Physical Level

Easy

Trip Style

Max Altitude

Group Size

INQUIRY ABOUT THIS TREK

Our two-day Lake Sandoval Tour is one of our most popular options. This trip is ideal for those who want to explore the best of nature and culture in the Peruvian Amazon rainforest in a short amount of time.

This two-day Lake Sandoval tour will be led by one of our naturalist guides, who was born and raised in the Tambopata National Reserve. Our guides have in-depth knowledge about the local flora and fauna.

We’ve designed an itinerary that will give you a complete jungle experience. During your two-day Amazon trip to Lake Sandoval, you’ll also enjoy a canopy walk, a zip line, and visit one of the world’s largest clay licks: the Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick. Our Amazon Jungle Lodge is nestled within the rainforest.

The clay lick in Tambopata National Park is a must-see, where you’ll observe diverse species of macaws, parrots, and parakeets, including red-bellied macaws and other large macaw species.

Lake Sandoval’s waters are notably clearer than those of the Madre de Dios River. Lake Sandoval is a serene place inhabited by countless species of birds, animals, and reptiles. These include a family of giant river otters, black caimans, butterflies, hoatzins, and more.

Our action-packed two-day Lake Sandoval experience will give you the best of the Peruvian Amazon rainforest.

Departure and Return Location: Transfer from Puerto Maldonado Airport.

Departure Time: Depending on your flight schedule.

Itinerary

DAY 1:

From Puerto Maldonado to the Canopy's Embrace

After settling your belongings, we’ll whisk you away in a 4×4 to the boat pier. There, you’ll board a scenic boat for a captivating ride to our Sandoval Lake Lodge. This brief journey offers a tantalizing glimpse into the rich biodiversity of the Amazon Rainforest and its basin.

Upon arrival at the lodge, you’ll savor a delicious, typical Amazonian lunch. Afterward, our full-day Lake Sandoval tour truly begins with a visit to Monkey Island. As its name suggests, this unique rainforest haven is home to an incredible 13 species of monkeys. Our local expert will share fascinating insights into the lives of the diverse monkey breeds that call this island home.

Next, we’ll board a rowing boat and venture deeper into the jungle for an unforgettable canopy walk. Suspended high above the forest floor, you’ll be treated to a spectacular panoramic view of the entire rainforest, an unparalleled perspective of this lush ecosystem. Once you’ve soaked in the treetop beauty, we’ll return to the lodge for a delightful dinner. Our chef will prepare a native Amazonian meal, a true culinary experience. As night falls, we’ll embark on a 50-minute night walk, a thrilling opportunity to spot nocturnal animals, snakes, and alligators under the cover of darkness.

DAY 2:

Macaw Spectacle and Lake Sandoval's Serenity

We’ll rise early and depart from the lodge by motorboat, heading to Chuncho on the Madre de Dios River, home to the breathtaking Macaw Clay Lick. This is a highlight not to be missed in Tambopata. Hundreds of different species of macaws and parrots gather here at dawn, feasting on the clay from the cliff. This clay contains a unique mineral salt crucial for their digestion, helping them eliminate toxins from their bodies. After this awe-inspiring spectacle, we’ll return to the lodge for a hearty breakfast.

Following breakfast, we’ll cross the Madre de Dios River to embark on a three-kilometer hike. Our guide will enthusiastically explain the incredible biodiversity of the vibrant Amazon rainforest as we trek. Our walk will lead us along the palm-fringed rim of Lake Sandoval, a true paradise for nature enthusiasts. Here, you’ll witness an abundance of rich flora and fauna. The lake is also home to the nearly extinct giant otters and majestic caimans.

After experiencing the enchanting beauty of nature, we’ll enjoy lunch before checking out of the lodge. In the evening, we’ll take the boat back to the city of Puerto Maldonado. Our crew will meet you at the pier and transfer you to the airport or bus terminal, concluding your unforgettable Amazon adventure.

Inclusions

Airport/bus station pickup
Why essential: Ensures safe arrival in remote areas with limited transport. Vehicles are tracked via GPS for security.
Bilingual professional guide
Educational role: Certified naturalists explain rainforest ecology, identify species, and interpret indigenous practices. Minimum 8 years’ experience.
Covered motorboat transport
Design purpose: Shallow-draft boats navigate narrow tributaries while roof protects from sun/rain. Life jackets meet international safety standards.
Full board meals
Nutritional insight: Buffets feature Amazon superfoods like camu camu (vitamin C), paiche fish (protein), and chonta palm (fiber). Dietary needs accommodated with 24h notice.
Unlimited mineral water
Health context: Prevents dehydration in 85% humidity. Bottled water avoids contamination risks from local water sources.
Energy snacks
Biological need: Quick calories replenish energy during high-activity excursions. Local Brazil nuts provide selenium for immune support.
Eco-lodge accommodation
Sustainability feature: Rainwater harvesting, solar power, and biodegradable soaps minimize environmental impact. Mosquito nets are permethrin-treated.
Rubber boots
Practical science: Knee-high design protects against venomous snakes (like fer-de-lance) and skin-penetrating parasites during wetland hikes.
First-aid kit
Medical coverage: Contains antivenoms, altitude medication, and wound dressings. Guides are wilderness first-responder certified.
Reserve entrance fees
Conservation impact: Your $25 fee directly funds anti-poaching patrols and reforestation projects in Tambopata.

Alcoholic beverages
Exclusion reason: Import costs triple prices in remote areas. Local alternatives like chicha (fermented corn beer) available for ~10 PEN.
Souvenirs
Ethical note: Handicrafts support indigenous communities. Verify authenticity via “Artesanías del Perú” certification seal.
Gratuities
Cultural guidance: Tipping demonstrates reciprocity in Andean culture. 30-50 PEN/day for guides aligns with local wage structures.
Laundry services
Ecological factor: Limited washing facilities conserve water resources. Quick-dry clothing recommended.
Travel insurance
Critical requirement: Must cover jungle helicopter evacuation (avg. cost: $5,000). Policies require “adventure activities” endorsement.
Airport departure tax
Administrative detail: 18 PEN fee at Puerto Maldonado airport funds regional infrastructure. Payable in soles only.

Photo Gallery

What to Bring

Original passport + copy
Legal necessity: Required at military checkpoints. Laminated copy prevents damage from humidity.
DEET 40%+ repellent
Entomology basis: Blocks Anopheles mosquitoes carrying malaria/dengue. Apply to clothing for 8-hour protection.
Binoculars (8×42)
Wildlife viewing: Optimal magnification identifies canopy species 60m away. Waterproof models prevent lens fungus.
Biodegradable sunscreen
Ecological imperative: Chemicals in standard sunscreens kill coral and phytoplankton. Look for “reef-safe” zinc formulas.
Hiking boots
Terrain adaptation: Vibram soles prevent slips on muddy trails. Ankle support reduces sprain risks on uneven terrain.
Headlamp (red light)
Nocturnal ecology: Red light preserves night vision for animal spotting without disturbing wildlife.
Electrolyte powders
Physiological aid: Replenishes sodium/potassium lost through sweating in tropical conditions.
Small denomination soles
Economic reality: Isolated communities rarely accept cards. 10/20 PEN bills needed for artisan purchases.

About ISIC Card

Valid Student ID for Classic Inca Trail Hike and Machu Picchu

To qualify for the student discount on Inca Trail Permits, travelers must meet the following requirements:

Age Limit: Students must be 25 years old or younger at the time of entering the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu. Those over 25 years old cannot enter as a student.
ID Requirements: The student ID must include:
- The name of the university
- The student’s name and photo
- A valid expiration date
ISIC CARD: This card type is no longer valid anymore

Invalid Student IDs for the Inca Trail Discount

Student IDs will not be accepted for the discount under the following conditions:

The traveler is older than 25
The ID is expired
The ID does not have an expiration date
ISIC cards are not valid for obtaining the student discount for Inca Trail permits.

This information is crucial for travelers seeking to benefit from discounted permits for the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu.

Why to Choose

Why choose “Cusco Tours”?

“Cusco Tours” is a 100% Peruvian-owned tour operator based in Cusco, with extensive experience in hiking, adventure tours, and customized travel packages. As a completely local company, we’re dedicated to providing travelers with authentic, high-quality experiences.

Our vision as a local company is to deliver personalized travel and hiking journeys, managed exclusively by experienced local professionals, with a strong focus on HIGH-QUALITY and PERSONALIZED SERVICE.

We are proud of our reputation as a travel agency that upholds RESPONSIBLE and SUSTAINABLE practices benefiting both the environment and local communities.

We treat our team like family and ensure they receive fair wages. We are incredibly proud of each member of our team! Their dedication makes it possible for us to provide the top-notch service that our many travelers appreciate.

At “Cusco Tours,” we understand that our reputation and the feedback from our travelers are essential for gaining the trust of future adventurers. You can check out honest reviews from our guests on TripAdvisor, Facebook, and Google to see why we’re a reliable choice for creating your Peruvian adventure.

Small Group Travel

To ensure a more personalized experience at “Cusco Tours,” we keep our group sizes to a maximum of 8 travelers. This approach allows us to offer a tailored experience, unlike companies that operate with larger groups.

About Our Tour Guides

Our guides are our pride. They’re highly knowledgeable and professional, fluent in English, and deeply passionate about Inca culture and history. Each guide is committed to ongoing personal and professional development, allowing them to share accurate insights and fascinating theories about Andean heritage. They are friendly, athletic, and well-educated, with backgrounds in Archaeology, Tourism, Botany, History, or Anthropology.

Our Inca Trail Porters

Hiking with “Cusco Tours” ensures a fulfilling experience. Our porters are here to make your journey comfortable and memorable. They carry your equipment, prepare meals, set up camps, and attend to your needs so you can relax and enjoy the adventure. Along the way, you’ll connect with local people, explore stunning sites, and discover historic Inca villages.

We provide our porters with essential equipment at no cost: jackets, sun hats, warm hats, shirts, pants, hiking boots, comfortable bags, canteens, back support belts, sleeping bags, mattresses, and travel insurance. Our porters come from remote communities, and by hiring them, we help improve their economic conditions and support their children’s education. We treat our porters like family!

Our Team and Equipment

Our team—guides, cooks, porters, muleteers—and our equipment make “Cusco Tours” stand out from the competition. During our hikes, we provide:

Our Tents: We use 4-season EUREKA Timberline tents, designed for four but used by two for extra comfort and storage. They include a small vestibule for boots and poles.
Foam Mats: Insulate you from the ground for added warmth.
Air Mattresses: Available to rent for $20 USD.
Kitchen and Dining Tents: Serve as a common area during meals, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
Tables and Chairs: Set up in the dining area, adapted for varying weather.
Travel Bags: Provided the night before the trek.
Additional Items: We offer pillows, rain covers for backpacks, survival shirts, and portable toilets during the trek.

Our Commitment to Social Responsibility

“Cusco Tours” is committed to giving back to isolated communities. We support social projects and prioritize hiring local staff.

We are proud to support local communities not only by providing employment but also by offering assistance to their families. This holistic approach benefits our employees from the Peruvian Andes and their loved ones, strengthening our connection to the local heritage.

Faqs

What’s the best time of year to visit Lake Sandoval?

The dry season, from May to October, is generally recommended for a Lake Sandoval Tour 2 Days. There’s less rain, making trails easier to navigate and increasing wildlife sightings.

How physically fit do I need to be for this tour?

You should have a moderate level of physical fitness. The Lake Sandoval Tour 2 Days involves walking on uneven trails and boat rides, so being able to handle these activities comfortably will enhance your experience.

What kind of clothing should I pack?

For your Lake Sandoval Tour 2 Days, bring lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and long pants to protect against insects and sun. Quick-drying fabrics are best. Don’t forget a hat, sunglasses, comfortable walking shoes, and a rain poncho.

What health precautions should I take before my trip?

Consult your doctor about necessary vaccinations, such as yellow fever, before your Lake Sandoval Tour 2 Days. Malaria prophylaxis might also be recommended. Pack strong insect repellent and stay hydrated.

What kind of wildlife can I expect to see?

On your Lake Sandoval Tour 2 Days, you can anticipate seeing a variety of wildlife, including giant river otters, different monkey species, caimans, and numerous bird species like hoatzins and macaws.

Is internet access available during the Lake Sandoval Tour 2 Days?

Internet access is generally limited or unavailable during the Lake Sandoval Tour 2 Days. Many lodges in remote areas don’t offer Wi-Fi, which allows for a more immersive natural experience.

How do I get to Lake Sandoval?

You typically start in Puerto Maldonado. From there, your Lake Sandoval Tour 2 Days will involve a motorized canoe ride up the Madre de Dios River, followed by a walk through the rainforest to reach the lake.

What’s the food like on the tour?

Meals during your Lake Sandoval Tour 2 Days, especially if arranged through a tour, are usually simple but fresh. They often feature local ingredients like fish, chicken, rice, plantains, and tropical fruits.

What documents do I need to bring?

Make sure to carry a valid passport or official identification for your Lake Sandoval Tour 2 Days. It’s also a good idea to have copies of your travel insurance and any tour booking confirmations.

What are the main safety tips for this tour?

Always follow your guide’s instructions during the Lake Sandoval Tour 2 Days. Stay on designated trails, avoid touching unfamiliar plants or wildlife, and be aware of your surroundings, especially near water.

Travel Guide

This guide provides essential information for your Lake Sandoval Tour 2 Days, offering practical advice for a smooth and enjoyable experience.

Getting There

To reach Lake Sandoval for your Lake Sandoval Tour 2 Days, you typically start in Puerto Maldonado. From there, you will take a motorized canoe up the Madre de Dios River. The journey involves a boat ride followed by a walk through the rainforest to reach the lake itself.

Recommended Season for Visiting

The dry season, generally from May to October, is often recommended for the Lake Sandoval Tour 2 Days. During this period, rainfall is lower, making trails less muddy and increasing the likelihood of spotting wildlife. The wet season, from November to April, brings higher water levels and more intense humidity, though it can also offer unique perspectives on the rainforest.

Physical Preparation

The Lake Sandoval Tour 2 Days involves walking on uneven trails and potentially long boat rides. A moderate level of physical fitness is beneficial. Regular walking or light cardio in the weeks leading up to your trip can help prepare you for the activities.

Health Recommendations

Consult your doctor regarding necessary vaccinations, such as yellow fever, before your Lake Sandoval Tour 2 Days. Malaria prophylaxis may also be recommended. Pack insect repellent with a high DEET concentration to protect against mosquito bites. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of purified water.

What to Wear for the Tour

For your Lake Sandoval Tour 2 Days, lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and long pants are advisable to protect against insects and sun. Quick-drying fabrics are practical due to the humid environment. Bring a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and comfortable walking shoes or waterproof boots. A rain poncho or lightweight waterproof jacket is also essential.

Necessary Documentation

Carry a valid passport or official identification document for your Lake Sandoval Tour 2 Days. It is also wise to have copies of your travel insurance and any tour booking confirmations.

Local Transportation

Local transportation for the Lake Sandoval Tour 2 Days primarily consists of motorized canoes (peque-peques) on the rivers and walking on established trails within the reserve. Your tour operator will typically arrange all necessary transport.

Main Attractions

The primary attraction during your Lake Sandoval Tour 2 Days is Lake Sandoval itself, known for its diverse wildlife. You can expect to see giant river otters, various monkey species (capuchin, howler, squirrel), caimans, and a wide array of birds, including hoatzins and macaws. Paddling on the lake offers excellent wildlife viewing opportunities.

Local Food

Food during your Lake Sandoval Tour 2 Days, especially if arranged through a tour, often consists of simple but fresh meals prepared at your lodge. These typically include local ingredients like fish, chicken, rice, plantains, and tropical fruits. Meals are generally wholesome and provide sustenance for your activities.

Local Markets

In Puerto Maldonado, before or after your Lake Sandoval Tour 2 Days, you can explore local markets. These markets offer fresh produce, local crafts, and essential supplies. They provide a glimpse into daily life in the region.

Safety Advice

Always follow the instructions of your guide during the Lake Sandoval Tour 2 Days. Stay on designated trails and avoid touching unfamiliar plants or wildlife. Be mindful of your surroundings, especially near water bodies. Store valuables securely and be aware of your personal belongings.

Internet Access

Internet access during your Lake Sandoval Tour 2 Days will likely be limited or unavailable. Many lodges in remote areas do not offer Wi-Fi, allowing for a more immersive experience. Consider this an opportunity to disconnect and fully appreciate the natural environment.

Lake Sandoval Tour 2 Days