Puerto Maldonado, Peru
Puerto Maldonado is a rapidly-growing gateway to the Peruvian Amazon, offering visitors a chance to explore the stunning rainforest, observe exotic wildlife, and meet indigenous communities.
Trip to Puerto Maldonado, Peru
Day 1: Arrival and Local Exploration
You will arrive at Puerto Maldonado International Airport and transfer to your hotel. Depending on the time of your arrival, you can spend the rest of the day exploring the local area. You can take a walk along the riverfront and check out some of the local shops and restaurants. Don’t miss the opportunity to taste some of the local cuisine and drinks like Pisco sours. You can also visit the Butterfly House, which is an educational tour where you can see many species of butterfly in their natural habitat.
Day 2: Tambopata National Reserve
Today you will spend a day exploring the Tambopata National Reserve, also known as ‘The Biodiversity Capital of Peru.’ You can explore the lush rainforest and enjoy a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, boating, canopy walk, and wildlife viewing. During the hike, your guide will point out many interesting species of flora and fauna unique to the rainforest, such as macaws, toucans, monkeys, and especially the giant otters that are found in abundance within the reserve.
Day 3: Sandoval Lake
Today, you will visit the Sandoval Lake, one of the most attractive sites within the Tambopata National Reserve. The lake is known for its abundant wildlife, including giant river otters, macaws, monkeys, and caimans. You can hike through the rainforest to reach the lake and enjoy a canoe ride around it. You can also hike to the observation tower, which provides a panoramic view of the forest and its diverse ecosystem.
Day 4: Visit to the Ese’Eja Community
Today, you will visit the Ese’Eja community, who are an indigenous people of the Amazon rainforest in Peru. You can take a walk through the village, interact with members of the community, learn about their way of life and traditional medicine. You can also learn about their handicrafts, which are handmade using natural materials from the rainforest.
Day 5: Puerto Maldonado Nightlife
You can spend the day at your leisure, perhaps relaxing by the pool or doing some last-minute shopping. In the evening, check out some of the bars and clubs in Puerto Maldonado. You can experience the nightlife with live music, dancing, and traditional Peruvian food and drinks. Some of the top nightlife spots in Puerto Maldonado are Bar Faustino, and Jardines de Ucayali, both of which offer great music, drinks, and lively atmospheres.
Day 6: Lake Valencia
Today, you will travel to Lake Valencia, which is located about 60 km northwest of Puerto Maldonado. It is considered to be one of the most beautiful and pristine lakes in the area, with crystal clear water reflecting the beauty of the surrounding jungle. You can hike around the lake, take a dip in the refreshing water, or go fishing, observing the exotic birds and taking in the beautiful views of the surrounding forests and the Andes mountain ranges.
Day 7: Departure
On your final day, transfer to Puerto Maldonado International Airport for your flight back home. You can do some last-minute shopping or grab some local souvenirs before heading to the airport. If you have time before your flight, you can visit the butterflies exhibit once again or the local chocolate factory for some fresh produce.
