Solo Exploration of Tambopata: A Journey into the Heart of the Amazon

Lago Condenado and Jungle Rhythms

Today was a symphony of sights, sounds, and flavors, a deep dive into the heart of the Tambopata National Reserve. It’s days like these that remind me why I traded the predictable comfort of my Kelowna orchard for the unpredictable embrace of the Amazon.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at Restaurant Purita Selva. The flavors were a delightful introduction to the day, setting the stage for the adventures that awaited. Fuelled up, I set off to explore Lago Condenado.


Explore the serene beauty of Lago Condenado, a tranquil lake in Inca, Peru, perfect for relaxation, photography, and nature exploration.

The boat ride across the lake was mesmerizing. The still waters mirrored the sky, creating an illusion of endless space. As we glided along, the sounds of the jungle enveloped me – the calls of exotic birds, the rustling of leaves, and the gentle lapping of water against the boat. I tried to capture it all with my camera, but some moments are just too grand for a lens. I was hoping to spot some river wolves, but I wasn’t so lucky this time.

Lago Condenado, or Cursed Lake, certainly didn't live up to its name. Instead, it was a vibrant display of life. The lake is known for its scenic beauty and diverse habitat. The waters were a mix of light and dark green, reflecting the sky and the dense vegetation at the bottom. The approximate depth of the lake is about 5 meters. I learned that in the rainy season, the water becomes turbid. The lake is home to diverse wildlife, including añuje squirrels, pichico monkeys and, though rarely seen, river wolves. The flora included the mata palos, palm trees, and lupuna.

After the tranquility of Lago Condenado, I ventured to the Ecoturistico Tambopata Corridor Kiajabake Bame.


Explore the breathtaking biodiversity of Ecoturistico Tambopata Corridor Kiajabake Bame, a stunning nature preserve in the heart of the Amazon.

This nature preserve is a true gem of the Amazon rainforest, offering visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the vibrant ecosystems. The preserve is known for its rich biodiversity, housing an impressive array of wildlife, including exotic birds, playful monkeys, and elusive jaguars. I spent hours wandering through the well-maintained trails, marveling at the towering trees and vibrant orchids. The air was thick with humidity, and the symphony of the jungle played on.

The jungle is a world of its own, a place where the ordinary fades away and the extraordinary takes center stage.

Lunch at Restaurante MOSHE was a welcome break.


Experience authentic Peruvian flavors at Restaurante MOSHE in Puerto Maldonado - a must-visit culinary destination for travelers.

The restaurant is nestled alongside the Tambopata River, offering not only delicious homemade dishes but also an inviting atmosphere perfect for family gatherings. It was a delightful experience, enhanced by the sounds of live music from the Moshe Band. The regional cuisine was a treat, and the chance to relax by the pool while waiting for my meal was an added bonus.

As the day drew to a close, dinner at El Tambo provided a perfect culinary conclusion.


Discover authentic Peruvian flavors at El Tambo - a must-visit restaurant offering traditional dishes in a warm atmosphere.

I savored the local flavors, reflecting on the day’s adventures and the incredible biodiversity of the Tambopata.

But the day wasn't over yet. As night fell, I found myself drawn to Jungla's Tambopata, a local bar known for its creative drinks and lively ambiance.


Experience the vibrant cocktail scene at Jungla's Tambopata, a tropical oasis in El Triunfo, Peru, renowned for its creative drinks and lively ambiance.

The atmosphere was electric, a mix of locals and travelers sharing stories and laughter. I sipped on a cocktail made with exotic fruits, letting the rhythm of the jungle seep into my soul.

The weather today was typical for December in Tambopata. High temperatures reached around 31°C during the day, dropping to about 23°C at night. There was a chance of rain, with humidity around 78%. The wind was light, averaging around 2 m/s. It seems I packed appropriately, though I am missing a mosquito net.

Looking ahead to tomorrow, I’m excited to explore Quebrada Honda and the jungle trails at Tambopata Ecolodge. I’m also looking forward to trying the local cuisine at HUITOTO LAKE LODGE for breakfast, MARACUYEAH for lunch, and Restaurante LOS PAJARITOS for dinner. Maybe I'll even pick up a souvenir at Selvatica Perú.

As I write this, back in my lodge, I can’t help but feel grateful for this journey. It’s a far cry from managing my orchard in Kelowna, but it’s exactly what I needed. Aaliyah would have loved today, I'll have to bring her here someday.

The sounds of the jungle lull me into a peaceful sleep, dreaming of tomorrow’s adventures.