Day Eco-Tour, Catamaran Lake Rowing & Wildlife Observation
Best Season
All year round
Meals Included
Artisan Amazonian lunch wrapped in bijao leaves (Juane) with fresh fruit juices
Physical Level
Easy
Jungle Lodge
Day excursion starting and ending in Puerto Maldonado
Altitude / Zone
180 m – 250 m
Expedition Summary
Short on time but eager to witness the wonders of the Amazon? The Lake Sandoval Full Day Adventure packs the quintessential rainforest experience into an expertly coordinated single-day expedition from Puerto Maldonado.
Travel by motorized boat down the mighty Madre de Dios River, hike beneath the primary forest canopy of Tambopata National Reserve, and row across the calm, glassy waters of Lake Sandoval. Encounter playful families of endangered Giant River Otters, prehistoric Hoatzin birds, wild squirrel monkeys, and basking river caimans before enjoying an authentic traditional Amazonian lunch served on the water.
Discover what makes this Amazon rainforest expedition unique
Why You'll Love This Tour
Complete Amazon Day Outing: Combines river boating, primary forest trekking, and peaceful lake rowing in one streamlined day.
Giant River Otter Encounters: High probability of watching resident giant river otter families hunting fish on the lake.
Authentic Amazonian Gastronomy: Enjoy a traditional Juane (seasoned chicken and rice steamed in wild bijao leaves) served with tropical juices.
Prime Wildlife Viewing: Spot brown capuchins, squirrel monkeys, cormorants, herons, and basking caimans along the shoreline.
Convenient Daily Departures: Perfect for travelers with a free day in Puerto Maldonado before or after jungle lodge stays.
You do not need multiple days to experience the profound magic of the Amazon. Lake Sandoval’s unique geography allows travelers based in Puerto Maldonado to access world-class primary rainforest within just 90 minutes of departure.
This full-day excursion is designed for active nature lovers, families, and photographers who want a focused, high-yield wildlife day. Traveling in small groups with our certified bilingual naturalist guide, you will explore the lake’s rich shoreline habitats by silent wooden rowboat, tracking animal calls and learning about the medicinal plants that sustain local indigenous cultures.
By late afternoon, you return comfortably to Puerto Maldonado with unforgettable memories and wildlife photographs.
Expedition Highlights
Starting Point: Hotel or airport pickup in Puerto Maldonado at 08:00 AM
Ending Point: Drop-off in Puerto Maldonado by 05:00 PM
Distance: 25 minutes motorized river navigation + 5 km trail walk each way
Rowboat Time: Approx. 2.5 to 3 hours of quiet lake rowing and wildlife scanning
Meals: Authentic Amazonian packed lunch, fresh fruits, and drinking water
Physical Demand: Easy to Moderate (total 10 km flat trail walking during the day)
Wildlife & Scenery Summary
08:00 AM: Pickup from your Puerto Maldonado hotel or airport.
08:30 AM: Motorized boat ride down the Madre de Dios River to reserve checkpoint.
09:15 AM: Guided 5 km nature hike through primary rainforest to Lake Sandoval.
11:00 AM – 02:00 PM: Rowboat wildlife safari on Lake Sandoval; giant otters, monkeys, and lunch on the water.
02:30 PM: Return hike through the forest trail to the river.
04:00 PM: Motorized boat back to Puerto Maldonado.
05:00 PM: Drop-off at your hotel or airport.
Detailed Day-by-Day Itinerary
A step-by-step breakdown of your journey through the Peruvian Amazon
We pick you up at 08:00 AM from your hotel or the airport in Puerto Maldonado and transfer to the local river port. We board our motorized riverboat for a 25-minute journey down the Madre de Dios River, observing waterbirds and shoreline vegetation.
We disembark at the official checkpoint of the Tambopata National Reserve. After registration, we begin our 5-kilometer (approx. 1.5-hour) hike along a shaded forest trail beneath a towering canopy of Brazil nut trees, kapoks, and walking palms. Our naturalist guide points out medicinal plants, colorful butterflies, and troops of brown capuchin monkeys foraging overhead.
Reaching the lake canal, we board a stable wooden rowboat and paddle through flooded palm forests onto the magnificent expanse of Lake Sandoval. For the next three hours, we explore the secluded shoreline bays. We search for the resident clan of Giant River Otters (Pteronura brasiliensis), prehistoric Hoatzin birds, horned screamers, black caimans, and river turtles.
We enjoy an authentic Amazonian lunch—traditional Juane wrapped in fragrant bijao leaves, accompanied by fresh tropical fruits and cold drinks—while relaxing in the shade of shoreline palms.
In the afternoon, we row back across the lake and retrace our steps along the forest trail to the river. Our motorized boat returns us to Puerto Maldonado, arriving by 05:00 PM with direct drop-off at your hotel or the airport.
What's Included & Excluded
Transparency is our core commitment. No hidden fees or surprises.
— Included in Price
Official National Reserve Admission: Full admission ticket to Tambopata National Reserve.
Certified Bilingual Naturalist Guide: Licensed local English-Spanish speaking guide.
All Transportation: Motorized riverboat, wooden rowboat, and round-trip town van transfers.
Traditional Amazonian Lunch: Authentic Juane wrapped in bijao leaves, fresh fruit, and drinks.
Safety Gear: Certified life jackets and comprehensive first aid kit.
Luggage Storage: Secure luggage storage in Puerto Maldonado during the tour.
— Not Included
Breakfast and dinner.
Alcoholic beverages and soft drinks.
Tips for guide and boat captain.
Personal travel insurance.
Pricing, Tiers & Policies
Per person rates based on group size and cabin options
Day Tour Rates (USD per person):
Group Service (2 – 10 travelers): $120 USD per person
Private Service (2 travelers): $190 USD per person
Private Service (4+ travelers): $140 USD per person
Includes official SERNANP Tambopata National Reserve admission fee ($20 USD value).
Luggage: You only need a small daypack for this tour. Free secure storage for large suitcases is provided at our Puerto Maldonado office.
Traveler Guide & FAQs
Important advice on vaccines, currency, flights, and weather
Climate: Warm and tropical year-round (28°C – 32°C). High humidity. The forest canopy provides continuous shade during the trail walk.
Safety: Lake waters are calm with no rapids. Rowboats are wide and stable. Certified life vests are provided for all passengers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can children join this day tour? A: Yes! Active children aged 6 and up who are comfortable walking 5 kilometers on flat trails will thoroughly enjoy the boat rides and wildlife spotting.
Q: What if it rains? A: Tropical rain showers are a natural part of the rainforest. Tours operate normally with rain ponchos; rain often brings out active amphibians and cooling relief.
What to Bring into the Amazon
Recommended gear, clothing, and repellent to make your trip comfortable
Lightweight long-sleeve shirt and comfortable trekking pants or shorts.
Sturdy walking shoes or trail runners with good traction.
DEET 30%+ insect repellent and high-SPF sunscreen.
Wide-brim sun hat and sunglasses.
Light rain poncho in case of passing tropical showers.
Binoculars (8×42 or 10×42) and camera with telephoto lens.
Refillable water bottle (at least 1.5 liters).
Reserve Your Spot
Direct operator booking • Instant confirmation assistance
Rescheduling of tours is possible, as long as they are requested well in advance, except for specific third-party attractions or services which have specific policies.
Failure of the passenger to show up at the indicated place and time will result in the total loss of the service, with no right to reimbursement.
Cancellations or withdrawals of contracted services are not refundable.
INKAMAZONIA TOUR OPERATOR E.I.R.L. reserves the right to modify or change these policies according to Peruvian tourism law and safety standards.
Weather & Remote Location Conditions
Weather conditions and remote locations are combined physical factors that can make this activity a bit more challenging than it normally would be. On certain days, we will have to do our walks with tropical rain.
Be prepared to face large rivers in small motorboats and taste unique traditional food from the Amazonian region.
Usually, you do not need to be a tourist with extensive hiking experience, as the attraction elevation is approximately 500 meters above sea level and the terrain is not very steep.
Wildlife Sightings & Natural Habitat
The probability of seeing wildlife is varied since there are days when we have more opportunities than others.
Remember that this expedition enters a completely wild place where animals are not confined and are not always in the same location.
The best recommendation is to have plenty of patience and maintain teamwork with your route guide and boat crew.
Travel Advice & Insurance
All passengers are advised to purchase travel insurance covering remote Amazon areas, emergency medical assistance, delays, and evacuation.
Original passport is mandatory for control checkpoints at National Parks and Biosphere Reserves.
Please report any dietary requirements, allergies, or physical restrictions to your trip coordinator prior to departure.
Have specific questions regarding dates or flexible booking policies? We are available 24/7.
Important Reservation Notes: Prices are in US Dollars per person based on shared double/twin room accommodation. A deposit of 30% is required to guarantee your departure date. Please ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months from entry to Peru.
Verified Travelers
TripAdvisor Traveler Reviews
Read genuine experiences and candid impressions shared by travelers who explored the Amazon rainforest with Inka Amazonia.
No reviews found.
Other Expeditions in Tambopata Tours
Continue exploring the wonders of Peru with our hand-picked Amazon adventures and cultural journeys.
Short on time but refuse to miss the world’s greatest rainforest? The 2-Day Sandoval Lake Getaway is designed...
EXCELENTE
A base de 36 reseñas
Publicado en Tripadvisor
Müller
Verificada
Una experiencia única en la naturaleza Participamos en una gira de 7 días por el Parque Nacional Manu. Esta fue una gran experiencia para nosotros. Nuestro guía Lincol nos explicó todo muy bien y pudimos admirar y conocer muchos animales y plantas. Recomendamos este tour a todos los que les gusta descubrir nuevos lugares en la naturaleza.
Publicado en Tripadvisor
Victor N
Verificada
Excursion au Parc National de Manu J'ai fait une excursion de 3 jours au parc national de Manu avec Lincol et ses aides de camp, super expérience ! Nous avons pu voir plein d'oiseaux, colorés ou non, et même un capybara. La jungle est vraiment magnifique. Je recommande :)
Publicado en Tripadvisor
Arianna C
Verificada
Relax e natura! Esperienza di relax e immersione nella natura! Il parco del Manu è una zona molto bella e poco frequentata dell’Amazzonia Peruviana che offre la possibilità di esplorare in tranquillità la flora e la fauna del posto. Lincol guida top!
Publicado en Tripadvisor
Clara J
Verificada
Inolvidable Desde el principio el viaje a la selva fue interesantísimo. Lincoln es un guía profesional que tiene un conocimiento abrumador de la naturaleza, siempre había alrededor algo nuevo que aprender. La observación de los animales en su hábitat es imprevisible y emocionante, tanto el guía como el resto del equipo están atentos para intentar no perder nada. Especial atención al gran conductor Percy y al excelente cocinero Wilfredo, que nos tenía comidas deliciosas preparadas cuando volvíamos de las observaciones. Los paisajes, la vida de la selva, los colores y los sonidos… inolvidable.
Publicado en Tripadvisor
Mar A
Verificada
Insuperable, la mejor experiencia Quiero recordar este viaje no solo por todo lo que vimos, sino por cómo nos hicieron vivirlo. El Manu es un lugar impresionante por sí solo, pero Lincoln consiguió que lo entendiéramos de otra manera: no se limitaba a señalar animales o plantas, sino que nos explicaba cómo encajaba todo, por qué era importante y qué historias había detrás. Su entusiasmo es de esos que se contagian. Percy, nuestro conductor, también hizo el viaje mucho más especial. Siempre estaba de buen humor, era muy amable y tenía una capacidad increíble para detectar aves a lo lejos antes que nadie. Y Wilfredo nos cuidó muchísimo con la comida: todo estaba buenísimo y agradecí especialmente que tuviera siempre en cuenta que soy vegetariana. Más allá de la organización y de todo lo que aprendimos, me quedo con la sensación de haber compartido unos días con personas que realmente aman ese lugar y disfrutan enseñándoselo a los demás. Nos trataron con una cercanía y una generosidad enormes. Volví con muchísimas imágenes en la cabeza, pero sobre todo con muchas más ganas de proteger y entender la naturaleza
Publicado en Tripadvisor
María F
Verificada
Una experiencia inolvidable!!! Nos adentramos al Manu en una excursión con Lincoln y se convirtió en una experiencia inolvidable. Observamos muchísimas aves, flora y otros animales como serpientes, tarántulas y monos. El paseo por el río y la caminata nocturna fueron increíbles. Nos quedamos con un recuerdo increíble del guía porque nos explicó todo con muchísimo detalle y amabilidad y nos permitió tener un acercamiento a la selva respetuoso y emocionante. También me gustaría dejar una mención especial a nuestro estupendo conductor, Persy, y cocinero, Wilfredo, que hicieron que la experiencia fuese todavía mejor. Muchísimas gracias a Lincol y a todo el equipo. Lo recomiendo al 100.
Publicado en Tripadvisor
Jet41730913153
Verificada
Stunning Hummingbirds Beautiful place, so many different Hummingbirds- the very special and beautiful tiny Rufous-crested Coquette, the Reddish Hermit, White-necked Jacobin, and the Sword-billed Hummingbird, as well as Tanagers, you see them close up and flying around you! We were also lucky enough to see monkeys climbing and eating whilst we were there and a gorgeous Emerald Tree Boa. The people here have changed from farming, to conserving the wildlife in this wonderful cloud forest. They are educating visitors about the birdlife here. Lincol was our guide here and in Manu where we saw a Leopard, an Anaconda, Tarantulas, Bush master snakes, Black and White Cayman, numerous birds, and cute Capybara, and turtles.
Publicado en Tripadvisor
Kiara G
Verificada
Un viaje increíble al Manu Pasamos 4 días increíbles en el Manu. Las actividades estuvieron muy bien organizadas, la comida fue variada y deliciosa, y los lodges fueron cómodos. Todo el equipo fue muy amable e hizo que la experiencia fuera muy agradable. Disfrutamos muchísimo del viaje y sin duda volveríamos. ¡Muy recomendado!
Publicado en Tripadvisor
Teri A
Verificada
Amazing Inkamazonia 7-day Manu Bioreserve Tour! A friend and I recently enjoyed the 7-day tour of Manu Biosphere Reserve with Inkamazonia. Roger Huaman Guipia was our guide. What an extraordinary journey into the amazing diversity of life and native culture in Manu National Park. Inkamazonia delivers 100% on their promises. The tour was well organized by Lincol Huamantupa Chuquimaco with excellent transportation and accommodations. The meals, prepared by our chef/cook Alex were delicious, healthy, plentiful, and accommodated our food restrictions. Roger is a skilled and knowledgeable guide; excellent at spotting, identifying, and teaching us about the multitude of birds, monkeys, caimans, otters, tapirs, capybaras, trees, flowers and other species. He is a wealth of knowledge about the Manu ecosystem and native culture and is a true educator. Roger is also multilingual fluent in Spanish, English, and native languages. We saw and learned so much! The whole team of Roger, Alex, Juan and Remy (boat operators) were all excellent at spotting wildlife. Some highlights of the tour included Lincol’s family Inkamazonia Orchid and Hummingbird Ecological Center, two trips to see the Giant Otters at the oxbow lake, the beautiful grounds and trails at Hummingbird Lodge, and the last night stay at the Tapir lick platform - an amazing night in the rainforest, and we were lucky to see and hear tapirs as well as monkeys and birds. Jenny and her family provided very comfortable accommodations. I felt safe and comfortable the entire trip. I greatly appreciate Inkamazonia’s focus on traveling lightly on the earth, protecting the bioreserve, and supporting local native communities through responsible tourism. I highly recommend Inkamazonia!
Publicado en Tripadvisor
walburga23
Verificada
Una experiencia excellente! Estoy muy contenta y agradecida! Just amazing and highly recommended to who wants to immerse in the selva! The 7 day trip to Manu with Inkamazonia has been one of the best experiences ever. The organization of Lincol was perfect, our guide Roger was very knowledgable, attentive and caring, the cooking of Alex (with the support of the experienced boatsmen Juan and Remy) was undescribably good and adjusted to special needs. We saw a lot of wildlife, more than we expected! All the chosen lodges and the tapir observation platform were great places to spend the nights, especially as they supported the local people and economy. Thanks to the whole staff!!!
