Tambopata River, Puno & Madre de Dios

Overview

This is an epic, multi-day route taking at least eight days, with five or six of those days paddling on the river, travelling from 3,878 m (12,723 ft) above sea level, in Puno Department, to 200 m (656 ft) in the Amazonian Department of Madre de Dios.

The entry point is in or near the small Andean town of Putina Punko, which is a rough road journey, over a high pass, from the city of Juliaca, near Lake Titicaca.  

Once in the water, the river which is graded as Class III - IV takes you close to the Bolivian border, and through the Bahuaja-Sonene Reserve, into the heart of the Tambopata National Reserve, with its rich jungle flora and fauna.

Travelling by raft during the day, and camping beside the river at night, is a great way to get close to nature, without disturbing it, so there is a good chance to see caiman, river otters, monkeys ... and even big cats like ocelots, pumas and jaguars, if lucky. 

A rescued macaw (right) at Tambopata Research Center.

A rescued macaw (right) at Tambopata Research Center.

Most Tambopata rafting expeditions spend a night or two at an Amazon lodge, such as the remote Tambopata Research Center, or Wasai Lodge, which have spectacular macaw clay licks nearby … before catching a flight out of the city of Puerto Maldonado.  

Offering wilderness, wildlife and whitewater, the Tambopata is the ultimate rafting adventure for those looking for a combination of adrenaline and natural history. But keep in mind that this route only operates in dry season (March to October). 

Prices

Below Tambopata River Rafting rates are per person.

ItineraryLengthPrices From
9 Days£2,962 / $3,870
Tambopata
Rafting - 2 Pax
9 Days£2,610 / $3,410
Tambopata
Rafting - 3-4 Pax
9 Days£2,166 / $2,830

Inclusions

Included in the Tambopata River Rafting rate:

  • Transportation Juliaca - Putina Punko - Tambopata River in 4×4 vehicle.

  • Professional, English-speaking Rafting Guide.

  • All Rafting Equipment: Raft, Paddle, Life Jacket, Helmet, Paddle Jacket.

  • Dry bags for personal belongings.

  • Double tents.

  • All meals during the trip.

  • 1 night’s hotel in Puerto Maldonado.

  • Domestic flight ticket: Puerto Maldonado - Cusco

Not Included in the Tambopata River Rafting rate:

  • Items on packing list.

  • Travel Insurance to cover rafting up to class IV.

  • Personal alcoholic beverages.

  • Flight to Juliaca.

  • International flights.

Dates

Ask us about the latest Tambopata River Rafting departure dates.

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