Libertador Tambopata Lodge

Founded back in 1991, the Libertador Tambopata Lodge is one of the most established eco-tourism lodges on the banks of the Tambopata River. There are now a total of nine rainforest lodges in the Puerto Maldonado area, reinforcing the status of the region as one of the major rainforest eco-tourism destinations in South America.

With a capacity of 59 it is also one of the smallest lodges, which is how we intend to keep it. Smaller groups, we believe, contribute to a more fulfilling visit and reduce the impact on the many species of fauna that abound in the surrounding forest.

The lodge employs around twenty Peruvian staff, the majority of whom are resident in Puerto Maldonado. In addition, there are a number of naturalist guides, both from Peru and abroad, who are at your service throughout your stay. As well as guiding and introducing visitors to the many marvels of the forest, a number are undertaking research projects, thereby contributing to a greater ecological understanding of the area.

Situated on the banks of the Tambopata River in the heart of the Tambopata National Reserve (TNR), the remoteness and tranquility of our lodge will make your stay an agreeable one.

The TNR is an immense area (680,000 acres) protected by the Peruvian government and located in the southeastern region of Madre de Dios. Many studies have been made of the fauna and flora along the Tambopata River, revealing an incredible abundance of life forms. It is believed that the ecosystems in this part of southeastern Peru are the most diverse on the planet. Here it is possible to observe rare species such as the giant otter, anacondas, jaguars and ocelots.

Within the entire territory of the Libertador Tambopata Lodge, and the rest of the TNR, there are limitless opportunities to observe the tropical rainforest and its wildlife. Our lodge has something to offer everybody, from those who just want to escape from the noise of the city, to naturalists and professional photographers. Our experienced nature guides are always willing to help our guests understand and better appreciate this unique area.

The buildings or cabins have been designed to exist in complete harmony with this exotic environment. They are made from wood and thatched with woven leaves and screened to protect their occupants from insects.

There is no electricity at present, and we use lamps and candles at night which create a pleasant atmosphere at the lodge. We have, however, some buildings with solar energy to provide lighting and we are in the process of introducing solar energy to all rooms.

Each bed is protected by mosquito nets
Each bed is protected by a mosquito net and the cabins all have a private bathroom with running water.

The dining room serves food, as well as drinks and snacks 24 hours
The dining room is where meals are served. Beverages and snacks are available 24 hours a day. Next door to the dining room is the bar and a small supplies shop. We also have a library, a conference centre, a small museum and a map library. All food is prepared by our own specialized professional staff, which uses a blend of forest products and more traditional recipes. Some of the dishes are typically Peruvian and international food is also served.

PACKAGE PROGRAM CAPIBARA (3 DAYS 2 NIGHT)

Day l: Flight to Puerto Maldonado, and journey to the lodge. Following your early morning flight to Puerto Maldonado from Lima or Cusco, you will be met at the airport by your naturalist guide and transferred to a dugout canoe for the trip up the Tambopata River to the lodge. On the journey the vegetation changes from colonized deforested areas to virgin rainforest. A box-lunch is provided on board. On arrival you'll have a welcome drink and meet the rest of the staff. In the late afternoon you set off for an introductory walk into the "terra firma" forest behind the lodge (Trail 2), dominated by giant Brazil-nut and Dipteryx trees. Frequently seen mammals on this trail are Saddle-back Tamarinds, Brown Capuchins, Agoutis, Pacas, Blue-Morpho butterflies, Trogons, Toucans and many other species of birds. After dinner a night walk to find nocturnal animals or insects by their eye-shine, a specialization for increasing light and seeing better. About 50% of the animals are nocturnal in the rainforest. (L,D)

Day 2: Hike to Lake Condenado. After an early breakfast you and your nature guide will board the motorized canoe once again for the short journey to the trail head to begin a morning's exploration by foot and paddle canoe of the lake system of Condenado, rich in bird and aquatic life. A family of giant otters lives in the vicinity of the lake and are often observed. Birds abound especially Rufescent Tiger-herons, Great Egrets, Wattled Jacanas, Hoatzin, the noisy Donacobius and many others. Remember to bring your hat and sun cream for there is no shade out on the water. You will return to the lodge in time for lunch. The afternoon is for exploring the forest close to the lodge (with or without your guide), relaxing and bathing in the Gallucunca, a cool clear stream beside the lodge, or visiting our tree platforms, going up with ropes and harnesses for a bird's eye view of the forest and for close-ups of arboreal orchids and the many other species of plants and animals that are never seen near the ground (extra cost). After dark you will go searching for caiman (alligators) and other nocturnal animals by motorized canoe along the Tambopata River. (B,L,D)

Day 3: Departure. A dawn start is required for the canoe trip back to Puerto Maldonado, giving memorable views of the sunrise over the river. Look out for the early morning wildlife, which is particularly active at this time. Howler monkeys are frequently heard, as they stakeout their territories. Your guide will take care of you on arrival in Puerto Maldonado and will deal with all the necessities at the airport prior to your departure. (B)

Additional days at Libertador Tambopata Lodge
Any number of extra days at the lodge, in addition to the above mentioned program, are possible. These can be guided or unguided according to your preference and interests. During these days you can either explore the trail system in more depth, going further afield along trails not visited before; repeat the lake visits accompanying other groups, giving you more time to wander/paddle in your favorite areas; visit our tree platforms, going up with ropes and harnesses for a bird's eye view of the forest and for close-ups of arboreal orchids and the many other species of plants and animals that are never seen near the ground or at dawn when the main activity of the forest begins with the rising sun.

Services included in your trip: All meals and accommodation from lunch on Day 1 to breakfast on your final day. All transport from your arrival at Puerto Maldonado to your return to the airport. All guided excursions described in the itinerary (including on additional days, if you wish), and a one-night excursion on the river looking for caiman.