Tambopata Eco Lodge (Peru)

The Tambopata Eco Lodge in the Peruvian Amazon is one of the most established eco-tourism lodges on the banks of the Tambopata River. With a capacity of just 59, it is also one of the smallest lodges, which is how the lodge intends to keep it. Smaller groups, they believe, contribute to a more fulfilling visit and reduce the impact on the many species of fauna that abound in the surrounding forest.

You’ll spend 2 to 3 nights or more at the Tambopata Lodge, with canoe or walking day-trips led by local naturalist guides to explore the richness and diversity of the Amazon rainforest. You’ll learn all about the flora, insects, birds, butterflies, mammals, and more that co-exist in this amazing, elegant, and beautifully balanced interconnected ecosystem.

The Tambopata Eco Lodge employs around 20 Peruvian staff, the majority of whom are residents in Puerto Maldonado. In addition, there are a number of naturalist guides, both from Peru and abroad, who are at your service throughout your stay. As well as guiding and introducing visitors to the many marvels of the forest, a number are undertaking research projects, thereby contributing to a greater ecological understanding of the area. 

Custom departures year-round, on request

2017 Rates, per person

Internal Airfare: round-trip airfare to Puerto Maldonado from Cuzco or Lima, $360 (subject to change)

Note Flight Requirements: touch-down in Pto. Maldonado BEFORE 12:30pm; take-off from Pto. Maldonado AFTER 11:30am on departure day.

Local payment: $12 Tambopata-Candamo Reserve fee (2 nights); $25 for (3 nights)

Private group services on request.

DAY 1-FLIGHT TO PUERTO MALDONADO, AND JOURNEY TO THE TAMBOPATA LODGE: Following your early morning flight to Puerto Maldonado from Lima or Cuzco, you will be met at the airport by your naturalist guide and transferred to the lodge office to leave in storage luggage not needed upriver. We continue via speedboat up the Tambopata River to the lodge. On the journey, the vegetation changes from colonized deforested areas to secondary rainforest. A box lunch is provided on board. On arrival you’ll have a welcome drink and meet the lodge staff. In the late afternoon you set off for an introductory walk into the “terra firme” forest behind the lodge, dominated by giant Brazil nut and Dipteryx trees. We frequently see Saddle-back Tamarinds, Brown Capuchins, Agoutis, Pacas, Blue-Morpho butterflies, Trogons, Toucans and many other species. After dinner, we take a night walk to find nocturnal animals or insects by their eye-shine. About 50% of the animals are nocturnal in the rainforest.

DAY 2-HIKE TO LAKE CONDENADO: After an early breakfast we board the motorized canoe once again for the short journey to the trail head to begin a morning’s exploration by foot and paddle canoe of the lake system of Condenado, rich in bird and aquatic life. A family of Giant Otters lives in the vicinity of the lake and is often observed. Birds abound, especially Rufescent Tiger-herons, Great Egrets, Wattled Jacanas, Hoatzin, the noisy Donacobius and many others. Remember to bring your hat and sun cream for there is no shade out on the water. We return to the lodge for lunch. The afternoon is for exploring the forest close to the lodge (with or without your guide), relaxing and bathing in the Gallucunca, a cool clear stream beside the lodge. An extra-cost option is to visit our tree platforms, going up with ropes and harnesses for a bird’s eye view of the forest and for close-ups of arboreal orchids and the many other species of plants and animals that are never seen near the ground. After dark you will go searching for caiman (alligators) and other nocturnal animals by motorized canoe along the Tambopata River.

DAY 3-HIKE TO LAKE SACHAVACAYOC (TAPIR LAKE): After an early breakfast we take a short boat ride downriver, and embark on a longer trail requiring the crossing of streams and swampy ground, past giant Lupuna trees which abound in this part of the forest. On the walk you are introduced to more aspects of the forest and its animals. At the oxbow lake it is possible to spot the elusive Black Caiman and Giant Otters. We return for lunch. The afternoon is free for relaxation and bathing.

DAY 4-RETURN TO PUERTO MALDONADO: A dawn start is required for the canoe trip back to Puerto Maldonado giving memorable views of sunrise over the river. Look out for the early morning wildlife, which is particularly active at this time. Howler monkeys are frequently heard, as they stake out their territories. Your guide will take care of you on arrival in Puerto Maldonado and will deal with all the necessities at the airport prior to you departure.

Any number of extra days at the Tambopata Eco Lodge, in addition to the above program, are possible. These can be guided or unguided, according to your preference and interests. During these days you can:

• Explore the trail system in more depth, going further afield along trails that are rarely visited.
• Repeat the lake visits accompanying other groups, giving you more time to wonder/paddle in your favorite areas
• Visit the tree platforms, going up with ropes and harnesses for a bird’s eye view of the forest and for close-ups of arboreal orchids and the many other species of plants and animals that are never seen near the ground or at dawn when the main activity of the forest begin with a sunrise.

Services included in your trip: All meals and accommodation from lunch on Day 1 to Breakfast on your final day (inclusive). All transport from your arrival at Puerto Maldonado to your return to the airport (inclusive). All guided excursions described in the itinerary (including on additional days, if you wish). One night excursion on the river looking for Caiman.

Not included: Any drinks you may purchase from the bar. Tips.

What immunizations are needed/required?

Please consult your local travel clinic regarding health issues for journeys in tropical areas. On arrival in Puerto maldonado, Peruvian health authorities will ask that you show proof of a valid yellow fever vaccination. Malaria prophylaxis is also recommended.

Quick Facts

• 2-night and 3-night lodge-based programs
• Superior guest cabins and deluxe suites
• Forest and lake excursions led by expert naturalist guides
• All inclusive packages