Tambopata: Lake Sandoval Canoeing With Lunch

Tambopata’s Lake Sandoval offers a unique opportunity to take in the vibrant Amazon rainforest. Visitors can embark on a captivating day-long tour that combines a scenic boat ride, a leisurely hike, and the chance to glide across the lake’s tranquil waters in a canoe. Along the way, they’ll have the privilege of observing diverse wildlife, including the elusive giant otter, while savoring a delectable local lunch. This immersive experience promises to leave a lasting impression on those seeking to connect with the enchanting natural world of the Peruvian Amazon.

Good To Know

• The Tambopata tour includes a 1.5-hour boat ride along the Madre de Dios River to reach the pristine Lake Sandoval.
• After the boat ride, a leisurely 1.5-hour hike through the Amazonian rainforest leads to Lake Sandoval.
• Canoeing on the calm waters of Lake Sandoval offers opportunities to observe wildlife like giant otters and caimans.
• A local Amazonian-style lunch, featuring freshly-caught fish, tropical fruits, and herbal tea, is served during the canoeing adventure.
• The tour concludes with the return motor boat ride back to Puerto Maldonado.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview of the Tour

This 9-hour tour offers visitors the opportunity to explore the wonders of Tambopata National Reserve and Lake Sandoval.

Priced from $79 per person, the tour includes a boat ride along the Madre de Dios River, a hike through the rainforest, canoeing on the lake, and a local lunch.

Led by English and Spanish-speaking guides, the tour allows guests to observe diverse wildlife, including giant otters, monkeys, and birds.

With flexible cancellation and payment options, this immersive nature experience is an ideal way to discover the rich biodiversity of the Peruvian Amazon.

Exploring the Madre De Dios River

The journey begins with a motor boat ride along the Madre de Dios River, the lifeblood of the Tambopata region.

As the boat glides across the calm waters, the lush, verdant rainforest flanks both sides, providing a glimpse into the untamed wilderness. Flocks of birds soar overhead, their calls echoing across the river. Occasionally, a caiman or river turtle is spotted sunbathing on the riverbanks.

The boat ride lasts around 1.5 hours, transporting visitors from the bustling town of Puerto Maldonado to the remote and pristine Lake Sandoval, where the next phase of the adventure awaits.

Hiking Through the Rainforest

After the serene boat ride, visitors embark on a leisurely hike through the lush Amazonian rainforest towards Lake Sandoval.

The path winds through a dense, verdant canopy teeming with life. Towering trees, tangled vines, and vibrant flowers dot the landscape. Hikers may catch glimpses of monkeys, birds, and other wildlife darting through the foliage.

The guide points out unique flora and fauna, sharing insights about the local ecosystem. The 1.5-hour trek offers an immersive encounter with the rainforest’s rich biodiversity before reaching the tranquil waters of Lake Sandoval, the next stop on this Amazonian adventure.

Canoeing on Lake Sandoval

Upon reaching the shores of Lake Sandoval, visitors embark on a serene canoeing adventure. The guide provides a brief safety overview before guests step into the canoes.

Visitors embark on a serene canoeing adventure at Lake Sandoval, after a brief safety overview from the guide.

The canoeing experience offers the opportunity to:

1. Observe a variety of wildlife, including giant otters, caimans, and colorful birds.

2. Glide through the calm, mirror-like waters, providing a peaceful respite from the bustling rainforest.

3. Appreciate the lush, verdant vegetation lining the lake’s edge.

4. Gain a unique perspective of the tranquil ecosystem from the middle of the lake.

After the canoeing exploration, visitors enjoy a local lunch at the lake’s edge, completing the immersive nature experience.

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Observing Wildlife and Nature

As visitors embark on the canoeing adventure, they’ve the opportunity to observe a diverse array of wildlife and lush vegetation within the Tambopata National Reserve.

Giant otters, monkeys, rays, caimans, and a variety of birds, toucans, bats, turtles, and fish inhabit the area.

The immense ancient trees, entangled vines, vibrant flowers, and fluttering butterflies create a captivating natural landscape.

Guides are skilled at spotting and identifying the abundant flora and fauna, enhancing the overall experience.

The tranquility of the lake allows visitors to enjoy the pristine Amazonian ecosystem teeming with life.

Enjoying the Local Lunch

During the canoeing adventure, visitors enjoy a local meal at Lake Sandoval.

The lunch includes:

1. Freshly-caught fish from the lake, grilled to perfection.

2. A selection of tropical fruits, including juicy mangoes and crisp pineapple.

3. Hearty rice and beans, a staple dish in the region.

4. Refreshing herbal tea, brewed from leaves harvested in the surrounding forest.

The meal is served overlooking the serene waters of the lake, providing a true taste of the Amazonian lifestyle.

The locally-sourced ingredients and traditional preparation methods offer an authentic culinary experience for visitors.

Returning to Puerto Maldonado

After enjoying the local lunch at Lake Sandoval, visitors begin the journey back to Puerto Maldonado.

The canoeing excursion ends, and guests board the motor boat for the return trip along the Madre de Dios River. During the ride, they may spot more wildlife like monkeys, birds, and caimans.

Upon reaching the lodge, the group disembarks and transfers to the PVTravels office in Puerto Maldonado, where the tour concludes.

The entire experience provides a comprehensive look at the Tambopata National Reserve and its diverse ecosystem, leaving visitors with lasting memories of their adventure.

Flexibility and Inclusions

The activity offers flexible booking options, allowing travelers to reserve their spot now and pay later.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The tour includes:

1. Pickup from the PVTravels office.

2. Lunch at Lake Sandoval.

3. Guided tour and necessary equipment for the excursions.

4. Entrance fees to the Tambopata National Reserve.

After the activity, travelers are dropped off back at the PVTravels office.

Items not included are meals and drinks not specified, accommodation in Puerto Maldonado, and any large bags or luggage.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Much Luggage Can I Bring on the Tour?

Guests can bring personal day bags or small luggage, but large bags or heavy luggage are not included. The activity does not provide storage for large items, so travelers should pack lightly for the excursion.

What Is the Age Limit for Participants?

There’s no stated age limit for this activity. However, participants must be able to hike and navigate the canoe safely. Children are welcome but should be supervised by an adult.

Is There an Option to Upgrade the Lunch Provided?

The activity details don’t mention an option to upgrade the included lunch. However, guests could likely request or arrange a more premium meal by contacting the tour operator directly, though this may incur an additional cost.

Can I Extend My Stay in Puerto Maldonado After the Tour?

Yes, you can extend your stay in Puerto Maldonado after the tour. The tour operator doesn’t include accommodation, so you’re free to book additional nights in the city as desired. This allows you to explore the area further at your own pace.

What Should I Pack for the Hiking and Canoeing Activities?

For the hiking and canoeing activities, it’s recommended to pack comfortable, lightweight clothing, closed-toe shoes, sun protection, insect repellent, a small backpack, water, and snacks. Bringing a camera or binoculars can also enhance the wildlife viewing experience.

The Sum Up

This captivating tour in Tambopata National Reserve offers a chance to take in the Amazon’s natural beauty. From the serene boat ride to the enchanting rainforest hike and canoeing on Lake Sandoval, the experience promises unforgettable wildlife encounters and a delightful local lunch, concluding with a return to Puerto Maldonado. This all-encompassing adventure is a must-do for those seeking to discover the wonders of the Peruvian Amazon.

You can check availability for your dates here: