Sandoval Lake: Trekking and Amazonian Adventure

🧭 Description

Located in the heart of the Tambopata National Reserve, Lake Sandoval is one of the most impressive destinations in the Peruvian jungle. This day tour combines trekking through the virgin forest, canoeing, wildlife observation, and an Amazonian gastronomic experience. Ideal for travelers who are short on time but want a deep connection with nature, this tour will allow you to discover unique species, unspoiled landscapes, and experience a day full of excitement and learning.

☀️Day 1: Puerto Maldonado – Tambopata National Reserve – Sandoval Lake – Return

• Pickup at your hotel and depart for adventure

The tour begins with pickup from your hotel in Puerto Maldonado, a city known as the “Biodiversity Capital of Peru.” From there, we’ll head to the river port, where we’ll board a boat bound for the Tambopata National Reserve, home to the famous Sandoval Lake, one of the richest wildlife ecosystems in the entire Peruvian Amazon.

• Navigation on the Madre de Dios River

For approximately 30 minutes, we’ll cruise along the majestic Madre de Dios River, enjoying a landscape teeming with life. Along the way, you’ll be able to observe riverside birds such as herons, cormorants, and kingfishers. Our naturalist guide will share information about the flora, fauna, and ecological importance of this protected area, considered an ecotourism gem in Peru.

• Start of the hike in the Amazon rainforest

Once we arrive at the reserve’s entrance dock, we’ll begin a 3 km hike (approximately 1.5 hours) along a trail surrounded by giant trees and lush vegetation. During the tour, the guide will explain the biodiversity of the rainforest, explaining the medicinal uses of plants and the habits of species such as howler monkeys, capuchins, sloths, morpho butterflies, and birds such as toucans and macaws.

• Canoe Ride on Lake Sandoval

Upon arriving at Lake Sandoval, we’ll embark on a traditional paddle canoe to explore its calm waters surrounded by aguajale palm trees. This magical environment is home to giant otters, black caimans, hoatzins, herons, and other unique Amazonian species.
The silence of the lake, accompanied by the natural sounds of the forest, will make you feel the purest essence of the rainforest.

• Picnic Lunch by the Lake

After the tour, we’ll enjoy a picnic lunch prepared with local ingredients. This is the perfect time to relax, take photographs, and enjoy the Amazonian breeze surrounded by stunning natural panoramas.

• Wildlife Exploration and Observation

After lunch, we’ll continue the experience with an additional tour around the lake, where families of giant otters, endemic birds, and caimans are often seen resting on the shores. The guide will share fascinating facts about the behavior of these species and their importance to the ecological balance.

• Return along the Amazonian Trails

In mid-afternoon, we’ll begin the return hike along the same trail. The jungle changes its atmosphere as the sun sets, providing new opportunities to observe diurnal animals returning to their shelters or birds beginning their evening ritual.

• Return to Puerto Maldonado

Upon arrival at the dock, we’ll board the boat back to Puerto Maldonado, sailing while we contemplate the Amazonian sunset reflected in the Madre de Dios River. Estimated arrival is around 5:30 PM, with final transfer to your hotel.

✅ What’s included in the tour?

🧭 Transportation and transfers

1. 🛶 Transfer by motorized boat along the Madre de Dios River to the entrance of the Tambopata National Reserve.
2. 🚶 Guided hike of 3 km (round trip) along official access trails to Sandoval Lake.
3. 🛶 Return by motorized boat to Puerto Maldonado at the end of the day.

🏕️ Service and assistance

1. 👨‍🏫 Local guide specialized in Amazonian flora, fauna, and ecology.
2. 📣 Educational explanations and environmental interpretation during the trek and navigation.
3. 📍 Permanent accompaniment and assistance throughout the tour.
4. 🆘 First aid kit on the boat and in the lodge area.

🍽️ Meals and rest

1. 🍛 Typical Amazonian lunch in the lodge area, prepared with fresh ingredients and local recipes.

🌿 Included activities and experiences

1. 🥾 Interpretive walk through the Amazon rainforest (possibility of spotting monkeys, birds, reptiles, and flora).
2. 🦜 Observation of tropical birds and wildlife in their natural habitat.
3. 📸 Photo opportunities during the trek and boat ride.
4. 🌅 Direct contact with the Amazonian ecosystem: sounds, aromas, and biodiversity.

❌ What’s not included?

✈️ External transportation

1. ❌Domestic or international flights to/from Puerto Maldonado.
2. ❌Transfer from your accommodation to the meeting point (please inquire if you wish to add this service).

🧴 Personal items and equipment

• ❌Insect repellent (recommended with DEET or a natural formula).
• ❌Eco-friendly and biodegradable sunscreen.
• ❌Appropriate jungle clothing: pants, shirts, sturdy footwear, a waterproof poncho, etc.
• ❌Flashlight or headlamp, in case of cloudy or low-light conditions.
• ❌Camera or binoculars (optional, but recommended).

📶 Additional services

1. ❌Internet connection or mobile signal (the reservation does not have coverage).
2. ❌Portable chargers or extra batteries (we suggest bringing a power bank if you need additional power).
3. ❌Wi-Fi in the reserve area (unplugged travel is recommended).

💼 Other items not included

1. ❌Personal travel or medical insurance (recommended to purchase before the tour).
2. ❌Voluntary tips for the guide, kitchen staff, or crew (not mandatory, but welcome).
3. ❌Alcoholic beverages or snacks other than the included lunch.
4. ❌Additional activities not described in the itinerary or required outside of the agreed-upon schedule.

🌟 Recommendations

🎒 What to pack in your backpack

• 🎒 Small daypack or backpack: to carry essentials for hiking and boating.
• 👕 Lightweight, long-sleeved clothing: protection from the sun, mosquitoes, and branches in the jungle.
• 👖 Long pants (preferably quick-drying).
• 🧦 Comfortable, high-knee socks: ideal if you wear rubber boots.
• 🧢 Cap or wide-brimmed hat: protection from the sun.
• 🧥 Poncho or raincoat: essential if traveling between November and March.
• 🥾 Hiking shoes or sturdy boots: the trail may be wet or muddy.
• 🩱 Swimwear and microfiber towel: if you decide to swim in the lake (in a safe area).
• 🦟 Insect repellent with DEET or a natural formula.
• 🧴 Biodegradable sunscreen.
• 🔦 Flashlight or headlamp, in case the tour extends into low-light areas.
• 💧 Reusable water bottle (purified water is also provided).
• 📸 Camera or cell phone with extra battery.
• 🔋 Power bank, if you want to keep your devices charged.
• 📖 Notebook, binoculars, or a wildlife guide if you enjoy birdwatching.

🧠 Practical and behavioral tips

• 🚫 Do not use perfumes or strong-scented creams, as they attract insects or repel wildlife.
• 📵 Disconnect from your cell phone and connect with the jungle: there’s no signal, and that’s the best part!
• 🐾 Do not touch or feed wild animals.
• 🗣️ Always follow the naturalist guide’s instructions.
• 🍽️ Inform in advance if you have food allergies or a special diet.
• 🧼 Take your trash back; the jungle doesn’t have urban garbage dumps.
• 🕷️ Do not enter unauthorized areas: there are delicate or dangerous animals and plants.
• 🎁 Bring cash if you want to tip the guide or buy local crafts afterward.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

📅 Can this tour be done year-round?

Yes, Lake Sandoval can be visited year-round. However, during the dry season (April to October), the weather is more stable, there is less mud, and sightings are more frequent. During the rainy season (November to March), the jungle is greener and more vibrant, but there is higher humidity and intermittent rain.

🦜 What animals can be observed during the tour?

With a bit of luck, you might see:

1. 🐒 Capuchin monkeys, howler monkeys, squirrel monkeys, or woolly monkeys.
2. 🐊 Black and white caimans.
3. 🦦 Giant otters or giant river otters.
4. 🦜 Tropical birds such as hoatzins, herons, toucans, and parrots.
5. 🦋 Morpho butterflies, frogs, and tarantulas.

Nature is unpredictable, but Lake Sandoval is one of the best places for wildlife viewing in Peru.

🧼 Where is lunch and what type of food is offered?

Lunch is served at a lodge located near Lake Sandoval. Amazonian dishes such as juane, salads, local side dishes, and natural drinks are offered. Vegetarian or vegan options are also available upon request.

🚶 Is the hike to the lake difficult?

The hike is 3 kilometers (approximately 1 hour) over flat terrain. It is not technical, but during the rainy season it can be muddy or wet. It is recommended to wear appropriate footwear and walk slowly. The guide will adjust the pace according to the group.

🛶 Is canoeing safe?

Yes, traditional canoes are stable and safe, and are operated by experienced guides. Life jackets are provided upon request. The lake waters are calm and shallow in the area navigated.

📶 Is there internet or cell phone service on the tour?

No. Once we enter the Tambopata National Reserve, there is no service. It is an ideal place to disconnect from digital reality and reconnect with nature.

💉 Do I need vaccinations for this tour?

It is not mandatory, but the yellow fever vaccine is recommended, especially if you will be traveling to other Amazonian or border areas. Consult with your health center.

🧳 Can I bring all my luggage?

It is not required. Bring only a daypack with the essentials. You can leave your large luggage in safekeeping at your accommodation in Puerto Maldonado or at our office if necessary.