Tingo María: Boating on Laguna Milagros – Miracles Lagoon

Imagine a day where you float gently across a calm, mirror-like lagoon surrounded by lush greenery, with the soothing sounds of water and wildlife. That’s exactly what you get with the Boating on Laguna Milagros tour in Peru, a full-day experience designed for nature lovers and those craving a peaceful escape. For around a full day’s worth of time, this tour takes you from Tingo María into a realm of natural beauty, mystical plants, and intriguing local culture — all wrapped in a relaxed, guided setting.

The tour is priced to reflect the value of exploring this unique natural spot, with transportation, a guide, and entrance fees included. It’s perfect if you’re after a break from busy city life, or if you want a deeper connection with Peruvian nature.

Two things we especially love about this experience: firstly, the serene boat ride on the lagoon’s still waters feels like a meditation, giving you a chance to unwind completely. Secondly, the visit to local landmarks like the Lupuna Wish Tree and medicinal plant observation offers genuine insight into local traditions and nature’s healing properties.

A possible consideration for travelers is that the tour includes a fair amount of walking, and some activities like the canopy or bicycle rides might appeal more to energetic visitors. It’s not a high-adrenaline adventure, but a tranquil, nature-focused day — so if you’re seeking action-packed thrill, this might not be your best pick.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy nature, cultural sights, and peaceful outdoor experiences. It’s ideal for those wanting a well-rounded day with some light adventure, knowledgeable guides, and plenty of stunning scenery.

Key Points

• Peaceful boat ride: Experience the tranquility of Laguna Milagros’ calm, reflective waters.
• Natural scenery: Enjoy lush landscapes, vibrant butterflies, and medicinal plants.
• Cultural insights: Discover local traditions through visits to the Lupuna Wish Tree and medicinal plant observation.
• Variety of activities: From walking tours and boat rides to canopy walks and bicycle in the air.
• Expert guidance: Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with local stories and context.
• Value for money: All transportation, entrance fees, and expert assistance included in the price.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting Point: Tingo María and Pickup

The adventure begins with a hotel pickup in Tingo María. This convenience means you won’t need to worry about transportation logistics — your guide takes care of that. It sets a relaxed tone, as you can sit back and prepare for a day immersed in nature. The 1-hour bus ride that follows transports you through scenic surroundings, building anticipation for what’s ahead.

Arrival at Caserío el Milagro and a Gentle Walk

After roughly 45 minutes, you arrive at Caserío el Milagro, a small village area about 25 km from Tingo María. Here, the tour really takes shape — a breezy 20-minute walk leads you to the edge of Laguna de los Milagros, a water mirror spanning 40,000 square meters. This part of the tour is particularly striking — the tranquil waters and surrounding greenery create a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for those who appreciate quiet natural beauty.

What’s special here is the mystical reputation of the lagoon, attributed to the concentration of huayruros plants. These plants are believed to have medicinal properties, adding a layer of cultural relevance to the experience. As you gaze across the lagoon, you can really feel the sense of being in a special, untouched part of nature.

Boat Ride to the Center and Exfoliation Ritual

Next comes the highlight — a boat ride to the middle of the lagoon’s island. The boat itself is simple but functional, allowing visitors to fully immerse in the stillness of the water. As you glide across, you get a spectacular view of the surroundings, with reflections of the lush landscape mirrored on the water’s surface.

One unique element of this tour is the use of clay for exfoliation — a traditional practice applied at the lagoon’s center. This natural clay is used on the face and body, providing a gentle cleansing experience amid stunning scenery. It’s an authentic touch that connects you to local customs and highlights the natural healing elements of the area.

Lunch with a View

After the boat ride, you’ll enjoy a typical lunch by the lagoon. The experience of eating in such a peaceful setting — surrounded by nature — makes the meal more than just sustenance; it becomes a part of the overall sensory experience. While the menu details aren’t specified, you can expect simple, local Peruvian fare, likely featuring fresh ingredients, in a rustic setting.

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Visiting Local Landmarks and Nature

Post-lunch, the tour takes you through several stops that deepen your appreciation of the local environment and culture. Highlights include:

• Jungle Hut of Tarzan: A fun spot inspired by adventure stories, offering photo opportunities and a sense of adventure.
• Lupuna Wish Tree: A venerable, giant tree where locals and visitors leave wishes or offerings, providing insight into local beliefs.
• EL Nido del Paucar and Uña de Gato plants: Opportunities to see medicinal plants used in traditional remedies, with guides explaining their uses.
• Multicolored Butterflies & The Half Moon: Natural attractions that highlight the area’s vibrant biodiversity. These stops are perfect for wildlife viewing and photography.

The guide will explain the medicinal properties of plants like Ayahuasca and Huayruros, offering a glimpse into traditional healing practices. The visit to the blood collection from Huayruros adds an unusual, local touch, emphasizing the connection to natural remedies.

Adventure and Canopy Walks

For those wanting a bit more thrill, the tour features extreme canopy walks at 2,500 meters. Walking in the treetops offers spectacular views of the forest canopy, and the hanging bridge adds a dash of excitement. If you’re comfortable with heights, these activities are a highlight, providing a different perspective of the lush landscape.

Plus, the bicycle in the air experience offers a fun, lighthearted activity that’s suitable for most ages and physical levels. It’s a playful way to see the forest from an elevated vantage point.

Return Journey

After a full day of exploration, the group boards the private vehicle for the return trip to Tingo María. The 1-hour journey gives you time to relax and reflect on the day’s highlights.

Considering what’s included — pickup and drop-off, guided tours, entrance fees, and transportation — the price reflects excellent value, especially for travelers interested in authentic natural and cultural experiences. The fact that you get to enjoy a peaceful boat ride, learn about medicinal plants directly from guides, and see wildlife and scenic viewpoints makes it a well-rounded outing.

The tour’s flexible structure allows for a mix of laid-back relaxation and light adventure, appealing to families, nature buffs, and cultural explorers alike. The inclusion of expert guides ensures you gain meaningful insights, making the experience more memorable and enriching.

If you’re someone who appreciates serene outdoor environments, wants a taste of local traditions, and enjoys a moderate amount of physical activity, this tour is a great fit. It’s perfect for those seeking a day away from urban chaos, with plenty of opportunities to relax, take photographs, and learn about local medicinal practices.

However, travelers with mobility issues might find some walking or activities challenging, and those seeking high-adrenaline adventures should look elsewhere.

This day on Laguna Milagros offers a quiet yet enriching window into Peruvian natural beauty and cultural practices. It’s a chance to slow down, breathe deeply, and connect with nature and local traditions in a meaningful way. The combination of peaceful boat rides, educational stops, and optional adventure activities makes it a versatile experience that balances relaxation and discovery.

For anyone wanting to see a different side of Peru — one that’s tranquil, scenic, and culturally intriguing — this tour provides excellent value and authentic moments that stay with you long after you leave.

Is transportation included? Yes, pickup and drop-off from your hotel in Tingo María are included, along with transport during the tour.

How long does the tour last? It lasts approximately one day, with availability depending on the schedule — check with the provider for specific starting times.

What should I bring? Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, towel, snacks, drinks, sunscreen, and insect repellent are recommended.

Are there any physical activity requirements? The tour involves walking, boat rides, and optional activities like canopy walks and bicycle riding, so a moderate level of mobility is helpful.

Is the tour suitable for children? Yes, children who enjoy outdoor activities and wildlife viewing will likely enjoy this experience, though parents should assess the physical demands.

Can I cancel? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What is included in the price? The price covers pickup and drop-off, transportation, a guide, entrance fees, and assistance throughout the day.

Are there vegetarian or special diet options? The tour includes a typical lunch; dietary accommodations should be clarified with the provider beforehand.

Is this a guided tour? Yes, a knowledgeable guide leads the entire experience, offering insights into the local flora, fauna, and cultural sites.

To sum it up, this tour is a thoughtfully curated blend of nature, culture, and light adventure, ideal for travelers seeking a peaceful yet engaging day in the Peruvian wilderness. It offers real value through guided insights, scenic beauty, and unique local experiences, making it a memorable addition to your travel itinerary.

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