Experience the Amazon with Monkey’s Excursion 2D/1N

If you’re craving a quick yet immersive escape into the Peruvian Amazon, Monkey’s Excursion 2D/1N offers a compelling option. For around $280 per person, this adventure takes you from Puerto Maldonado into the heart of Tambopata National Reserve, where you’ll explore Sandoval Lake, interact with monkeys, and witness vibrant wildlife — all in just two days.

What we love about this tour is its focused approach on authentic wildlife encounters and small-group size, ensuring you get personal attention and real chances to see monkeys jumping on the shores or parrots at the clay lick. Plus, the scenic boat rides and cozy jungle lodge add a layer of comfort amid the jungle’s raw beauty.

A potential consideration is the short duration — if you’re looking for a deep, slow-paced immersion, this might feel a bit rushed. Nevertheless, if your schedule is tight but you want a genuine Amazon experience, this tour hits the sweet spot. It’s ideal for travelers who enjoy wildlife viewing, boat rides, and manageable, well-organized trips without sacrificing authenticity.

This experience suits nature lovers, first-time jungle visitors, or anyone wanting a taste of Amazon adventure without committing to a longer trip. If you’re after a practical, well-rounded introduction to Peru’s rainforest, this tour offers a good balance.

Key Points

Wildlife encounters are the highlight, especially monkeys, parrots, and caimans
Small groups ensure personalized attention and better wildlife sightings
Scenic boat rides introduce you to the Madre de Dios River and Sandoval Lake
Comfortable lodge accommodations with private rooms and bathrooms
Early morning birdwatching at the macaw and parrot clay lick for avid birders
Flexible food options available, including vegetarian and vegan

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Amazon in Two Days: A Practical Guide

The Monkey’s Excursion 2D/1N is carefully designed to give you a meaningful Amazon experience, focusing on wildlife, natural beauty, and culture. Let’s unpack what makes this trip tick, what you’ll see, and what to expect.

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Getting There and First Impressions

From Puerto Maldonado, the journey begins with a 40-minute boat ride along the Madre de Dios River. This is an excellent way to kick off your adventure, as the boat provides unobstructed views of the lush riverbanks and a sense of venturing into a different world. Once you arrive at the Tambopata National Reserve, a quick five-minute entrance leads you into the jungle.

The initial walk of about 3 kilometers (roughly an hour) takes you through thick greenery where wildlife frequently appears. You might see monkeys, colorful tropical birds, parrots, and if you’re lucky, snakes or tarantulas. Here, the guides are invaluable—they’ll point out plants, animals, and signs of wildlife that you might overlook.
One reviewer noted, “The guides were very knowledgeable, and we saw monkeys, snakes, and parrots right along the trail — it felt very authentic.”

Sandoval Lake: Wildlife and Wilderness

The centerpiece of your first day is Sandoval Lake, accessible after a short boat trip and a walk through the jungle. The lake is teeming with life, and you’ll cruise in a canoe, getting close to the fauna in their natural habitat. Expect to see monkeys jumping on the shores, caimans basking in the sun, and dozens of tropical birds overhead.

The advantage here is the up-close wildlife viewing—you’re in their environment, not just observing from a distance. The sight of monkeys jumping into the water or parrots squawking from treetops is memorable. One guest shared, “Being so close to wild animals in their natural setting made the experience truly special.”

The Lodge: Comfort in the Jungle

After your exploration, you’ll settle into the Jungle House, which offers private rooms and bathrooms, internet, and a cozy atmosphere. It’s a rare luxury in a jungle setting and lets you rest comfortably before your next adventure. The lodge staff prepares a typical Amazonian dinner, giving you a taste of local flavors.

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Nighttime Wildlife

As night falls, the jungle transforms. Night walks might reveal nocturnal creatures like frogs, insects, and perhaps even some shy mammals. This nocturnal perspective adds another layer of excitement, though details depend on the guides and conditions that day.

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Early Morning at the Parrot Clay Lick

The second day begins early, around 5 am, with a trip to the parrot and macaw clay lick. This is a globally celebrated wildlife spectacle where yellow and blue macaws and other parrots gather to feed on mineral-rich clay. Witnessing dozens of parrots and macaws in flight or perched in the trees is a highlight for bird lovers.

Returning and Reflection

After breakfast, it’s time to head back to Puerto Maldonado. The guides assist with the transfer, and you’ll leave with a better understanding of Amazon wildlife and ecosystems. Many travelers appreciate this efficient itinerary that maximizes wildlife sightings without long, exhausting days.

The Practical Side: What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour’s pricing at $280 per person reflects good value, given the inclusion of lodging, all meals, entrance fees, and guided excursions. The small group size (max 9 travelers) means you receive personalized attention, which is especially valuable in wildlife-rich environments where spotting animals can depend heavily on a guide’s expertise.

The tour offers vegetarian and vegan meal options, a thoughtful touch for dietary needs. Pickup from hotels, airports, or bus stations makes logistics smooth, and the boat and river transportation are straightforward, reliable parts of the experience.

However, alcoholic beverages and additional drinks aren’t included, so if you want a cold beer after a day in the jungle, you’ll need to purchase it separately.

Timing and Flexibility

Starting times aren’t fixed—check availability—and last-minute bookings require confirmation with the provider. The full refund policy (cancel 24 hours in advance) offers peace of mind, especially if your plans change unexpectedly.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip perfectly suits nature enthusiasts, wildlife photographers, or travelers wanting a quick but genuine Amazon experience. It’s great for those who prefer a small-group setup and appreciate guided wildlife sightings. If you’re after a leisurely, multi-day adventure, you might want to consider longer options; but for a focused, impactful taste of the Amazon, this tour delivers.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

Monkey’s Excursion 2D/1N offers a focused, authentic taste of the Amazon’s wildlife and lush environment. Its strength lies in personalized guided tours, close wildlife encounters, and the convenience of a well-organized, short trip from Puerto Maldonado. The lodge provides a comfortable base, and the early morning birdwatching at the clay lick is a real treat.

This tour strikes a good balance between adventure and comfort, making it ideal for first-timers, wildlife lovers, or travelers with limited time. It’s not a deep immersion, but it’s certainly a memorable introduction—one that leaves you with a greater appreciation for the Amazon’s vibrant life.

If your goal is to see monkeys and parrots in their natural habitat without a long commitment, this trip is a smart choice. Keep in mind the quick pace might not suit those who prefer slow, contemplative travel. But for most, it’s a well-paced, rewarding glimpse into Peru’s rainforest.

FAQs

How long is the boat ride to the lodge?
The boat ride from Puerto Maldonado to the Tambopata Reserve takes approximately 40 minutes, providing scenic views of the river and jungle along the way.

Are meals included?
Yes, all meals are provided according to the itinerary, with options available for vegetarians and vegans. Soft drinks and drinking water are also included.

What wildlife might I see?
You can expect to see monkeys, tropical birds, parrots, caimans, and possibly snakes or tarantulas. The early morning at the clay lick offers a chance to see large groups of macaws and parrots.

What are the lodging facilities like?
The Jungle House offers private rooms with private bathrooms, internet, and a comfortable base after your jungle excursions.

Is the tour suitable for children or older travelers?
While the tour is not explicitly described as family-friendly, the manageable pace and comfortable lodging make it accessible for many age groups, provided they are able to handle outdoor activities and early mornings.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible for last-minute adjustments.

This Amazon adventure packs a punch in just two days—a perfect choice for those seeking an authentic wildlife experience without the fuss of longer trips. It’s a well-balanced, practical journey into Peru’s incredible rainforest that’s worth considering if your schedule allows.