Best Canopy Walkways and Towers to Explore

The Madre de Dios region is famous for its lush landscapes. Many of these sites are located within protected reserves. You can learn more about the area on the official Peru tourism site before you go. Most walkways are managed by specific jungle lodges.

• Best overall: Inkaterra Canopy Walkway
• Best for families: Hacienda Concepcion
• Best birdwatching: Posada Amazonas Tower
• Best free view: Obelisco de Puerto Maldonado

1. Name: Inkaterra Canopy Walkway
   Type: sight
   Why go: This is the most famous suspension bridge system in the region. It features seven hanging bridges and two tall towers.
   Best for: Photographers and thrill-seekers.
   Where: Inkaterra Reserva Amazonica.
   Time: 2 hours.
   Cost: Included for lodge guests.
   Getting there: 45-minute boat ride from the city.
   Tip: Go at twilight to see nocturnal animals emerging.
2. Name: Posada Amazonas Canopy Tower
   Type: experience
   Why go: A 30-meter scaffolding tower offering a 360-degree view of the Tambopata Reserve. It is excellent for spotting mixed-species bird flocks.
   Best for: Serious birdwatchers.
   Where: Infierno Community Reserve.
   Time: 1.5 hours.
   Cost: Part of lodge packages.
   Getting there: Boat and short jungle hike.
   Tip: Bring high-quality binoculars for the best experience.
3. Name: Refugio Amazonas Canopy Tower
   Type: experience
   Why go: This tower stands high above the forest floor near a known harpy eagle nesting site. It provides a stable platform for long-range viewing.
   Best for: Wildlife enthusiasts.
   Where: Tambopata National Reserve.
   Time: 1 hour.
   Cost: Mid-range tour pricing.
   Getting there: 3-hour boat trip from Puerto Maldonado.
   Tip: Many Tambopata National Reserve tours include this stop.
4. Name: Hacienda Concepcion Walkway
   Type: activity
   Why go: A series of bridges built into the trees at a lower height than Inkaterra. It is very accessible and less intimidating for those afraid of heights.
   Best for: Families with younger children.
   Where: Near the Madre de Dios River.
   Time: 1 hour.
   Cost: Stay-based or day pass.
   Getting there: 25 minutes by boat from city.
   Tip: Check if Amazon canopy walks are safe for kids at your specific lodge.
5. Name: Sandoval Lake Observation Tower
   Type: sight
   Why go: A wooden tower overlooking the famous Lake Sandoval. It offers views of giant otters and black caimans from above.
   Best for: Overlooking water ecosystems.
   Where: Sandoval Lake.
   Time: 45 minutes.
   Cost: Included in lake tours.
   Getting there: Hike through the reserve after a boat ride.
   Tip: Use a Lake Sandoval tour guide to find the tower easily.
6. Name: Eco Amazonia Lodge Platforms
   Type: sight
   Why go: These platforms are situated in a unique aguajales (palm swamp) ecosystem. You can see different bird species here than in the high forest.
   Best for: Seeing macaws and parrots.
   Where: Eco Amazonia Reserve.
   Time: 1 hour.
   Cost: Lodge activity.
   Getting there: 2 hours by boat.
   Tip: Visit during the dry season for easier hiking access.
7. Name: Tambopata Research Center Tower
   Type: experience
   Why go: Located deep in the jungle, this tower is near the world's largest macaw clay lick. The proximity to untouched forest is unmatched.
   Best for: Remote adventurers.
   Where: Deep Tambopata Reserve.
   Time: 2 hours.
   Cost: High-end.
   Getting there: Full-day boat journey.
   Tip: Book well in advance as space is limited.
8. Name: Corto Maltes Amazonia Tower
   Type: sight
   Why go: A sturdy wooden tower that provides a great view of the river and forest. It is one of the closest high-view spots to the city.
   Best for: Short-term travelers.
   Where: Near the city limits.
   Time: 45 minutes.
   Cost: Affordable day trips.
   Getting there: Short boat ride.
   Tip: Perfect for a quick sunset view.
9. Name: Amazon Shelter Tower
   Type: experience
   Why go: This center rehabilitates injured wildlife. Their observation area allows you to see the release process and the local forest.
   Best for: Supporting conservation.
   Where: Outside the city on the Corridor Turistico.
   Time: 2 hours.
   Cost: Small donation fee.
   Getting there: Taxi or mototaxi from the city.
   Tip: Great for those not staying in remote lodges.