The full-day tours of Puerto Maldonado pack the best of the Peruvian Amazon into memorable adventures. The standout excursion is the Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick tour, where hundreds of colorful macaws gather in a stunning natural spectacle. For a peaceful escape, Sandoval Lake tours combine gentle paddling with excellent wildlife viewing. The Tambopata tours earn my enthusiastic thumbs-up for mixing adventurous boat rides with jungle trails, perfect for spotting monkeys, snakes, and exotic birds. Most tours include hotel pickup, meals, and expert guides, with prices and group sizes to match any budget. Let’s explore my favorite jungle excursions in detail.
Key Points
- The Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick Tour offers an opportunity to observe hundreds of macaws at one of the largest clay licks in the Peruvian Amazon.
- The Sandoval Lake Full Day Tour includes a boat ride, a 1-hour walk to the lake, and a canoe paddle to observe wildlife.
- The Full Day Sandoval Lake Experience provides a full-day excursion with a 1-hour hike to the lake and the chance to see caimans, otters, birds, turtles, and monkeys.
- The From Tambopata: Sandoval Lake Full Day tour offers a 40-minute boat trip, a 1-hour hike to the lake, and the opportunity to see diverse species like monkeys, snakes, and tropical birds.
- The Full Day of Adventures in Tambopata tour includes wildlife spotting, a riverside boat ride, and exploration of the Amazonian landscape, with a tasty lunch included.
Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick Full Day
The Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick Full Day tour offers an incredible opportunity to witness the vibrant spectacle of hundreds of macaws gathering at one of the largest clay licks in the Peruvian Amazon.
Departing at 3:00 AM from Puerto Maldonado, you’ll embark on an 80-minute car ride followed by a boat journey up the Tambopata River. Along the way, you might even spot jaguars during the transport.
Once you reach the clay lick, you’ll enjoy a picnic breakfast as you observe the macaws in their natural habitat. The tour is led by a professional guide and can accommodate up to 14 travelers.
Priced from $210 per person, the full-day experience provides excellent value, with free cancellation and unlimited rescheduling available up to 24 hours before the start.
With a moderate level of physical fitness required, the Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick tour is a must-do for nature enthusiasts visiting Puerto Maldonado.
Alternatively, a 2-day, 1-night package that includes a visit to Sandoval Lake is available.
Read our full review: Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick Full Day Review
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Sandoval Lake Full Day
Departing from Puerto Maldonado at 9:00 a.m., the Sandoval Lake Full Day tour provides visitors with an opportunity to explore the stunning Tambopata National Reserve.
The day-long excursion, priced from €61.91 per person, takes guests on a boat ride down the Madre de Dios River to a lodge, followed by a 1-hour walk to the entrance of Sandoval Lake.
Once at the lake, participants embark on a canoe paddle to observe the diverse wildlife, including river otters, turtles, and a variety of bird species.
For those interested, swimming in the lake is an optional activity. The tour includes lunch, round-trip boat transportation, and the services of a local guide, as well as the necessary entrance fees to the national reserve.
Participants are advised to bring appropriate clothing, sun protection, and a change of clothes.
The Sandoval Lake Full Day tour is limited to 10 participants and is available in both English and Spanish.
Cancellations can be made up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Read our full review: Sandoval Lake Full Day Review
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Full Day Sandoval Lake
Visitors to Puerto Maldonado can embark on an immersive, full-day excursion to Sandoval Lake, nestled within the captivating Tambopata National Reserve. This guided tour provides a maximum group size of 10 travelers, ensuring an intimate experience.
The all-day adventure begins with a 30-minute boat ride, followed by a 1-hour hike along a 2.85 km flat boardwalk to reach the lake. Guests can then enjoy a 2-hour canoe trip, spotting a diverse array of wildlife, including caimans, otters, birds, turtles, and monkeys, as well as the lush flora of the region.
Lunch is included, and cold drinks are available at the camp. While most reviews praise the knowledgeable guides, Silvestre and Paulo, some have noted occasional delays and organizational challenges.
Travelers are advised to bring bug spray, sunscreen, and ample water. This tour operates from October 2019 through December 2025, offering an in-depth exploration of the Sandoval Lake ecosystem and its fascinating inhabitants.
Read our full review: Full Day Sandoval Lake Review
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From Tambopata: Sandoval Lake Full Day
From Tambopata, travelers can embark on a captivating full-day excursion to the renowned Sandoval Lake within the Tambopata National Reserve. Priced from $90.00 per person, this activity promises a rich experience in the Peruvian jungle.
During the 1-day tour, adventurers will navigate Sandoval Lake, home to diverse wildlife like monkeys, snakes, tarantulas, tropical birds, herons, caimans, and the impressive giant otters.
After a 40-minute boat trip on the Madre de Dios River and a 1-hour hike, guests will explore the lake by canoe, taking in the stunning landscapes.
Lunch featuring local cuisine and regional refreshments will be served at 1 PM, followed by a relaxing hammock break.
The tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, entrance tickets, a professional guide, and lunch.
However, it’s not suitable for those over 70, pregnant women, or individuals with recent surgeries, and prohibited items include alcohol, drugs, and pets.
Read our full review: From Tambopata: Sandoval Lake Full Day Review
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Full Day of Adventures in Tambopata
Travelers embark on a full day of adventurous experiences in the Tambopata region, seeing the captivating Amazonian landscape. For €38.73 per person, they’ll explore the lush forest, spot wildlife like caimans and monkeys, and enjoy a riverside boat ride.
Pickups are available from selected points between 7am and 9am, though the experience isn’t wheelchair-accessible and isn’t recommended for those with back problems, pregnant travelers, or those with serious medical conditions.
The tour includes a tasty lunch with a vegetarian option. Positive reviews highlight the natural beauty and quality of the meal, though some criticize the relatively short duration of activities (2-4 hours) and occasional organizational issues with the timeline.
While hotel pickups are available, there have been some concerns expressed about potential problems. This full-day adventure in Tambopata promises an immersive, nature-filled experience led by highly trained staff focused on creating memorable experiences.
Read our full review: Full Day of Adventures in Tambopata Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Puerto Maldonado?
The best time to visit Puerto Maldonado is during the dry season, which runs from May to October. During this period, the weather is generally warm and sunny, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities and wildlife spotting.
Are There Any Safety Precautions I Should Take on the Tours?
When touring Puerto Maldonado, it’s important to take safety precautions. Wear insect repellent, stay hydrated, and follow your guide’s instructions. Stick to designated paths to avoid hazards. With proper preparation, you can safely explore this stunning Peruvian jungle region.
How Much Walking Is Involved in the Full-Day Tours?
The full-day tours in the area typically involve a moderate amount of walking, often including short hikes through the rainforest. Visitors should wear comfortable, sturdy shoes and be prepared for terrain that may be uneven or muddy.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tours?
Yes, visitors can bring their own food and drinks on the full-day tours in Puerto Maldonado. This allows them to pack snacks and beverages to enjoy during the excursions according to their preferences and dietary needs.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Full-Day Tours?
Most full-day tours in the area don’t have strict age restrictions, but some may have minimum age requirements. It’s best to check with the tour operator beforehand to ensure the tour is a good fit for your group.
Recap
Puerto Maldonado offers a variety of full-day tours that allow visitors to explore the region’s natural wonders. These tours provide opportunities to witness the Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick, discover the beauty of Sandoval Lake, and embark on a full day of adventures in the Tambopata National Reserve. Whether you’re interested in wildlife, ecology, or simply enjoying the Amazon, these tours cater to a range of interests and preferences.