Explore the city of Puerto Maldonado, a unique mix of wild nature and lively urban charm with its pubs and restaurants. It’s the perfect starting point for a true jungle adventure, where you can visit iconic spots like Monkey Island and the stunning Sandoval Lake.
From here, companies like Maldonado Tours offer unforgettable Amazon experiences, connecting travelers with the purest nature in Peru.
Find out what to do in Puerto Maldonado, a key destination for tourism in Madre de Dios. Whether you choose a short Puerto Maldonado tour, a multi-day jungle trip, or an adventure with Tambopata Jungle Tours, every experience brings you closer to the deep Amazon rainforest.
Puerto Maldonado, Peru is not just a stop—it’s your gateway to biodiversity, Amazon culture, and an unforgettable stay before and after your jungle journey.
Best Excursions and Guided Tours Puerto Maldonado
Wild Amazon & Machiguenga natives – 4 Days Tour
This program includes a complete experience visit to the two most important attractions in the region: the impressive Arara ...
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Native Expedition – 4 Days Tour
We invite you to learn more about this beautiful landscape from the Peru Packages. A unique trekking tour in Peru ...
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Lake Sandoval & Parrot Clay Lick 3 Days Tour
In the Amazon region of our Peru and part of the department of Cusco is localized Puerto Maldonado, a small city ...
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Sandoval Lake – 2 Days Tour
In the southern part of the Amazon of our Peru and near the department of Cusco, it is localized the Puerto Maldonado ...
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Frequently asked questions from our customers
Where is Puerto Maldonado?
Puerto Maldonado is in southeastern Peru, in the region of Madre de Dios, near the borders with Brazil and Bolivia. It’s the capital of both the region and the Tambopata province. Surrounded by rivers like the Madre de Dios and Tambopata, it’s the main gateway to the southern Amazon rainforest of Peru.
What are Puerto Maldonado tours?
Puerto Maldonado tours are organized trips that take you to the main spots in the jungle. They usually include boat transportation, a bilingual guide (Spanish/English), meals, lodging, and activities. They can last from one day up to a full week. Perfect for travelers who don’t want to worry about logistics.
Can you swim in Lake Sandoval?
No, swimming is not allowed. The lake is inside Tambopata National Reserve, a protected area. To protect the animals and the ecosystem, swimming and touching plants is prohibited.
What is Tambopata Jungle Tours?
Tambopata Jungle Tours is a travel agency that specializes in jungle adventures. They offer 2-, 3-, or 4-day tours with transfers, guides, meals, and lodging at places like Posada Amazonas or Refugio Amazonas. It’s one of the most recommended agencies by travelers.
Is Monkey Island in Puerto Maldonado?
Yes, it’s only a 20-minute boat ride from downtown Puerto Maldonado, in the middle of the Madre de Dios River. It’s one of the most visited tourist attractions in Puerto Maldonado and is included in many jungle tours.
What is “Madre de Dios tourism”?
“Madre de Dios tourism” includes all travel experiences in this Amazonian region of Peru. It’s not just about Puerto Maldonado — it also includes the Manu National Park, Tambopata Reserve, and native communities. This area has one of the highest levels of biodiversity in the world.
Can you touch the monkeys on Monkey Island?
Touching the monkeys is not recommended. Although they are friendly, they’re still wild animals. You can feed them fruit (if your guide allows it), but don’t get too close or make loud noises. The goal is to respect their space and avoid stressing them out.
Where to stay in Puerto Maldonado?
You have two main options:
- In the city: Hotels like El Ceibo, Amazonia, or Selva Verde are ideal if you arrive late or leave early.
- In the jungle: Lodges like Chuncho Lodge or Posada Amazonas (1–2 hours by boat). Most tours include overnight stays in the jungle.
If you’re doing a jungle tour, you’ll likely stay in a lodge.
Can I travel to Puerto Maldonado alone?
Absolutely! Many solo travelers join small groups (4–8 people). Agencies organize everything — transfers, lodging, and activities. It’s safe, budget-friendly, and a great way to meet new people. Just make sure to book with a reliable agency like Maldonado Tours or Tambopata Jungle Tours.
What clothes should I bring for the jungle?
Pack:
- Lightweight long-sleeve shirts (protects from sun and mosquitoes)
- Durable pants
- Comfortable shoes or boots (no sandals for hiking)
- Hat or cap
- Insect repellent (with DEET)
- Rain jacket or poncho
- Waterproof bag for your camera
Avoid white clothes (they stain easily) and strong perfumes (they attract insects).
When is the best time to visit Puerto Maldonado?
The best time to visit Puerto Maldonado is from April to November — the dry season in the southern Peruvian Amazon.
During these months:
- Less rain, which makes walking and boat rides easier
- Better trail conditions
- Easier to spot wildlife near rivers and lakes
- Clearer skies, perfect for photos
This is also the high season, so expect more tourists and slightly higher prices.
The rainy season (December to March) also has its perks: fewer crowds, greener scenery, and nesting birds. However, some trails can be muddy, and activities may be canceled for safety.
Tip: If you’re doing a 3- or 4-day Puerto Maldonado tour, go during the dry season to make the most of your jungle trip.
What is a “jungle trip”?
A jungle trip is a full Amazon nature experience. It includes forest hikes, canoe or boat rides, wildlife spotting, jungle nights, and eco-lodge stays. It’s perfect for those who want to disconnect from city life and connect with nature.
What is the Puerto Maldonado tour?
A Puerto Maldonado tour is a complete travel package that usually starts in Cusco or Lima and ends in the Amazon. Many agencies offer “Cusco + Jungle” or “Lima + Jungle” tours, including flights, hotels, and all activities. It’s an easy and safe way to explore the jungle without organizing everything yourself.
How many days should I stay in Puerto Maldonado?
Most travelers spend 3 to 4 days in Puerto Maldonado — perfect for a full experience.
- 2 days / 1 night: Good if you’re short on time. Includes arrival, visits to Lake Sandoval and Monkey Island, and return.
- 3 days / 2 nights: Most popular option. More activities like hiking, macaw clay lick, jungle night, and free time.
- 4 days / 3 nights or more: Great for deeper exploration or a slower-paced jungle trip.
If you’re coming from Cusco or Lima, 3 days is the minimum to avoid feeling rushed. Combine it with Machu Picchu: 2 days in Cusco + 3 in the jungle = an unforgettable week.
How to get to Puerto Maldonado?
Two main ways:
- By air: A quick 35-minute flight from Cusco is the easiest option. Flights leave from Alejandro Velasco Astete Airport.
- By land: Buses from Cusco take 12–14 hours. It’s cheaper but tiring. After arriving, you’ll need a speedboat to reach your lodge.
Most tourists prefer to fly to save time and energy.
Where is Puerto Maldonado?
Puerto Maldonado is in southeastern Peru, in the Madre de Dios region, near the borders with Brazil and Bolivia. It’s the capital of the department and also of the Tambopata province. The city is surrounded by rivers like the Madre de Dios and Tambopata, and it’s the main gateway to the southeastern Amazon.
What are the tours in Puerto Maldonado?
Puerto Maldonado tours are organized excursions that take you to the top spots in the jungle. They usually include transportation (by boat), bilingual guides (Spanish/English), meals, lodging, and activities. They can last from one day to a whole week and are perfect if you don’t want to worry about planning.
Can you swim in Sandoval Lake?
No, swimming is not allowed. The lake is inside the Tambopata National Reserve, a protected area. To protect wildlife and the ecosystem, swimming and touching the plants are prohibited.
What is Tambopata Jungle Tours?
Tambopata Jungle Tours is a travel agency that specializes in jungle experiences. They offer 2, 3, or 4-day tours with transportation, guides, meals, and lodging at eco-lodges like Posada Amazonas or Refugio Amazonas. It’s one of the most recommended agencies by travelers.
Is Monkey Island in Puerto Maldonado?
Yes! It’s just 20 minutes by boat from downtown Puerto Maldonado, in the middle of the Madre de Dios River. It’s one of the most popular tourist spots in the area and is included in many jungle tours.
What is “Madre de Dios tourism”?
Madre de Dios tourism includes all the tourist activities in this Amazonian region of Peru. It’s not just Puerto Maldonado — it also includes Manu National Park, the Tambopata Reserve, and native communities. It’s one of the most biodiverse areas on the planet.
Can you touch the monkeys on Monkey Island?
Touching is not recommended. Even though they’re friendly, the monkeys are still wild animals. You can feed them fruit by hand if your guide says it’s okay, but don’t get too close or make loud noises. The goal is to respect them and avoid stress.
Where to stay in Puerto Maldonado?
You have two main options:
- In the city: Hotels like El Ceibo, Amazonia, or Selva Verde. Great if you arrive late or leave early.
- In the jungle: Lodges like Chuncho Lodge or Posada Amazonas, about 1–2 hours away by boat. Most jungle tours include a lodge stay.
If you’re doing a jungle tour, you’ll most likely sleep at a lodge.
Can I travel to Puerto Maldonado alone?
Absolutely! Many people travel solo and join small groups (4–8 people). Tour companies handle everything: transportation, lodging, and activities. It’s safe, affordable, and a great way to meet new people. Just book with a trusted agency like Maldonado Tours or Tambopata Jungle Tours.
What clothes should I bring to the jungle?
Bring:
- Light, long-sleeved clothing (for sun and mosquito protection)
- Durable pants
- Comfortable shoes or hiking boots (no sandals)
- Hat or cap
- Insect repellent (with DEET)
- Rain poncho or waterproof jacket
- Dry bag for your camera or phone
Avoid light-colored clothes (they stain easily) and strong perfumes (they attract insects).
What’s the best time to visit Puerto Maldonado?
The best time is between April and November, which is the dry season in the southern Amazon.
During this time:
- There’s less rain, which is ideal for hikes and boat rides.
- Trails are in better condition.
- It’s easier to see wildlife since animals come out to drink from rivers and lakes.
- Clear skies make for great photos.
This is also high season, so prices may be a bit higher and there are more tourists.
The rainy season (December to March) has its own charm: fewer people, greener landscapes, and nesting birds. But trails can be muddy and some tours may be canceled due to weather.
Tip: If you’re planning a 3 or 4-day jungle tour, go during the dry season to get the most out of your adventure.
What is a “jungle trip”?
A jungle trip is an immersive experience in the Amazon rainforest. It includes nature walks, boat or canoe rides, wildlife watching, overnight stays with jungle sounds, and eco-lodge accommodations. It’s perfect for disconnecting from city life and enjoying pure nature.
What is the Puerto Maldonado tour?
A Puerto Maldonado tour is a complete travel package that starts in Cusco or Lima and ends in the jungle. Many agencies offer “Cusco + Jungle” or “Lima + Jungle” combos, including flights, hotels, and all jungle activities. It’s the easiest and safest way to experience the Amazon without planning everything yourself.
How many days should I spend in Puerto Maldonado?
Most travelers stay for 3 to 4 days, which is ideal for a full jungle experience.
- 2 days / 1 night: Great if you’re short on time. Includes arrival, visit to Sandoval Lake and Monkey Island, then return.
- 3 days / 2 nights: The most popular package. Includes hikes, macaw clay licks, night tours, and free time.
- 4 days / 3 nights or more: Best if you want to go deeper into the jungle or enjoy a slower, more relaxed pace.
If you’re coming from Cusco or Lima, plan for at least 3 days so it doesn’t feel rushed. And if you’re combining with Machu Picchu, a good plan is: 2 days in Cusco + 3 in the jungle = an unforgettable week.
How do you get to Puerto Maldonado?
There are two main ways:
- By air: The flight from Cusco is only 35 minutes — the fastest and easiest option. Flights leave from Alejandro Velasco Astete Airport.
- By land: You can take a bus from Cusco (12–14 hours). It’s cheaper but tiring. Once in the city, you’ll need to take a speedboat to reach your lodge.
Most tourists prefer flying to save time and energy.
Guides
Puerto Maldonado Travel Guides
Discover the magic of Puerto Maldonado, a destination full of nature and culture. Here you’ll find the best tours in Puerto Maldonado, perfect for a real jungle adventure. Explore Sandoval Lake, Monkey Island, and many other incredible places.
It’s the ideal spot for travelers looking for things to do in Puerto Maldonado, with amazing experiences in Madre de Dios tourism organized by trusted agencies like Maldonado Tours and Tambopata Jungle Tours.
Plus, enjoy a one-of-a-kind food scene — some of the richest flavors in all of South America.
An experience you won’t want to miss!
Transport
Transportation in Puerto Maldonado
At Dreamy Tours, we work with Viamed Perú to provide safe and comfortable transportation in Puerto Maldonado. Whether you’re arriving by plane or coming from Cusco, we’ll get you there without any hassle.
Our transfers are included in every Puerto Maldonado tour, so your jungle adventure starts off stress-free.
That way, you can relax and enjoy from the very beginning.
Accommodation
Accommodation in Puerto Maldonado
Find the perfect place to stay for your jungle trip. In Puerto Maldonado, Peru, we offer options from standard to superior hotels, all located in the best area of the city.
They’re close to Puerto Maldonado’s top attractions, with easy access to transportation, restaurants, and activities like Puerto Maldonado tours. Perfect for relaxing before or after your jungle adventure.
Start planning now!
Reviews
Experiences that speak for themselves
Discover Puerto Maldonado
What to expect from Puerto Maldonado? A jungle trip full of nature, wildlife, and adventure.
In these blogs, you’ll find useful tips, practical advice, and descriptions of the best spots, like Lake Sandoval, Monkey Island, and more. Learn what to do in Puerto Maldonado, how to plan your Puerto Maldonado tours, and what to pack for your trip. Everything you need to be ready and enjoy Madre de Dios tourism to the fullest.
Blogs - puerto-maldonado
Manu National Park
The Peruvian Amazon is never shown so openly as in the Manu National Park, a Natural Heritage of Humanity. Everything seems to be found here in its pu...
Lake Sandoval in Perú
Amazon Rainforest
