Sunset Tour & Capybara and Caiman Search

Detailed Itinerary for the Sunset and Capybara Tour in Tambopata

3:30 p.m. – Pickup from your accommodation (Puerto Maldonado)

Our tour begins with pickup from your hotel in Puerto Maldonado. A local guide will give you a brief introduction to the day’s activities and transfer you to the Tambopata River port.

4:00 p.m. – Boat Trip on the Tambopata River

Aboard a motorboat, we will begin a relaxing ride along the calm waters of the river. During the trip, you can enjoy the jungle scenery, listen to the sounds of nature, and observe birds such as herons, kingfishers, macaws, and cormorants.

4:45 p.m. – Wildlife Watching

One of the most anticipated moments of the tour is the capybara sighting. These animals often gather together as families near the riverbank during the last hours of daylight. Your guide will teach you how to identify them and tell you about their behavior, feeding habits, and their importance within the Amazonian ecosystem.

5:30 p.m. – Amazon Sunset

Enjoy one of the best sunsets in Tambopata, when the sky is painted in shades of red, orange, and violet reflected in the river. This is an ideal time to take photographs and connect with the peaceful energy of the natural environment.

6:15 p.m. – Return to Puerto Maldonado

After an unforgettable experience, we will return by boat to the port, from where we will transfer you to your accommodation.

What’s included in the Sunset and Alligator Watching Tour in Tambopata?

• Pickup and drop-off from hotels in Puerto Maldonado.
• River transportation by motorboat with life jackets.
• Professional bilingual guide specializing in Amazonian wildlife.
• Capybara and wild bird watching.
• Stop to watch the Amazonian sunset.
• Interpretive talk on flora, fauna, and conservation.

What is not included in the Sunset and Caiman Watching Tour in Tambopata?

• Food and drinks.
• Tips for the guide or staff (optional).
• Binoculars or a camera (passenger must bring).
• Entrance to protected areas (not required for this tour).
• Personal travel insurance.

Sunset & Capybara and Caiman Search Tour

• Wear light, long-sleeved clothing (for insect and sun protection).
• Use strong insect repellent and biodegradable sunscreen.
• Bring a reusable water bottle and light snacks.
• Don’t forget binoculars and a camera with optical zoom for wildlife photography.
• Closed shoes or sandals with non-slip soles.
• Follow the guide’s instructions to avoid disturbing the animal’s behavior.
• This activity is suitable for all ages (children 5 and older under adult supervision).

Tambopata Sunset and Capybara Watching Tour Frequently Asked Questions

How easy is it to see capybaras during the tour?

The probability of seeing capybaras in Tambopata is very high. These animals, known as the largest rodents in the world, live in family groups and are especially active during the last hours of the day, when they descend to the riverbanks to feed, rest, or cool off.
The Tambopata River offers ideal habitat conditions: dense vegetation, muddy banks, and abundant food. On most evening outings, the guides are able to locate them without difficulty. Furthermore, capybaras are neither aggressive nor shy, allowing you to observe them calmly and even photograph them at close range without disturbing them.

Are mosquitoes common during the tour?

Yes, mosquitoes are present in Tambopata, especially at dusk, when the humidity and temperature create an environment conducive to their activity. This is typical in Amazonian ecosystems, so it is highly recommended:

• Apply eco-friendly insect repellent or DEET before boarding the boat.
• Wear a long-sleeved shirt, long pants, and a hat for additional protection.
• Avoid using perfumes or aromatic lotions, as they can attract insects.

The guides are trained to help you reduce risks and ensure a comfortable experience. Additionally, the boats are equipped with awnings or plastic covers if necessary.

Is the tour available year-round?

Yes, this Tambopata River tour is available year-round, as it is located outside of restricted areas of the National Park and does not depend on access to flood-prone lakes or trails. However, it is important to keep in mind the following seasonal variations:

• Dry season (May to October): Clear skies, spectacular sunsets, and greater visibility of animals on the riverbanks. This is the most recommended time for this tour.
• Rainy season (November to April): Although the tour continues to operate, river levels may rise and modify routes. Rainfall is often intermittent, and guides are trained to adapt the itinerary without compromising safety or the experience.

Therefore, it is important to book in advance and check the weather forecast when planning your trip.

Do I need previous experience to participate in this tour?

No previous wildlife watching experience is necessary to fully enjoy this activity. The tour is designed for travelers of all levels, including:

• Families with children.
• Couples looking for a romantic sunset outing.
• Amateur or professional photographers.
• Solo travelers interested in ecotourism in Tambopata.

The local guide takes care of everything: they’ll teach you how to identify animals, explain their natural behaviors, and show you the proper techniques for observing them without disturbing the ecosystem. Even if this is your first trip to the Amazon rainforest, you’ll feel completely accompanied and safe throughout the tour.