CANDAMO MAMMALS EXCURSION 5D/4N

Experience the Peruvian Amazon on a 5-day, 4-night journey through the Cusco Region, led by expert guides from Latitudes for $689 per person. This tour takes you deep into the Tambopata National Reserve, with highlights including monkey sightings, Lake Sandoval exploration, canopy walks, piranha fishing, and stunning sunsets over the rainforest. It’s a chance to see wildlife up close, enjoy scenic boat rides, and learn about local culture and conservation efforts.

What makes this experience special is the blend of adventure and relaxation—you’ll encounter wild animals like macaws and otters, but also enjoy comfortable accommodations and delicious local cuisine. We particularly liked how the guides keep group sizes small, fostering a more intimate and personalized experience.

A potential consideration is that the itinerary involves early mornings and a fair amount of moving around, which might be tiring for some. Also, while the price includes most meals and activities, extra beverages or personal expenses aren’t covered.

This tour suits travelers who crave authentic wildlife encounters, scenic adventures, and cultural insights—especially those eager to see the Amazon in a sustainable, responsible way. If you’re seeking a balanced mix of activity, education, and comfort, this trip offers a solid, well-rounded adventure.

Key Points

• Wildlife Encounters: From monkeys and macaws to giant river otters, expect close-up views of some of the Amazon’s most sought-after animals.
• Scenic Canoe and Sunset Views: Quiet boat rides and sunset watching provide unforgettable moments and stunning photo opportunities.
• Active Adventures: Zip-lining, suspension bridges, and piranha fishing add excitement and a sense of real adventure.
• Cultural and Culinary Experiences: Traditional jungle lunches and visits to local markets deepen your understanding of the region’s culture.
• Small Group Comfort: Limited to 9 travelers, ensuring personalized attention and meaningful interactions.
• Flexible Booking: Reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, making it easier to plan your trip.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Candamo Mammals Excursion

The Itinerary Breakdown

Day 1: Journey to Lake Sandoval
Your adventure begins with a boat trip along the Madre de Dios River, a scenic ride that sets the tone for the trip—quiet, lush, and teeming with wildlife. Within minutes of entering Lake Sandoval, you’ll start a 3-kilometer hike through dense jungle, where guides point out monkeys, snakes, tarantulas, and tropical birds. We loved the thrill of spotting animals in their natural habitat, especially with guides who are passionate about sharing their knowledge.

After the hike, you’ll hop into a canoe to reach rustic cabins—simple but cozy, offering a genuine jungle lodge experience. Lunch features juane, a traditional Amazonian dish, alongside seasonal drinks. Post-lunch, you might swim in the lake or relax as the sun dips, casting a glow over the water—a moment many reviews mention as truly magical. Guides will also help you look for caimans at sunset, adding a bit of nocturnal wildlife intrigue.

Day 2: Wildlife & Parrot Clay Lick
Waking up at 5 AM might seem brutal, but it’s worth it for the parrot clay lick activity, where you’ll see yellow and blue macaws feeding on mineral-rich clay—an essential part of their diet. The sight of dozens of birds swooping into the trees is mesmerizing.

After breakfast, the search continues for giant river otters, often seen playing in the water, and a visit to the 30-meter observation tower provides sweeping views over Lake Sandoval. Piranha fishing is optional but offers a hands-on experience of Amazon fishing traditions. Many travelers appreciated the chance to try their luck catching piranhas—though catching isn’t guaranteed, the experience is engaging.

You’ll return to Puerto Maldonado in the late afternoon, ready for the next leg of your journey towards the Madre de Dios area.

Day 3: Tambopata River & Canopy Adventures
From a local family lodge, the day kicks off with a suspension bridge walk—a chance to see forest canopies and birdlife from above. Zip-lining offers a rush of adrenaline, and the views over the rainforest canopy are breathtaking. Guides often point out wildlife like capybaras and white caimans along the riverbanks during the sunset boat ride.

If you’re up for it, a night hike reveals the rainforest’s nocturnal life—spiders, frogs, and night monkeys. Several reviews mention the excitement of spotting creatures that are active after dark, making this a highlight for nature lovers.

Day 4: Candamo Tambopata & Piranha Fishing
An interpretive hike takes you through ancient trees, medicinal plants, and the regional fruit sector—helping you understand Amazonian flora and its importance to local communities.

Later, you’ll head out to Lake Yacumama for piranha fishing—a sustainable practice that’s more about the experience than the catch. Travelers have expressed delight at seeing macaws, parrots, and large flocks of parakeets while fishing or relaxing by the lake. The landscape is lush, and the wildlife abundant, making this a lively and scenic outing.

Day 5: Sunrise at Collpa de Loros & Departure
The tour concludes with a beautiful Amazonian sunrise and a hearty breakfast with organic ingredients. Guides bid farewell, leaving you with memories of a trip full of wildlife, adventure, and scenic beauty.

What We Loved and What to Consider

One of the biggest draws is the small group size—only 9 travelers—meaning you get more tailored attention and a chance to form genuine connections. The guides are knowledgeable and speak both English and Spanish, which helps in making the experience accessible to a wider audience.

The variety of activities, from wildlife spotting and boat rides to canopy walks and fishing, ensures there’s never a dull moment. The stunning sunsets and the opportunity to observe animals like macaws, otters, caimans, and capybaras bring the rainforest alive in ways that photos simply can’t do justice.

On the flip side, some travelers note that the early mornings and the physical activity involved might be tiring, especially if you’re not used to such schedules or outdoor adventures. Also, since extra beverages aren’t included, you might want to budget for drinks beyond water and soft drinks.

Lastly, the cost of $689 reflects good value for the depth and authenticity of the experience, especially considering most meals, transportation, and guides are included. But for those seeking a more luxurious or spa-like Amazon experience, this might feel a little rustic.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This tour is perfect for adventurers and wildlife enthusiasts eager to see the Amazon in a natural and authentic setting. It’s suited for travelers who don’t mind early mornings and physical activity in exchange for close encounters with tropical wildlife and scenic landscapes. The small-group format offers a personal touch, making it ideal for solo travelers, couples, or small groups of friends.

It’s also well-suited for those interested in sustainable tourism, as activities like piranha fishing are eco-friendly and designed to minimize impact. If you’re looking for a balanced mix of adventure, cultural insight, and wildlife, this trip will meet your expectations.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
While the tour involves outdoor activities like hiking and boat rides, it generally caters to travelers comfortable with active pursuits. Families with older children who enjoy wildlife and adventure will find it engaging, but very young children might find the early mornings and physical demands challenging.

What should I pack for this trip?
Bring lightweight, quick-drying clothing, insect repellent, sun protection, a hat, camera, and binoculars for wildlife viewing. Waterproof clothing or a poncho may come in handy during rain showers.

Can I request special dietary options?
Yes, the tour offers meals upon request, including vegetarian and vegan options, ensuring you’re well-fed during your rainforest adventure.

Are the accommodations comfortable?
The lodgings are rustic but cozy, located within the rainforest environment. They feature private rooms, bathrooms, and internet, providing a balance of comfort and authenticity.

Is transportation included and reliable?
Yes, pickup from specified locations and river transportation from Puerto Maldonado are included. The boat rides are scenic and comfortable, setting a peaceful tone for the adventure.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility in case your plans change unexpectedly.

To sum it up, this 5-day Candamo Mammals Excursion presents a well-rounded, immersive Amazon experience. From wildlife encounters and scenic boat rides to canopy walks and cultural visits, it offers a genuine look at one of the world’s most vibrant ecosystems. The small group size and knowledgeable guides make it an intimate journey that emphasizes sustainable tourism and authentic discovery. It’s an excellent choice for travelers craving adventure and wildlife—ready to explore the rainforest’s secrets while enjoying comfortable accommodations and hearty local food. If you’re prepared for early mornings and active days, this tour promises unforgettable memories in the heart of the Peruvian Amazon.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby