Imagine a mirror of water surrounded by a lush jungle, where nature comes alive with the song of birds and the movement of monkeys. This is Lake Sandoval, one of the most impressive destinations in the Tambopata National Reserve. Do you want to know where it is, how to get there and what to do? Read on and find out why this place should be on your travel bucket list.

Where Lake Sandoval Is Located?

Lake Sandoval is located in the Madre de Dios region, near the city of Puerto Maldonado, in the heart of the Peruvian Amazon rainforest. It is part of the Tambopata National Reserve, a protected area known for its biodiversity.

This wonder is surrounded by aguaje palm trees and is home to more than 6,500 species of animals such as toucans, macaws, cormorants, tapirs, turtles, lizards, caimans, kingfishers, fish and giant otters.

How was it formed?

It was formed years ago when a tributary of the Amazon River changed direction and is one of the largest lakes in Peru.

Coordinates:

Approximate Location: 10 km southeast of Puerto Maldonado.
Access: By boat within the Tambopata National Reserve.

How to get to Lake Sandoval?

Getting to lake Sandoval is an adventure that begins in Puerto Maldonado. Follow these steps to get there:

1. From Puerto Maldonado:

Take a boat from the port Capitania, located on the Madre de Dios River.
The boat trip takes approximately 2 hours to the entrance dock of the Inferno community.

2. Entrance to the Reserve:

Once here you will pay an amount of 30 soles as entrance fee, we continue by boat for an hour and a half enjoying the landscapes of the rainforest until we arrive at Lake Sandoval.

3. Arrival to the lake:

Once at the lake, you will board a canoe to explore its calm waters and enjoy the scenery.

Entrance fee: As mentioned above, the entrance fee for foreign tourists is 30 soles, for Peruvian tourists it is 15 soles, Peruvian children and local adults pay 8 soles and local children pay 5 soles.

What to do at Lake Sandoval?

Lake Sandoval offers a variety of activities that will allow you to connect with nature in a unique way:

Canoe or boat rides

Travel around the lake in a canoe while enjoying the scenery, the sound of nature and observing the rich flora and fauna. It is common to see:

Giant river otters.
Black caimans and turtles.
Birds such as the hoatzin, cormorant, jacana and macaws.

Wildlife Sighting

The lake is a paradise for animal lovers. In addition to otters and caimans, you might see:

Howler monkeys and sloth monkeys.
Exotic birds such as parrots and macaws.
Turtles and butterflies.
Amphibians and mammals

Hiking around Sandoval Lake

Lake Sandoval offers two types of hikes, day and night. During the day you can explore the trails surrounding the lake while observing the various animals moving freely in the trees by the hand of expert guides.

The night walks add another special touch, with the moonlight accompanying you, here you will be able to observe many animals that only come out at night with their songs and sounds. We recommend that any hike you decide to do is with a specialist guide, doing it alone has many risks of getting lost and entering the territory of dangerous animals.

Visit to Monkey Island

This is located on the way to Sandoval Lake, on this island you will be able to see different species of monkeys. When walking on this island you will be surrounded by monkeys used to seeing tourists so don’t be scared if they climb on your back.

Nature Photography

With such spectacular scenery, Sandoval Lake is a dream come true for photography enthusiasts.

Enjoy its gastronomy

You cannot miss enjoying a good paiche, one of the fish that reside in the waters of Lake Sandoval. It tastes delicious and is highly recommended for all visitors.

Tips for visiting lake Sandoval

Appropriate clothing: Wear light, long-sleeved clothing, sandals and comfortable shoes.
Protection: Do not forget insect repellent with high concentration of DEET, sunglasses, hat and sunscreen.
Luggage: Carry a light backpack with water and snacks.
Prevention: Don’t forget to bring a rain poncho, binoculars and protective bags for cameras and cell phones.
Local guides: Hire a certified guide to learn more about the place and guarantee your safety.

Best Time to Visit Lake Sandoval

Sandoval Lake can be visited all year round, but the experience varies according to the season:

Dry season (May to October): ideal for hiking, as the trails are less muddy there is no presence of rain which facilitates the observation of birds and mammals.
Rainy season (November to April): The jungle is greener and the rivers are more abundant, but the trails can be slippery and full of muddy puddles.

Why Lake Sandoval is Special?

Lake Sandoval Tambopata is not only a beautiful place, it is a refuge for endangered species and an example of Peru’s natural wealth. The tranquility of its waters and the diversity of its fauna make every visit unforgettable.

Don’t wait any longer to explore this magical corner of the Amazon rainforest! Lake Sandoval awaits you with adventures and landscapes that will remain forever etched in your memory.