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Sandoval Lake Exploration
The Best of the Amazon Rainforest
Duration
03 Days
From
320
Max. Altitude
590 ft - 180 m.
Difficulty
Moderate
Sandoval Lake exploration Description
Journey into Tambopata’s flooded forest sanctuary surrounding pristine Sandoval Lake. Glide by canoe through narrow creeks and mirrored expanses seeking giant river otters, stealthy anacondas, skittish squirrel monkeys, languid sloths and massive caiman lurking along these ancestral aquatic hunting grounds. Witness a diverse array of creatures emerging in this oasis amid the vast Amazon on a fascinating Sandoval Lake Exploration uncovering rainforest’s most elusive jungle dwellers.
Trip Highlights
- Canoe safari through the remote rainforest sanctuary seeking out diverse plants and wildlife in their natural habitat.
- Spot giant river otters playing, swimming and fishing in family groups along the shoreline and floodplains.
- Look for snakes like the formidable anaconda and other reptiles concealed in the lake’s still backwaters and narrow creeks.
- Chance to see elusive creatures like squirrel monkeys, jungle cats, playful capybaras and exotic birds at one of the Amazon’s most biodiverse lakes.
- Expert naturalist guides to provide insider knowledge of the wildlife, their habits and the complex relationships that thrive in this unique jungle oasis.
Itinerary
» Welcome to the Amazon!
Upon arrival at Puerto Maldonado, our guide will pick you up and transport you to our charming eco-lodge nestled in the Tambopata National Reserve. Settle into your comfortable room and enjoy a refreshing juice made from exotic regional fruits.
In the afternoon, embark on an exciting canoe trip to Monkey Island just minutes downstream from the lodge. Spot squirrel, capuchin and howler monkey families plus maybe even lazy sloths dozing in the trees. Return for a delicious lunch featuring fresh jungle produce.
After lunch, join our expert naturalist guide for a guided jungle trek seeking out wildlife along the lodge's verdant trails. Watch colorful birds like macaws and parrots flutter overhead as monkeys follow your footsteps. Our guide will highlight medicinal jungle plants, giant Amazon trees, delicate insects, and more along the way.
After night falls, spot elusive nocturnal creatures like bats, owls and huge capybara. You may even glimpse spectacled caiman lurking along the river banks as you drift silently by canoe. Then enjoy a scrumptious home-cooked meal back at the lodge before retiring, serenaded by the gentle chorus of the jungle.
The adventure continues tomorrow!
» Sandoval Lake Exploration
Rise before dawn and cruise through morning mist towards remote Sandoval Lake - a magnificent oasis teeming with wildlife tucked away in the Tambopata jungle. Along 3km of wooden trails to the mirror-like lake, watch for monkey troops swinging through vines, puffing anteaters digging up breakfast, and exotic birds stirring in the dense vegetation.
By rowboat, glide across still waters looking for giant river otters, sly capybara, dangling sloths, vibrantly-plumaged macaws and massive spectacled caiman lurking in the marshy banks. After morning wildlife spotting, tuck into a well-deserved picnic lunch on the shores of this hidden rainforest sanctuary.
Later, pay a special visit to our Matsigenka friends - native Amazonians who will charm you with their deep wisdom of the jungle's secrets. Learn ancient practices like archery, cotton spinning and fire-starting. Try tasty cassava bread and sample native fruits before returning to the lodge at dusk.
After dinner, venture out once again seeking out the jungle’s nocturnal side on an exciting night-walk under starlight. Watch for shy tapirs, mouse opossums, owls and spiders only found once darkness falls. Then rest up dreaming of more adventures to come!
» Farm to Table in the Jungle
After breakfast, visit a local Amazonian farm nestled deep in the rainforest. Walk among fragrant cocoa, coffee and banana groves, seeing how jungle fruits thrive in the rich soil. Taste sweet pineapples, tart lime and vivacious guava fresh off the trees!
Learn hands-on how our expert hosts graft superior saplings to cultivate the finest flavors. And discover ingenious agricultural practices uniquely adapted to the Tambopata wilderness.
Later, enjoy free time back at the lodge to relax amidst the tranquility of the reserve, lazing in a hammock or strolling the lush trails before departure.
Farewell, for now, this thriving emerald paradise! Our guide will transport you back to the town for connections home, already longing to return to these magical rainforest haunts brimming with life, legend and lore.
The rainforest awaits your return! Safe travels...
Included:
- Entrance tickets to the Tambopata National Reserve.
- Bilingual naturalist guide.
- Fluvial and terrestrial transportation.
- Lodging.
- Meals.
- Pick up from the airport or bus station.
Not included:
- Tips, Snacks, Drinks, Extra expenses.
- First Breakfast and last day dinner.
- Original passport and student ISIC Card if applicable.
- Small back pack and confortable shoes.
- Rain jacket or poncho (December – April).
- 4 complete change of clothing.
- Hat or cap to protect you from the sun.
- Sun block (sun protection cream).
- Insect repellent.
- Snacks, chocolate, dried fruit, etc.
- Camera, plenty of film and batteries.
- Sunglasses
- Extra Money (soles).
- Swimwear.
- Sit down with a shaman for a private meditation ceremony.
- Observe local weavers at work during private demonstrations.
- Hone your kitchen skills during Peruvian cooking classes with celebrated chefs.
- Amp up the adrenaline with exhilarating adventure activities such as riding the fast-flowing rapids of the Vilcanota River, or zooming along zip lines among towering Andean peaks.
What is the best time of year to visit Tambopata?
The dry season from May to October is ideal for wildlife viewing and easier hiking. Peak macaw season is from August to October.
What is the weather and temperature like?
The climate is tropical, warm and humid year-round. Temperatures range from 60s-80s°F. Pack light, quick dry clothing.
What wildlife is commonly seen?
Expect amazing birds like macaws, parrots, toucans and wildlife like monkeys, sloths, caiman and more. Sightings vary by season and luck.
How physically demanding are the tours?
Tours range from light to demanding with rugged hikes. Most require some fitness. Guides pace tours appropriately. Discuss concerns with us.
What are accommodations like?
We offer a range of accommodations from jungle lodges to tents. Most have private rooms and bathrooms. Expect rustic, comfortable simplicity immersed in nature.
Is it safe to travel there?
Tambopata is very secure and tourist friendly. Our expert local guides ensure proper precautions are taken on tours and excursions.
What essentials should I pack?
Light, quick-dry clothing, hiking shoes/boots, hat, binoculars, camera, batteries, flashlight, insect repellent, sunscreen are highly recommended.
Let us know if you have any other questions! We look forward to welcoming you to Tambopata!
