Tambopata: Zipline Adventure & Kayak to Monkey Island

Tambopata: Zipline Adventure & Kayak to Monkey Island offers a lively taste of Amazonian adventure for those visiting Puerto Maldonado. Priced at $59 per person, this 7-hour tour combines adrenaline-filled ziplining, canopy walking, and a relaxing kayak trip to Monkey Island, where you can observe capuchin and black monkeys up close.

What we love about this experience is how it blends thrilling activities with wildlife viewing—especially the chance to encounter monkeys in their natural surroundings. The observation tower provides a panoramic view of the lush jungle canopy, and the guided nature commentary (in English or Spanish) enriches the experience.

One potential drawback is inconsistency in the activity quality—some parts, like the canopy walk and zipline, are quite enjoyable, but others, such as the kayaking, might leave you wishing for more safety oversight. Still, for adventurous travelers seeking a cost-effective, action-packed day in the Amazon, this tour offers plenty of memorable moments.

This tour is best suited for active travelers who appreciate wildlife and outdoor fun, but it may be less ideal if you’re looking for a completely smooth, fully-organized experience or are traveling with very young children or pregnant women.

Key Points

• Active Adventure – Combines ziplining, canopy walking, and kayaking in a single day.
• Wildlife Encounters – Close-up views of monkeys on Monkey Island.
• Scenic Views – Observation tower offers sweeping perspectives of the jungle.
• Cost-Effective – At $59, it provides a mix of adventure and nature for a reasonable price.
• Mixed Reviews – Some visitors loved the guides and views, others noted safety and organizational issues.
• Flexible Language Options – Guides speak both English and Spanish.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Experience

Starting the Day: From Puerto Maldonado to the Amazon

We begin the tour in the morning, meeting at the PVTravels office at 9:10 am. After a quick check-in, you’re transported to the Capitanía port for a one-hour boat ride across the Madre de Dios River to the lodge. The boat ride itself is a highlight, with views of the jungle and river life that can’t be replicated elsewhere, setting the scene for a full day of exploration.

Canopy Walk and Suspension Bridges

Once at the lodge, the adventure kicks off with a treetop walk. Climbing an observation tower that overlooks the jungle, you’ll cross hanging bridges that stretch across the canopy. These bridges are an ideal way to see colorful flora and fauna—sometimes elusive from the ground. According to one reviewer, the suspension bridges are “ok,” but some boards are not solid, which is worth noting if you’re sensitive to balance or safety concerns.

We loved the way this part gets you high above the ground, giving you a bird’s-eye view of the lush Amazon. It’s a quiet moment that can be surprisingly peaceful amid the excitement.

Ziplining: A Heart-Pumping Ride

Next up is the zipline, where you’ll slide down two 190-meter-long lines, with an assistant helping you cross a small 100-meter bridge at the end. The thrill of zipping through the treetops is the tour’s highlight for many, offering a unique perspective of the jungle from above.

One reviewer described ziplining as “very fun,” and for adrenaline junkies, this is a definite draw. The ziplines are designed to be accessible, but keep in mind that minimum age requirements aren’t clearly specified, and some participants in reviews were adults in sandals or children, which may raise safety questions.

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Lunch and Rest at the Lodge

After all that activity, you’ll return to the lodge for lunch. The meal is generally considered adequate and gives you a chance to relax and recharge before the next phase of your adventure.

Kayaking and Monkey Island

Post-lunch, the tour shifts gears to a kayaking expedition starting from the lodge. With kayaks, paddles, and life jackets provided, you’ll paddle along the Madre de Dios River, always with a safety boat nearby. The opportunity to bathe in the river or just float peacefully is a refreshing contrast to the high-energy activities. One reviewer mentioned that the kayak wasn’t very pleasant because the safety boat was too far away, and guides seemed inattentive.

The highlight here is the visit to Monkey Island, where you can observe Capuchin, Black, and White Monkeys—species accustomed to humans, allowing close encounters, and even feeding them. This is a chance to see these intelligent creatures up close and watch their social interactions. One reviewer remarked, “The monkeys were getting closer,” highlighting how engaging this part of the tour can be.

Return and End of the Day

After spending time on Monkey Island, you’ll head back to the lodge, then make your way back to Puerto Maldonado in the late afternoon. The boat ride back can feel lengthy, with some critics noting it as “very long,” especially if the boat acts as a taxi for multiple groups.

What to Expect: Practical Insights

Transportation: The journey begins with a boat ride from Puerto Maldonado, a scenic 60-minute trip that sets a relaxed tone for the day.

Group Size: The experience groups can vary, and reviews suggest some tours may become crowded—over 30 people at Monkey Island, for example.

Guides: Bilingual guides are available, but some reviews mention inconsistent commentary—initially informative, but sometimes simply prompt-based with little explanation later in the day.

Duration and Timing: Expect a full 7-hour day, with starting times depending on availability. Be prepared for a long day with a mix of active and relaxing moments.

Pricing and Value: At $59, the tour offers a reasonable package for beginners or families who want a taste of Amazon adventure without a hefty price tag. But some travelers feel the safety and organizational standards could be improved, given the mixed reviews.

Authentic Experiences and Authenticity

The tour’s real strength lies in its mix of activities—you’ll get a shot of adrenaline, a chance to appreciate the Amazon’s canopy from above, and a memorable opportunity to interact with wildlife. The guides’ knowledge and ability to point out flora and fauna are appreciated by some, though inconsistent. If you’re lucky, you’ll encounter close-up monkey sightings and enjoy the panoramic jungle views from the observation tower.

However, be aware that some guests found the organization lacking, with long waits, delays, and safety concerns. The kayak experience, in particular, may not satisfy everyone—especially if guides seem inattentive or the boat’s distance makes you feel unsupervised.

The Sum Up: Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This tour offers a hands-on, active glimpse of the Amazon that’s perfect for travelers craving outdoor adventure and wildlife encounters. It’s especially suited for curious, energetic explorers who don’t mind a bit of chaos or minor safety issues. Families with kids over a certain age may find it a manageable way to introduce children to the jungle, provided safety concerns are considered.

If your goal is to see monkeys up close, enjoy aerial jungle views, and paddle in remote river waters for a reasonable price, this tour can deliver those moments. Just keep expectations realistic about organization and safety standards—the reviews reflect some frustrations, but also enthusiasm for the unique experiences.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 7 hours, with start times depending on availability. It typically begins around 9:10 am.

What is included in the price?
The $59 fee covers pickup from Puerto Maldonado, lunch, kayaking, ziplining and canopy walk, guides in English or Spanish, all necessary equipment, and entrance fees.

Are there any age restrictions?
While the minimum age isn’t clearly specified, some reviews suggest that children or those in sandals participated. It’s advisable to check with the operator if you have young kids or specific safety concerns.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen and insect repellent. Avoid large luggage or heavy bags, as space is limited and safety is a concern during active parts.

Is the tour suitable for pregnant women?
No, pregnant women are advised not to participate due to the physical nature of the activities.

How safe is the kayaking?
Guides always follow with a safety boat, but some guests noted that the boat was sometimes too far away, making the experience less secure and more challenging.

What is the quality of the guides?
Guides are bilingual, but some reviews indicate that over the course of the day, explanations can become sparse, and safety oversight might be lacking.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your plans change.

In essence, Tambopata’s Zipline & Kayak to Monkey Island offers a good mix of adventure and wildlife, especially for those who want a cost-conscious, active day in the Amazon. Although not perfect, it provides enough excitement and sights to leave you with memorable stories—just be prepared for some organizational quirks and safety concerns.

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