Breakdown of Entry Fees for Tambopata National Reserve 2026

Entry costs for the reserve are regulated by the SERNANP agency. For 2026, visitors can expect a two-tier pricing structure based on the length of stay. A single-day permit usually costs around 30 PEN (8 USD). If you plan to stay at a lodge inside the reserve, you need a multi-day pass. This multi-day pass for up to three days typically costs 60 PEN (16 USD). Rates for children and Peruvian residents are lower, providing affordable access for families.

You can find more official details on the Peru official site regarding park protocols. Payments are generally handled by tour operators in Puerto Maldonado before departure. If you travel independently, you must visit the SERNANP office in town. Cash is the preferred payment method for these permits locally. Always keep your physical ticket with you during the entire trip. Park rangers frequently check documentation at various river checkpoints.

• Adult Foreigner (1 day): ~30 PEN
• Adult Foreigner (2-3 days): ~60 PEN
• National Adult (Peru): ~15 PEN
• Students: ~10 PEN (with valid ID)

Top 10 Experiences in Tambopata National Reserve

The reserve offers a variety of habitats and wildlife viewing opportunities. Here are the top specific locations you should visit during your journey through the Amazon.

1. Name: Lake Sandoval
   Type: sight
   Why go: It is often called the most beautiful lake in the Peruvian Amazon.
   Best for: Families and wildlife photographers.
   Where: 30 minutes by boat from Puerto Maldonado.
   Time: 5-6 hours.
   Cost: Included in park fee.
   Getting there: Take a boat from the port, then a 3km forest walk.
   Tip: A Lake Sandoval tour guide is essential for spotting giant river otters.
2. Name: Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick
   Type: experience
   Why go: Watch hundreds of colorful macaws and parrots gather to eat mineral-rich clay.
   Best for: Bird watchers.
   Where: Deep inside the reserve.
   Time: Full day (starts at dawn).
   Cost: Part of premium tour packages.
   Getting there: 4-5 hours by boat upstream.
   Tip: Book macaw clay lick trips during the dry season for the best sightings.
3. Name: Inkaterra Canopy Walkway
   Type: experience
   Why go: Walk through the treetops on safe suspension bridges to see life from above.
   Best for: Adventure seekers.
   Where: Near the Reserva Amazonica lodge area.
   Time: 2 hours.
   Cost: ~25-40 USD per person.
   Getting there: Boat access from the Madre de Dios River.
   Tip: Go at sunset for spectacular views of the jungle canopy.
4. Name: Tambopata River Night Safari
   Type: activity
   Why go: Search for caimans and nocturnal birds along the riverbanks under the stars.
   Best for: Night owls and thrill-seekers.
   Where: Along the main Tambopata River.
   Time: 1-2 hours after dusk.
   Cost: Usually included in lodge stays.
   Getting there: Guided boat excursions from local lodges.
   Tip: Bring a powerful headlamp to see the glowing eyes of caimans.
5. Name: Colorado Macaw Clay Lick
   Type: sight
   Why go: One of the world's largest clay licks studied by researchers worldwide.
   Best for: Nature enthusiasts.
   Where: Southern sector of the reserve.
   Time: Half-day morning trip.
   Cost: Higher cost due to remote location.
   Getting there: Long boat ride from Puerto Maldonado.
   Tip: Visit between August and October for peak bird activity levels.
6. Name: Posada Amazonas Ethnobotanical Trail
   Type: culture
   Why go: Learn how indigenous communities use forest plants for medicine and food.
   Best for: Cultural explorers.
   Where: Community-owned forest near Infierno.
   Time: 2-3 hours.
   Cost: Inquire with Ese Eja community tours.
   Getting there: 1 hour boat ride from the port.
   Tip: Ask about the 'shaman's garden' to see rare healing herbs.
7. Name: Palma Real Community
   Type: local experience
   Why go: Visit an Ese Eja indigenous village to learn about traditional jungle life.
   Best for: Cultural immersion.
   Where: Along the river border of the reserve.
   Time: 4 hours.
   Cost: Local contribution or tour fee.
   Getting there: Private boat charter.
   Tip: Respect local privacy and always ask before taking photos of residents.
8. Name: El Gato Waterfall
   Type: nature
   Why go: A refreshing hidden cascade perfect for cooling off after a long trek.
   Best for: Relaxation.
   Where: Near the El Gato creek area.
   Time: 2-3 hours.
   Cost: Free once inside the sector.
   Getting there: Jungle hiking trail from nearby lodges.
   Tip: Wear sturdy water shoes to navigate the slippery rocks.
9. Name: Tambopata National Reserve Interpretation Center
   Type: museum/indoor
   Why go: Great educational displays on the diverse ecosystem and conservation efforts.
   Best for: Students.
   Where: Near the main entry checkpoint.
   Time: 45 minutes.
   Cost: Small nominal fee or included.
   Getting there: Boat landing at the park station.
   Tip: Great first stop to understand what wildlife to look for.
10. Name: Garcilaso de la Vega Street Market
    Type: market
    Why go: Sample exotic fruits like aguaje and cocona before your jungle trip.
    Best for: Foodies.
    Where: Central Puerto Maldonado.
    Time: 1 hour.
    Cost: Free entry; pay for food.
    Getting there: Short taxi or walking distance from the plaza.
    Tip: Try the "Juane" for an authentic Amazonian lunch experience.