Monkey Island & Kayak and Zipline Adventure

🧭 Description

Embark on an unforgettable adventure through the heart of the Peruvian Amazon with this comprehensive day tour that combines nature, adrenaline, and wildlife. The experience begins with a kayak ride along the calm waters of the Tambopata River, a unique opportunity to admire the river ecosystem and spot species such as turtles, tropical birds, and, with luck, the elusive capybaras.

The excitement escalates when you reach the canopy tour, where you can zipline from the treetops, enjoying panoramic views of the jungle. Then, after a well-deserved traditional lunch, we visit the famous Monkey Island, a natural sanctuary where various species of monkeys roam freely in a controlled and safe environment.

🗺️ Detailed Itinerary of the Monkey Island + Kayaking and Ziplining Tour | Puerto Maldonado

Embark on a unique adventure in the heart of the Peruvian Amazon, where the jungle comes alive and every activity awakens your senses. This full-day tour allows you to discover natural landscapes, participate in adventure sports, and interact with local wildlife in their natural habitat.

🏞️Day 1: Puerto Maldonado – Kayaking on the Madre de Dios River – Monkey Island – Jungle Adventure

• Meeting and departure to the pier (8:30 – 9:00 a.m.)

We begin the day with pickup from your hotel or meeting point in Puerto Maldonado, a city known as the Biodiversity Capital of Peru. Our tour will take you to the dock on the Madre de Dios River, where you’ll receive a brief safety briefing and an introduction to the natural environment of Tambopata, one of the most biodiverse regions in South America.

• Kayak Tour Start

Once equipped with a life jacket and paddle, begin your adventure by kayaking through the calm waters of the Madre de Dios River. This tour offers a direct connection to the Amazon rainforest. As you paddle, you’ll admire the intense green of the riverside vegetation and observe exotic birds such as herons, cormorants, and macaws soaring above the forest.
The experience combines excitement, serenity, and pure contact with nature.

• Hike to the Amazon Suspension Bridge

Our first stop will be at an adventure center located in the heart of the Tambopata rainforest. There, we’ll take a short hike to reach the suspension bridge, suspended high above the forest trees. Crossing it is a unique experience: you’ll feel the adrenaline rush while enjoying breathtaking panoramic views of the Amazon canopy. A perfect place to take photos and appreciate the immensity of the jungle.

• Zipline Adventure Over the Amazon Rainforest

After the bridge, you’ll experience one of the most exciting moments of the day: ziplining over the tropical forest. As you soar above the trees, you’ll feel the Amazonian breeze and contemplate the grandeur of the landscape. The entire tour is conducted with professional guides and certified equipment to ensure your safety.

• Sailing to Monkey Island

After the adventure activities, we’ll return to the kayaks and sail downriver toward Monkey Island, a natural sanctuary dedicated to the conservation and reintroduction of primates rescued from illegal trafficking. During the journey, the guides will share interesting stories about the Amazonian fauna and the work to protect species in this area of ​​the Tambopata National Reserve.

• Guided Tour of Monkey Island

Upon arrival at the sanctuary, we’ll begin an interpretive walk along the island’s trails. Here you can observe different species such as maquisapa monkeys, capuchins, squirrel monkeys, and monk monkeys, all living in the wild. The guide will explain the rescue, adaptation, and care processes these animals receive, as well as the value of responsible tourism in the conservation of the Amazon rainforest.
An educational and moving experience that promotes respect for nature.

• Refreshing Swim in the Madre de Dios River

After the tour, you will have the option to enjoy a natural swim in the cool waters of the Madre de Dios River. An ideal moment to relax, swim safely, and feel the pure connection with the Amazonian environment.

• Amazonian Lunch at a Local Restaurant

Upon returning, we will head to a typical restaurant in Puerto Maldonado where a regional lunch prepared with local ingredients awaits you. You will taste emblematic dishes of Amazonian cuisine such as fresh fish wrapped in bijao leaves, juane, or tacacho with cecina, accompanied by exotic natural juices.

• Return to Puerto Maldonado (approximately 5:30 p.m.)

In the afternoon, we begin our return to the city. During the final leg, you’ll enjoy the jungle landscape illuminated by the setting sun. Our estimated arrival time is around 5:30 p.m., marking the end of a day full of adventure, nature, and wildlife in the heart of Tambopata.

✅ What’s included in the tour?

✔️ Includes:

1. 🚐 Pickup and transfer from/to your hotel or arrival point in Puerto Maldonado.
2. 🚣‍♂️ Kayak trip on the Tambopata River
   Single or double boat, life jackets, paddles, and a specialized guide. Ideal for observing wildlife and relaxing with nature.
3. 🐒 Entrance to Monkey Island
   Guided access to the reserve, where different species of monkeys live in a semi-wild and protected state.
4. 🍛 Typical Amazonian lunch
   Choice of main course (fish, meat, or vegetarian depending on availability), natural juice, and side dishes. Prepared with fresh local produce.
5. 🌿 Specialized local guide
   Professional with knowledge of flora, fauna, and adventure activity management. Explanations in Spanish (other languages, please check availability).
6. 🧴 Basic first aid kit
   To respond to minor emergencies during the tour.
7. 🛶 Motorized boat navigation
   River transportation included on each section of the route.
8. 📷 Basic photography assistance (optional)
   The guide can assist you with taking photos at key moments upon request.

❌ What’s not included?

Despite being very comprehensive, there are certain services or personal expenses that are not included in this tour:

❌ Not included:

• ✈️ Airfare or ground transportation to Puerto Maldonado
  The tour starts and ends in the city, so transportation from Lima, Cusco, or other cities is not included.
• 🧴 Insect repellent, sunscreen, and personal items
  It is recommended that you bring these supplies on your own, as they are essential in the jungle.
• 💧 Additional bottled water or personal snacks
  Although lunch is provided, if you would like additional drinks or snacks during the adventure, you must bring them with you.
• 📸 Professional cameras or use of drones
  The use of drones is not permitted in some areas without authorization. Please inquire if you would like professional captures.
• 💰 Tips for guides or staff
  Tips are not mandatory, but are appreciated if you feel the service was excellent.
• 🏥 Travel insurance or private medical coverage
  It is recommended that you travel with personal insurance for any major eventualities.

🌿 Recommendations for the Monkey Island + Kayak Tour

Before embarking on this Amazonian experience, it’s important to keep in mind a few recommendations so you can enjoy the day to the fullest:

• 🧢 Wear light, breathable, and quick-drying clothing. Preferably neutral (not bright) colors to avoid disturbing the wildlife.
• 🦟 Use insect repellent before and during the tour. The jungle is a natural ecosystem, so mosquitoes are common.
• 🥾 Closed-toe shoes or sports sandals with good traction are ideal for hiking and canopy tours.
• 💧 Bring personal water in a reusable bottle. Although the tour includes lunch, staying hydrated is key during the tour.
• 📸 Protect your electronic devices with waterproof cases or sealed bags, especially for the kayaking section.
• ☀️ Don’t forget sunscreen and a cap or hat, especially while sailing.
• 🕶️ Sunglasses with a strap or lock to prevent them from falling off during adventure activities.
• 🏞️ Respect the animals and their space. Avoid feeding the monkeys or trying to touch them.
• 🎒 Bring a small, light backpack with only what you need for the day’s excursion.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

• Do I need previous experience kayaking or ziplining?

No, both activities are suitable for beginners. A safety briefing and ongoing assistance are provided beforehand. You only need to be in basic physical condition and have a willingness for adventure.

• What types of monkeys can be seen on Monkey Island?

It’s possible to observe capuchin monkeys, squirrel monkeys, tamarins, and macaques, among other species. They are accustomed to visitors but live in semi-freedom within a controlled environment.

• Is the tour suitable for children or seniors?

Yes, it is recommended for children over 6 years old and adults with limited mobility. It is not recommended for people with vertigo (on the zipline) or severe heart conditions.

• What happens if it rains during the tour?

The tour operates even in light rain, as long as it doesn’t pose a risk. It is recommended to bring a waterproof poncho or rain gear. In case of strong storms, some activities may be rescheduled or replaced.

• How long is the tour?

Approximately 8 full hours from pickup to drop-off in Puerto Maldonado (approximately 9:00 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.).

• Is swimming allowed during the tour?

Swimming is not allowed during this tour. Navigation is by kayak, and there are no swimming stops in the river for safety reasons.