Lake Sandoval and Collpa de Chuncho - 4 Days Experience

Why choose this experience?

Immersion in the Amazon: Travel the route from Cusco to Tambopata and immerse yourself in one of the most biodiverse destinations in Peru, surrounded by tropical forests, rivers, and an extraordinary variety of flora and fauna.

Encounters with wildlife: Explore the Amazonian landscapes and discover the diversity of species in their natural habitat, such as the parrot clay licks, in an experience designed to connect with nature.

Accompaniment throughout the entire trip: Our team accompanies you at every stage of the journey, coordinating transfers, accommodation, and activities so you can enjoy the trip with peace of mind.

Small groups: Travel in groups of up to 12 passengers and enjoy a more comfortable, intimate, and personalized experience, with greater freedom to enjoy every moment.

General Technical Data

Hiking activity:

Day 1: Nighttime exploration walk through the forest.

Day 2: Ethnobotanical hike through the trails of the Amazon rainforest.

Day 2: Activities observing Amazonian biodiversity and visit to the Collpa de Chuncho.

Day 3: Hike to Lake Sandoval and canoeing.

Maximum altitude:

Tambopata National Reserve: 500 meters above sea level / 1,640 feet

Minimum altitude:

Puerto Maldonado: 180 meters above sea level / 590 feet

Level of difficulty:

Easy

Temperature:

Minimum: 18 °C / Maximum: 32 °C

Featured Places

Lake Sandoval: It is one of the main attractions of the Tambopata National Reserve, near Puerto Maldonado. It is an Amazonian lagoon surrounded by tropical forest, recognized for its biodiversity.

Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick: One of the largest clay licks in the Amazon, where hundreds of parrots and macaws gather to feed on the clay, creating one of the most impressive wildlife spectacles.

Tambopata National Reserve: Explore one of the most biodiverse natural spaces in the Peruvian Amazon, where wildlife is preserved in its most authentic state.

Tambopata River: Sail along the Tambopata River, enjoy the Amazonian landscapes, and observe the biodiversity of the wildlife.

Amazon Rainforest: Discover a great diversity of flowers, trees, medicinal plants, and vegetation during each of the tours.

Summary:

Day 1 | Puerto Maldonado – Tambopata River – Tambopata Lodge

Travel to the heart of the Amazon, sailing along the Tambopata River to the lodge. At night, explore the forest and discover its fascinating nightlife.

Day 2 | Collpa de Chuncho – Tambopata Jungle

Admire hundreds of parrots and macaws at the spectacular Collpa de Chuncho and explore the Amazon rainforest. As night falls, sail in search of caimans.

Day 3 | Tambopata – Sandoval Lake – Puerto Maldonado

Explore Lake Sandoval by canoe, surrounded by jungle and wildlife, with opportunities to see monkeys, birds, and giant otters.

Day 4 | Puerto Maldonado – Airport

Enjoy one last breakfast in the Amazon before heading to the airport and the end of the adventure.

Explore the Peruvian Amazon for four days among rivers, forests, and wildlife, from the spectacular Collpa de Guacamayos and Loros de Chuncho to the biodiverse waters of Lake Sandoval.

Day 1 | Puerto Maldonado – Tambopata River – Tambopata Lodge

The experience begins in Puerto Maldonado, where you will be welcomed and transferred to Wasaí Maldonado Hotel for a brief welcome and orientation about the trip. Then we will embark on the journey to the heart of the Amazon, covering approximately 64 km on paved and unpaved roads, while traversing rural areas, primary forests, and Amazonian landscapes.

Upon arriving at the port of Filadelfia, we will board an outboard motorboat to navigate the Tambopata River to Wasaí Tambopata Lodge. During the navigation, we will begin to discover the wildlife of the area, with possibilities of observing birds, capybaras, caimans, and other characteristic species of the region.

After settling in and enjoying a brief rest, as night falls, we will venture into the forest for a night walk. With the help of our senses and the guide's interpretation, we will discover the sounds and movements of the jungle while searching for frogs, insects, bats, and, hopefully, some nocturnal mammals. Dinner and overnight stay are at Wasaí Tambopata Lodge.

Day 2 | Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick – Tambopata Jungle

The second day begins before dawn, where we will navigate the Tambopata River toward the impressive Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick, located within the Tambopata National Reserve. The tour offers magnificent landscapes and opportunities to observe wildlife along the riverbanks.

If the weather conditions are favorable, we will witness one of the most astonishing spectacles of the Amazon: hundreds of parrots and macaws gathering at the clay lick to feed on the clay.

While we wait for their arrival, we will enjoy breakfast in front of this extraordinary natural setting.

At noon, we will begin our return to the lodge. Once there, we will have time to relax by the pool, sleep, enjoy a bath in the Tambopata River, or engage in a recreational fishing activity.

After lunch, we will explore the forest through an ethnobotanical walk along the trails of Tambopata. On this tour, we will learn about trees and plants of importance to the Amazon, including medicinal species, palm trees, and emblematic forest trees.

As night falls, we will return to the river for a nighttime cruise in search of caimans. With the help of a flashlight, we will be able to locate the characteristic reflection of their eyes on the water.

Dinner and overnight stay are at Wasaí Tambopata Lodge.

Day 3 | Tambopata – Sandoval Lake – Puerto Maldonado

After breakfast, we will begin the return to Wasaí Maldonado Hotel, combining river navigation and land transportation. There we will leave our luggage, have lunch, and have a brief time to rest before continuing the adventure.

Subsequently, we will sail to the access point of Lake Sandoval, located within the Tambopata National Reserve. From there, we will take a short walk through the forest until we reach the shores of the lake.

Once there, we will board a rowboat to peacefully navigate its waters and enjoy one of the most representative landscapes of the Amazon. During the journey, we will be able to observe kingfishers, herons, monkeys, and various species of birds. With a bit of luck, we might also spot the giant otters that inhabit the lake.

As we move forward, we will be able to experience the transformation of the jungle at dusk: the sounds of daytime birds gradually give way to the nocturnal ambiance of the forest.

Finally, we will begin our return to the Madre de Dios River and Puerto Maldonado. After dinner, you will have the night free to rest or take a stroll through the city. The overnight stay is at Wasaí Maldonado Hotel.

Day 4 | Puerto Maldonado – Airport

Enjoy a final breakfast in Puerto Maldonado before the transfer to the airport, according to your flight schedule.

In this way, the unforgettable adventure concludes, taking with you the memories of an experience among rivers, forests, and the extraordinary wildlife of the Peruvian Amazon.

Transfers and transportation

Airport transfer – hotel – airport: Reception and arrival and departure transfer in Puerto Maldonado.

Land and river transport: Transfers by vehicle and boat navigation during the different stages of the program.

Canoe navigation: For the exploration of Lake Sandoval.

Accommodation and comfort

2 nights at Wasaí Tambopata Lodge: Accommodation in a lodge surrounded by Amazonian nature.

1 night at Wasaí Maldonado Hotel: Accommodation in Puerto Maldonado.

Internet: Available in the common areas of the accommodation.

Rubber boots: Provided for excursions in the humid areas of the jungle.

Food

Meals during the program: Breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 3 dinners, according to the itinerary.

Box lunch: During the transfer to Wasaí Tambopata Lodge.

Vegetarian options: Available upon request at the time of booking.

Experiences and support

Activities according to the itinerary: Exploration hikes, ethnobotanical hike, nighttime navigation in search of caimans, visit to Collpa Chuncho, and exploration of Lake Sandoval.

Professional bilingual guide: Accompaniment during the program by a guide specialized in Amazonian nature and biodiversity.

NOT INCLUDED

Domestic flights

Entry to the Tambopata National Reserve: USD 40 per passenger.

Travel insurance (recommended): We recommend having insurance that covers cancelations, flight delays, loss or delay of luggage, illnesses, accidents, and other unforeseen events during the trip.

Additional expenses due to causes beyond the agency's control: Any costs generated by adverse weather conditions, itinerary changes for safety, illness, modifications of government policies, strikes, or other similar circumstances.

Request your private experience

Enjoy greater flexibility, more time to explore, and an adventure tailored to your own pace, with more personalized attention throughout the journey.

Kayak and Zip Line:

Mandatory documents

Original and valid passport or national identity card.

Digital copy of your document, recommended as a backup.

Recommended luggage

Small or medium backpack of 20 to 30 liters, to carry your personal items during excursions.

Moderate-sized main luggage, avoiding unnecessary items.

Waterproof bag or airtight bags to protect clothes, documents, and electronic equipment from rain and humidity.

Reusable water bottle.

Clothing and footwear

Lightweight, comfortable, and quick-drying clothing for the warm and humid climate of the Amazon.

Long pants and long-sleeve shirts to protect yourself during hikes.

Waterproof jacket or rain poncho.

A warm garment for the first day, especially during the tour through the highlands and the cloud forest.

Hat or cap for the sun.

Sunglasses with protection.

Change of clothes and extra underwear.

Swimsuit, optional according to your preferences.

Comfortable and waterproof footwear for walks.

Personal items

Sunscreen.

Insect repellent.

Personal medication.

Basic personal first aid kit.

Toilet paper and wet wipes.

Hand sanitizer.

Additional snacks, optional.

Cash in soles and small bills for personal purchases, crafts, and local products.

Personal hygiene items.

Equipment and extras

Camera or cell phone.

Binoculars, highly recommended for bird and wildlife watching.

Portable charger / power bank.

Headlamp or handheld flashlight for the night hike.

Waterproof protector for cell phone or camera.

Hermetic bags to protect electronic equipment from moisture.

IMPORTANT CONSIDERATIONS

Wear lightweight, waterproof, and quick-drying clothing due to the humid and variable weather.

Protect your belongings from rain and humidity with waterproof bags.

Cell phone signal is limited or nonexistent in much of the route.

Always respect nature and follow the guide's instructions during wildlife observation.

What is the best time to visit Tambopata?

Tambopata can be visited year-round. The Amazon has a warm and humid climate, with rains that can occur at any time of the year and that can affect some activities and travel.

Is this 4-day program in Tambopata suitable for me?

Yes. It is ideal for families, couples, groups of friends, and travelers who want to explore the Amazon without undertaking demanding trekking. The program combines navigation, wildlife observation, exploratory walks, and nighttime activities.

What level of difficulty does the program have?

The program has an easy level of difficulty. It includes short and exploratory walks through the forest, as well as a walk of approximately 3 km to Lake Sandoval. No previous trekking experience is required.

What temperature will I find during the trip?

The climate is tropical, warm, and humid, with approximate temperatures between 18 °C and 32 °C. Conditions can vary depending on the season and the area.

What should I bring for the program?

We recommend bringing lightweight and quick-drying clothing, long-sleeved pants and shirts, insect repellent, sunscreen, a hat, a rain poncho, a reusable water bottle, personal medications, a flashlight, a camera, and binoculars.

What type of footwear do I need?

For walks on the trails and around the lodge, we recommend wearing comfortable trekking shoes with good grip. For excursions in the humid jungle areas, the lodge provides rubber boots, included in the program.

Is it necessary to bring binoculars?

It is not mandatory, but they are highly recommended for observing birds, monkeys, and other species from a distance during nature and wildlife activities.

What animals can I observe in Tambopata?

During the tour, you will be able to observe parrots and macaws, monkeys, capybaras, caimans, turtles, otters, frogs, bats, and a wide variety of birds and insects. Sightings depend on natural conditions and the behavior of each species.

Is it guaranteed to see parrots and macaws at the Chuncho Collpa?

No, but it is most likely. The presence of parrots and macaws depends on natural factors such as the climate and their behavior. If the conditions are favorable, you will be able to observe how they gather at the collpa to feed on the clay.

What is the visit to the Collpa de Chuncho like?

The activity begins before dawn with a navigation of approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes along the Tambopata River. Upon arrival, we will wait for the right conditions to observe the parrots and macaws gathering at the clay lick.

Is the night walk included?

Yes. On the first day, we will take a night walk through the forest, subject to weather and safety conditions. During the tour, we will be able to observe or hear frogs, insects, bats, and other nocturnal species.

Is there a nighttime boat ride?

Yes. On the second day, we took a night cruise on the Tambopata River in search of caimans.

With the help of a flashlight, we will be able to locate the characteristic reflection of their eyes on the water.

What is the ethnobotanical walk?

It is an exploratory walk through the trails of the Amazon rainforest where we will learn about trees, palms, and plants that are important for the ecosystem and for traditional use, including some medicinal species.

What is the visit to Lake Sandoval like?

On the third day, we will sail to the access point of Lake Sandoval and take a walk of approximately 3 km through the forest. Then we will paddle across the lake in a canoe, enjoying its scenery and looking for birds, monkeys, caimans, and, hopefully, giant otters.

Can I see giant otters at Lake Sandoval?

There is a possibility of observing giant otters during the canoe trip. They are wild animals and their sighting is not guaranteed, as it depends on natural conditions and their behavior.

What are the accommodations like during the program?

The program includes 2 nights at Wasaí Tambopata Lodge, surrounded by Amazonian nature, and 1 night at Wasaí Maldonado Hotel, in Puerto Maldonado.

Is food included?

Yes, the program includes breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 3 dinners, as well as a box lunch during the transfer to Wasaí Tambopata Lodge, according to the itinerary.

Are there vegetarian options?

Yes, vegetarian options can be requested in advance when making the reservation to coordinate the meals with the lodge.

Is there internet during the program?

Yes, Wasaí Tambopata Lodge has internet in the common areas. Due to its location in the Amazon, connectivity may be limited.

Is there cell phone reception during the tour?

Cell phone signal may be limited or nonexistent in some areas along the route. We recommend informing family or contacts before starting the trip.

Is the entrance to the Tambopata National Reserve included?

No, entry to the Tambopata National Reserve has an additional cost of USD 40 per passenger.

Are the Kayak and Zip Line activities included?

No, kayaking and Zip Line are optional activities and have an additional cost of USD 20 per passenger, subject to availability and service conditions.

What time should my flight arrive in Puerto Maldonado?

We recommend booking a flight that arrives in Puerto Maldonado before 1:00 p.m. This allows for proper coordination of the transfer to Wasaí Tambopata Lodge and to continue the journey to the jungle on the same day.

What time should I schedule my departure flight from Puerto Maldonado?

It is recommended to book a departure flight after 1:00 p.m. to allow enough time for the transfer from the lodge to the airport.

Important: The transfer schedules may vary depending on the lodge's operations, river conditions, and the date of the trip. Therefore, we recommend confirming your flight schedules with our team before making the purchase.

Are domestic flights included?

No, the flights to and from Puerto Maldonado are not included in the program.

Can I carry out the program in private service?

Yes, you can request a private experience to enjoy greater flexibility, personalized attention, and a pace tailored to your group's needs.

Can I do Tambopata if I'm not a trekking enthusiast?

Yes, this is not an intensive trekking program. The experience combines land transportation, navigation, wildlife observation, and exploratory walks, allowing you to enjoy the Amazon without undertaking long trekking days.

What happens if it rains or the weather conditions change?

Activities and navigations are subject to weather and river conditions. For safety, the itinerary may be adjusted when necessary, following the guide's instructions and the conditions of the area.

How far in advance should I book?

We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak demand periods. This allows us to ensure the availability of accommodation, transportation, navigation, and services necessary for your experience in Tambopata.

Can I do the program in shared service?

Yes, the program is offered in shared service for groups of up to 12 passengers, allowing you to enjoy activities and excursions in the company of other travelers.

Can I leave my luggage during the excursions?

Yes, you can check with our team about the possibility of leaving your main luggage at our accommodation or office during the excursions, depending on the program's organization.

Are tips included?

No, tips are not included and are completely voluntary. If you feel that you received good service from our team, any gratuity will be welcome, but it will never be mandatory.

What is the reservation process like?

Step 1: Check availability

Write to us at info@sakuraexpedition.com to check the availability for the date you wish to travel. Our team will guide you on the program and the included services.

Step 2: Passenger Information

To manage your reservation, we will request the necessary information from each participant, as it appears on their travel document:

Full name

Passport or identity document number

Date of birth

Nationality

Gender

Step 3: Payment and Confirmation

Once availability is confirmed, we will send you the corresponding payment instructions. Once the required payment is received, we will proceed with the management and confirmation of the program services.

Step 4: Final Confirmation

Once the services are confirmed, you will receive the official confirmation of your reservation with the details of your trip. At that moment, your reservation will be guaranteed 100%.

How far in advance should I book?

We recommend booking in advance, especially during the peak months. This ensures the availability of accommodation, transportation, and necessary services for the experience in Tambopata and the visit to the Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick.

Can I cancel my reservation and request a refund?

The cancelation and refund conditions depend on the services contracted and the policies applicable to each reservation. We recommend checking the specific conditions with our team before making the payment and before requesting any modifications or cancelations.

Can I leave my luggage during the trip?

Yes, for your convenience, you can leave your main luggage at our office or check with our team about the possibility of storing it at your hotel, at no additional cost when this service is available.

Do you give tips?

Tips are not included and are completely voluntary. If you consider that the service received from our guides, drivers, or lodge staff was satisfactory, any gratuity will be welcome, but it will never be mandatory.

Why choose Sakura Expedition for your trip?

At Sakura Expedition, we believe that traveling is not just about visiting a destination, but about living an authentic experience that will stay in your memory forever. For this reason, we design each of our programs with small groups, personalized attention, and a deep respect for the culture, nature, and communities of Peru.

Our commitment is to accompany you from the moment of your reservation until the end of your trip, providing you with professional, safe, and carefully organized service so that you can enjoy each experience with complete peace of mind.

What sets us apart?

Small groups

Enjoy a more comfortable, personalized experience with greater attention from our guides.

Own operation and local team

We directly coordinate our own programs, this way we have control to maintain high standards of quality, punctuality, and organization.

Certified professional guides

Our team shares their work with passion, in history, culture, and the traditions of Peru, making each tour a memorable experience.

Personalized attention

We accompany you from the beginning of your reservation, during, and after your trip, offering continuous assistance and timely responses to your inquiries.

Responsible and sustainable tourism

We promote responsible tourism together with our allied communities, respecting their traditions and contributing to the sustainable development of local families.

Commitment to safety

We work with safety protocols, appropriate equipment, and trained personnel to offer you a more peaceful experience.

Local company with tourism quality certification

We are a 100% local and Peruvian company, based in Cusco. Our commitment to excellence has allowed us to obtain this year the CALTUR Gold Certification, the highest recognition for tourism quality in Peru.

Our commitment

At Sakura Expedition, we don't just organize trips; we create authentic experiences that connect our travelers with the history, culture, nature, and essence of Peru.