Short Amazon Safari, Paddle Canoeing & Nocturnal Wildlife Watching
Best Season
All year round
Meals Included
All meals included from Lunch Day 1 to Breakfast Day 2
Physical Level
Easy
Jungle Lodge
Sandoval Lake Eco-Lodge (rooms with private bathrooms and screened windows)
Altitude / Zone
180 m – 250 m
Expedition Summary
Short on time but refuse to miss the world’s greatest rainforest? The 2-Day Sandoval Lake Getaway is designed specifically for travelers seeking a compact, high-impact Amazon experience without spending multiple days in transit.
Departing from Puerto Maldonado, this overnight tour takes you directly into the protected heart of Tambopata National Reserve. Glide by silent rowboat across the pristine waters of Lake Sandoval, spot playful Giant River Otters and basking turtles, track glowing red caiman eyes on an evening water safari, and awaken to the calls of macaws feeding at sunrise.
Discover what makes this Amazon rainforest expedition unique
Why You'll Love This Tour
Maximum Amazon in 2 Days: Designed for travelers with limited time connecting between Cusco, Machu Picchu, and Lima.
Overnight Inside the Reserve: Stay at Sandoval Lake Lodge for magical dusk and dawn wildlife viewing.
Night Caiman Rowboat Safari: Thrilling evening excursion spotting black caimans by spotlight on the water.
Giant River Otter Watching: Excellent opportunities to observe endangered giant otters hunting fish in the lake.
Seamless Airport Coordination: Complimentary airport pickups and drop-offs synchronized with daily flights.
Even within 24 hours, the Amazon leaves an indelible mark. Located just 25 minutes by river and an easy trail walk from Puerto Maldonado, Lake Sandoval offers biodiversity comparable to deep wilderness regions hundreds of miles away.
By staying overnight at our lodge inside the reserve, you experience the two most biologically active windows in the rainforest: dusk, when caimans and nocturnal creatures emerge; and dawn, when macaws, monkeys, and otters begin their morning feeding.
Every aspect of this tour is seamlessly organized—from airport pickup and secure luggage storage to private boat transport and full-board dining—giving you maximum wildlife immersion with zero stress.
Expedition Highlights
Starting Point: Pickup at Puerto Maldonado Airport (PEM) or bus station before 12:00 PM on Day 1
Ending Point: Drop-off at Puerto Maldonado Airport by 12:30 PM on Day 2
Transport: Motorized riverboat and engine-free wooden rowboats
Lodging: 1 Night at Sandoval Lake Eco-Lodge (private bathroom, hot water)
Meals: 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner + tropical juices and drinking water
Difficulty: Easy (5 km flat trail walk each way)
Wildlife & Scenery Summary
Day 1: Puerto Maldonado to Lake Sandoval: Riverboat transfer; trail hike to lake; canoe crossing; afternoon wildlife row; nocturnal caiman safari.
Day 2: Sunrise Lake Paddle & Return: Sunrise rowboat excursion; breakfast at lodge; forest walk back to river; boat to Puerto Maldonado; airport transfer.
Detailed Day-by-Day Itinerary
A step-by-step breakdown of your journey through the Peruvian Amazon
We meet you upon arrival at Puerto Maldonado Airport (PEM) or the bus terminal. After storing large luggage at our central office, we transfer to the port and board our motorized boat down the Madre de Dios River.
We enter the Tambopata National Reserve and walk an easy 5-kilometer shaded trail through primary rainforest. Along the way, our naturalist guide introduces towering hardwood trees, medicinal plants, and active monkey troops.
At the lake edge, we board a wooden rowboat and paddle through a lush palm canal into the open waters of Lake Sandoval. We check into the lodge and enjoy a freshly prepared lunch. In the late afternoon, we take a relaxing rowboat excursion along the shoreline to observe giant river otters, hoatzins, and squirrel monkeys. After dinner, we set out on an exciting night safari to spot Black Caimans and nocturnal wildlife. Overnight at Sandoval Lake Eco-Lodge.
At 05:30 AM, we set out on a peaceful sunrise rowboat cruise. The early morning light offers prime viewing of macaws, parrots, and kingfishers, with a second opportunity to watch giant river otters fishing.
We return to the lodge for breakfast, pack our daypacks, and row back across the lake. We retrace our steps along the 5-kilometer forest trail to the Madre de Dios River, boarding our boat back to Puerto Maldonado.
We retrieve your stored luggage and transfer you directly to Puerto Maldonado Airport in time for afternoon flights to Lima or Cusco. End of services.
What's Included & Excluded
Transparency is our core commitment. No hidden fees or surprises.
— Included in Price
Official National Reserve Admission: Full entry ticket to Tambopata National Reserve & Lake Sandoval.
All Excursions: Daytime lake wildlife row, night caiman safari, and guided forest trail walks.
— Not Included
Domestic flights to/from Puerto Maldonado.
Day 2 lunch (can be arranged in town before your flight).
Alcoholic beverages and personal snacks.
Tips for guide and boat crew.
Pricing, Tiers & Policies
Per person rates based on group size and cabin options
Tour Rates (USD per person):
Group Service (2 – 10 travelers): $180 USD per person
Private Service (2 travelers): $280 USD per person
Private Service (4+ travelers): $210 USD per person
Single Room Supplement: $45 USD
Includes official SERNANP Tambopata National Reserve entry permit.
Timing: Recommended flight on Day 1: Arriving in Puerto Maldonado by 10:30 AM or 11:30 AM. Recommended flight on Day 2: Departing Puerto Maldonado after 01:00 PM.
Traveler Guide & FAQs
Important advice on vaccines, currency, flights, and weather
Quick Logistics: Puerto Maldonado is a brief 55-minute flight from Cusco, making this the easiest, most accessible Amazon add-on to any Machu Picchu trip.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Will I have enough time to catch my afternoon flight on Day 2? A: Yes! We arrive back in Puerto Maldonado by 11:30 AM – 12:00 PM, well in advance of all standard afternoon flights departing between 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM.
What to Bring into the Amazon
Recommended gear, clothing, and repellent to make your trip comfortable
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.
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EXCELENTE
A base de 36 reseñas
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Müller
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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.
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Victor N
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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
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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!!!
