The best activities to do in the Tambopata jungle

In the Tambopata Reserve, appreciate the majesty of nature on jungle trails and tranquil waterways, look for alligators and river otters, and draw lines for Amazonian fish like piranhas. Rest in your hammock as the sun goes down and then immerse yourself in the jungle at night, when many of its creatures become active.

At first, you will enter the jungle and see only an undifferentiated mass of green. But a few days in the company of an expert guide will train your eye to spot different species of plants, trees, and insects and sharpen your ears to hear the calls of exotic wildlife. It’s no exaggeration to say that a trip to the Tambopata Amazon rainforest is likely to change the way you think about the land and your place on it.

The Tambopata National Reserve is ideal for Amazon jungle tours with an emphasis on sustainability and conservation. Many lodges are owned or operated in collaboration with local indigenous communities who are able to reap the benefits of tourism while achieving sustainable development. The goal is to keep this natural area pristine for future generations.

Lake Sandoval is located in the Tambopata National Reserve, a place of almost 3,000 square kilometers where flora and fauna are the true protagonists. This area is located in the department of Madre de Dios, south of the city of Puerto Maldonado. This wonderful attraction has become the most beautiful tourist destination in this reserve; also becoming the most requested and visited tourist site.

Lake Sandoval has a crescent-shaped area 1,000 meters wide and 3,000 meters long. Likewise, in terms of depth, the lake reaches approximately 3 meters in height; and its waters generally have a temperature of 26ºC. This natural paradise not only stands out for its scenic beauty; but also for the diversity of species of fish and flora found in its waters.

This place is also ideal for “Birdwatching” (bird watching); since thanks to the vegetation that exists in its surroundings; This space is conducive to carrying out this type of activity; there is a great variety of birds between residents and migratory; even some of the species are in danger of extinction. The most outstanding species of Lake Sandoval is the Hoatzin (Ophisthocomus hoazin), the giant otter, the black alligator, among other species.

The main attraction of the Tambopata National Reserve is perhaps one of the most beautiful jungle lakes in the Amazon. Of course, we are talking about Sandoval Lake. It is located approximately 3 hours from the city of Puerto Maldonado in the southeastern part of Peru. More precisely in the low jungle that gives way to the great Amazon. This is a protected area and the refuge of more than 74 types of reptiles, 1,300 species of butterflies, 592 birds, 127 amphibians, and 103 mammals. It ranks among one of the top ten biodiversity areas due to its greatest abundance of wildlife on the planet.

The area promotes the practice of ecotourism. Which is not only a source of income for the inhabitants of these areas but also a way to raise awareness and sensitize on how to treat the planet to preserve it. Ecotourism is the practice of tourism with a responsible and friendly environmental direction. And here in Tambopata, we can show you how to practice it.

To get to Sandoval Lake, you would first have to take a flight to Puerto Maldonado, the gateway to the different routes within the Peruvian Amazon. You can choose to do it from the Imperial City and take advantage of the different amazon tours from Cusco. To enjoy a tour inside Sandoval Lake, it is essential to organize with a company since it is required to cross the Tambopata Reserve.

Upon landing in the city, our staff will accompany you from your arrival to your departure, so you will not have to worry about absolutely anything. After entering the Reserve, it is necessary to take a short bus trip to the Tambopata River. Here, a motorized canoe will wait for you.

You will have to take a motorboat ride (40 min) and then reach the main entrance of this beautiful place. You will have a 30-minute trip down the Madre de Dios River. Then you will come to a path, where a moderate trail awaits you. The entire trail is a visual spectacle where the true magic of the tour begins. From that moment on, you can begin to distinguish some species of animals and birds.

After walking for a few minutes along a narrow path you will arrive at a boat dock. And depending on the weather (November to April is the rainy season) you will take a rowboat. In the boat, they will row to penetrate the heart of the Lake itself. From here you will feel united to nature, full of peace and with indescribable tranquility. This and more will be felt along the way to Sandoval Lake.

If you are a fan of watching animals and other things, near the jungle city is the pristine Sandoval Lake. This wonderful meander-shaped lake is separated from the main channel of the Madre de Dios River. Its calm waters are perfect for boating. In addition, the region is favored as it is one of the areas with the greatest biodiversity in Peru. A tour of Sandoval Lake is one of the best tours available within Puerto Maldonado.

For those looking to do tourism within the Peruvian Amazon, they cannot miss this wonderful destination. During the tour, you will be able to observe and take photos of the different howler monkeys, water turtles, alligators, and the numerous birds in Tambopata. There are different tour options to enjoy. And all options can be modified to your liking. There are full-day tours, two-day tours, and up to 4-day ones to fully explore this wonderful place.

You can embark on a tour with a naturalist guide who will explain everything there is to see. In this tour alone you will be able to spot a hundred specimens of exotic animals. It is advisable to make arrangements in advance to guarantee your visit. It is also a good idea to enjoy the tours during sunrise or the hours before sunset. Since it is during these times when the wildlife is most animated. Even the night walks will give you a different glimpse of the region and its animals.

Enjoy navigating through a 100-foot high Mauritia palm forest flooded. All while large groups of macaws flood everything with their sounds. Or opt to appreciate the playful brown capuchin monkeys as they walk through the palm trees. You can see groups of up to 50 or more squirrel monkeys as they chat and jump in the trees. And as the sun sets, look to experience the lake’s nightlife under a star-filled sky while looking to spot the black caiman. In addition, no visit to the lake is complete without guided walks in its surroundings.

The different naturalist guides will be able to bring the jungle to life with their explanations of ecology. Learn about the natural history of the area as you explore the trails and appreciate the many species of birds and monkeys. You will be able to enjoy this and more on a tour of Sandoval Lake. The entire tour is girded with greenery and beautiful landscapes.

In your surroundings, you will be able to appreciate a wide range of birds at first. If you are lucky, you will also see the mighty Jaguar stalking its prey and other jungle predators. Sandoval Lake and the Tambopata Reserve not only offer an incredible variety of flora and fauna but also allow you to appreciate and value the world we live in. You will have the option of staying more days near the Lake if you so decide.

Sandoval Lake has a series of small shelters that offer various activities during your stay. You will also have the opportunity to take a night walk, where you will appreciate a wide variety of insects and bedbugs. Along the Lake whose shape is like a horseshoe, there are trails to observe birds, mammals, and flora. All these activities can be done from 1 to 4 hours.

Being in an Amazon region, expect the weather surrounding Sandoval Lake to be humid and with occasional rain. The rainfall that occurs within the Tambopata National Reserve can be between 2,500 to 3,000 millimeters a year. But most of these rains occur within the rainy season (November to April).

While within the dry season, you can expect some cold fronts coming from the South Atlantic. If you want to take advantage of your time in the Andean country, you can try traveling during the dry season. One of the best-known facts about Peru is that the dry season coincides with the high tourist season. Take these data into account before organizing your trip to the Peruvian Amazon.

Lake Sandoval, being within the Tambopata National Reserve, has the same climate; this is hot and humid. Likewise, it has two well-defined seasons:

Rainy season: This season includes the months of November to April. During this period the maximum temperature will be about 29ºC and the minimum about 20ºC. Likewise, there is presence of humidity almost 100%; that is why the embarrassment is quite noticeable. In addition, the rainfall is quite strong and dense; typical of the jungle.

Dry season: This season includes the months of May to October. During these months the maximum temperature will be 32ºC and the minimum 18ºC. Therefore, this period is recommended for trips. During these months the rainfall will be quite low, making the roads accessible and the flow of the rivers decrease. Also, the humidity drops to 67%.

The activities that you can do in and around Lake Sandoval are the following:

Boat rides on Lake Sandoval:
This is one of the highly requested activities, it consists of getting into a boat and rowing while one crosses the lake. During the walk you will be able to enjoy wonderful views of nature in conjunction with something, you will be able to observe birds in the nearby vegetation, animals in the water such as alligators, otters; even animals drinking water on the banks.

Walks around Lake Sandoval:
When you visit the jungle, it is always very exciting to walk its paths on your own. You will be able to see various animals moving freely from tree to tree and you will discover the most secret corners of the enigmatic Amazon. This is another of the activities requested by many travelers, especially for bird watching; and of other species. But, we recommend doing it accompanied by a specialized guide; since they know the route, dangerous animals or insects and plants that could cause us an unfavorable reaction. As well as take the services of an authorized travel agency.

Night walks:
Can you imagine going through the dense jungle with only the light of the moon? This is one of the most common activities around Lake Sandoval. You will enter the night of the Amazon, with millions of sounds around you that you do not know where they come from and with the mystery of not knowing the animals that are accompanying you on this adventure. You dare? Of course, it is an excursion only suitable for the most intrepid.
Generally, people who stay in a Lodge of the Tambopata National Reserve. Since while one walks one does not know what animals are behind or closely observing; the only light that accompanies the walkers is the light of the moon and the light of lanterns.

Monkey Island:
To visit this small space is to have a truly fascinating experience; since during the tour the little mischievous monkeys often play tricks on visitors such as climbing on their backs or taking away some clothing or fruit. It is advisable to have a camera at hand to immortalize the moment. Also, remember, do not give animals food that is not in their diet such as candies, chocolates, etc.

Enjoy a good Paiche:
The paiche is one of the fish that lives in Lake Sandoval and a very important ingredient in the cuisine of this region. As traveling is also knowing the gastronomy of each place, do not hesitate, when you visit Lake Sandoval choose some elaboration with paiche at lunchtime and delight yourself with the flavor of this dish.

Panoramic views:
One of the most beautiful experiences near Lake Sandoval is being able to observe the entire jungle with a panoramic view. To do this, a few years ago they built a bridge 30 meters high where you can appreciate the immensity of the lake and its surroundings.

Meet strange animals:
In addition to the fish that live in Lake Sandoval and the monkeys that will climb on your back, this place has countless animals as neighbors. Some of them are completely unknown to tourists, for example, the Hoatzines or the giant otter, so always go with your eyes wide open, because you do not know when you will find a new species around you.

Located throughout the reserve, multiple clay licks or natural clay formations attract birds and mammals, giving visitors a wonderful view of the diversity of birds with plumage of different colors. As well as the set of sounds that emanate from this area.

The Chuncho and Colorado Macaw Clay Lick is a paradise for birds and other mammals in the national reserve, where different species of birds arrive after sunrise to enjoy the mineral salts.

Green, blue, red and yellow macaws, parrots and parakeets fly by in their hundreds, creating a colorful and cacophonous spectacle that is truly a wonder to behold. If visiting a clay lick is your priority on an excursion to Tambopata, check with your travel agent beforehand to confirm that excursions are available.

The place is located on the border between tropical humid forest and subtropical humid forest, at 250 m.a.s.l. and with an annual rainfall of 3200 mm. The dry season extends between the months of April and October, with an average monthly rainfall of 90 to 250 mm.
The clay lick is a clay bank, 500 m long and 25 to 30 m high, along the western bank of the Alto Tambopata River approximately 1 km from the research center. The ravine is formed by erosion caused by the Tambopata River. The clay lick soils are rich in clay with high cation exchange capacity and high levels of sodium.
Seasonal patterns are similar throughout the year, with a period of highest usage during the months of July through January, and a period of lowest usage during the months of February through June. These patterns are similar to those observed in other clay licks within the region, which suggests that there is an environmental influence during the year. This is also related to annual rainfall, which determines fruit growth patterns and food availability.

Clay deposits are found in different ecosystems on the planet, but they are more relevant in the Amazon because the greatest amount of soil is acidic, for this reason in the Amazonian forests, the clay licks are highly frequented by various species. of animals, highlighting mammals and birds.
In some sectors, especially when the clay licks are located in the riverbed, they become a great tourist attraction, especially due to the visit of colorful birds such as macaws and other species of parrots.

The diet in psittacines is relatively diverse, they feed on fruits, berries, seeds and nuts, as well as seeds and green fruits, those with a hard and spiny shell, or those that are poisonous and contain toxins (caffeine, tannins, quinine, nicotine, etc. ) that serve as a defense against the consumption of birds simulates the digestive process by adding toxins and clay with different CIC (Cation Exchange Capacity)
Instead, their results indicate that the main reason for geophagy is toxin adsorption, as alkaloids (positively charged toxins) bind to cation exchange sites (negatively charged) on clay particles. Approximately 100 mg of quinine alkaloid are adsorbed per gram of clay consumed.

This mechanism could be associated with gastrointestinal protection, since the presence of clay in the intestine increases secretion and improves the ability of mucosal barriers to protect the lining of the intestine from chemical attack.

On the other hand, in subsequent studies, the selection of soils would be based mainly on the sodium content, necessary in the diet for osmotic balance and nerve transmission functions. Birds could be using the dense and plastic textures of saline soils rich in clays with a high content of exchangeable sodium.
Apart from the biochemical aspects, social interactions are also a reason to visit the clay licks, the birds could be arriving only to interact with members of the same species, find a mate or to learn new food resources in the case of juveniles.

The Psittaciformes are a diverse order, distributed mainly in Australia, the Neotropics (from southern America and northern Mexico to the southern tip of Brazil in South America), tropical Africa, and Asia. It encompasses around 353 different species divided into two families:
Cacatuidae and Psittacidae, the latter groups macaws, parrots and parakeets, all with the common characteristic of a curved beak. In Peru, 52 species of psittacines represent the diversity of this group.
The individuals are particularly colorful, the sizes are variable, it has a range of 8 – 10 cm to 1 m in length, in Peru the largest macaw, A. chloropterus, has an approximate size of 90 cm and a weight of 1.05 to 1.32 kg
in the adult stage. Most of them live in forest habitats and therefore are exceptionally arboreal, their diet can be generalist, made up of parts of plants with a wide dietary flexibility that allows them to expand their distribution, and specialist in a few cases, such as that of the macaw Anodorhynchus leari, which conditions a small habitat range.
Generally they are gregarious for at least part of the year, either in small flocks or pairs, they are mainly monogamous and in the case of many large species they mate for life, they show a complex organization. The female usually raises the chicks and often the male is responsible for feeding her in the nest, there is little sexual dimorphism between the sexes, they raise the chicks inside tree cavities, and the availability of these nests is a limiting factor in reproduction. because very few species build nests.

It’s one thing to explore the jungle at ground level, where the trees stand like cathedrals wrapped in lush greenery. It is a totally different world at the level of the tree canopy, 25 to 40 meters above the ground, with an endless forest that stretches before your eyes like a lush green sea. The fruits and flowers attract birds and small animals, which nest there to stay safe from larger predators. Monkeys swing from the branches, leaving a green whisper in their wake. You can witness this wonderful natural life by visiting Tambopata, where a handful of lodges near Puerto Maldonado have canopy towers, platforms, suspension bridges, and zip lines.

Numerous jungle tribes live in the virgin forests of the department of Madre de Dios, such as the Eje Esa, the Harakbut and the Matsigenka, Huarayos, Mashcos, and Arasaris, among others, whom you can visit and learn more about their customs and way of living. life.
This native population has many myths and legends, and a great diffusion of folk medicine and quackery based on the large number of medicinal plants that exist. Visit the communities and live with them so you can experience experiential tourism. You can even participate in the ancient medicinal ritual of ayahuasca.
One of the most enriching experiences when you visit the Amazon is to delve into the culture and customs of the indigenous communities that live here. Although there are some that still have no contact with society, most of them are fully familiar with civilization and are used to receiving visits from tourists.