Nestled within the breathtaking Tambopata National Reserve, Lake Sandoval stands as a pristine jewel of the Peruvian Amazon. This oxbow lake, formed centuries ago by the meandering Madre de Dios River, will transport you into a world teeming with wildlife and untouched beauty. On our Half-Day Lake Sandoval Tour, we will embark on an immersive jungle adventure, where the echoes of nature replace the noise of modern life.
Our journey will begin in Puerto Maldonado, the gateway to the Amazon, where the dense rainforest meets winding waterways. As we set off, the mighty Madre de Dios River will guide us toward the entrance of the reserve. A gentle trek through the lush tropical forest will bring us to the lake’s edge, where the still waters reflect the towering palm trees and the golden hues of the morning or afternoon sun. The air will be filled with the calls of exotic birds, the rustling of the canopy, and the occasional splash of a caiman slipping beneath the surface.
Lake Sandoval is home to an extraordinary variety of wildlife. With every stroke of our paddles, we will glide silently across the mirror-like waters, spotting playful giant river otters, elegant hoatzins perched among the reeds, and troops of squirrel monkeys leaping through the branches. Black caimans, once on the brink of extinction, will rest along the shores, while vibrant macaws and toucans paint the sky with flashes of red, yellow, and blue. If fortune smiles upon us, we may even witness a family of howler monkeys announcing their presence with their deep, resonant calls.
The Half-Day Lake Sandoval Tour is designed to maximize your time in the Amazon while offering an intimate connection with one of its most spectacular ecosystems. Every moment on the lake will provide an opportunity to appreciate the delicate balance of life in this remote paradise. Our expert guides will share insights into the region’s biodiversity, revealing the secrets of the rainforest and its countless inhabitants.
As the tour comes to an end, we will retrace our steps through the jungle, carrying with us memories of an unforgettable encounter with nature. The return journey will offer a final chance to absorb the serenity of the rainforest, leaving you with a deep appreciation for one of the most biodiverse places on Earth.
Lake Sandoval is more than a destination; it is an experience that will awaken your senses and ignite your passion for the natural world. Whether you are a wildlife enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply seeking a moment of tranquility in the heart of the Amazon, this tour will leave a lasting impression.
We will begin our journey with a scenic boat ride from the hotel, making our way towards Lake Sandoval, a breathtaking oxbow lake nestled within the Tambopata National Reserve. Spanning three square kilometers (1.16 square miles), this pristine body of water reflects the untouched beauty of the Amazon, harboring an extraordinary diversity of flora and fauna.
Encircled by towering Mauritia palms that reach up to 30 meters (98 feet) high, as well as orchids, lupuna trees, and mahogany forests, Lake Sandoval offers a lush sanctuary for countless species. As we navigate its tranquil waters, we will observe an array of wildlife, from playful troops of monkeys swinging through the treetops to vibrant toucans, macaws, parrots, and herons gracing the skies. Among the lake’s most fascinating inhabitants is the peculiar hoatzin, locally known as the “shansho”, a prehistoric-looking bird with striking features.
Lake Sandoval also serves as a vital refuge for some of the Amazon’s most endangered species. We may have the rare opportunity to encounter the giant river otter, an agile and social predator known for its playful behavior, as well as the elusive black caiman, a powerful reptile that lurks along the lake’s edge. This immersive experience will bring us closer to the wonders of the Amazon, revealing the delicate balance that sustains this extraordinary ecosystem.
SCHEDULE
Morning 05:00 am – 11:00 am
Afternoon 2:00 pm – 07:00 pm
(Schedules may vary depending on the season)
