Sandoval Lake 3 Days 2 Nights

Tour Overview

Your adventure begins in Puerto Maldonado, where our local team welcomes you before transferring you to Puerto Acosta. From there, a motorized boat takes you along the Madre de Dios River to your eco-lodge.

After settling into your accommodation, you explore the surrounding forest with a local guide, learning about medicinal plants, native trees, insects, and the wildlife that inhabits this part of the Amazon.

The second day focuses on Sandoval Lake, located inside the Tambopata National Reserve. A rainforest walk leads you to the lake, where traditional canoes allow you to explore its waterways and search for giant river otters, hoatzins, herons, cormorants, and black caimans.

On the final morning, you visit a natural parrot clay lick before returning by boat to Puerto Maldonado.

Tour Highlights

  • Explore Sandoval Lake within the protected Tambopata National Reserve.
  • Navigate the Madre de Dios River through the Amazon rainforest.
  • Search for giant river otters in their natural lake habitat.
  • Explore rainforest trails with a local naturalist guide.
  • Enjoy a kayaking excursion surrounded by tropical vegetation.
  • Visit Monkey Island and observe different species of monkeys.
  • Look for black caimans during a nighttime river excursion.
  • Watch parrots and parakeets gather at a natural clay lick.

Sandoval lake 3 Days / 2 Nights at a Glance

Day 1: Puerto Maldonado – Madre de Dios River – Monkey Island

Arrive in Puerto Maldonado and travel by boat along the Madre de Dios River to the eco-lodge. Explore the rainforest on a guided walk, enjoy kayaking, and visit Monkey Island to observe local wildlife. After dinner, take a nighttime boat excursion to search for caimans.

Day 2: Jungle Lodge – Tambopata National Reserve – Sandoval Lake

Travel by boat to Tambopata National Reserve and walk through the rainforest to reach Sandoval Lake. Explore the lake by rowing canoe, looking for giant river otters, monkeys, birds, and caimans. Return to the lodge for lunch and join a guided night walk.

Day 3: Parrot Clay Lick – Madre de Dios River – Puerto Maldonado

Visit a parrot clay lick early in the morning to observe parrots and parakeets feeding on mineral-rich clay. Return to the lodge for breakfast before traveling by boat along the Madre de Dios River to Puerto Maldonado. Transfer to the airport or bus station according to your departure schedule.


Why Book with Manu Jungle Tour

  • Local coordination in Puerto Maldonado and the Tambopata region.
  • Naturalist guides familiar with Amazonian wildlife and rainforest ecosystems.
  • Accommodation in an eco-lodge surrounded by tropical forest.
    River transportation to access remote areas of the rainforest.
  • Guided exploration of Sandoval Lake by traditional canoe.
  • Opportunities to observe wildlife during daytime and nighttime activities.
  • A varied program combining rainforest walks, kayaking, and river excursions.
  • Small-group experiences focused on nature observation and responsible tourism.

Included

  • Pre-trek Briefing 1 or 2 days before your Sandoval Lake 3 Days / 2 Nights.
  • Entrance tickets for the Tambopata Reserve
  • Entrance tickets to the Saldoval lake.
  • Transfers In/out from airport or bus station – lodge – airport or bus station
  • Naturalist guide in English and Spanish.
  • Assistant Tour Guide for group of 10 people
  • Transportation by private boat
  • Excursions mentioned in the programe
  • 2 nights in our Jungle Lodges
  • Meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner)
  • Water at any time and warm drinks or lemonades with meals
  • Professional Cook and asistants
  • Vegetarian, vegan and pescatarian options.
  • Oxygen bottle and First aid kit
  • Transportation by boat.
  • Radio communications
  • Adventure activities
  • All local taxes

Not Included

  • Domestic or International airfares
  • Breakfast and mineral water only for the first day.
  • Additional beverages like soda or beer
  • Binocular.
  • Alcoholic drinks
  • Travel and health insurance
  • Tips guides, cook and Motorist.

Detailed Itinerary – Sandoval Lake 3 Days 2 Nights

Day 1: Puerto Maldonado – Madre de Dios River – Kayaking – Monkey Island – Caiman Spotting

Highlight of the Day: Explore the Amazon rainforest by kayak, visit Monkey Island, and search for caimans during a nighttime river excursion.

Your adventure begins upon arrival in Puerto Maldonado, where our local team will welcome you at the airport or bus station. We then transfer you to Puerto Acosta, where we board a motorized boat for a scenic journey along the Madre de Dios River toward our eco-lodge. During the trip, you can enjoy views of the riverbanks and the surrounding tropical vegetation.

Upon arrival, you will receive a refreshing tropical welcome drink before settling into your room. After a short orientation, we begin a guided walk along primary and secondary rainforest trails. Your guide will introduce you to the Amazon's biodiversity, including medicinal plants, giant lupuna trees, colorful insects, and native bird species.

After lunch and some time to rest, we continue with a kayaking excursion on the Madre de Dios River. Paddle through the calm waters while observing the rainforest from a different perspective. A support boat accompanies the group throughout the activity.

Later in the afternoon, we visit Monkey Island, where you may observe different species of monkeys, including capuchin and squirrel monkeys. This visit offers an opportunity to learn about the animals and their natural habitat.

After dinner at the lodge, we take a nighttime boat excursion along the riverbanks to look for black caimans and dwarf caimans. With the help of flashlights, your guide will search for their eyes reflecting in the water and explain their role in the Amazon ecosystem.

  • Accommodation: Eco-Lodge
  • Meals: Lunch and Dinner

Day 2: Jungle Lodge – Tambopata National Reserve – Sandoval Lake – Night Walk

Highlight of the Day: Explore Sandoval Lake by traditional rowing canoe and look for giant river otters in their natural habitat.

After an early breakfast, we travel by motorized boat across the Madre de Dios River toward the entrance of Tambopata National Reserve. From there, we follow a rainforest trail through well-preserved vegetation, observing the plants, insects, and birds that inhabit this protected ecosystem.

Upon reaching Sandoval Lake, we board traditional rowing canoes to explore its waterways quietly. The lake is home to a remarkable variety of wildlife, including giant river otters, hoatzins, herons, cormorants, turtles, and black caimans. With the help of your guide, we look for these animals along the lake's shores and among the aquatic vegetation.

After exploring the lake, we return along the forest trail and travel back to the lodge for lunch. The afternoon provides time to rest and enjoy the natural surroundings.

In the evening, we join a guided night walk through the rainforest. Equipped with flashlights, we search for nocturnal species such as frogs, spiders, insects, and night birds. Your guide will help identify the animals and explain how they adapt to life after sunset.

  • Accommodation: Eco-Lodge
  • Meals: Breakfast, Box Lunch and Dinner

Day 3: Parrot Clay Lick – Madre de Dios River – Puerto Maldonado

Highlight of the Day: Observe parrots and parakeets gathering at a natural clay lick during the early morning hours.

We start early with a boat excursion to a nearby parrot clay lick. At this natural feeding site, parrots and parakeets gather to consume mineral-rich clay deposits. From a suitable observation point, you can watch their activity and photograph the birds as the rainforest becomes active at sunrise.

After this experience, we return to the lodge for breakfast. You will have some free time to relax, take photographs, or enjoy the surroundings before preparing for departure.

Later, we board our motorized boat for the return journey along the Madre de Dios River to Puerto Maldonado. During the transfer, you may have additional opportunities to observe birds and other wildlife along the riverbanks.

Upon arrival in Puerto Maldonado, our team will arrange your transfer to the airport or bus station according to your departure schedule.

  • Accommodation: None
  • Meals: Breakfast

Important Information

  • The Tambopata region is not considered a malaria-risk zone; however, using a good-quality insect repellent is strongly recommended.
  • Travelers may consider yellow fever vaccination at least 10 days before arrival, following advice from a healthcare professional.
  • Activities and schedules may change depending on weather conditions, river levels, and local circumstances.
  • Wildlife sightings cannot be guaranteed, although Tambopata is known for its exceptional biodiversity.
  • Transportation in the rainforest is primarily by motorized boat.
  • Groups may include travelers participating in different Tambopata programs of 3, 4 or 5 days.

Prices

We offer flexible departure dates and operate the Sandoval Lake daily, subject to availability.

USD $339 per person

✔ Small-group experience for greater comfort and personalized service
✔ Professional guides and full logistics included

⚠️Limited availability due to Lodge capacity. Early booking is highly recommended.


Booking and Payment

To confirm your reservation for the Sandoval Lake, a deposit is required in advance.

  • Deposit: 40% per person (to secure your spot)
  • Balance: The remaining amount can be paid online or in Cusco before the tour.

We accept credit cards, PayPal, and bank transfers. If you prefer another payment method, feel free to contact us for assistance.

You will need to bring

We recommend economizing on your luggage for this Sandoval Lake 3 Days / 2 Nights. Travel light and think about bringing layers instead of big jackets and etc. Be selective and pack light. Choose quick dry clothing if possible, we will be in the jungle!

  • Mosquito repellent (DEET 45 recommended as a minimun).
  • Original passport.
  • Small backpack.
  • Long sleeved cotton shirts (preferably green coloured).
  • Long cotton trousers.
  • Cotton long socks (to be put into your trousers).
  • Comfortable walking shoes.
  • Sandals or light shoes.
  • Rain gear.
  • Sweater (for the beginning of the tour in Andes and the cloud forest only).
  • Swimsuit.
  • Binoculars.
  • Camera and its charger.
  • Plastic bags to be used for clothes and a camera.
  • A hat as a protection against the Sun or rain.
  • Toiletries.
  • Small towel.
  • Toilet paper.
  • Antibacterial gel.
  • Sun cream.
  • Sunglasses.
  • Flashlight (with spare bulb and batteries).
  • A bottled water (1 litre as a minimum).
  • Pocket money (Soles) to buy some beverages and souvenirs as well as to tip.

Travel Information

At Manu Jungle Tour, we want your experience to feel safe, comfortable, and unforgettable. Our team organizes every detail carefully. In addition, our experienced local guides help travelers discover one of the most biodiverse rainforest regions in the world.

Travel Preparation

Before starting the tour, prepare for the weather conditions and outdoor activities at your destination. We recommend bringing comfortable clothing, suitable walking shoes, a rain jacket, sunscreen, a hat, and a reusable water bottle.

Pack only the personal belongings you will need during the tour, especially when your itinerary includes boat transfers, hiking, or remote locations.

Pre-Tour Briefing

A pre-tour briefing will be arranged at approximately 5:00 PM, one day before your tour begins, at your hotel in Cusco. If you are already in Puerto Maldonado, the briefing will take place upon your arrival, according to your arrival schedule.

During this meeting, your guide will explain the itinerary, review the activities, confirm the arrangements, and answer any questions you may have. You will also receive practical recommendations about clothing, personal belongings, and local conditions.

Balance Payment

The remaining balance must be paid one or two days before the tour departure. Payment can be made in cash, either in Peruvian soles (PEN) or US dollars (USD).

If you prefer to pay by credit card, a 5% processing fee will apply to the remaining balance. Please arrange your payment during the pre-tour briefing or coordinate with our team in advance.

Accommodation

Accommodation is arranged according to the selected tour and the services included in your reservation. In remote areas, lodges and local accommodations may offer more basic facilities than hotels in cities. We recommend checking the accommodation details in your itinerary and bringing any personal items you may need during your stay.

Luggage Storage

We recommend traveling with manageable luggage and carrying only the belongings you need during the tour. If you have larger suitcases, contact our team in advance to check whether storage can be arranged at your hotel, lodge, or another designated location.

Keep your passport, travel documents, money, electronic devices, and other valuables with you whenever possible.

Health and Safety

Follow your guide's instructions throughout the tour, especially during outdoor activities, hikes, boat trips, and visits to remote areas. Bring any personal medication you may need and inform our team in advance about relevant allergies, mobility limitations, or other requirements. Depending on the destination, insect repellent, sunscreen, suitable footwear, and appropriate clothing are essential.

Weather and Travel Conditions

Weather conditions vary depending on the destination and season. Rain, temperature changes, road conditions, and river levels may affect scheduled activities and travel arrangements. Our team and local guides may adjust the itinerary when necessary to prioritize safety and respond to local conditions.

Communication and Electricity

Mobile phone signal and internet access may be limited in remote areas. Electricity and charging facilities depend on the accommodation and destination.

We recommend bringing a power bank and charging essential devices before departure. Let family or friends know that communication may be limited during certain parts of your trip.

Lost Items

Travelers are responsible for keeping their personal belongings, documents, and valuables safe throughout the tour. Before leaving vehicles, boats, accommodation, or activity areas, check that you have all your belongings.

If you lose an item, inform your guide or our team as soon as possible and provide a clear description of it and the last place where you remember having it. We will contact the relevant service providers to help locate the item; however, recovery cannot be guaranteed.

Frequently Asked Questions

This experience combines several rainforest activities, including a guided jungle walk, kayaking on the Madre de Dios River, a visit to Monkey Island, nighttime caiman observation and an excursion to Sandoval Lake inside Tambopata National Reserve.

You will also visit a parrot clay lick and explore different rainforest habitats with a local guide.

The tour starts in Puerto Maldonado, where our team welcomes you at the airport or bus station according to your arrival arrangements. From there, you travel by motorized boat along the Madre de Dios River to the jungle lodge. On the final day, you return to Puerto Maldonado for your onward journey.

You will stay at an eco-lodge surrounded by the Amazon rainforest. The accommodation provides a base for the excursions and activities included in the itinerary. Facilities and services may be more basic than those of city hotels because of the lodge's remote rainforest location.

The itinerary includes a guided rainforest walk, kayaking on the Madre de Dios River, a visit to Monkey Island, nighttime caiman observation, an excursion to Sandoval Lake by rowing canoe, a guided night walk, and an early morning visit to a parrot clay lick. Activities are organized according to local conditions and the itinerary.

The rainforest is home to monkeys, giant river otters, black caimans, turtles, parrots, parakeets, hoatzins, herons, and many other species. You may encounter different animals during boat trips, jungle walks, and lake excursions. Wildlife sightings depend on natural conditions, and no particular species can be guaranteed.

Reaching Sandoval Lake involves a guided walk along a rainforest trail inside Tambopata National Reserve, followed by a rowing canoe excursion.

The trail may be muddy or uneven, especially during the rainy season. A moderate level of physical fitness and the ability to walk in humid conditions are recommended.

 

Kayaking is an outdoor activity that can be enjoyed by travelers without previous experience, provided they follow the guide's instructions and safety recommendations.

A support boat accompanies the kayaking activity on the Madre de Dios River. Conditions on the river may affect whether the activity can take place.

The nighttime boat excursion offers an opportunity to look for black caimans and dwarf caimans along the riverbanks.

Your guide uses a flashlight to help locate them in their natural habitat. Since these are wild animals, sightings depend on their activity and environmental conditions.

A parrot clay lick is a natural area where parrots and parakeets gather to consume mineral-rich clay. You visit a nearby clay lick early in the morning on the final day of the tour. The activity depends on bird movements, weather, and local conditions, so the presence of birds cannot be guaranteed.

Rainfall, river levels, and other natural conditions can influence boat transportation and outdoor activities in the Amazon rainforest.

Your guide will assess the conditions and may adjust the itinerary or activity schedule when necessary. Safety takes priority, and some activities may be modified or postponed depending on the situation.

Book Your Adventure

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Traveler Reviews

Our travelers share their experiences exploring Manu National Park and the Amazon with our team. Discover what they say about our local guides, wildlife experiences and the service provided throughout their journey.

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David D
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2day 1night Inca trek What an amazing experience from start to finish! Our experienced english speaking guide Raul made the whole journey so much more enjoyable from his knowledge, wisdom and his sense of humour! Highly recommend the guys from info Machu Picchu !!
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Robin F
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Humantay & 🌈-Mountains Absolutely excellent service! Despite a mix-up where we were picked up by the wrong bus and missed our original tour, the travel agency handled everything with great professionalism and flexibility. They took responsibility right away and made rebooking a new tour incredibly easy and stress-free. We really appreciated how understanding and accommodating their team was throughout the process. Thanks to their quick response, we were able to enjoy an equally fantastic tour, and their willingness to resolve the issue left a lasting positive impression.Overall, a great example of excellent customer service. We’ll happily book with them again!
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Melania C
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Three days Manu Forest Wonderful experience in the Manu jungle!! We could observe capuchin monkeys, the cock of rocks, macaws, AMAZING! Super recommended! Thank you, thank you, thank you.
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Ian P
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Inca trail tours 2 days Excellent!! The Tours Inca trail 2 days very pleasant, they are very available and professional. Manu Jungle I love! and I recommend it!
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Cusco Journeys
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Great Experience on the Short Inca Trail We had an amazing experience hiking the short Inca trail with Dayan. He provided us with a box lunch which was delicious and had plenty of food to fill us up! Highly recommend Info Machu Picchu! It was a great experience and Dayan made it unforgettable. She was very knowledgeable and kind.
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Keyko Victoria P
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Immortal Cusco Nice guided experience through the city and surroundings of Cusco... Everything was wonderful. And above all with the security that the agency provided us. Ready to come back...
Manujungletour

Manujungletour

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