Type: Nature, adventure, and disconnection
Ideal For: Couples, families, nature lovers, and photographers
Physical Level: Moderate
Accommodation: Amazon lodge surrounded by tropical rainforest

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1 – Welcome to the Peruvian Amazon

Upon your arrival at the Puerto Maldonado airport, our team will welcome you to begin this adventure in the Peruvian rainforest.

Before heading to the lodge, you may leave part of your luggage at our office to travel more comfortably. We will then transfer to Puerto Bolívar, where we will board a boat that will take us along the Madre de Dios River.

The navigation is your first encounter with the Amazon: lush vegetation, the sounds of tropical birds, and the feeling of slowly entering a completely different world.

Upon arrival at the lodge, you will be welcomed with a refreshing drink made from regional fruits. After settling into your bungalow and enjoying lunch, you will have time to rest and enjoy the natural surroundings.

First Jungle Walk

In the afternoon, we will take a guided walk along Amazonian trails, where we will learn about medicinal trees, tropical plants, and some of the most representative species of Madre de Dios.

We will also visit old Brazil nut and rubber tapper camps, traditional activities that are part of the economic and cultural history of the Peruvian Amazon.

The walk lasts approximately 2 hours and is perfect for beginning to feel the energy of the rainforest.

Night Caiman Safari

When night falls, the Amazon changes completely.

After dinner, we will take a nighttime river excursion to observe caimans and other species that emerge after dark. The silence of the jungle, the reflection of eyes on the water, and the sounds of the forest create a truly special experience.

Included Meals: Lunch, Dinner | Accommodation: Amazon lodge surrounded by nature

Day 2 – Lake Sandoval Expedition

Very early in the morning, we will begin one of the most impressive experiences of the journey: the visit to Lake Sandoval, located inside the Tambopata National Reserve.

After a hot drink, we will begin the excursion navigating along the Madre de Dios River until reaching the reserve entrance point.

From there, we will hike surrounded by gigantic trees, enormous roots, and incredible biodiversity. Along the way, we may observe tropical birds, monkeys, and different species native to the Amazon rainforest.

Navigation on Lake Sandoval

Upon arriving at the lake, we will board small rowing boats to peacefully explore this unique ecosystem.

The scenery is simply breathtaking: calm waters, perfect reflections of the vegetation, and an absolute sense of peace.

With a bit of luck, we may observe giant river otters, turtles, exotic birds, and other species in their natural habitat.

While enjoying the surroundings, we will have breakfast surrounded by one of the most beautiful landscapes in the Peruvian Amazon.

Afternoon of Relaxation and Nature

After lunch, we will visit one of the lodge’s observation towers, from where we will enjoy a privileged view of the rainforest and its enormous treetops.

It will be the perfect moment to contemplate the Amazon sunset and connect with the tranquility of the place.

At night, you may rest, enjoy the swimming pool, or simply relax while listening to the sounds of nature.

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: Amazon lodge

Day 3 – Sunrise at the Parrot Clay Lick & Return

Our final day begins before sunrise with a short walk to a parrot clay lick.

Here, we will witness one of the region’s most surprising natural spectacles: dozens of colorful parrots descending to feed on mineral-rich clay, essential for their metabolism.

Watching the sunrise while the rainforest slowly awakens is undoubtedly one of those moments that stays with you forever.

After breakfast, we will begin our return to Puerto Maldonado.

Before heading to the airport, we will make a brief visit to the local market, where we will discover regional products and part of everyday Amazonian life.

Finally, we will transfer you to the airport to board your return flight or continue your journey through Peru.

Many travelers continue their adventure exploring destinations such as Machu Picchu, Cusco, or trekking routes like the Salkantay Trek.

Included Meals: Breakfast

What’s Included

Reception and transfers
River transportation
2 nights accommodation in an Amazon lodge
Meals according to itinerary
Lake Sandoval tour
Night caiman safari
Visit to the parrot clay lick
Professional guide
Entrance fees and permits

What’s Not Included

Domestic or international flights
Additional beverages
Personal expenses
Tips
Travel insurance

Recommendations

Bring light and comfortable clothing
Use insect repellent and sunscreen
Bring a lightweight rain jacket
Camera or binoculars
Proper shoes for hiking

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Do I need previous experience for this tour?

“Not at all. If you can walk through a park or along a beach for 45 minutes, you can enjoy Lake Sandoval without any problem. The trails are mostly flat, and we walk at a relaxed pace because the goal is not to arrive quickly, but to stop and observe a monkey in the treetops or an orchid hidden in the forest. It is a soft adventure designed so that the effort is minimal and the sense of wonder is maximum.”

2. Will we see animals during the tour?

The jungle is not a zoo, and that is what makes it magical. You will see life everywhere, from electric-blue Morpho butterflies to families of monkeys observing us with curiosity. As for the “main stars” like the Giant River Otter or the Caiman, we have a very high sighting rate because our guides know their favorite hiding places. Still, remember: every encounter is an exclusive gift that nature grants us that day. No tour is ever the same as the previous one.

3. What is the weather like in Puerto Maldonado?

Puerto Maldonado is the warm embrace of the Amazon. Yes, it has a tropical climate (heat and humidity), but that is precisely what allows the rainforest to be so lush. Don’t worry about the heat: the design of our lodge allows natural airflow, and activities are scheduled during the coolest hours of the day (morning and afternoon). Besides, there is nothing like an Amazon rain shower to refresh the atmosphere and watch the forest come alive in an instant.

4. What about mosquitoes?

We would not be honest if we said there are none — after all, this is their home! However, with a good organic insect repellent and lightweight long-sleeved clothing, they quickly become a minor concern. In addition, around the mirror-like waters of Lake Sandoval, the presence of insects decreases considerably, allowing you to enjoy the landscape in complete tranquility.

Experience One of the Best Nature Adventures in Peru

The Peruvian rainforest has a unique way of surprising every traveler.

Walking among giant trees, navigating lakes surrounded by tropical forest, and waking up to the sounds of the Amazon turns this journey into an unforgettable experience.

Book your 3-Day Lake Sandoval Tour now and discover the magic of the Peruvian Amazon.