Sandoval Lake, nestled within the lush Tambopata Reserve, offers a captivating experience for nature enthusiasts. After an exhilarating 6-hour speedboat journey, visitors embark on a 1-hour jungle trek to the tranquil lake. Here, they can enjoy the vibrant Amazon ecosystem, canoeing amidst stunning wildlife. A hearty lunch, featuring both traditional and vegetarian options, awaits at a nearby restaurant, allowing participants to savor local flavors while surrounded by nature’s beauty. But the true allure of Sandoval Lake lies in the opportunity to create unforgettable memories, as visitors discover the secrets hidden within this enchanting corner of the Amazon.
This experience made our list of the 3 Best Lunch Experiences In Puerto Maldonado.
Key Points
- The Sandoval Lake tour includes a 6-hour speedboat journey on the Madre de Dios River and a 1-hour jungle trek to reach the lake.
- Canoeing on Sandoval Lake and a hearty lunch at a nearby restaurant are part of the experience.
- The tour offers a high likelihood of spotting alligators and birds, with a moderate chance of seeing howler monkeys.
- The tour takes place in the Tambopata Reserve, providing an immersive experience in the Amazon’s natural beauty.
- The tour is not suitable for children under 10, pregnant women, individuals with certain health conditions, or those over 70 years old.
Overview and Pricing
For the Sandoval Lake activity, visitors can expect a 7.5-hour experience with prices starting from $65.90 per person.
This includes free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, as well as the option to reserve now and pay later.
The tour features a variety of pickup locations, including Hotel Peru Amazonico and Puerto Maldonado Main Square, with transportation via tuk tuk and speedboat.
Highlights of the tour include walking to the lake, canoeing, enjoying lunch, and the possibility of spotting wildlife such as alligators and howler monkeys within the Tambopata Reserve.
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Itinerary and Experience
The Sandoval Lake tour begins with a tuk tuk ride, lasting around 15 minutes, which transports visitors from their selected pickup location to the port.
There, they’ll board a speedboat and cruise along the Madre de Dios River for approximately 6 hours to reach the Tambopata Reserve.
After disembarking, guests will embark on a 1-hour walk through the lush jungle to reach the shores of Sandoval Lake.
On the lake, they’ll have the opportunity to paddle a canoe and enjoy a delicious lunch at a nearby restaurant.
Visitors can also opt to go for a refreshing swim in the lake’s waters before heading back to Puerto Maldonado.
Highlights and Wildlife
The Sandoval Lake tour offers a unique opportunity to experience the wonders of the Amazon jungle. Visitors can spot a variety of wildlife, including alligators, howler monkeys, and an array of vibrant bird species. The tour takes place in the Tambopata Reserve, allowing for immersion in the natural environment.
Wildlife Sightings | Likelihood |
---|---|
Alligators | High |
Howler Monkeys | Moderate |
Birds | High |
This tour provides a chance to disconnect from the outside world and fully take in the captivating beauty of the Amazon. The highlights and wildlife encountered on the Sandoval Lake excursion are sure to leave a lasting impression.
Inclusions and Exclusions
Included in the tour price are a bilingual guide who can provide information in both English and Spanish, a hearty lunch with both normal and vegetarian options, all necessary river transportation, and a first aid kit for safety.
Plus, the entrance fee to the Tambopata Reserve is covered. However, alcoholic drinks and tips for the guide aren’t included.
It’s important to note that this tour isn’t suitable for children under 10, pregnant women, people with epilepsy, those prone to seasickness, or individuals over 70 years old.
Guests are advised to bring comfortable clothing, binoculars, and cash, as bikes, alcohol, drugs, and baby carriages aren’t allowed on the tour.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyWho It’s Not Suitable For
This tour is not suitable for a few groups of individuals. Specifically, children under 10 years, pregnant women, people with epilepsy, and those prone to seasickness are not recommended to participate. Plus, the tour is not suitable for people over 70 years old. The physical activities and river transport involved may pose challenges for these groups. For their safety and comfort, it’s best they avoid this tour.
Who It’s Not Suitable For |
---|
Children under 10 years |
Pregnant women |
People with epilepsy |
Individuals prone to seasickness |
People over 70 years |
What to Bring
Comfortable shoes, loose, breathable clothes, and some cash are essential for this Sandoval Lake tour. Binoculars are recommended to spot the diverse wildlife, including alligators and howler monkeys.
Avoid bringing bikes, alcohol, drugs, or baby carriages, as these aren’t permitted. The tour provides a first aid kit, but it’s wise to pack any personal medications you may need.
With the pickup time communicated the day prior, typically between 8:30 AM to 9 AM, you’ll want to be ready to embark on this 7.5-hour immersive experience in the Amazon jungle.
Rules and Restrictions
Not only are there certain individuals who should refrain from partaking in this Sandoval Lake adventure, but there are also specific items that are strictly prohibited.
The tour isn’t suitable for children under 10, pregnant women, people with epilepsy, those prone to seasickness, or individuals over 70 years old.
Bringing bikes, alcohol, drugs, or baby carriages isn’t allowed.
However, comfortable shoes, clothes, cash, and binoculars are recommended.
The live tour guide is available in both English and Spanish, and the pickup time will be communicated a day prior, typically between 8:30 AM to 9 AM.
Pickup Time and Location
The tour offers multiple pickup locations to accommodate guests, including the Hotel Peru Amazonico, Puerto Maldonado Main Square, and several other convenient spots.
Pickup times are typically between 8:30 AM to 9 AM, but the exact time is communicated to participants the day prior.
The trip begins with a 15-minute tuk tuk ride to the port, followed by a 6-hour speedboat journey along the Madre de Dios River to reach the Tambopata Reserve and Sandoval Lake.
The return journey follows the same route, with the tour finishing at the Puerto Maldonado Main Square.
This flexibility in pickup locations ensures a seamless start to an immersive Amazon adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are There Any Group Size Restrictions?
The tour does not have any stated group size restrictions. Guests can book individually or in groups, though the activity may be more enjoyable in smaller groups to facilitate the experience.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?
Guests are not allowed to bring their own food and drinks on this tour. All meals, including a typical lunch, are provided as part of the package. Bringing outside items is not permitted.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?
The tour operator doesn’t offer an option to extend the tour duration. However, travelers can consider booking a private tour or combining the Sandoval Lake visit with additional activities in the Puerto Maldonado area to extend their experience.
What Are the Handicap Accessibility Options?
The tour doesn’t offer specific handicap accessibility options. It’s not suitable for individuals in wheelchairs or with limited mobility due to the hike and boat ride. However, the staff can provide assistance as needed.
Is There an Option to Add Additional Stops or Activities?
There’s no explicit mention of additional stops or activities. However, the tour operator may allow customizations upon request, subject to availability and any applicable fees. Travelers should inquire about personalization options when booking.
Recap
Sandoval Lake offers a captivating Amazon experience, with a scenic boat journey, jungle trek, and canoeing amidst diverse wildlife. Guests can savor a hearty, traditional lunch while surrounded by nature’s beauty, creating unforgettable memories. This tour provides a comprehensive way to explore the Tambopata Reserve and take in the vibrant Amazon ecosystem.
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