Canopy Tower, Zipline, Kayak, and Monkey Island offers a lively taste of the Amazon jungle, combining exciting activities like ziplining and kayaking with wildlife encounters. For $40 per person, you’ll spend around six hours exploring the Madre de Dios River region, with highlights including a towering canopy walk, a scenic zipline ride, and close-up visits to monkeys on Monkey Island. Guided by knowledgeable hosts, this tour promises a satisfying mix of adventure and nature appreciation.

What we really like about this experience is how it’s designed to give you a variety of ways to connect with the jungle — whether soaring through treetops or paddling along the river, the activities feel authentic and well-paced. The inclusion of a hearty lunch and relaxing hammock time at the lodge also helps balance out the adrenaline rush.

A potential consideration is the physical aspect — the tour involves walking, climbing, and some water activity, which might not suit everyone, especially those with mobility issues or fear of heights. But for travelers eager to explore the Amazon in an active manner, this tour hits a good middle ground of excitement and comfort.

This tour suits those curious about Amazon wildlife, outdoor adventurers, and families looking for engaging activities in a natural setting. If you’re after a straightforward, affordable way to see some of the Amazon’s highlights with good guides, this could be just right.

Key Points

Variety of activities: Combines canopy walk, ziplining, kayaking, and wildlife encounters.
Authentic wildlife viewing: Get close to monkeys on Monkey Island and see diverse bird species.
Well-paced: Six-hour experience balancing adventure, relaxation, and meals.
Knowledgeable guides: Guides provide insightful explanations about flora, fauna, and the environment.
Physical activity level: Suitable for active travelers; some parts involve walking and paddling.
Good value: At $40, the tour offers a lot of different experiences and learning opportunities.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Look at the Amazon Adventure

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The Itinerary and What to Expect

This full-day outing starts at a central meeting point on Av. Coronel Enrique Leon Velarde, from where you’ll be transferred to Puerto Maldonado, a hub for jungle excursions. The journey is guided, and you’ll be briefed on safety and what to expect before diving into the day’s activities.

The first stop involves a 200-meter hike through lush rainforest to the Canopy Tower, which rises 35 meters into the treetops. Built at the base of a massive lupuna tree, this tower offers a unique vantage point to observe the forest from above. Here, you might spot a variety of colorful birds and listen to the symphony of jungle sounds. The guide, often a knowledgeable local, explains the rich diversity of flora and fauna, giving you context that turns a simple climb into an educational experience.

Next, you’ll cross a Canopy bridge, a suspended walkway connecting different parts of the treetops, further immersing you in the jungle’s layered ecosystem. Then comes the highlight for many — the zipline ride. The guide demonstrates how to safely harness yourself and then launches into a 190-meter-long zipline that whizzes over the canopy. It’s a rush, but one that feels safe thanks to the expert safety equipment and guidance. The return involves crossing a 100-meter bridge on foot, adding a bit more adventure.

After the adrenaline, it’s time to relax and refuel. The tour includes a delicious lunch at the lodge, where you can unwind in hammocks or soak up the sounds of the jungle. Many reviewers appreciate this peaceful break, especially after a morning of activity.

In the afternoon, the journey continues with a kayaking trip down the Madre de Dios River. Paddling in the support boat, you’ll enjoy the scenery and may even take a quick swim in the river’s cool waters — a refreshing break after the morning’s exertions. The kayaks are provided with paddles and life jackets, making this activity accessible and safe.

The final highlight is a visit to Monkey Island, a 15-minute boat ride from the lodge. Here, you’ll find black and white-faced capuchin monkeys that are accustomed to human presence, allowing you to get remarkably close. Guides often encourage feeding the monkeys, which adds to the sense of connection with the wild animals, though touching or touching animals and plants is discouraged for safety and conservation reasons.

What the Reviews Say

Travelers praise the knowledge of guides as a major plus, with many highlighting how guides share engaging details about the jungle ecosystem. One reviewer notes, “The guides were very knowledgeable and made the whole experience much more meaningful.” Others mention the authentic wildlife encounters, especially with the monkeys, describing it as a highlight.

However, some found the overall rating of 3 out of 5 reflects a mix of positives and some minor frustrations. For instance, the physical effort involved in walking and paddling might be too much for some or those with mobility issues. One reviewer suggested it was a great experience but recommended being prepared for some physical exertion.

Breaking Down the Experience

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The Canopy Tower and Bridge

The first activity is a gentle but elevated walk through the treetops — about 200 meters in total to reach the tower. The tower itself offers a panoramic view, ideal for birdwatchers or photographers keen on capturing the lush canopy. The guide’s explanations about the Amazon’s flora and fauna elevate the experience beyond just sightseeing.

Crossing the canopy bridge adds to the sense of being part of the jungle, walking at treetop level. It’s a safe but exhilarating experience that provides a different perspective of the forest.

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Ziplining: The Heart-Pumping Moment

The zipline is the tour’s most adrenaline-pumping part. At 190 meters, the ride offers a quick but exciting fly through the canopy, with scenic views of the forest below. The safety setup is comprehensive, and guides carefully explain procedures, making it accessible even if you’re new to ziplining.

Many reviews mention how comfortable they felt during the activity. For example, one traveler said, “The zipline was a lot of fun, and the staff made me feel very safe.” The return trip involves crossing a short bridge, adding a bit of variety before heading back to the lodge for lunch.

Lunch and Rest at the Lodge

After the morning activities, the included lunch is a welcomed break. The lodge provides a hearty meal, typically featuring local ingredients, which helps re-energize you. Post-lunch, the hammocks become a popular spot for relaxing and soaking in the jungle sounds. This downtime is a good way to process the morning’s excitement and prepare for the afternoon.

Kayaking and River Adventures

In the afternoon, the tour shifts gears to a scenic kayaking trip. Paddling down the Madre de Dios River, you’ll enjoy views of the riverbanks, potentially spotting birds or wildlife along the way. The presence of a support boat reassures beginners and non-swimmers, making this activity accessible for most. The option to swim in the river waters offers a memorable way to cool off.

Monkey Island: Close Encounters with Wildlife

The visit to Monkey Island is often described as the tour’s crowning moment. Monkeys here are used to human interaction, so you can feed them and observe their antics up close. The guide will help you understand their behaviors and interactions. While touching is discouraged, many travelers find the experience both fun and educational.

The Practical Side: What You Need to Know

Duration and Timing

The full-day tour lasts approximately six hours, with starting times varying — so check availability when booking. Transportation is included from a central location in Puerto Maldonado, but the tour does not cover your transportation to and from the city itself.

Cost and Value

At $40 per person, this experience offers a lot of different activities packed into a manageable timeframe. The cost includes the guide, safety equipment, kayaks, paddles, life jackets, and the lunch, making it a good value for an Amazon adventure.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included are most of the essentials: guides, safety gear, kayaks, and lunch. You’ll need to bring water, sunscreen, insect repellent, swimwear, and a camera. Personal expenses and transportation to the meeting point are not covered.

Suitability and Precautions

This tour is best for active travelers comfortable with walking, heights, and water activities. It’s not suitable for people with back problems, mobility impairments, or non-swimmers. Also, caution is advised for those afraid of heights or uncomfortable around animals.

Who Would Love This Tour?

If you enjoy outdoor activities, wildlife encounters, and scenic views, you’ll likely find this tour rewarding. It’s perfect for travelers wanting a hands-on Amazon experience without the long, multi-day commitment. Families with older children and those interested in a balanced mix of adventure and nature education will appreciate its variety.

On the flip side, if you prefer a more relaxed, less physically demanding experience, this may feel a bit intense. Also, the short duration means it’s a quick snapshot rather than an in-depth exploration of the Amazon, so if you’re after deep immersion, consider more comprehensive options.

The Sum Up

This Amazon adventure tour offers a solid introduction to the rainforest’s landscapes and wildlife for a very reasonable price. From climbing a canopy tower and ziplining through treetops to paddling along the river and meeting curious monkeys, it packs a surprising amount of activity into six hours. Guided by knowledgeable, friendly guides, you gain insight into the jungle ecosystem that enhances the experience beyond just thrills.

It’s especially well-suited for travelers who want to combine outdoor adventure with wildlife viewing in a single day without breaking the bank. The activities feel authentic and are complemented by comfortable amenities like lunch and hammock time, making this a memorable part of any trip to the Puerto Maldonado region.

While it’s not for everyone—those with mobility issues or a fear of heights might need to think twice—it’s a fantastic way to get a taste of the Amazon’s wonder in a fun, engaging way. If you’re after a lively, varied, and affordable jungle experience, this tour deserves a spot on your list.

FAQ

Is transportation to the tour included?
No, transportation to and from the city is not included. The tour begins at a central location, and you’ll need to arrange your own transport to the meeting point.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a camera, sunscreen, water, comfortable clothes, and insect repellent. You may get wet during kayaking, so packing a change of clothes is a good idea.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s generally suitable for those comfortable with active outdoor activities. Very young children or those with mobility issues may find some parts too challenging.

How long is the entire experience?
The tour lasts about 6 hours, including activities, lunch, and rest time.

What kind of wildlife will I see?
Expect to see a variety of birds and monkeys on Monkey Island, with the guides providing insights into the local fauna.

How physically demanding is the tour?
It involves walking, climbing, and paddling, so some physical fitness will enhance your enjoyment. It’s not recommended for people with back problems or mobility impairments.

Are safety measures in place?
Yes, safety equipment for ziplining and kayaking is provided, and guides are experienced in ensuring your safety throughout.

Can I do this tour if I’m not a strong swimmer?
Yes, the kayaking includes a support boat, and life jackets are provided, making it accessible even if you’re not comfortable swimming.

This Amazon adventure offers an engaging blend of thrills, wildlife encounters, and scenic beauty, perfect for travelers eager to see the rainforest from a lively, hands-on perspective.