The wild waterways of Puerto Maldonado offer the Amazon’s most accessible paddling adventures, just a short flight from Cusco. These intimate river tours put you eye-level with the rainforest, where you’ll drift past howler monkeys and maybe spot a jaguar drinking at the shore. Half-day trips work well for beginners, while serious paddlers should consider 2-3 day expeditions deeper into the jungle.
I’m especially fond of the sunrise tours departing from Tambopata River – the morning mist creates perfect conditions for wildlife viewing, and the smaller crowds mean better chances of seeing rare species. The local guides are top-notch, mixing practical safety knowledge with fascinating cultural insights.
Every package includes essential gear, meals, and transportation. For the best value, look for tours that combine paddling with other activities like night hikes or canopy walks. Most memorable are the afternoon excursions that include piranha fishing and sunset caiman spotting.
Check out these carefully selected tours that showcase the best of Puerto Maldonado’s river adventures:
Key Points
-
Comprehensive 4-day, 3-night kayak tours in Puerto Maldonado provide opportunities to explore diverse ecosystems and wildlife, suitable for beginners and experienced paddlers.
-
Half-day and full-day canoeing and kayaking excursions offer unique access to the Amazon rainforest, including wildlife spotting, jungle hikes, and cultural experiences.
-
Adventure activities like piranha fishing, zip-lining, and wall climbing are available, with small group sizes for an intimate experience in the Amazon.
-
Knowledgeable guides, safety gear, and basic paddling instruction ensure a safe and immersive experience for canoe and kayak tours in Puerto Maldonado.
-
Eco-friendly tour operators promote sustainability and conservation efforts, allowing travelers to contribute to the preservation of the Amazon rainforest.
From Puerto Maldonado || Sandoval Lake 4D 3N || Kayak Tour
What better way to take in the lush Amazonian wilderness than a 4-day, 3-night kayak tour of Sandoval Lake from Puerto Maldonado? Priced from $410 per person, this adventure promises a journey through nature, complete with canoeing, kayaking, fishing, and wildlife spotting.
Explore Monkey Island, Sunset River, and Lake Yacumama, keeping an eye out for monkeys, birds, and caimans. The all-inclusive package covers transportation, lodging, meals, and a professional guide.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option, this tour makes for an accessible and worry-free exploration of the Peruvian Amazon.
Read our full review: From Puerto Maldonado || Sandoval Lake 4D 3N || Kayak Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Puerto Maldonado: 4 Days Kayak Tour
Immersing oneself in the lush Amazonian wilderness is an unparalleled experience, and the 4-day, 3-night kayak tour of Sandoval Lake from Puerto Maldonado offers just that.
The tour takes adventurers through the heart of the Tambopata National Reserve, where they’ll have the chance to spot monkeys, caimans, giant otters, and a diverse array of birds.
Canoeing, zip-lining, and piranha fishing add to the excitement. Accommodation, meals, and expert guides are all included, making this an all-inclusive getaway.
While not suitable for certain groups, the tour provides an immersive and unforgettable journey into the Amazon for those ready to embrace its wonders.
Read our full review: Puerto Maldonado: 4 Days Kayak Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Puerto Maldonado: Kayak Excursion | 4D3N
Kayaking through the lush Amazonian wilderness is a captivating adventure that awaits visitors to Puerto Maldonado.
The 4-day, 3-night kayak excursion offers a comprehensive exploration of the region’s natural wonders. Highlights include canoeing on Sandoval Lake, spotting monkeys and black caimans, and fishing for piranhas in Yacumama Lake.
Participants can also experience high canopy bridges, zip lines, and wall climbing. The tour is priced from $410 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
While not suitable for those with certain medical conditions, the excursion provides an immersive opportunity to learn about the local flora and fauna while engaging in thrilling outdoor activities.
Read our full review: Puerto Maldonado: Kayak Excursion | 4D3N Review
Book now: Check availability
Explore the Wonderful Puerto Maldonado on a 4 Day Kayak Tour
Exploring the wondrous Amazon rainforest through a 4-day kayak adventure in Puerto Maldonado promises an immersive experience for nature enthusiasts.
This tour limited to 10 participants allows you to discover the region’s diverse flora and fauna. Highlights include canoeing on Lake Sandoval to spot monkeys, caimans, and otters, as well as visiting Monkey Island for activities like zip-lining and climbing.
You’ll also have the chance to go piranha fishing and observe macaw hatchlings at Lake Yacumama.
With airport transfers, accommodation, meals, and a professional guide included, this tour offers a well-rounded, adventure-packed itinerary that’s suitable for most travelers, except those with certain medical conditions or allergies.
Read our full review: Explore the Wonderful Puerto Maldonado on a 4 Day Kayak Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
From Puerto Maldonado || Kayak Tour +Monkey Island for 1 Day
Travelers embarking on this one-day Puerto Maldonado adventure can expect a thrilling journey through the region’s diverse natural wonders.
Starting with a morning pickup, the tour takes participants on a 30-minute kayak ride down the Madre de Dios River, where they’ll search for caimans and turtles.
Next, they’ll hike into the Peruvian jungle and zip-line across the canopy.
After a local lunch, the group will visit Rolling Island to meet rehabilitated macaques.
The day concludes with a transfer back to the hotel.
This comprehensive tour includes pickup, transportation, an English-Spanish guide, and all necessary equipment, making it an accessible and engaging way to explore Puerto Maldonado’s highlights.
Read our full review: From Puerto Maldonado || Kayak Tour +Monkey Island for 1 Day Review
Book now: Check availability
Tambopata: Lake Sandoval Canoeing With Lunch
Situated within the heart of the Tambopata National Reserve, Lake Sandoval beckons adventurers seeking an immersive Amazon experience.
This full-day excursion offers the opportunity to explore the serene lake by canoe, with the chance to spot diverse wildlife like giant otters, monkeys, and a variety of birds.
The guided tour includes a hike through the rainforest and a tasty lunch at the lakeside. With English and Spanish-speaking guides, this activity caters to a range of travelers.
Though not suitable for pregnant women, the tour provides free cancellation and the flexibility to reserve now and pay later.
Reviewers praise the knowledgeable guides, though some note logistical issues on occasion.
Read our full review: Tambopata: Lake Sandoval Canoeing With Lunch Review
Book now: Check availability
Kayaking Adventure Exploring From Puerto Maldonado 4D
This 4-day kayaking adventure offers travelers a captivating exploration of the Tambopata River ecosystem near Puerto Maldonado. Priced from $410 per person, the trip immerses participants in the jungle, from hiking to observe local wildlife to canoeing on Sandoval Lake and kayaking on Lake Yacumama.
Other highlights include visiting Monkey Island and engaging in activities like zip-lining and piranha fishing. The tour includes airport transfers, accommodation, meals, and a professional guide.
Limited to 15 people, the experience caters to English and Spanish speakers. Participants should bring essential items like comfortable clothes, water, and sun protection.
This adventure isn’t suitable for certain individuals, such as those with medical conditions or mobility issues.
Read our full review: Kayaking Adventure Exploring From Puerto Maldonado 4D Review
Book now: Check availability
Puerto Maldonado: 4-Day Kayaking Excursion
Embarking on a captivating 4-day kayaking excursion, travelers to Puerto Maldonado can enjoy the lush Tambopata River ecosystem.
Priced at Kč 9,857 per person with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this adventure includes transportation, lodging, meals, and all activities such as canoeing, zip-lining, and piranha fishing.
Highlights include exploring Lake Sandoval, observing wildlife on Monkey Island, and discovering the hidden wonders of Lake Yacumama.
Throughout the journey, you will disconnect from the everyday and connect with nature, learning about the local flora and fauna from experienced guides.
With the option to reserve now and pay later, this excursion offers an unforgettable opportunity to explore the stunning waterways of Puerto Maldonado.
Read our full review: Puerto Maldonado: 4-Day Kayaking Excursion Review
Book now: Check availability
From Puerto Maldonado | 4D/3N Jungle Kayak Tour
Immersing adventurers in the lush Tambopata River ecosystem, the 4-day/3-night Jungle Kayak Tour from Puerto Maldonado promises an unforgettable exploration of the region’s remarkable waterways.
Priced from £323.98 per person, this small-group tour accommodates up to 10 participants and includes airport transfers, meals, and all activities.
Highlights include canoeing on Lake Sandoval, spotting wildlife like monkeys and alligators, and visiting Monkey Island for canopy bridges, zip lines, and rock wall climbing.
With a flexible cancellation policy and reserve now-pay later option, this comprehensive jungle adventure is perfect for those seeking an immersive Amazonian experience.
However, it’s not suitable for those with medical conditions or insect allergies.
Read our full review: From Puerto Maldonado | 4D/3N Jungle Kayak Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Tambopata: Zipline Adventure & Kayak to Monkey Island
Situated in the heart of Peru’s Tambopata region, the Zipline Adventure & Kayak to Monkey Island tour promises an exhilarating blend of adrenaline-fueled activities and immersive wildlife encounters.
Participants can soar through the Amazon canopy on a 190-meter zipline, explore the jungle’s observation tower, and paddle to Monkey Island to observe capuchin and black monkeys in their natural habitat.
The 7-hour tour includes hotel pickup, lunch, and all necessary equipment.
While customer reviews offer mixed feedback on organization and safety, the guide quality and zipline experience receive praise.
Recommended for adventurous travelers, this tour offers a chance to discover the wonders of the Peruvian Amazon.
Read our full review: Tambopata: Zipline Adventure & Kayak to Monkey Island Review
Book now: Check availability
Recap
Puerto Maldonado offers an array of captivating canoe and kayak experiences. Visitors can explore Sandoval Lake, paddle to Monkey Island, and embark on multi-day jungle adventures. These water-based activities provide opportunities to witness diverse wildlife and take in the serene beauty of the Amazonian landscape. Whether seeking a day-trip or a longer excursion, Puerto Maldonado’s canoe and kayak options cater to various interests and skill levels, making it an enticing destination for nature enthusiasts.