Puerto Maldonado: 2-Day Amazon Jungle Tour with Meals

Puerto Maldonado: 2-Day Amazon Jungle Tour with Meals
Location: Madre de Dios River, Peru
Country: Peru
Rating: 4.6
Price: $320 per person
Supplier: Inspires Viagens

A Quick Look at the Amazon Escape
If you’re craving a genuine taste of the Amazon rainforest without committing to a week-long expedition, this 2-day tour offers a solid introduction. For $320, you’ll spend two full days exploring the primary and secondary rainforests, cruising along the Madre de Dios River, and experiencing some of the most iconic sights of the Peruvian Amazon. Your guide, who speaks both Spanish and English, will lead you through a variety of activities designed to reveal the jungle’s best-kept secrets.

What makes this trip stand out are the night safari—a rare opportunity to glimpse nocturnal wildlife—and the visit to the largest guacamayo collpa, where hundreds of parrots come to feast on clay. We also appreciate that all meals and water are included, simplifying the logistics and letting you focus on the adventure.

A few caveats: early mornings are part of the deal, so if you’re not a morning person, be prepared for some long starts. Also, given the focus on wildlife, some activities aren’t suitable for children under six or those with mobility issues. Still, this tour hits the sweet spot for travelers eager to see the Amazon’s wildlife in a relatively short time.

If you love nature, wildlife photography, or simply want a taste of the rainforest with knowledgeable guides, this experience is well worth considering.

Key Points

• Authentic jungle experience: Visit primary and secondary rainforest with expert guides.
• Wildlife encounters: Night safaris and parrots at the largest guacamayo collpa.
• Comfort and convenience: All meals, transfers, and entrance fees included.
• Early mornings: Be prepared for a 3:00 AM start to see the parrots.
• Small group size: Limited to 15 participants for a more personalized experience.
• Family-friendly: Not suitable for children under 6 or those with mobility or health issues.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Amazon: What You Can Expect

From Puerto Maldonado to the Jungle Lodge

Your adventure begins with a pickup from a central meeting point in Puerto Maldonado. The journey involves a boat trip along the Madre de Dios River, which is both scenic and a great way to get your first glimpses of the jungle’s edge. Expect to be aboard a boat for a good stretch—this mode of transport is essential for reaching the lodge and for exploring various sites. The boat ride is not just transportation; it’s part of the adventure, offering glimpses of river life and wildlife along the way.

Once at the lodge, you’ll be welcomed with a local meal, giving you a taste of Amazonian cuisine. The lodge itself is a base camp for exploring, and while comfortable, it’s a reminder that you’re in a wilderness setting—so managing expectations around amenities is wise.

Guided Jungle Walks

The core of Day 1 involves guided walks through the primary and secondary rainforest. These walks are tailored to the group’s pace and focus on the flora and fauna of the Amazon. We loved the way guides explained the significance of certain plants or the behaviors of animals, making it more than just a walk; it’s an educational experience.

During the day, you might spot everything from colorful birds and insects to monkeys and other wildlife. The guides are well-versed in the jungle’s biodiversity and keen to point out small details that might otherwise go unnoticed. One reviewer noted, “We loved the way they explained the jungle’s interconnected web of life—truly eye-opening.”

Night Safari: Witnessing Nocturnal Life

As the sun sets, the tour takes a turn—literally—into the realm of the nocturnal flora and fauna. The night safari offers a different perspective on the Amazon ecosystem. Armed with flashlights and guides’ insights, you might see caimans lurking in the water or hear the calls of unseen creatures. It’s a peaceful yet thrilling experience, and seeing the jungle come alive after dark is something we highly recommend.

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Early Morning Parrot Watching at the Clay Lick

Perhaps the most striking part of the tour is the early morning trip at 3:00 AM, when you head to Chunchos, the largest macaw clay lick in the region. Watching hundreds of parrots of various species descend to eat clay is a spectacle that’s hard to forget. The guides explain that these clay licks are vital for the parrots’ digestion and health, adding an educational element to this awe-inspiring sight.

The experience is described as “spectacular,” with one visitor noting how “the sheer number of parrots is mind-blowing.” The early start is demanding, but the payoff is well worth it for wildlife enthusiasts.

Kayaking and Relaxation

After a well-earned rest, you’ll get the chance to go kayaking on the Madre de Dios River. This activity offers a more relaxed way to observe river wildlife, like herons and kingfishers, while enjoying the serenity of the rainforest. The kayaking is suitable for beginners and adds a peaceful dimension to the trip.

Departure and Reflection

By late morning on Day 2, it’s time to pack up and say goodbye to the jungle. You’ll head back to Puerto Maldonado by boat, ending your adventure with a renewed appreciation for the Amazon’s richness and resilience.

Why This Tour Is Worth It

For the price of $320, this tour packs in a variety of experiences—from wildlife watching and guided walks to kayaking and night safaris. The inclusion of all meals and transportation simplifies planning, letting you focus solely on the experience. The small group size enhances the chance to ask questions and get personalized attention, which can be rare in larger tours.

The visit to the parrot clay lick and the night safari stand out as highlights, offering glimpses into the jungle’s most elusive creatures. Plus, the knowledgeable guides help you understand the ecological significance of what you’re seeing, making the experience educational as well as entertaining.

Some travelers mention the early mornings and limited internet, but if you’re seeking an authentic, nature-focused adventure and don’t mind waking up before dawn, this tour offers a compelling package of sights and sounds that few other short trips can match.

Who Should Consider This Experience

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a concise but immersive rainforest experience. It suits wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, and nature lovers eager to see parrots, caimans, and jungle flora up close. It’s also a good fit if you value guided insights and small-group intimacy. However, it may not be best for families with very young children or visitors with mobility or health issues, given the early starts and wilderness activities.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the boat ride along the Madre de Dios River?
The boat trip to the lodge and various sites lasts a significant portion of Day 1, providing scenic views and potential wildlife sightings along the way.

Are meals included in the price?
Yes, all meals and juices are included, allowing you to enjoy local flavors without extra planning.

What should I bring for this tour?
Pack comfortable shoes, a hat, camera, sunscreen, insect repellent, water, and clothes suitable for humid rainforest conditions. A waterproof bag for electronics is also recommended.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not suitable for children under 6 years, mainly due to early mornings and the nature of activities.

Are there language options?
Guides speak both Spanish and English, which helps international travelers feel more comfortable.

What’s the best time of year to do this tour?
While not explicitly specified, tours like this typically operate year-round, but expect the best wildlife sightings during dry seasons.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing some flexibility in your planning.

In essence, this 2-day Amazon tour from Puerto Maldonado offers a balanced mix of wildlife encounters, cultural insights, and adventure activities—all at a reasonable price. It’s perfect for those wanting a meaningful rainforest experience without the hassle of a long expedition. If you’re ready for an authentic taste of the jungle’s sounds, sights, and surprises, this trip delivers in spades.

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