Tambopata National Reserve Guide: History, Tours, Maps, and Facts

Tambopata National Reserve is a 274,690 hectares area of land in Peru that is protected and preserved. Tambopata National Reserve means a high structure or building. The word “Tambo” means structure or building, and “pata” means high place. Inside the national reserve, stands the 50-meter tall Ceiba tree, 40-meter Brazil Nut tree, and 500-year-old ironwood trees.

Tambopata National Reserve houses many wildlife species, including rare and endangered ones. Additionally, there are a lot of plant species that are found in the area that were and still are being used for medicinal purposes. The government prohibited the people that wanted to lodge and hunt in 1977.

Two years later, Tambopata-Candamo Reserved Zone (TCRZ) was formed. In the same year, 1990, various biologists and conservationists encouraged the people to protect the area against development. Eventually, a decree made by President Alberto Fujimori in 2000 aims to secure various ecosystems of the tropical jungle for its preservation.  

In the past, the Inca Empire lived in the area and used the resources to produce their own medicines. The Inca Empire, known as the South American Indians, was prominent in Peru between c. 1400 and 1533 CE. Their population reached up to the west of South America.

The Empire was considered the largest in America and the world. It has flourished mainly because of its arts and architecture which are still valued up until now. Their civilization extended to western South America, from Quito in the north up to Santiago in the south.

Now, there is a native tribe that is still living in the area. The native tribe is called Esa Eja People that are known to be hunters, fishermen, and farmers. Their tribe has three native communities called Infierno, Palma Real, and Sonene. Up until now, tourists are going to get a glimpse of the tribe along with other attractions and activities. 

What is the Tambopata National Reserve History?

Back in 1990, various biologists and conservationists tried to persuade people to preserve the Tambopata area from being developed. They wanted to protect the area mainly because of Tambopata it and still was one of the last remaining and largest regions of immaculate jungle. There are some people that are staying and living in Tambopata’s remote areas.

These people are called “Esa Eja People”, loosely translated as people. There are known three native communities of the people namely Infierno, Palma Real, and Sonene. The native people work as hunters, fishermen, and farmers. Tambopata was officially established on September 4, 2000, as a government resolution to protect and preserve the ecosystems of the tropical jungle. Additionally, it is used to encourage the viable use of its resources by the native people who have inhabited the buffer zone nearby the area. 

Is Tambopata National Reserve Important for Peru History?

Yes, Tambopata National Reserve is Important for Peru’s History mainly because it was used by the Inca Empire, or South American Indians, to make their own medicines. Additionally, civilization was discovered. It was prominent in Peru between c. 1400 and 1533 CE. Their population reached up to the west of South America. Throughout the years of civilization, their empire was considered the largest in America and the world. They took over communities and land of various forms.

Furthermore, they were able to discover various settings, along with plains, mountains, jungles, and deserts. The civilization thrived with its unique art and architecture. The people of the Inca created pristine architectural sites and buildings that have been valued up until now. Their civilization ended due to the Spanish colonization in 1572. And One of the most biodiverse places on the planet and one of the well-preserved treasures of the peruvian jungle it left was the Tambopata National Reserve. 

What does Tambopata National Reserve Mean?

In Quechua, the word “Tambo” is defined as structure or building, and “pata” means high place. The Quechua language, the official language in Peru and Bolivia, stands oral since the indigenous speakers cannot read and write their mother tongue. The name of the area came from the Tambopata River, which features a magnificent river and a view of the jungle. The river starts in the highland Puno, and ends towards the part of Peru. 

What are the theories about the origin of the Tambopata National Reserve?

Listed below are the theories about the origin of the Tambopata National Reserve.

• Peruvian government prevented people from hunting and logging in 1977. The government prohibited the public that wanted to lodge and hunt in 1977. Thus, the Tambopata-Candamo Reserved Zone (TCRZ) was formed in January 1990. The reserved zone is a temporary-secured region that gives way for organizing to assess other permanent land use categories. That is why biologists and conservationists tried to persuade people to protect the area against further development. Then, on September 4, 2000, an order by President Alberto Fujimori was made to secure various ecosystems of the tropical jungle for its preservation.  

• Tambopata National Reserve was created to preserve all of its inhabitants. The reason the national reserve was established was to safeguard all its inhabitants, such as animal and plant species. Inside the rainforest, there are various rare and endangered species that are found and living. 

What are the myths about Tambopata National Reserve?

There is no data indicating any myths about Tambopata National Reserve. 

How is Tambopata National Reserve formed?

Tambopata National Reserve was established on September 4, 2000 as the solution of the government to secure and keep the area and all of its inhabitants, such as the native tribes, animal, and plant species. 

Is Tambopata National Reserve safe?

No, Tambopata National Reserve is not safe. Despite it being preserved and protected, tourists must be wary of the various species living in the national reserve. Anything can happen in a natural park with animals, thus one should be cautious and think about their safety. Exotic wildlife such as piranha, jaguar, spider monkeys, and tapir. It is best to explore the place with a tour guide that is aware of all the safety measures of the national reserve. 

Where is Tambopata National Reserve Located?

The national reserve is situated in the southeast part of Peru, in the inner part of the Madre de Dios Amazonian division. The official address of the jungle is 26 De Diciembre 270, Puerto Maldonado, Peru. Peru is a tropical country in western South America that is considered the third-largest town in South America. Its capital is called Lima. The Amazon, the world’s biggest jungle, is found in Peru and covers approximately half of it.

How is the climate of Tambopata National Reserve?

The climate of Tambopata National Reserve is known to be tropical, harsh, and murky. The heat in the area ranges from 64°F to 90°F. In some rare cases, it ranges from below 56°F or above 96°F. The recorded annual average temperature is generally 26 °C (79 °F), which extends from 10° (50 °F) and 38 °C (100 °F). 

What are the coordinates of Tambopata National Reserve?

The Tambopata National Reserve is situated at 12 degrees 52 minutes 30.9 seconds north; 69 degrees, 24 minutes 33.9 seconds West.  

Where to stay in Tambopata National Reserve?

There are three known best places to stay in Tambopata National Reserve – Tambopata Research Center, Amazon Villa, and Refugio Amazonas Lodge. Tambopata Research Center provides airport pick up and drop off, low quality Wi-Fi, massages, gift shop, and meals. There are four available room options – Deluxe, Suite, Comfort, and Superior. The Deluxe Suite costs around $758 USD to $1,139 USD, while the Suite ranges from $661 USD to $993 USD. The Comfort costs around $563 USD to $849 USD, while the Superior ranges from $476 USD to $733 USD. Another great place to stay is the Amazon Villa provides a private and deluxe Amazon jungle experience that is situated  two hours from Puerto Maldonado.

The place offers a 4-room bungalow with different price ranges depending on the length of the stay. The package includes a private tour guide, trip, meals, and transportation. For 3 days the tourists shall pay $2,419 USD, for 4 days $3,641 USD, and for 5 days $4,863 USD. The last best place near Tambopata National Reserve is Refugio Amazonas Lodge. The Refugio Amazonas Lodge offers three kinds of rooms – Suite, Comfort, and Superior. The Suite costs around $510 USD to $757 USD, while the Comfort ranges from $426 USD to $661 USD. The Superior costs around $406 USD to $621 USD. 

What are the Tours for Tambopata National Reserve?

Tourists have a wide variety of tour options to select from. When it comes to organizing a trip to Tambopata National Reserve, travelers are offered top-rated tours and day trips. Tambopata Tours with Family, Tambopata Tours With Tour Guide, and Tambopata Tours Without Tour Guide are the many types of tours offered at Tambopata National Reserve.

Nevertheless, the tour with a tour guide is the one that comes out on top among these options, mainly because they know all the safety measures in the area. These tours are better because tourists are given the opportunity to select what type of tour they would want to have for 4-day or 3-days. The 4-day tour is the most popular among tourists. The 3-day tour is recommended for those tourists who are physically fit with a moderate difficulty.

Additionally, if tourists get a 4-day tour of Tambopata, they are going to experience the full greatness of the rainforest and the other destinations nearby. Typically, the tours cost from $190 to $280 USD. However, the price of this excursion is highly dependent on the type of tour that the tourists choose to book. 

When is the best time to visit Tambopata National Reserve?

The best time to visit Tambopata National Reserve is solely based on the tourist’s perspective. The two known seasons in Peru are rainy and dry. The rainy period from November to April is the best season if the tourists want to watch caimans, giant otters, and pink dolphins.

The stale period, on the other hand, is the best season if the tourists want to get a glimpse of macaws and parrots. Generally, the period starts in May and ends in October. Additionally, during this time, the proceedings are less likely to be canceled because of the rain. 

How many miles is the Tambopata National Reserve to walk?

The Tambopata National Reserve is about 403 miles away from the Northeast of Cusco. However, if the traveler is coming from Puerto Maldonado, the walk is only about 23 miles. 

What are the Closest Destinations to Tambopata National Reserve?

Listed below are the closest destinations to Tambopata National Reserve.

• K’erenda Homet: It is situated 35 kilometers away from Tambopata National Reserve. K’erenda Homet is an accommodation where tourists are going to stay that offers daily American breakfast. 

• Manu National Park: It is 284 kilometers away from Tambopata National Reserve. Manu National Park is included in the UNESCO World Heritage sites. It is a huge park that contains vegetation that is 150 to 4,200 above sea level. 

• Lago Sandoval: It is located about 44 kilometers away from Tambopata National Reserve. Lago Sandoval is the lake where tourists are going to get a sight of the giant otter. 

How to Get from Cusco to Tambopata National Reserve?

Listed below is the guide on how to get from Cusco to Tambopata National Reserve. 

1. From Cusco, the tourists shall take the airplane for roughly 30 minutes. The airplane is going to transport the tourists to Puerto Maldonado.
2. From Puerto Maldonado, the tourist is going to ride the bus to transport them to the port. The transportation is going to take around 45 minutes.
3. Upon the arrival in the river, the tourists are going to board the boats that are going to take them to the area and their lodges. It takes around 15 minutes up to 3.5 hours, depending on where their accommodation is located.

What to know before going to Tambopata National Reserve?

Listed below are the things a tourist should know before going to Tambopata.

• Gears: Gears include binoculars, cameras, lenses, flashlights, and batteries. The gears are used when exploring the national reserve and other nearby places.

• Clothing: A tight-weave, light-colored, long cotton pants, ankle-high hiking boots, sneakers, sunglasses, rain suit, and broad-brimmed hat are the appropriate clothes the tourist shall wear or bring along with them. These clothes protect the tourist as well while they are exploring the area.

• Protection: Mosquitos during the rainy season are prominent in Tambopata, thus the tourists must bring their insect repellent during their visit. Additionally, the heat during summer is harsh. In order to protect the skin from the harsh effect of the sun, the tourist must use sun lotion for heat protection.

• Money: Pack up small-denomination sol bills to use for different activities, foods, and transportation in the area. 

• Bag: Bring a small backpack to put all the necessary and essential things protected. 

• Camera and Lenses: Animals such as birds cannot be approached up close. Thus, using a zoom lens makes it easier to capture their beauty. 

• Time: The tourists must know when is the best time they should visit the place. They should be aware of what weather they want to go to. The right weather corresponds to what activities and attractions they are going to see. 

• Accommodation: Before going to Tambopata, the tourists must know where they want to stay. They are different accommodations that the tourists choose from. Along with the transportation fee, the accommodation fee shall be taken into consideration as well. They must be able to afford their desired accommodation along with other activities they would want to do during the visit. 

• Activities: There are various activities that are experienced in Tambopata, like hiking, kayaking, and fishing. Know the desired activities, their fees, where they are done, gears to bring along, and how to get there. 

When is Tambopata National Reserve Open?

Tambopata National Reserve is open from Monday to Friday from 7:30 AM to 1:00 PM. On the same days, the site reopens from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM. On Saturdays, the site is open from 9:00 AM to 12:00 NN. 

How is the Tambopata National Reserve Itinerary?

The itinerary tour to Tambopata National Reserve Itinerary will take place over the course of approximately four days. The journey to Tambopata National Reserve which lasts for four days provides travelers with the opportunity to fully enjoy not only the scenic splendor of the location. Additionally, the other locations in the surrounding area are worthy of an adventure. Prior to arriving at Tambopata National Reserve, tourists are required to stay in a variety of available accommodations. Since travelers explore the surrounding area even while staying in neighboring locations, a vacation that lasts four days may be ideal for tourists interested in engaging in exploratory travel.

How much does it cost to visit Tambopata National Reserve?

The entrance fee to visit Tambopata National Reserve costs around $15 USD. Before that, there were transportation fees that the tourists needed to pay first to travel to the national reserve. The quickest way to travel to the site is by riding a plane that costs around $55 – $220 USD. The travel time shall take about 2 hours and 53 minutes. The cheapest option is taking the bus, costing around $8 – $18 USD. However, the travel time is longer. The bus shall take about 9 hours and 16 minutes for it to reach its destination. 

What is the best vehicle for visiting Tambopata National Reserve?

Traveling by boat is considered to be the best vehicle for visiting the national reserve. Once the bus takes the tourists to the port, they are required to ride a boat to go to various lodges and the destination itself. In fact, traveling by boat is deemed to be one of the preferred activities of tourists. However, before reaching the port, one should take the plane from Cusco to reach Puerto Maldonado.

How many hours should a person spend in Tambopata National Reserve?

The recommended hours a person should spend in Tambopata is at least 72 hours or 3 nights. The reason for it is that it gives the tourist an ample amount to travel to the area itself and enjoy the scenery. 

Which Civilization used Tambopata National Reserve for what?

The civilization that used Tambopata for medicinal purposes is the Inca Empire. They used the various species of plants that are found on the national reserve. The Inca Empire or civilization is considered to be the largest empire in the world that thrived in ancient Peru between 1400 between 1533 CE. The civilization extended its population to western South America, from Quito in the north up to Santiago in the south. 

How is the Geography of Tambopata National Reserve?

There are various floras, faunas, and streams that are found in the Tambopata National Reserve. There are three known lagoons namely Sandoval, Cocococha, and Sachavacayoc. There are amphibians, reptiles, and jungle carnivores that are present in the area. There are pink dolphins, a giant Otter, a yellow-headed turtle, and the South American turtle.

The tourist expects to see a glimpse of birds, mammals, insects, and other medicinal plants. Additionally, tourists view peculiar insects, ants, colored frogs, snakes, caimans, and monkeys. There are a total of 103 amphibians, 632 birds, 169 mammals, 103 reptiles, 112 butterflies, 151 insects, and 205 fishes. For floras, there is an extensive amount of 1,700 plants that are present in the area. The known floras in the site are the Virola surinamensis, Bertholletia excelsa, Epidendrum coronatum, Spondias mombin, and Cedrelinga cateniformis.

What is the Geological Profile of Tambopata National Reserve?

Besides the floras and faunas, there is no data indicating any other rock formation and types in the area. 

What are the findings in Tambopata National Reserve?

Other than the floras and faunas found in the area, there is no available data indicating relics and buildings that are present in Tambopata National Reserve. 

What is the nearest city to Tambopata National Reserve?

The nearest city to Tambopata National Reserve is Puerto Maldonado. Puerto Maldonado, sometimes referred to as Tambopata, is situated in the southeast of Peru. It lies at 840 feet (0.26 kilometers) above sea level. Named after a Spanish explorer, Dom Pedro Maldonado, Puerto Maldonado is the main town of the Office of Madre de Dios. At this moment, the site is considered the center of eco-tourism in Peru. It is where one of the World Natural Heritage, Manu National Park, is situated. 

What are the best attractions in Tambopata National Reserve?

Listed below are the best attractions in Tambopata National Reserve.

• Tres Chimbadas Lake: It is a small oxbow lake that is less than 12 feet (3.66 meters) deep. Tres Chimbadas Lake is situated 30 miles (48.28 km) from the border of Bolivia. 

• Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick: It is considered to be the most remarkable wildlife exhibition in the world. Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick is considered to be a must-see by those who are into nature. 

• Colorado Macaw Clay Lick: It is displaying dozens of brightly colored wild parrots, macaws, and parakeets. Colorado Macaw Clay Lick is seen soaring towards the trees.

• Lago Sandoval: It is considered one of the main attractions of the national reserve. Many tourists prefer to visit this site and choose it as their favorite tourist spot to go to. Lago Sandoval is the place where the endangered Giant River Otter lives. Other species that live in and near the lake are Black Caiman and Howler Monkey.

• Valencia Lake: It is an essential lake of Puerto Maldonado that represents the border with Bolivia. Valencia Lake is a great place to go fishing. 

• Native Tribes: Native Tribes such as Machiguenga and Mascho Piro are living on the site. 

• Piranha: It is a sharp-tooth fish that is considered to be an attraction and activity in Tambopata National Reserve. Tourists fish piranhas and enjoy them by cooking it. 

• Hiking Spots: In Tambopata National Reserve, the best time to hike is at night. Creatures such as kinkajou, and night monkeys appear during the night. However, be very careful as there are other species like frogs and snakes that are present as well. 

• Sachavacayoc Lake: It is a lake in Tambopata National Reserve that lies near the Tambopata River. Sachavacayoc Lake is situated at the Madre de Dio. 

• Exotic Wildlife: A total of 600 birds, 200 mammals, 100 reptiles and amphibians are found in the national reserve. Some of those exotic wildlife species are the endangered rare giant otter and monkeys. 

What are the books about Tambopata National Reserve?

Tambopata – a rainforest experience is written by Gerhard Hüdepohl, the book features a journey to the national jungles of Peru, Tambopata National Reserve. It showcases the flora and fauna in the jungle through photos.  

Who are the scientists who worked on Tambopata National Reserve?

It was mentioned that biologists and conservationists have worked hard to persuade the people to preserve the national reserve. However, there is no data indicating their names. 

Which district is Tambopata National Reserve in?

The district where Tambopata National Reserve is situated is in Madre de Dios. Madre de Dios, loosely translated as Mother of God, is situated in the southeast part of Peru. The name Mother of God came from the Madre de Dios River. Madre de Dios is the capital of Puerto Maldonado that surrounds Bolivia, Brazil, Puno, Cusco, and Ucayali. 

How did Tambopata National Reserve Lived in the Past?

It is known that the Inca Empire are the ones who lived in the area. They are known to be farmers that have their own tools they use to plant and harvest their crops. The Inca Empire used the plant species found in the area to create their own medicines. 

How was the economy of Tambopata National Reserve?

According to a study by the Conservation Strategy Fund, ecotourism in Tambopata National Reserve produced a total amount of $720 million USD in 2017. In addition to that, the area has given jobs to the local community, thus providing a total of $165 million USD income to the workers. 

How was Daily Life in Tambopata National Reserve?

The native tribe that is currently living in Tambopata National Reserve is the Esa Eja People. Esa Eja People are known to be fishers, and hunters, and they have extensive knowledge about medicines. The tribe depends on their skills in hunting and fishing to survive. They use tools such as arrows and bows that they handcrafted.

Excess goods and products they have gathered are going to be sold to the city markets. Additionally, they used Brazil nuts for trading.  Back then, shamans heal people using plants and contact with the spirits of the jungle. However, their knowledge about the medicines began to deteriorate in 1986 after the death of the last shaman. 

What were the Religious Beliefs in Tambopata National Reserve?

The Inca Empire believes in various gods such as Inti, Viracocha, and Apu Illapu. Inti, Apu-punchau, is known to be the sun god in Inca religion. Viracocha, creator god, is considered to be the supreme god of the Inca Empire. Apu Illapu, rain god, is the agricultural god that the empire prays to for when they want and need rain. The Inca Empire is known to be farmers, and they have main tools that they use to farm – chakitaqlla, raucana, and waqtana.

Chakitaqlla is a foot plow made of a wooden pole that has a sharp curve. Raucana is a hoe used for harvesting, removing weeds, and sowing. Waqtana is a club-like tool that is used to smash up clods of soil. Their foods are stored in qollqa, a storehouse that was built across their empire. The native tribe, Esa Eja People, currently living in the area believe in the spirits of the forest called edósikiana. 

How is the Past of Tambopata National Reserve presented to the visitors?

Tambopata National Reserve houses various attractions and living species that are seen in the area. Lakes such as the Lago Sandoval, Cocococha, and Sachavacayoc, are the three lagoons that tourists explore. Furthermore, there are various exotic faunas that stay in the jungle. The rare giant otter and spider monkey lives in the national reserve. Additionally, jungle predators like jaguars are living inside the Tambopata National Reserve. Besides the faunas, various faunas such as orchids are present in the area that are used for medicinal purposes. 

How is the Preservation of Tambopata National Reserve?

Conservación Amazónica-ACCA along with the local governments and officials in Peru has developed a plan to preserve the site, enhance the land management, and enlarge the institutional coordination in the Peruvian Government. Additionally, it seeks to provide benefits to the local communities in Peru. 

Is there a modern town of Tambopata National Reserve?

Yes, there is a modern town of Tambopata National Reserve called Puerto Maldonado. 

How was Transportation to the Tambopata National Reserve?

There are three known modes of transportation to the Tambopata National Reserve, namely plane, bus, and boat. The plane is used to reach Puerto Maldonado, while the bus is used to journey to the river port. The boat is the most famous and preferred activity and transit among tourists. It is used to reach the area itself and other lodges near the area. 

Does Tambopata National Reserve have a No-fly Zone?

No, Tambopata National Reserve does not have a No-fly Zone. In fact, tourists fly on their way to the area. Tourists travel by plane to Puerto Maldonado wherein they access the site. 

Is Tambopata National Reserve in UNESCO World Heritage Sites?

No, Tambopata National Reserve is not included in UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Nonetheless, the area is believed to be one of the potential World Heritage Forests. 

What is the contribution of Tambopata National Reserve to the Tourism in Peru?

Tambopata National Reserve has contributed a tremendous amount of tourists to Peru. Based on the statistics, the number of visitors doubled between 2005 and 2013. From a total of 15,000 tourists, the total number of tourists amount to 39,400. The tourists must exchange their money for the currency of Peru, Sol/Sole. 

Is Tambopata National Reserve under danger?

Yes, the Tambopata National Reserve is in danger mainly because of Gold mining, dredging, and panning. It is considered to be the only biggest threat to the jungle of the Tambopata region. Gold mining destroys its vegetation and some elements contaminate marine life such as the fishes.

Dredging is the process of removing sediments and debris from the bottom of the lakes that cause disruption in the riverbeds, thus demolishing the riverine ecosystem. Panning is the procedure of separating the particles of greater gravity from soil or gravel by washing them in a pan of water. The process creates discoloration and turbidity in the water. 

Is Tambopata National Reserve floated in the past?

No, there is no data if the Tambopata National Reserve floated in the past. 

How many Artifacts do exist in Tambopata National Reserve?

There is no data that shows how many artifacts exist in Tambopata National Reserve.