Where does the Manu Short Trip 3 Days start and end?

The Manu Short Trip 3 Days usually starts and ends in Cusco. You travel about 7 hours overland from Cusco into the Manu region and then continue by motorized canoe along the river before returning to Cusco on the final day.

Is the Manu Short Trip 3 Days enough time to see wildlife?

Yes. The Manu Short Trip 3 Days is optimized for wildlife observation and designed to make the most of your time in the rainforest. The itinerary focuses on real nature experiences in cloud forest, lowland rainforest, river habitats, caves, and an oxbow lake, all of which offer excellent chances to see birds, monkeys, and other wildlife.

What kind of wildlife can I expect to see on the Manu Short Trip 3 Days?

On the Manu Short Trip 3 Days you may see woolly monkeys and other primates, capybaras, caimans, Hoatzins and many aquatic birds, bats and tailless whip scorpions in the caves, and, with some luck, giant river otters at the oxbow lake. Wildlife sightings vary according to weather, season, and natural conditions, but the route is chosen for high biodiversity.

What transportation is used during the Manu Short Trip 3 Days?

The Manu Short Trip 3 Days combines overland and river transportation. From Cusco into the Manu region, you travel in comfortable vehicles such as a 4×4 SUV or minivan. In the lowlands, you continue in long, roofed motorized canoes on the river to reach lodges, caves, and the oxbow lake. Boats are equipped with life jackets and a first-aid kit.

Is the Manu Short Trip 3 Days suitable for all fitness levels?

Most activities on the Manu Short Trip 3 Days are moderate and suitable for travelers with a basic level of fitness. However, rainforest trails can be muddy, uneven, and slippery, especially during the wet season. If you have mobility concerns or special requirements, you should inform the tour operator in advance so they can adjust the pace and activities when possible.

What should I pack for the Manu Short Trip 3 Days?

For the Manu Short Trip 3 Days, bring lightweight long-sleeve shirts and pants, a waterproof jacket or poncho, a hat or cap, sunglasses, sunscreen, insect repellent, a refillable water bottle, personal medications, and your camera or binoculars. Rubber boots are usually provided by the operator up to a certain shoe size.

When is the best time to take the Manu Short Trip 3 Days?

The Manu Short Trip 3 Days operates year-round. The drier months, typically from May to October, tend to have less rain and slightly easier trails. The wetter months, from November to April, bring greener forest and very active ecosystems but also muddier and more slippery paths. Both seasons offer good wildlife-viewing opportunities.

Where will I sleep during the Manu Short Trip 3 Days?

During the Manu Short Trip 3 Days, you spend two nights at Guadalupe Lodge in the Manu region. The lodge is set in a secluded forest location, offering comfortable cabins and direct access to jungle trails, caves, river habitats, and night walks for a real nature experience.

The Complete Tambopata Experience 5 Days

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Tambopata Rainforest Tours

The Complete Experience – 5 Days

Answer the call of the wild. Our Tambopata’s Best Jungle Tour is your gateway to an unforgettable 4-day journey into the heart of the Peruvian Amazon, where every moment is a discovery waiting to happen. This isn’t just a trip; it’s a meticulously crafted experience designed for nature lovers seeking a profound connection with one of the world’s most biodiverse ecosystems. Why settle for a glimpse when you can have a full immersion? We’ve combined three of Tambopata’s most iconic highlights into one seamless itinerary, ensuring you maximize your wildlife encounters and create memories that will last a lifetime. Prepare to be mesmerized by the magic of the Amazon, a unique and vibrant world where every sight, sound, and smell tells a story. The adventure you’ve been dreaming of is finally here.

Price Includes

2 Nights at Collpas Inn
Macaw Clay Lick Ticket
Purified Water to Refill
Tambopata National Reserve Ticket
Meals
Rubber Boots
Transfer from the Airport
English Speaking Guide
Activities
1 Night at Sandoval lake

Price Excludes

Alcoholic Drinks
Binoculars
Day 1 Breakfast / Last Day Lunch
Single Supplement Rate

What to Expect

Escape the ordinary and answer the call of the wild. Our Tambopata’s Best Jungle Tour is your gateway to an unforgettable 4-day journey into the heart of the Peruvian Amazon, where every moment is an adventure waiting to happen. This isn’t just a trip; it’s a meticulously crafted experience designed for nature lovers seeking a profound connection with one of the world’s most biodiverse ecosystems.

Why settle for a glimpse when you can have a full immersion? We’ve combined three of Tambopata’s most iconic highlights into one seamless itinerary, ensuring you maximize your wildlife encounters and create memories that will last a lifetime. Prepare to be mesmerized by the magic of the Amazon, a unique and vibrant world where every sight, sound, and smell tells a story. The adventure you’ve been dreaming of is finally here.

Join us on the Tambopata Best Jungle Tour for an adventure filled with wildlife encounters and unforgettable moments.

Four Highlights of Your Tambopata Adventure

Our program focuses on what makes Tambopata a world-class wildlife destination:

1. Sandoval Lake Immersion Your adventure begins with an overnight stay at a lodge near the breathtaking Sandoval Lake. This is your chance to witness the jungle at its most vibrant—during the serene hours of sunset and sunrise. An overnight stay here is a game-changer, as it significantly increases your chances of spotting magnificent giant river otters, black caimans, and a variety of monkeys and birds. While day-trippers rush to get back, you’ll be fully immersed in the magical sounds of the rainforest as it comes alive at dusk and dawn.

Tambopata Rainforest Tours — Sandoval Lake Sunset

2. The Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick Prepare to witness one of the world’s most spectacular natural phenomena. Our journey takes you to the Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick, a pilgrimage site for bird lovers. At sunrise, hundreds of vibrant macaws—including the magnificent Red-and-green, Scarlet, and Blue-and-gold Macaws—descend from the jungle canopy to ingest the mineral-rich clay. This incredible display of color and sound is an experience that will be etched in your memory forever.

3. Tambopata River Safari The journey itself is part of the adventure. Navigating the Tambopata River by boat is a wildlife safari in its own right, offering exceptional possibilities for observing unique wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for gentle capybaras grazing along the riverbanks and powerful black caimans lurking in the water. This scenic river ride is an integral part of the experience, providing continuous wildlife spotting opportunities.

4. Rainforest Canopy Tower. As an added bonus, our Tambopata Best Jungle Tour also includes a visit to one of the largest canopy towers at Collpas Inn Lodge. This provides a unique bird’s-eye view of the stunning rainforest canopy, offering a new perspective on the jungle and its inhabitants. From your views in the canopy tower, you’ll understand why this is part of the unbeatable Tambopata Best Jungle Tour.

tambopata best jungle tour - canopy tower — canopy tower

Spending a night in the vicinity of Sandoval Lake within the Tambopata National Reserve is a truly exceptional experience for nature lovers. It’s far more immersive and rewarding than a simple day trip, and here’s why it stands out as a must-do for anyone visiting the Peruvian Amazon.

The Tambopata Best Jungle Tour offers the ultimate chance to connect with nature.

Sandoval Lake the Experience:

Our guests often rave about their experiences on the Tambopata Best Jungle Tour, emphasizing the magical moments shared with wildlife.

A Deeper Immersion into the Rainforest

A day trip to Sandoval Lake offers a beautiful glimpse, but an overnight stay allows you to experience the rainforest during its most active and magical hours.

Sunset and Sunrise on the Lake: The calm, mirror-like waters of Sandoval Lake are a sight to behold, but they are particularly stunning at sunset and sunrise. Paddling a canoe as the jungle transitions from day to night, or waking up to the dawn chorus of birds and monkeys, is a profound and serene experience.
Encounters with Giant River Otters: Sandoval Lake is one of the most reliable places in the Amazon to see the critically endangered giant river otters, often called “river wolves.” With an overnight stay, you can be on the water at dawn, when these magnificent, social creatures are most active, giving you a much higher chance of a close-up encounter as they hunt for fish.

Puerto maldonado to sandoval lake — Giant River otters

The Symphony of the Night: The rainforest truly comes alive after dark. A guided night walk reveals a hidden world of nocturnal creatures—from tarantulas, frogs, and snakes to night monkeys and a variety of insects. The sounds of the jungle at night, from the calls of howler monkeys to the buzzing of cicadas, create an unforgettable sensory experience that you can only fully appreciate when you’re there to sleep.
Black Caiman Spotting: As the sun goes down, the black caimans that lurk in the lake’s waters become more visible. A night canoe trip with a flashlight allows you to see their glowing red eyes reflected in the darkness, a thrilling and a great photo opportunity.

Why It’s a Great Experience and a Must-Visit

People should visit and stay at Sandoval Lake for its unique combination of accessibility and biodiversity.

Unparalleled Wildlife Density: Sandoval Lake is a biodiversity hotspot. Its unique oxbow lake ecosystem supports an incredible concentration of flora and fauna, making it an ideal place for wildlife observation. It is a refuge for a vast array of species, including six different types of monkeys, a stunning variety of birds like hoatzins and macaws, and the famous giant otters and black caimans.
A “Best of Both Worlds” Itinerary: The journey to Sandoval Lake, involving a boat ride followed by a walk on a raised boardwalk, is an adventure in itself. This combination of transportation methods allows you to experience different parts of the ecosystem, from the riverbanks to the forest floor, maximizing your opportunities for discovery.

In essence, an overnight stay at Sandoval Lake transforms a simple tour into a deeply immersive journey, offering a rare opportunity to witness the Amazon’s hidden rhythms and its most charismatic creatures in their natural, untouched habitat.

What makes Unique the Chuncho Clay Lick?

Visiting the Chuncho Clay Lick is not merely an excursion; it’s a front-row seat to one of the most spectacular wildlife events in the Amazon. What makes this experience truly special is its unique combination of natural beauty, incredible biodiversity, and a dazzling display of avian behavior that is rarely seen elsewhere.

A Symphony of Color and Sound

Imagine sitting quietly as the first rays of dawn illuminate a massive clay cliff. The quiet air is suddenly filled with a growing chorus of squawks and chirps. Then, a vibrant flash of red, blue, and green fills the sky as hundreds of macaws and parrots descend to the riverbank. The Chuncho Clay Lick is a daily gathering place for these magnificent birds, creating a breathtaking, raucous spectacle of color and sound that will leave you speechless.

Why Do They Flock Here? A Fascinating Natural Phenomenon

This incredible event is not just for show—it’s a vital part of the macaws’ survival. The clay in these riverbanks is rich in essential minerals, such as sodium, which are scarce in the birds’ natural diet of fruits and seeds. By ingesting the clay, they supplement their nutrition and, more importantly, neutralize the toxins they consume. Witnessing this instinctive and communal behavior is a rare and intimate glimpse into the delicate balance of life in the Amazon.

The Ultimate Photo Opportunity

For photographers and nature enthusiasts, the Chuncho Clay Lick is a dream come true. You’ll be positioned in a strategic, discreet location that allows for incredible, up-close views without disturbing the birds. The backdrop of the lush rainforest and the vibrant plumage of the macaws against the backdrop of the clay cliff creates a perfect shot for capturing a moment you’ll never forget.

tambopata best jungle tour- chuncho clay lick — Macaws flying over the clay lick

More Than Just Birds

The journey to the clay lick is an adventure in itself. Navigating the Tambopata River offers exceptional possibilities for spotting other wildlife, from the world’s largest rodent, the capybara, to sunbathing black caimans and even, with a bit of luck, the elusive jaguar prowling the riverbanks.

Visiting the Chuncho Clay Lick is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness the Peruvian Amazon at its most dynamic and colorful. It’s an essential experience for anyone who wants to connect with the raw, untamed beauty of the neotropics. Come and see for yourself why this natural spectacle is hailed as one of the greatest on Earth.

Why Our Tour Is the Perfect Amazon Getaway

This Tambopata Jungle Tour is more than just a trip—it’s a journey meticulously crafted by a reliable tour operator, Wild Watch Peru. With our expertise and commitment to responsible tourism, you can explore this magnificent rainforest with confidence, knowing you are in the hands of professionals dedicated to your safety and a truly unforgettable experience.We invite travelers from around the world to join us. Witness the magic of the Amazon, from the calls of giant river otters at dawn to the vibrant spectacle of the Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick. Let us guide you on an adventure that will reconnect you with nature and fill you with a sense of wonder. Your Peruvian Amazon journey awaits.

Visit high canopy towers for panoramic views and birdwatching
Search for nocturnal predators like the Black Cayman
Witness the spectacular Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick
Observe playful monkeys in the canopy
Explore the rainforest by motor boat along pristine rivers
Explore the Sandoval Lake and Include an Overnight

Highlights of Your Tambopata Adventure

1) Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick (A World-Class Wildlife Spectacle)

The Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick is one of the most impressive birdwatching experiences in the Peruvian Amazon. At sunrise, hundreds of macaws and parrots gather on the clay wall—often including Scarlet Macaws, Red-and-green Macaws, and Blue-and-gold Macaws. This natural event offers exceptional opportunities for wildlife observation and photography when approached responsibly.

2) Tambopata River Safari (Wildlife Viewing on the Move)

Traveling by boat along the Tambopata River is an experience in itself. The river acts as a wildlife corridor, offering frequent chances to spot animals along the banks and in the water. Keep an eye out for capybaras, black caimans, and a wide variety of Amazon birdlife throughout the journey.

3) Rainforest Canopy Tower (Panoramic Jungle Views)

This tour includes a visit to a rainforest canopy tower at Collpas Inn Lodge, providing elevated views over the jungle. From the platform, you can observe the canopy ecosystem—where many Amazon species are most active—and enjoy a unique perspective for birdwatching and landscape photography.

4) Sandoval Lake (Classic Tambopata Wildlife & Calm Waters)

Sandoval Lake is one of the most iconic rainforest lakes in the Tambopata region, known for its mirror-like waters and rich wildlife. Exploring the lake by canoe is ideal for spotting species such as giant river otters, howler monkeys, turtles, and hoatzins, with excellent chances for close-up observation and photography in a peaceful setting.

Itinerary

Day 1 Puerto Maldonado - Sandoval lake

Upon arrival, you will be met at the Puerto Maldonado Airport, bus terminal, or your local accommodation. From there, you will be transferred to our office for a brief stop to repack your luggage.

Next, we will begin a one-hour boat journey along the Madre de Dios River to the Sandoval Lake trail. After completing the necessary registration at the Tambopata National Reserve checkpoint, we will take a 3-kilometer walk along a boardwalk. This is an excellent opportunity to spot various wildlife, including monkeys, sloths, and macaws.

Continuing our journey, we will navigate a canoe through a tranquil channel, looking for reptiles like caimans and anacondas, before paddling across Sandoval Lake to our lodge. Once you have settled in and been introduced to the facilities, you will have time to relax.

In the afternoon, a guided walk along the lodge’s trails will allow us to observe the rainforest’s nocturnal creatures, such as tarantulas and other unique insects and spiders.

Day 2 Sandoval Lake Exploration - Sunrise - Transfer to Puerto Maldonado

We’ll start the day before dawn, waking up early to experience a breathtaking sunrise over Sandoval Lake. We’ll paddle across the water as the jungle awakens, searching for the highly social giant river otters and other unique wildlife like red howler monkeys, squirrel monkeys, and colorful macaws.

After a delicious breakfast at the lodge, we’ll begin our journey back. We’ll paddle across the lake, walk the 3-kilometer boardwalk, and board our boat for the return trip to Puerto Maldonado.

From there, we’ll take a two-hour drive to the Philadelfia river port before embarking on a new boat journey up the Tambopata River to the Collpas Inn Lodge.

Once we arrive at the lodge, we’ll take an afternoon walk along the trails. Your guide will point out medicinal plants and help you look for wildlife such as peccaries and different species of monkeys. We’ll end the day with a well-deserved dinner at the lodge.

Day 3Collpas Inn Lodge - Boat Ride - Chuncho Clay Lick

We’ll begin the day with an early morning departure, navigating up the Tambopata River to witness a magnificent sunrise as we travel. Your guide will handle a brief registration at the checkpoint, allowing you to stay focused on the incredible scenery.

Next, we’ll take a short walk to a designated viewing spot along the riverbank to await the main event: the Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick. We’ll sit patiently as hundreds of vibrant macaws and parrots descend from the jungle canopy to ingest the mineral-rich clay. This breathtaking and colorful spectacle, which can last for a couple of hours, is a photographer’s dream.

Enjoy a picnic breakfast in the heart of this stunning natural arena. After the show, we’ll take a scenic boat ride back down the Tambopata River, where we’ll continue our wildlife search for capybaras, caimans, and, with some luck, even the elusive jaguar.

After lunch at the lodge, we will take a guided walk through the forest. Your guide will provide insights into the delicate balance of the neotropical ecosystem and its diverse flora and fauna. The highlight of the afternoon will be climbing one of the highest canopy towers in the Amazon, offering a stunning bird’s-eye view of the rainforest.

The evening will conclude with a guided night walk, where you can search for nocturnal creatures before or after dinner.

Day 4Nature walks - Mammals Clay Lick - Night Walk

Wake to the rainforest’s early chorus—often with birds overhead and the distant calls of howler monkeys. After breakfast at the lodge, take a 30-minute boat ride to reach productive wildlife and fishing areas along the river. Continue with a guided nature walk through primary forest, learning about towering trees, jungle ecology, and the monkey species that live in this habitat. You’ll also visit a local farm to understand how people sustainably work with the Amazon environment. After lunch back at the lodge, head out in the afternoon to the mammal clay lick, a key feeding site where sightings may include howler monkeys, deer, and wild pigs. Dinner at the lodge.

Day 5Collpas Inn Lodge - Return Puerto Maldonado City

Your last day in the Amazon will begin with an early wake-up call to the symphony of the rainforest, from the calls of tropical birds to the deep roars of red howler monkeys.

After a final breakfast at the lodge, we’ll start our journey back. Enjoy one last motorboat ride along the Tambopata River, watching the sunrise over the water and observing the artisanal gold mining operations along the banks.

We’ll then take a minivan from the Philadelfia river port to Puerto Maldonado, where we will drop you off at the airport, bus terminal, or your accommodation in the city.

Map

FAQ

Are there mosquitoes in Tambopata? Do I need malaria pills?

Mosquitoes are common in the Amazon. Some travelers discuss malaria tablets with their doctor, but recommendations vary by country/medical authority and your personal health profile. It’s best to consult a travel clinic before your trip and always use repellent + long clothing.

What Time the tour is starting ?

We start on the morning time from 9:00 AM Many tours begin with morning until midday pickup in Puerto Maldonado, often aligned with flight arrivals. Share your arrival time when booking so pickup can be coordinated.

Is the Transfer from the Airport included ?

Yes, participants can be collected from the airport so tranfer will be waiting for your arrival

What are the flight companies going to Puerto Maldonado

Currently, Latam and Sky Airlines Peru

Which City is nearby the Tambopata National Reserve

Puerto maldonado is the gateway for the Tours into the Tambopata national Reserve

What are the recommended flight schedule for taking the tour ?

We recommend to arrive around 9:00 AM until noon (we collect travellers from flights) /

For departing we recommend the noon or ealy afternoon flights

What is included in the 4-day Tambopata tour?

Most 4-day Tambopata tours include round-trip transportation from Puerto Maldonado, professional jungle guide, 3 nights in an Amazon lodge, all meals during the tour, and guided excursions (such as jungle walks, river navigation, wildlife viewing, and night activities). Note: Confirm if entrance fees to specific reserves/attractions are included.

What is not included in the tour price?

Common exclusions are flights/buses to Puerto Maldonado, travel insurance, tips, personal expenses, alcoholic beverages, and in some cases entrance fees (depending on the tour). Always check the “Includes/Not Includes” section of your booking.

Where does the tour start and end?

The tour typically starts and ends in Puerto Maldonado. Pickup is usually available from the airport, bus terminal, or hotel in town (based on your operator’s policy).

How do we get to the Tambopata Collpas Inn lodge?

Most travelers transfer by a combination of vehicle and boat along Amazon tributaries. The journey itself is part of the experience and often includes wildlife spotting during the river ride.

Is the Macaw Clay Lick included?

Many 4-day Tambopata tours include a visit to a macaw/parrot clay lick (season and weather dependent). Clay lick visits usually start very early in the morning for the best activity.

How difficult is the tour? Do I need to be very fit?

Most Tambopata tours are easy to moderate, designed for travelers with a normal level of fitness. Activities usually include boat rides and guided walks on forest trails. Heat and humidity can make walks feel more demanding than expected.

What is the best time of year to visit Tambopata?

Tambopata is a year-round destination;

Dry season (approx. May–October): more stable weather, easier trails, popular time to visit
Rainy season (approx. November–April): greener forest, fewer crowds, more rain and muddy trails Wildlife can be seen in both seasons.

Do I need a Yellow Fever vaccine to travel to Tambopata?

Many health authorities recommend Yellow Fever vaccination for travel in the Amazon region of Peru. Requirements can depend on your nationality and where you travel before/after Peru. Check with your doctor and official travel health guidance.

Are the excursions guided?

Yes—most activities are guided by a local professional guide/naturalist, often bilingual (commonly Spanish/English). If you need another language, you may have to request it in advance.

How big are the tour groups?

Many rainforest tours run in small groups of maximmun 10 people to improve wildlife viewing and reduce environmental impact.

What is the accommodation like during the tour?

Accommodation is typically an eco-lodge in the rainforest, ranging from rustic to comfortable. Rooms are usually private or shared depending on booking type. Some lodges have mosquito nets and limited electricity hours. (Add your lodge’s exact details if available.)

Is there Wi-Fi at the lodge?

Yes, its available on hours along the day and only around the lodge

Can children join the 4-day Tambopata tour?

Many lodges accept children, but minimum age is 8, children should be accompanied by parents along the trip. (its arequirement for booking)

What wildlife activities are typically included at night?

Night activities may include a night walk, caiman spotting by boat, and listening for nocturnal wildlife like frogs, insects, and owls.

What happens if it rains during the to

Rain is normal in the rainforest. Tours usually operate in light to moderate rain, and guides adjust schedules for safety. Bring waterproof protection for yourself and electronics.

How far in advance should I book?

For high season (especially June–September) and for small-group or specific lodge options, booking weeks in advance is recommended. Last-minute options may still be possible depending on availability.

What is the cancellation policy?

Cancellation policies vary by operator and season. Include a clear policy in your FAQ (e.g., deadlines for refunds, rescheduling terms, and no-show rules).

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