Traveler in canoe touring the Amazon jungle of Puerto Maldonado
Travelers traveling through the Amazon rainforest in the rain
Traveler boarding a boat at the port of Puerto Maldonado
Group of travelers in a boat on their way to an Amazonian lodge
Aerial view of the Amazon lodge on the Madre de Dios River.
Aerial view of the Amazon lodge on the Madre de Dios River.
Aerial view of the swimming pool at the Amazon lodge in Puerto Maldonado
Outdoor swimming pool in Amazonian lodge surrounded by palm trees
Room with single bed and mosquito net in Amazonian lodge
Triple room with beds and mosquito nets in Amazon lodge
Double room in Puerto Maldonado jungle lodge
Private bathroom in an Amazon lodge room in Puerto Maldonado with shower, sink, and wooden details
Spacious dining room with jungle views in Amazon lodge
Poster of Tambopata National Reserve in the Amazon jungle
Traveler observing a giant tree in the Amazon jungle
Group of travelers walking along a trail in the Amazon jungle
Embarcadero with typical boats on the Madre de Dios River.
Boats moored on the shore of the river in Puerto Maldonado
Travelers enjoying the Amazon rainforest in Peru
Woman in a boat sailing through the Amazon jungle of Puerto Maldonado
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Puerto Maldonado Jungle Tour

3 days in Tambopata National Reserve with Lake Sandoval visit, lodging, meals and transfers

(22 reviews)
Puerto Maldonado
3 days
Spanish and English
Starts: Pickup from your accommodation in Puerto Maldonado or from Puerto Maldonado Airport.
Ends: Transfer to Puerto Maldonado Airport.
Free cancellation!

Briefing

On this 3-day Puerto Maldonado Jungle Tour, you’ll experience the Peruvian Amazon up close and personal. Your base will be a rustic jungle lodge on the banks of the Madre de Dios River—simple yet comfortable, and the perfect place to relax after a full day of adventure in nature.

This 3-day, 2-night tour includes accommodation with full board, transfers from Puerto Maldonado Airport, and all activities described in the itinerary. You will visit the Tambopata National Reserve and Lake Sandoval, kayak along an Amazon river, and take daytime and nighttime walks to spot wildlife such as monkeys, caimans, and birds. You will also enjoy free time to relax in the lodge’s hammocks or watch the sunset along the banks of the Madre de Dios River, surrounded by a unique setting in the heart of the jungle. 👉 If you want to upgrade your Amazon experience with premium accommodation, book the Puerto Maldonado Comfort Ecolodge Tour here.

Ready for an authentic Amazon experience? Keep reading and discover all the details 👇

Tour details

Included

  • Pick-up and drop-off at Puerto Maldonado Airport
  • Round-trip boat transfer to the lodge
  • Professional bilingual guide
  • Full-board meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
  • Accommodation in a private room (for bookings of 2 or more travelers)

Not included

  • Entrance fee to Tambopata National Reserve
  • Alcoholic beverages

Important information

SINGLE ROOM: Accommodation in private rooms is guaranteed for bookings of 2 or more travelers. If you book alone, you will be assigned a shared room (double or triple, with twin beds and private bathroom) with other travelers of the same gender. If you prefer a private room, this option is available for an additional supplement and subject to availability. Please contact us for details.

Cancellation policy

Free cancellations!

If you cancel at least 72 hours before the tour begins, you will receive a full refund of the amount paid. After this time, or in the event of a no-show, no refunds will be issued.

Tour itinerary

DAY 1 Puerto Maldonado Airport • Lodge • Monkey Island

Pick-up at the airport or in the city of Puerto Maldonado

If you arrive by plane on the same day the tour begins, your guide will be waiting for you at the Puerto Maldonado airport and will take you to the city (a 9-mile / 15-minute drive) for a short stop at the lodge office. If you’re already staying in the city, the guide will pick you up at your hotel and take you to the office, where the group will meet.

Afterwards, you’ll head to the Puerto Capitanía to board the boat to the lodge. The trip along the Madre de Dios River lasts about 1 hour. Upon arrival, you’ll enjoy a welcome fruit juice, drop off your luggage in your room, and lunch will be served.

The lodge is located about 9 miles (15 km) southwest of Puerto Maldonado, inside the Tambopata National Reserve, and sits roughly 50 feet (15 m) above the riverbank. Two boats depart daily to the lodge, at 9:30 AM and 1:30 PM, depending on flight schedules. At Howlanders, we recommend booking a flight that arrives in Puerto Maldonado before 9:00 AM to take the first boat and make the most of your tour experience.

Traveler boarding a boat at the port of Puerto Maldonado on her way to the Amazon lodge.

Afternoon Visit – Monkey Island

In the afternoon, cross the river to visit the famous Monkey Island, home to several species including brown capuchins, squirrel monkeys, marmosets, and white capuchins. After observing these playful primates, return to the lodge to rest.

monkey in the tree

Evening Activity – Caiman Spotting

After nightfall and before dinner, set out on a boat excursion along the riverbanks in search of caimans. With some luck, you may also spot the capybara, the world’s largest rodent. Dinner will be served back at the lodge, followed by an overnight stay.

caiman in the madre de dios river

DAY 2 Sandoval Lake • Tambopata National Reserve

Morning – Sandoval Lake Excursion

After an early breakfast, take a short boat ride to the entrance of Sandoval Lake. From there, hike 3 km through the rainforest to enter the Tambopata National Reserve. Board a canoe and explore the lake while observing monkeys, exotic birds, towering trees, and other wildlife. With some luck, you may even spot a family of giant river otters. Return to the lodge for a traditional Amazonian lunch.

Canoe ride through the Amazon rainforest

Afternoon & Evening – Night Walk

Later in the day, head out on a guided night walk to discover the incredible diversity of insects, amphibians, and nocturnal reptiles. Back at the lodge, enjoy dinner, relax at the bar, and soak in the unique atmosphere of the jungle night before resting for your final day.

group resting and having a drink at the bar

DAY3 Canopy Walkway • Return to Puerto Maldonado

Morning – Canopy Walkway Adventure

Rise early at 5:30 AM for an unforgettable morning walk through the rainforest canopy. Cross the Canopy Walkway, a hanging bridge suspended nearly 100 feet (30 meters) above the ground, offering sweeping views of the jungle and the Madre de Dios River. From the platforms, spot colorful bird species such as toucans and macaws.

Girl crossing suspension bridge in the middle of jungle

Return to Puerto Maldonado

After breakfast at the lodge, collect your luggage and return by boat to Puerto Maldonado. Your guide will transfer you to the airport in time for your departure flight, marking the end of your Puerto Maldonado Jungle Tour.

Boat with travelers navigating on the Madre de Dios River in Puerto Maldonado

What to bring to Puerto Maldonado Jungle tour

Puerto Maldonado has a hot and humid Amazonian climate. Temperatures range from 68 °F to 104 °F (20 °C to 40 °C), and during the windy season (June–July) they may drop to around 62 °F (17 °C). The rainy season lasts from December to March.

Because of the humidity, frequent rain showers, and insects, it’s essential to come prepared with the right clothing and gear.

Clothing essentials:

  • Lightweight, breathable, quick-dry clothing
  • Rain gear (poncho, rain jacket, backpack cover)
  • Sturdy shoes, boots, or sneakers
  • Comfortable clothes that wick away perspiration
  • Jacket or light sweater for cooler evenings
  • Swimsuit

Jungle essentials:

  • Original passport
  • Mosquito repellent
  • Sunscreen
  • Sunglasses
  • Hat or cap
  • Refillable water bottle
  • Flashlight or headlamp
  • Camera, charger, and extra batteries
  • Cash (there are no ATMs in the lodge)
  • Small daypack for daily excursions

👉 With this packing list, you’ll be ready to explore the Amazon jungle safely and comfortably.

Where does the tour Puerto Maldonado Jungle start

If you are staying in Puerto Maldonado

You will be picked up from your accommodation at 8:30 AM and taken to the office located in downtown Puerto Maldonado. From there, you will be transferred to Puerto Capitanía, where you will board the boat to the lodge.

The boat ride from Puerto Capitanía to the lodge along the Madre de Dios River takes approximately 1 hour.

If you are arriving at Puerto Maldonado Airport

If you are flying into Puerto Maldonado on the same day the tour starts, you will be picked up at the airport upon arrival and taken to the office located in downtown Puerto Maldonado.

The drive from the airport to downtown Puerto Maldonado takes approximately 15 minutes. From the office, you will be transferred to Puerto Capitanía, where you will board the boat to the lodge.

Boat departure times to the lodge

The boat included in the tour has two scheduled departures from Puerto Capitanía:

  • 9:30 AM
  • 1:30 PM

Airport pickup is coordinated according to your flight schedule. Remember to provide your flight details in the booking form. Your guide will be waiting for you outside the airport with a sign.

At Howlanders, we recommend booking a flight that lands before 9:00 AM so you can take the first boat departure to the lodge, scheduled for 9:30 AM.

However, there is some flexibility with the departure time. For example, if your flight lands at 9:45 AM and arrives on time, they may be able to wait for you so you can still board the first boat.

If your flight arrives later or is delayed and it is no longer possible to take the first boat, you will board the second departure, scheduled for 1:30 PM. Whether you take the first or second boat, you will not miss any of the activities included in the tour, as the itinerary is arranged so you can enjoy all the planned experiences during your stay.

Where the tour ends

On the last day, you will follow the same route in reverse: you will travel by boat from the lodge to Puerto Capitanía and then continue by road to Puerto Maldonado Airport.

Arrival at the airport is scheduled for approximately 9:30 AM, so we recommend booking flights departing from 10:00 AM onward.

👉 Would you like to leave the lodge later?

If your flight departs later and you would prefer to spend more time at the lodge on your last day, you can request a late check-out directly at the lodge. This is a private service and is available for an additional fee.

Questions & Answers

  • What time will I be picked up at the airport, and what flight should I book?

    Airport pickup is arranged according to your flight arrival time. Just enter your flight details in the booking form and your guide will be waiting for you outside the airport with a sign.

    We recommend booking a flight that lands before 9:00 AM so you can take the first boat to the lodge, scheduled for 9:30 AM.

    There is some flexibility, though. If your flight lands around 9:45 AM and arrives on time, the team can usually wait for you so you can still board the first departure.

    If you arrive later or your flight is delayed and the first boat can no longer wait, you will take the second departure at 1:30 PM.

  • Will I miss any activities if I take the second boat because of my flight schedule?

    No. If your flight schedule or a delay means you need to take the 1:30 PM boat, you will not miss any of the activities included in the tour.

    The itinerary is organized so that guests arriving on either the first or second boat can still enjoy all the planned activities during their stay in the Amazon rainforest.

  • Can I return to Puerto Maldonado later on the last day if my flight leaves later?

    Yes. The included transfer on the last day is scheduled to arrive at Puerto Maldonado Airport at approximately 9:30 AM.

    If your flight departs later and you would rather spend more time at the lodge, you can request a late check-out directly at the lodge. This is a private service, subject to availability and available for an additional fee.

  • Which flights to Puerto Maldonado do you recommend booking?

    For the 3-day Puerto Maldonado Amazon tour, we recommend booking an outbound flight that lands in Puerto Maldonado before 9:00 AM, so you can take the first boat to the lodge at 9:30 AM.

    For your return flight, the included transfer is expected to arrive at the airport at around 9:30 AM, so we recommend choosing a flight departing from 10:00 AM onward.

    If the available flight times do not fit these recommendations, you can arrive later on the first day and take the 1:30 PM boat, or request a late check-out on the last day if you prefer to return to the airport later.

  • What type of accommodation is included in the tour?

    You will stay in a rustic jungle lodge, built with local wood and located on the banks of the Madre de Dios River. Rooms are simple but comfortable, protected with mosquito nets, and designed in the traditional Amazonian style by artisans from the Palmareal community. It is an authentic and immersive space to experience the jungle.

    If you are looking for more comfort, we recommend the Puerto Maldonado Amazon Tour – Comfort Ecolodge.

  • What facilities does the lodge have?

    The lodge features 18 buildings with a total of 30 rooms (15 bungalow-style). Facilities include a lobby/bar, dining room, kitchen, swimming pool, and common areas such as a terrace with hammocks and an outdoor smoking area. All areas are protected with mosquito nets and maintain a rustic Amazonian design in harmony with the environment.

  • What are the lodge rooms like?

    The lodge has 30 rooms: doubles, matrimonial, triples, and family rooms.

    • 15 rooms are bungalow/cabin style with a private terrace.
    • All rooms have private bathrooms with chlorinated and purified river water.
    • Electricity is available for 4 hours per day (5:00 PM – 9:00 PM).
    • All rooms are fully protected with mosquito nets.
  • Are the rooms private?

    Yes, for bookings of 2 or more travelers, private rooms are guaranteed.

    For solo travelers, a shared room (double or triple with twin beds and private bathroom) with travelers of the same gender will be assigned. If you prefer a private room, you can request one for an additional supplement, subject to availability. Please contact us for details.

  • What meals are included in the tour?

    The tour includes full board (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) served in the lodge dining room.

    • Buffet service: when there are more than 15 guests.
    • Table service: when there are fewer than 15 guests.
    • Meals combine regional, Peruvian, and international cuisine, including salads, main courses, and desserts. Water, coffee, tea, and soft drinks are included during meals. The lodge also has a bar with additional beverages available for purchase.
  • Is there a vegetarian menu option?

    Yes. Vegetarian meals and other dietary needs can be accommodated. Please inform us in advance of any allergies, restrictions, or special diets so the lodge can prepare accordingly.

  • Is water included during the tour?

    Yes. Drinking water is included from refillable containers in the dining room, where you can fill your bottle throughout the day. Small bottles of mineral water and other drinks (soft drinks, sodas, alcoholic beverages) are available at the bar for an additional cost.

  • Do the showers at the lodge have hot water?

    No, hot water is not available at the lodge. Each room has a private bathroom, and the showers use water from the Madre de Dios River, which is treated and purified to ensure it’s safe. The lodge offers rustic, standard-style accommodations with no room categories, designed for travelers who want an authentic experience in the Amazon rainforest.

  • Will I have electricity at the lodge?

    Yes. Electricity is provided by a generator from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM daily. We recommend using this time to charge your devices. After 9:00 PM, the lodge is lit with kerosene lamps, creating a magical atmosphere. Don’t forget to bring a flashlight.

  • Will I have phone or internet coverage?

    You may have access to mobile network coverage at the lodge, depending on your provider. However, there is no Wi-Fi or public phone available. This is the perfect opportunity to disconnect and enjoy the jungle.

  • What is the group size of the Puerto Maldonado Jungle Tour?

    Groups are usually small, averaging 8 travelers, with a maximum of 10 per guide for a more personal experience. In high season, group sizes may be slightly larger.

  • Do I have to bring all my luggage to the lodge?

    No. After your airport pick-up, you will stop at the office in Puerto Maldonado, where you can store any luggage you don’t need during your jungle stay. This makes the boat transfer to the lodge easier and more comfortable.

  • Is there a baggage limit?

    Yes. You may bring to the lodge only 1 piece up to 10 kg per traveler and a light daypack. The rest can be left at the Puerto Maldonado office before departure. If needed, a duffel bag will be provided to carry the essentials.

Puerto Maldonado Jungle tour reviews with Howlanders

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