Table of Content
Basic information
The Tambopata National Reserve is located in the Madre de Dios region, in the Amazon rainforest of southeastern Peru. Established in 2000, it protects 274,690 hectares of tropical forest. It is considered one of the most biodiverse areas on the planet and is part of the largest conservation corridor in the Peruvian Amazon.
What to see?
Collpa de Guacamayos Colorado: The largest macaw viewing site in the world, where hundreds of parrots and macaws gather daily to consume minerals from the clay wall.
Lake Sandoval: A horseshoe-shaped lagoon surrounded by palm trees, home to giant otters, caimans, turtles, and over 200 species of birds.
Lake Valencia: Less visited than Sandoval, perfect for observing wildlife without crowds.
Monkey Island: A natural refuge where you can observe different species of rehabilitated primates.
Interpretive trails: Multiple routes through the primary forest with specialized guides.
Spectacular wildlife
Mammals: Jaguar, puma, tapir, giant anteater, sloths, giant otters, Amazonian manatee, more than 13 species of monkeys.
Birds: Over 630 recorded species including macaws, toucans, harpy eagle, cock-of-the-rock, kingfishers, and 17 different species of parrots.
Reptiles: Anaconda, boa constrictor, black caiman, white caiman, aquatic turtles, iguanas.
Fish: More than 1,200 species including paiche, piranhas, freshwater rays, and giant catfish.
Insects: Giant butterflies, beetles, tarantulas, praying mantises.
Main activities
- Birdwatching: Especially at the macaw clay lick at dawn
- Canoeing: On the Tambopata and Madre de Dios rivers
- Nocturnal walks: To observe wildlife that only comes out at night
- Sport fishing: In rivers and lagoons with Amazonian species
- Nature photography: Unique opportunities for wildlife shots
- Visits to native communities: Cultural exchange with Ese’Eja people
Practical information
Best time to visit:
- Dry season (May-October): Best for wildlife observation at clay licks
- Wet season (November-April): More birds, easier navigation
Access: Puerto Maldonado (airport), then 1-3 hours by boat depending on the lodge
Entrance fee: S/30 soles for Peruvians, S/150 for foreigners
Recommended minimum stay: 3-4 days to see the area’s diversity
Types of accommodation
Luxury ecolodges: Inkaterra Reserva Amazónica, Tambopata Research Center (S/800-2000 per night)
Budget lodges: Posada Amazonas, Refugio Amazonas (S/300-600 per night)
Camping: In authorized areas with specialized operators
All include: Transportation, meals, guides, basic activities
What to bring
Clothing:
- Long pants and long-sleeve shirts (neutral colors)
- Raincoat or poncho
- Waterproof trekking shoes
- Sandals for the lodge
Protection:
- Insect repellent (minimum 30% DEET)
- Sunblock
- Hat or cap
- Headlamp
Others:
- Binoculars (essential for wildlife observation)
- Camera with zoom and moisture protection
- Personal medications
- Waterproof bags for equipment
Transportation
From Lima: Flight to Puerto Maldonado (1.5 hours)
From Cusco: Flight to Puerto Maldonado (30 minutes) or bus (10-12 hours)
In the reserve: Boats and canoes, all transfers included in packages
Recommended Tours of the Peruvian Amazon: Tour Options
Best time of day
Dawn (5:30-7:00 AM): Macaw clay lick, bird songs Morning (7:00-11:00 AM): Hikes, primate observation
Afternoon (3:00-6:00 PM): Boating, fishing, relaxation Night (7:00-10:00 PM): Nocturnal walks, sounds of the forest
Important tips
Health:
- Yellow fever vaccine (mandatory)
- Antimalarial medications (consult a doctor)
- Travel insurance with medical coverage
Behavior:
- Always follow the guide’s instructions
- Do not feed wild animals
- Maintain silence during wildlife observation
- No flash photography of animals
Local communities
Ese’Eja people: Native community offering cultural exchanges, traditional crafts, and ancestral knowledge about medicinal plants.
Puerto Maldonado: Base city with restaurants, markets, museums, and basic services.
Scientific research
The reserve hosts international research stations:
- Tambopata Research Center (TRC)
- Center for Ornithology and Biodiversity (CORBIDI)
- Studies on climate change and conservation
Fascinating facts
- World record: 1,231 species of butterflies recorded
- More bird species than all of the United States and Canada combined
- Trees over 50 meters tall and 500 years old
- A single hectare can have more tree species than all of the United Kingdom
- Home to the giant otter, an endangered species
