Tambopata National Reserve: A Treasure in the Jungle

Tambopata National Reserve is one of the most biodiverse places on the planet and one of the well-preserved treasures of the Peruvian jungle. If you love nature as much as we do, then you shouldn’t miss visiting this national reserve. Let us teach you everything about this hidden gem in the jungle and how to make the most of it!

Unquestionably, Peru is everyone’s favorite attraction while traveling through South America for being so diverse in nature, history, and culture, which is why you’ll never get enough of this astonishing country. Among all the things to do in Peru, the most in-demand are:

• Machu Picchu
• Huacachina
• Colca Canyon
• Lake Titicaca

Please continue reading and find everything about the beautiful Tambopata National Reserve, don’t miss this chance and get to know everything about it.

Tambopata National Reserve

Just like Paracas National Reserve, this is another protected area in Peru worth visiting because of its vast biodiversity. It is located in Madre de Dios department and has an extension of 274,690 hectares, making it almost as large as the Yosemite National Park in the USA. Tambopata was declared a National Reserve in mid 2000, in order to preserve its ecosystem.

The Tambopata National Reserve is home to 632 bird species, around 100 species of mammals, over 1,000 species of butterflies, and hundreds of species of trees and plants, which is why it is recognized as one of the most biodiverse places in the world!

This outstanding national reserve is situated near Puerto Maldonado, a famous city known for being the easiest access to a significant part of the jungle in Peru. Swamps and riverine forest are two of the main ecosystems found in this region, which allow local people to take advantage of natural resources.

You might be wondering who lives in these remote lands? Well, Tambopata is home to one of the most significant indigenous communities in the jungle called Ese Aja, a name that literally translates to “People”, apart from this community, the only human settlements are some ranger stations, and a famous refuge called Tambopata Research Center.

Inside this natural reserve are found healthy habitats for the recovery and refuge of threatened populations of species such as the giant otters, pumas, the jaguarundi, and many other endangered species.

What to See in Tambopata National Reserve?

Throughout the years, Tambopata has become very popular among local and foreign tourists that look for a unique experience in nature since it comprehends a diverse flora and fauna, without forgetting its beautiful scenery. Among all the things to do in Tambopata, the most in-demand attractions are:

• Lago Sandoval

  This beautiful lake extends over 120 hectares and it is located within the Tambopata National Reserve, neighboring the city of Puerto Maldonado. This water body is known for being home to a large population of macaws, in addition to allowing the sighting of herons, kingfishers, alligators and otters.

  This region has become popular among the Tambopata visitors, which is why, now, you’ll be able to find accommodation options in this area. Here you can also visit the observatory tower for a panoramic view of this region, as well as taking a boat ride through the lake.

• Cocococha & Sachavacayoc Lagoons

  These water bodies are found through the Tambopata River basin, both are spots where wildlife abounds. Sachavacayoc is the most recognized for having campsites for tourists who want a more intimate experience with the Peruvian jungle, and both are home to Collpas, where animals come to eat clay from river ravines.

  Between 5:30 and 9:00 a.m. a colorful spectacle is caused by the agglomeration of macaws and parrots that you shouldn’t miss if passing by this area. The main clay licks are Chuncho and Colorado, both are on the banks of the Tambopata River.

• Experience the Native Communities

Within the Madre de Dios region, you’ll find different communities such as Eje Esa, Harakbut and the Matsigenka people. Although most of them don’t share any connection with the outside world, you’ll be able to know about the costumes and traditions of the main communities of this region.

For many tourists, there is nothing more enriching and exciting than getting to know new cultures, which is why some tour operators offer visits to these villages.

These are a few of the many things to do in this national reserve, if you love the jungle as much as we do, then you’ll surely love this well-preserved gem of the Peruvian jungle.

If planning a trip through Peru, we highly recommend you checking our guides of the different cities within this colorful region in South America. Allow yourself to immerse in a country full of natural wonders, history, and culture ready to be shared with the world.

For more information about how to uniquely explore Peru without missing any important detail, we highly recommend Peru Hop for traveling across the country. This famous bus company is recognized for its travel experience, safety and flexibility. Don’t be a typical tourist and get ready for the best adventure of your life!

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