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For something totally different from anything that you have experienced in Peru, travel to Puerto Maldonado. Considered the gateway to the southern Peruvian Amazon. From here you can travel down the many rivers in the region to some of the wonderful jungle lodges. Spend a few days exploring the jungle.
Puerto Maldonado’s modern history is significantly shaped by the rubber boom of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Rubber extraction attracted many immigrants, leading to the establishment and growth of the city. The exploitation of rubber brought significant wealth to the region but also caused severe environmental and social damage. This included the exploitation and mistreatment of indigenous people.
Today, Puerto Maldonado is an important economic hub in the Peruvian Amazon. It serves as a gateway for ecotourism in the surrounding rainforest. The region draws visitors interested in exploring the incredible biodiversity of the Amazon basin. The city is also a center for gold mining, timber extraction, and agriculture, contributing to the local and national economy.
Air travel to the Amazon basin area is the most popular way to get to the Jungle. Flights leave from Lima and Cusco daily. Flights from Cusco are around 40 minutes and flight from Lima are around 1 hour and 30 minutes. The best and most reliable airline to use in Peru is LATAM.
For those who do not want to fly there are many buses that go from Cusco to Puerto Maldonado, this is a 10-hour bus ride. In recent years the roads have improved making the trip more pleasurable. It is advisable to go to the bus terminal in Cusco and ask about the service and the price.
Once you are in Puerto Maldonado you will want to travel to the Amazon Jungle. Most lodges have their own boat that will transfer you to your lodge.
Puerto Maldonado and the surrounding areas offer a wealth of natural and cultural attractions. These provide visitors with a range of experiences in the heart of the Amazon rainforest. Here are some of the top attractions and things to do in and around Puerto Maldonado:
Tambopata National Reserve: Explore the breathtaking Tambopata National Reserve, known for its rich biodiversity and stunning natural landscapes. Take guided jungle treks, birdwatching tours, and wildlife spotting excursions to witness the region’s diverse flora and fauna.
Lake Sandoval: Visit Lake Sandoval, an oxbow lake renowned for its tranquil beauty and abundant wildlife. Take a canoe tour to observe various bird species, monkeys, caimans, and other fascinating creatures in their natural habitat.
Macaw clay licks: Witness the spectacular sight of colorful macaws gathering at clay licks to consume mineral-rich clay, a behavior essential for their diet. Take guided tours to various clay licks for an up-close encounter with these vibrant and majestic birds.
Indigenous community visits: Gain insights into the local culture and traditions by visiting indigenous communities in the area. Learn about their way of life, traditional practices, and sustainable methods of living in harmony with the rainforest.
Canopy walks and zip-lining: Experience the thrill of walking on suspended walkways through the treetops of the Amazon rainforest. Some lodges and tour operators offer canopy walk tours and zip-lining adventures. This provides a unique perspective of the forest canopy and its inhabitants.
River cruises: Embark on river cruises along the Madre de Dios and Tambopata rivers. The cruise offers a chance to spot wildlife, including caimans, capybaras, and various bird species. Enjoy the serene beauty of the riverine landscapes and immerse yourself in the tranquility of the Amazon.
Ecotourism lodges and resorts: Stay in one of the many eco-lodges and resorts in the region. These offer comfortable accommodations, guided tours, and a range of activities designed to provide an immersive experience of the Amazon rainforest. They also promote sustainable and responsible tourism practices.
Eco lodges and jungle resorts: There are several eco-lodges and jungle resorts situated in and around Puerto Maldonado. These offer visitors a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the Amazon rainforest. Some popular eco-lodges include the Posada Amazonas, Refugio Amazonas, and Inkaterra Reserva Amazonica, which provide comfortable accommodations, guided excursions, and eco-friendly experiences. Some lodges offer amenities such as swimming pools, allowing guests to relax and cool off amid the lush, tropical surroundings of the Peruvian Amazon.
Hotels in the city center: Puerto Maldonado also has a range of hotels and guesthouses located in the city center. These provide convenient access to local amenities and attractions. Some well-regarded hotels in the area include the Wyndham Costa del Sol Puerto Maldonado, Hotel Jose Antonios Inn, and Hotel Cabaña Quinta.
Riverfront accommodations: Several lodges and resorts are situated along the banks of the Madre de Dios River and the Tambopata River, offering picturesque views and easy access to river-based activities. These riverfront accommodations provide a serene and tranquil setting, allowing guests to enjoy the natural beauty of the surrounding rainforest while staying in comfortable and well-equipped lodgings.
The best time to visit Puerto Maldonado is during the dry season, which typically runs from May to September. This period is characterized by lower levels of rainfall and more stable weather conditions, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities and wildlife observation. During the dry season, the rivers are generally calmer, facilitating activities such as boat tours and river cruises.
The dry season is considered the peak tourist season in Puerto Maldonado, so it’s advisable to make your travel arrangements well in advance, especially if you plan to visit popular attractions or stay in specific lodges or resorts. The relatively drier weather also means fewer mosquitoes and a more comfortable overall experience in the rainforest.
While the dry season is generally recommended, some travelers also choose to visit Puerto Maldonado during the wet season, which lasts from October to April. Despite the higher levels of rainfall and humidity during this period, the wet season offers a unique experience, with lush greenery, swollen rivers, and an abundance of wildlife. Keep in mind that some activities might be limited or affected by heavy rainfall during this time.
The town of Puerto Maldonado and the Amazon jungle are great places to visit especially for the nature lovers. Whatever time of year you visit the experience will live you for a lifetime. See many different varieties of animals that call the jungle home. Go fishing or canoeing in one of the many lakes. Book your holiday in the Jungle with one of our experienced SAM Travel Peru consultants.
