🧭 Description

Immerse yourself in a unique experience sailing the calm waters of the Tambopata River at dusk. Aboard a motorized boat, you’ll marvel at the vibrant colors of the Amazonian sunset while exploring one of the richest ecosystems on the planet. This excursion invites you to discover the nocturnal wildlife of the jungle: capybaras resting on the shore, white caimans peeking out in the darkness, and tropical birds returning to their nests. All framed by the magic and mystery that only the Amazon can offer.

☀️Day 1: Puerto Maldonado – Sandoval Lake – Capybara Watching – Amazon Sunset

• Pickup at your hotel and transfer to the port

The adventure begins with pickup from your hotel in Puerto Maldonado, known as the gateway to the southern Peruvian jungle. Our tour bus will take you to the Tambopata National Reserve Port, while your guide shares information about the Amazon’s biodiversity and the ecological importance of this protected area.
During the journey, you’ll enjoy the jungle landscape and feel the city fade away, giving way to the silence of nature.

• Navigation on the Madre de Dios River

We begin a relaxing motorboat trip along the mighty Madre de Dios River, one of the most important arteries of the Peruvian jungle. As we travel, your naturalist guide will interpret the sounds of the tropical forest, identifying birds such as herons, parrots, kingfishers, and cormorants. This first encounter with the Amazon marks the beginning of an afternoon full of discoveries.

• Hike to Lake Sandoval

Upon arrival at the disembarkation point, we’ll begin a 45-minute hike along a trail surrounded by ancient trees, lush vegetation, and the chirping of Amazonian insects. During the tour, the guide will explain how Tambopata National Park protects one of the greatest concentrations of biodiversity on the planet. It’s also an excellent opportunity to observe butterflies, capuchin monkeys, and tapir tracks.

• Canoe Trip on Lake Sandoval

At the end of the trail, we arrive at the iconic Lake Sandoval, considered a natural gem of the Peruvian rainforest. We’ll board a traditional paddle canoe to navigate its calm waters surrounded by palm trees and aguajales. Along the way, you may spot howler monkeys, kingfishers, hoatzins, herons, and giant otters.
The reflection of the trees in the lake and the serene environment create a sense of deep calm, ideal for connecting with nature.

• Capybara Watching in Their Natural Habitat

As the sun sets, the lake shores come alive. This is the time when capybaras, the world’s largest rodents, come to the water to cool off. In families or groups, these charismatic animals can be seen resting or swimming near the vegetation.
The naturalist guide will explain their behavior, their role in the Amazonian ecosystem, and how they coexist with other species. It’s a perfect time for wildlife photography, thanks to the golden light of the sunset that highlights every detail.

• Amazon Sunset Watching

As the sun sets, the Tambopata sky is tinged with shades of gold, pink, and orange, reflecting off the mirror-like surface of Lake Sandoval. The atmosphere becomes magical: the birdsong, the murmur of the wind, and the glow of the horizon create an unforgettable experience.
This is the highlight of the tour, where visitors experience the serenity and pure beauty of the Amazon rainforest sunset.

• Return to Puerto Maldonado

After sunset, we’ll hike back along the same path to the pier. We’ll then board the boat to sail upriver under the starry Amazonian sky.
Upon arrival at the port, the tour bus will take you back to your hotel in Puerto Maldonado (estimated arrival time: approximately 5:30 p.m.).
The tour will end with unforgettable memories of an afternoon spent connected with nature and the magic of Lake Sandoval and Tambopata.

✅ What’s included in the tour?

🚐 Pickup from your accommodation in Puerto Maldonado (hotel, bus terminal, or airport).

🧭 Local wildlife guide with extensive knowledge of Amazonian biodiversity and experience in nighttime wildlife watching.

🚤 River transportation by motorized boat along the Tambopata River, with all safety measures in place.

🌅 Guided sunset tour to observe tropical birds, herons, and sloths.

🦫 Capybara sightings in their natural habitat, with a 90% chance of seeing them in family groups.

🔦 Individual nighttime lighting equipment (flashlights) for each participant.

💧 Personal water bottle to stay hydrated during the tour.

🦟 Natural mosquito repellent available for use before departure.

🆘 First aid kit on board.

💬 Interpretation of the observed wildlife and ecological data shared by the guide in real time.

⛑️ Certified life jackets for the entire river trip.

❌ What’s not included?

Although we’ve designed this tour to make it worry-free, there are certain aspects that are not included in the standard service:

✈️ Airfare or ground transportation to/from Puerto Maldonado.

🏨 Accommodation before or after the tour (although we can help you book it if needed).

🍽️ Meals before or after the tour (only water is included during the tour).

📷 Personal camera or binoculars (you can bring your own).

🧥 Additional clothing or personal equipment, such as ponchos, hats, or a change of clothes.

💰 Voluntary tips for the guide or driver (optional, but greatly appreciated if you enjoyed the service).

🧼 Personal hygiene items (not required on this short tour, but we recommend bringing insect repellent or wipes).

🚨 Travel or personal accident insurance (recommended for all travelers).

🎒 Recommendations for your Sunset & Capybara Watching Tour

To fully enjoy this experience in the Amazon rainforest at sunset, it’s important to keep these practical tips in mind:

👕 Comfortable clothing in neutral colors: Wear lightweight clothing, long sleeves, and long pants to protect yourself from mosquitoes without overheating. Avoid bright colors, which can scare away the animals.

🧴 Insect repellent: Bring eco-friendly repellent or one with DEET. In the jungle, mosquitoes tend to be more active at dusk.

👟 Appropriate footwear: Wear lightweight, non-slip sneakers or boots, preferably waterproof.

💧 Hydration: Although a water bottle is included, you can bring an additional reusable one to stay hydrated.

📸 Camera or cell phone with good battery life: This tour is ideal for nature photography. Bring your camera or a cell phone with good night vision capability.

🌄 No flash: Avoid using flash on animals, as it can scare them or alter their behavior.

🔦 Headlamp or flashlight: One is provided, but you can bring your own if you prefer more light.

🧘‍♂️ Stay calm and quiet: The more silent you are, the more animals you’ll be able to observe.

🛶 Avoid using strong perfumes: They can interfere with the natural environment and scare away wildlife.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

• What age group can I take this tour?

The tour is suitable for the whole family. It is recommended for children 6 and older, always under adult supervision. It is an excellent option for curious children or nature lovers.

• How likely is it to see capybaras during the tour?

Very high! The chances of sighting are over 90%. It is also common to see caimans, herons, nocturnal birds, and occasionally, sloths.

• Do you walk during the tour or is it all by boat?

The tour is entirely by boat on the Tambopata River. No walking is required, making it accessible for seniors or those with reduced mobility.

• Is it safe to navigate the river at night?

Yes. The boat has all the safety measures, life jackets, lights, and is driven by an experienced guide. Additionally, the cruise is carried out at slow speeds for peaceful observation.

• Can I bring snacks or drinks?

You may bring a small snack or fruit. The guide may also offer water on board. Alcohol and heavy meals are not recommended.

• What animals will I see besides capybaras?

During the tour, it is common to see white caimans, tropical birds, grey herons, orioles, toucans, bats, and nocturnal mammals such as the majaz.

• What happens if it rains?

The trip is not canceled due to light rain. If the weather is extreme or poses a risk, the operator will reschedule or refund the tour cost. Your safety is always guaranteed.