The Trip Sandoval Lake Full Day
The Trip Sandoval Lake Full -Day Group Tour from Puerto Maldonado
Discover the impressive biodiversity of the Peruvian Amazon with our Sandoval Lake Full-Day Group Tour, an
experience designed to explore one of the main attractions of the Tambopata National Reserve.
Navigate along the Madre de Dios River, walk through the tropical rainforest, and explore Sandoval Lake
accompanied by a knowledgeable guide who will help you identify the extraordinary flora and fauna of this unique ecosystem.
During the tour, you will have the opportunity to observe giant river otters, caimans, monkeys, Amazonian birds,
macaws, and other wildlife species in their natural habitat. SERNANP recognizes Sandoval Lake as one of the main
tourist destinations in the Peruvian Amazon and identifies bird and wildlife watching, hiking, and boat rides as
authorized activities.
Sandoval Lake Tour: General Information
- Destination: Sandoval Lake, Tambopata National Reserve
Location: Puerto Maldonado, Madre de Dios, Peru
Duration: Full Day / 1 full day
Tour type: Group tour
Frequency: Daily, with prior reservation
Group size: Maximum 18 passengers + guide
Main activities: Hiking, river navigation, and Amazon wildlife observation
Meals: Lunch during the excursion
Departure: Puerto Maldonado
Activity level: Moderate
Booking: Advance reservation is recommended
What Will You See at Lake?
Sandoval Lake is one of the best-known destinations in the Tambopata National Reserve due to its extraordinary biodiversity. Its waters and surrounding forests provide excellent opportunities to observe Amazonian wildlife.
Depending on natural conditions and animal behavior, you may encounter:
- Giant river otters.
- Caimans.
- Different species of monkeys.
- Macaws and other Amazonian birds.
- Hoatzins and birds associated with aquatic environments.
- Capybaras and other rainforest mammals.
- Palm trees, tropical trees, and a great diversity of plants.
Wildlife observation takes place in the animals’ natural environment, so sightings depend on factors such as weather conditions, time of day, and the behavior of each species.
Sandoval Lake Full-Day Tour Itinerary
Hotel Pickup and Transfer to the Port : The adventure begins with hotel pickup in Puerto Maldonado. From there, we will travel to the port to begin our journey along the Madre de Dios River.
Navigation on the Madre de Dios River
We will board a motorized boat and travel along the Madre de Dios River toward the access area of the Tambopata National Reserve macaw clay lick
The route to the Sandoval sector combines river navigation and hiking. According to SERNANP tourism information,
access from Puerto Maldonado to the Sandoval sector is by river, followed by an approximately 3-kilometer hike.
Jungle Hike to Sandoval Lake
Once we reach the lake entrance, we will begin a hike through the Amazon rainforest. This section of the journey allows you to experience the jungle vegetation up close and, with a little luck, spot birds, monkeys, insects, and other wildlife along the trail.
The trail to Sandoval Lake is approximately 3 km long, with a hiking time of around one hour, according to MINCETUR tourism information.
Canoe Exploration :Upon reaching the lake, we will begin a canoe ride across the calm waters of Sandoval Lake.
This is one of the most special parts of the tour, as it allows us to explore the aquatic environment surrounded by
tropical rainforest while searching for Amazonian wildlife.
Sandoval Lake covers approximately 127 hectares and is home to a remarkable diversity of flora and fauna, including
populations of giant river otters.
Amazon Wildlife Observation : During the boat ride and lake exploration, our guide will share information about the ecosystem, the species that inhabit the area, and the importance of conserving the Amazon rainforest.
Wildlife is observed while respecting its natural behavior and maintaining an appropriate distance to minimize any
impact on the animals.
Lunch in the Amazon Rainforest : After exploring the lake, we will enjoy lunch during the excursion, surrounded by the natural scenery of the Amazon rainforest.
It will be an ideal opportunity to rest, recharge, and continue enjoying the surrounding environment.
Return to Puerto Maldonado : After completing the activities, we will return along the trail to the embarkation point.
We will then navigate back along the Madre de Dios River to Puerto Maldonado, where we will transfer you back to your hotel. manu travel peru
What can you see at Lake Sandoval?
Lake Sandoval is known for its incredible biodiversity. During the tour, depending on natural conditions, you may see:
- Giant river otters.
- Caimans.
- Various monkey species.
- Macaws, parrots, and other Amazonian birds.
Horses and other waterfowl. - Capybaras and other mammals.
Palm trees, tropical trees, and plants.
Full Day Itinerary
Hotel pick-up: Transfer to the port of Puerto Maldonado.
Boat trip: Boat tour on the Madre de Dios River.
Hike: Approximately 3 km through the jungle to Lake Sandoval.
Canoe trip: Explore the lake and search for wildlife.
Wildlife observation: The guide will explain the species and the ecosystem.
Lunch: Time to rest and enjoy the surroundings.
Return: Hike, boat trip, and transfer back to your hotel.
Sightings depend on the weather, time of day, and the animals’ natural behavior.
INCLUDES:
- Bilingual naturalist, conservationist guide
- Breakfast (regular and vegetarian options available)
- River transportation
- First aid kit
DOES NOT INCLUDE:
- Alcoholic beverages
- Tips
- Hotel pick-up and drop-off
What do you need before venturing into the jungle?
- Sunscreen
- Mosquito repellent with more than 30% diethyltoluamide (DTL)
- Hat
- Rain poncho
- Long pants
- Long-sleeved shirt
- Flashlight or lamps
- Walking shoes
- Empty water bottle
- Binoculars
- Plastic bags to protect cameras, etc.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Sandoval Lake Tour
How long does the Sandoval Lake Tour last?
The program lasts a full day (Full Day), including transportation, boat navigation, hiking, lake exploration, and the return to Puerto Maldonado.
Where does the Sandoval Lake Tour start?
The tour begins with a pickup from your hotel in Puerto Maldonado, followed by transportation to the boat departure point.
How far do you walk to reach Sandoval Lake?
Access to Sandoval Lake involves approximately 3 kilometers (1.9 miles) of walking, with an estimated duration of about one hour, according to official tourism information.
Can giant otters be seen at Sandoval Lake?
Yes. Sandoval Lake is known for its population of giant river otters, as well as monkeys, caimans, and numerous bird species. However, wildlife sightings depend on natural conditions and animal behavior.
Does the tour include lunch?
Yes. The program includes lunch during the excursion.
Does the tour operate every day?
The service is available every day with prior reservation, subject to availability and the operating conditions of Tambopata National Reserve.
Is it necessary to book in advance?
Yes. We recommend booking in advance to confirm availability, especially during peak seasons.
Is Sandoval Lake located within Tambopata National Reserve?
Yes. Sandoval Lake is located within the Sandoval sector of Tambopata National Reserve, in the Madre de Dios region. SERNANP identifies it as one of the main tourist destinations within this protected natural area.
Can I swim in Sandoval Lake?
Activities and regulations within the protected natural area are subject to the current provisions established by SERNANP. Therefore, we do not recommend promoting swimming as part of the program without first confirming that this activity is permitted for the specific route and tour operation.
Why Take the Sandoval Lake Tour?
The Sandoval Lake Full-Day Tour is an excellent option for travelers who have only one day in Puerto Maldonado and want to experience the biodiversity of the Tambopata National Reserve.
Some of the main highlights of this experience include:
- Exploring one of the most iconic lakes in the Peruvian Amazon.
- Hiking through the tropical rainforest.
- Canoeing across Sandoval Lake.
- Searching for giant river otters and other Amazonian wildlife.
- Observing birds and wildlife in their natural habitat.
- Learning about the importance of conserving the Tambopata National Reserve.
- Enjoying a full-day Amazon rainforest experience.
Important Information Before the Tour
The experience takes place in a protected natural environment. Access to Sandoval Lake is accompanied by a guide and is subject to the regulations of the Tambopata National Reserve. SERNANP establishes visitor guidelines and indicates that access to the sector must be accompanied by an authorized guide.
We Recommend Bringing:
- Lightweight, quick-drying clothing.
- Comfortable footwear suitable for walking on rainforest trails.
- Insect repellent.
- Sunscreen.
- A hat or cap.
- A reusable water bottle.
- Binoculars, if available.
- Camera.
- Rain poncho or waterproof jacket during the rainy season.
Altitude and Climate
Puerto Maldonado: approximately 183 meters above sea level.
Sandoval Lake: approximately 200 meters above sea level.
Tambopata National Reserve: approximately 200 meters above sea level.
Climate: Tropical, warm, and humid.
During the day: Temperatures are generally warm.
In the morning: It may feel cooler, especially during the boat ride and the first hours of the tour.
Hiking: Approximately 3 km each way on the access trail to the lake.
What Is the Best Time to Visit Sandoval Lake?
Sandoval Lake can be visited throughout the year. Weather conditions may vary depending on the season, so it is recommended to be prepared for possible rain and changes in temperature.
Wildlife sightings can never be guaranteed 100%, as the animals live freely in their natural habitat. However, the early morning hours often provide good opportunities to observe activity from different species.
Sandoval Lake Group Tour: Book Your Amazon Adventure
If you are looking for an Amazon rainforest experience from Puerto Maldonado, our Sandoval Lake Full-Day Group Tour allows you to explore the rainforest, navigate across Sandoval Lake, and discover the biodiversity of the Tambopata National Reserve—all in a single day.
Book in advance and get ready to spend an unforgettable day surrounded by nature, the sounds of the rainforest, and Amazonian wildlife.
Check availability and book your Sandoval Lake Full-Day Tour from Puerto Maldonado!