Sandoval Lake | Tambopata

Sandoval Lake | Tambopata

Lake Sandoval is a lake located in the Tambopata National Reserve, in the Amazon rainforest of southeastern Peru. It is known for its unique biodiversity and stunning natural environment and visitors can enjoy bird watching, wildlife viewing and boat rides. It is important to visit with a guide for a safe and environmentally friendly experience.

How to get to  Sandoval Lake | Tambopata?

1. Flight to Puerto Maldonado: From Lima or Cusco, you can take a flight to Puerto Maldonado. This is the starting point for most excursions to the Tambopata National Reserve, where Sandoval Lake is located.
2. Transfer to the river port: Once in Puerto Maldonado, you will transfer to the local river port, where you will board a boat that will take you upriver on the Madre de Dios River.
3. Jungle walk: After arriving at a point near the lake on the Madre de Dios River, you will take a guided walk through the jungle to the entrance of Lake Sandoval. During the walk, you will be able to observe the flora and fauna of the Amazon rainforest.
4. Lake boat trip: Once at the entrance of the lake, you will board a rowing boat and cross the Sandoval Lake until you reach its shore. Here you will have the opportunity to explore the natural environment of the lake and observe local wildlife such as birds, caimans and turtles.
   This process may vary depending on the tour operator and the type of excursion you choose, but these are the general steps you will follow to reach Sandoval Lake and enjoy its natural beauty.

history

The history of Lake Sandoval is intertwined with the history of the Tambopata National Reserve and the Amazon region of southeastern Peru.

Before becoming a national reserve, the region was inhabited by indigenous communities who depended on the forest for their livelihoods. With the arrival of Spanish colonisers in the 16th century, the exploitation of natural resources such as timber and rubber brought significant changes to the landscape and the lives of local communities.

During the 20th century, there was a growing interest in the conservation of the Amazon rainforest and its unique biodiversity. In 1990, the Tambopata National Reserve was created to protect a large expanse of rainforest and its iconic species, including Lake Sandoval and its surroundings.

Since then, Lake Sandoval has been a popular destination for ecotourists and nature lovers looking to explore the Amazon rainforest and observe its impressive biodiversity. In addition, the lake and its surroundings provide a vital habitat for a variety of plant and animal species, contributing to the conservation of the region’s rich biological diversity.

flora and fauna

Lake Sandoval is home to an impressive diversity of flora and fauna typical of the Amazon rainforest.

Flora:

• Aquatic vegetation: On the shores and shallow waters of the lake, you will find a variety of aquatic plants such as water lilies, water lilies and water hyacinths.
• Giant trees: The jungle surrounding the lake is dotted with giant trees such as ceiba and kapok, which are vital to the Amazon ecosystem.
• Palms: Palms, such as the royal palm and the aguaje palm, are common in the rainforest and provide food and shelter for numerous species of animals.

Fauna:

• Birds: Lake Sandoval is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with a wide variety of species including macaws, toucans, herons, kingfishers and many more.
• Mammals: Mammals that inhabit the area include the howler monkey, capuchin monkey, jaguar, anteater and several species of bats.
• Reptiles and amphibians: Caimans, aquatic turtles, anacondas, snakes and a great diversity of frogs and toads are some of the reptiles and amphibians that can be found in and around the lake.
• Fish: The lake is home to a variety of fish, including piranhas, eels and several species of cichlids. These are just some of the many species of flora and fauna that can be found in and around Lake Sandoval. The rich biodiversity of the region makes it a unique destination for nature observation and conservation.

recommendations

• Local guide: The guides have a deep knowledge of the area, the flora and fauna, and can enrich your experience with interesting information and ensure your safety during the visit.
• Respect for the environment: Remember to follow the reserve’s rules and maintain a respectful attitude towards the environment. Do not leave litter, do not disturb wildlife and avoid damaging the vegetation during your visit.
• Appropriate clothing: The Amazon rainforest can be hot and humid, so make sure you wear light, comfortable and breathable clothing. It is also important to bring insect repellent and sunscreen.
• Necessary equipment: Don’t forget to bring a camera or binoculars to better capture and enjoy the incredible biodiversity of the area. Also, bring drinking water and a light snack to keep your energy up during the visit.
• Book in advance: If you plan to visit Sandoval Lake as part of a tour, it is advisable to book in advance, especially during the high season, to make sure you have a space and avoid setbacks.

Sandoval Lake | Tambopata