Venture Deeper into the Amazon
For those who wish to truly disconnect and absorb the profound rhythms of the rainforest, this extended 4-day expedition offers the ultimate Amazonian immersion. Located deep within the protected Tambopata National Reserve, this journey goes beyond the classic highlights, allowing you the precious time needed to explore highly specialized ecosystems, from towering treetop canopies to otherworldly flooded wetlands.
Your adventure encompasses all the awe-inspiring moments of the Amazon: scanning the Madre de Dios riverbanks for caimans by night, silently paddling a dug-out canoe across the glassy waters of Lake Sandoval in search of giant river otters, and walking 30 meters above the ground on a network of suspension bridges. However, the true luxury of this extended itinerary is the opportunity to delve into the Amazon's hidden botanical wonders. You will navigate the atmospheric aguajales (rainforest swamplands), learn ancestral medicinal secrets in an organic bio-orchard, and discover creative survival mechanisms in a dedicated palm conservation project. This is a journey of thrilling wildlife encounters and deep ecological discovery.
Expedition Highlights
Lake Sandoval & Canopy
Search for highly endangered giant river otters on a pristine oxbow lake, and later ascend to the rainforest rooftop via a 30-meter-high suspension bridge network.
Otherworldly Wetlands
Trek along a 200-meter wooden boardwalk through the 'aguajales' swampland, discovering how amphibians, reptiles, and unique vegetation adapt to flooded habitats.
Conservation & Botany
Visit the ITA Bio-Orchard to learn about indigenous medicinal plants, and explore the Palmetum to uncover the fascinating survival mechanisms of Amazonian trees.
Dual Night Safaris
Experience the dramatic shift in jungle activity with two distinct nocturnal adventures: a river cruise searching for caimans and a deep-jungle trek on foot.
Detailed Itinerary
The Heart of the Jungle
Amazon Altitude: 500 m / 1,640 ft
DAY 1: Arrival, Trails & River Night Watch
The Trail System
Upon your arrival at the lodge, you will dive straight into the wilderness. You will explore exclusive jungle trails that snake between the colossal roots of towering ancient trees. This immersive hike introduces you to the staggering biodiversity of the rainforest, home to over 100 mammal species, 540 bird species, and a world-record 362 ant species.
River Night Watch
After sunset, you will board a motorized canoe to cruise the Madre de Dios River. Guided by spotlights, you will scan the riverbanks in search of wildlife that roams under the cover of darkness. Keep on the lookout for nightjars, owls, capybaras, and the glowing eyes of caimans as you learn about the curious behavior of this nocturnal world.
Included Meals: Lunch, Dinner
DAY 2: Canopy Walkway & Lake Sandoval
The Canopy Walkway
Climb the exhilarating Canopy Walkway for an unforgettable opportunity to observe the rainforest from its rooftop. Originally designed for scientific research, this sophisticated network features seven suspension bridges strung between eight treetop observation platforms. Standing over 30 meters (100 feet) high, the vibrant green expanse of the jungle stretches out magnificently beneath you.
Lake Sandoval Expedition
Next, you will hike a boardwalk trail deep into the protected Tambopata National Reserve. Arriving at Lake Sandoval, a pristine glassy ox-bow lake, you will board a dug-out canoe. As you paddle silently through eerie mangroves and palm-flanked waters, look out for anacondas, black caimans, red howler monkeys, and two highly endangered, elusive families of giant river otters.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 3: Wetlands, Bio-Orchard & Night Safari
The Wetlands & Palmetum
Discover the Amazon’s otherworldly realm of aguajales (rainforest swampland) by following a 200-meter wooden walkway. Learn how unique amphibians, reptiles, and exotic birds adapt to this atmospheric habitat. You will then explore the 30-hectare Palmetum, a conservation plot where you will uncover creative plant survival mechanisms, such as the famous "walking palm" that shifts its roots in search of sunlight.
Bio-Orchard & Rainforest by Night
Visit the organic bio-orchard run by the Inkaterra Association (ITA) to learn about sustainable agroforestry and the intriguing medicinal uses of tropical plants by indigenous communities. After dinner, boldly venture out on foot into the deep darkness of the jungle. Stroll quietly as your senses heighten to the mysterious rustling sounds of nocturnal birds, insects, and mammals emerging for the night.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 4: Transfer back to Puerto Maldonado
Departure
Following a final jungle breakfast, check-out is scheduled for 10:00 AM. You are welcome to relax in the lodge’s restaurant lounge, enjoying the sights and sounds of the river, before boarding your motorized canoe for the scenic return journey to the city of Puerto Maldonado for your onward flight.
Included Meals: Breakfast. (Lunch can be arranged with advanced notice for an additional cost).
Inclusions & Prices
What's Included
- Airport pick-up and drop-off in Puerto Maldonado.
- Motorized canoe transfers via the Madre de Dios river.
- 3 Nights lodge accommodation in your selected room category.
- All guided excursions (Canopy Walkway, Wetlands, Bio-Orchard).
- Two distinct Night Safaris (River cruise and Jungle trek).
- Canoe expedition on Lake Sandoval.
- Professional English-speaking resident naturalist guide.
- Meals: 3 Breakfasts, 3 Lunches, and 3 Dinners.
- Tambopata National Reserve entrance fees.
Not Included
- Flights to and from Puerto Maldonado.
- Lunch on Day 4 (Departure day).
- Alcoholic beverages at the lodge.
- Gratuities for your naturalist guide and lodge staff (optional).
Essential Recommendations
- Packing Essentials: Bring light, breathable, long-sleeved clothing and trousers to protect against mosquitoes. A reliable flashlight/headlamp and strong insect repellent are absolutely mandatory for the night walks.
- Footwear: The lodge provides rubber boots for muddy jungle and wetland trails, but you should bring comfortable walking shoes or sandals for wearing around the lodge.
- Vaccinations: While Puerto Maldonado is generally safe, the Yellow Fever vaccination is highly recommended for all travelers entering the Peruvian Amazon.