logo
tambopata national jungle reserve

Tambopata Monkey Island

Tambopata Monkey Island

Near Puerto-Maldonado is located this small island in the middle of the Madre de Dios River has been for some years the refuge of monkeys that have been recovered by the police services for the protection of wildlife in order to save them from animal trafficking and reintegrate them into the natural environment. This island can be a visiting point to easily appreciate the monkeys in a natural environment.

Monkey Island is home to a large number of monkeys, which is where the island gets its name.

The medium-sized monkey island is located on the banks of the Madre de Dios River. Also during the trip we will begin to immerse ourselves in a natural environment, where we will observe the ronsoco, black caimans, turtles, herons, cormorants and other species of animals, leaving us with the best impressions of the natural habitat of the southern Peruvian Amazon.

Monkey Species in Tambopata

The project currently focuses on four species of monkeys: the Hard-headed Capuchin, White-fronted Capuchin, Bolivian Squirrel Monkey and Brown Tamarin Monkey, as well as other animals such as sloths and reptiles.

Location of Monkey Island in Tambopata

It is located approximately 15 kilometers from the city of Puerto Maldonado, following the Madre de Dios River to the east.

In the heart of the Peruvian rainforest lies a unique sanctuary. Tambopata Monkey Island is not just a tourist attraction. It is an important center for primate research.

Researchers from all over the world converge here. They study the diverse populations of monkeys on the island. Their findings have reshaped our understanding of these primates.

For conservationists and biologists, it is a gold mine. The island offers unparalleled natural habitats. Dive in to explore the wonders and revelations of this epicenter of primate research.

Monkey Island in Tambopata: An oasis for primate research

Tambopata Monkey Island stands out in the vast expanse of the Amazon rainforest. Located in Peru, this island is not simply a geographic feature. It serves as a crucial focal point for researchers.

Amazon rainforest monkeys exhibit unique behaviors and traits. These monkeys often remain elusive in their natural habitats. However, on Tambopata Monkey Island, they are more accessible for observation.

Researchers come from all corners of the world. They flock to this island with a common goal: to study these fascinating creatures. Their research has led to breakthroughs in the understanding of primate behavior.

One might wonder why this place is so special. The answer lies in the island’s unique ecosystem. The isolation provides a controlled environment for in-depth study.

It’s not just about the primates either. The island serves as a microcosm of Peru’s wildlife. Birds, insects and other fauna thrive here, providing a complete ecological picture.

Tambopata Monkey Island shows the delicate balance of nature. Each species, from the smallest insect to the largest monkey, plays a role. This harmony is essential for the sustenance of the ecosystem.

If you want to understand primates, especially those of the Amazon, this is the place. The island embodies the heart and soul of primate research. It guarantees the conservation and understanding of these amazing animals.

The types of monkeys in Tambopata National Reserve include many different species, such as capuchins, marmosets, howler monkeys, squirrel monkeys, tamarins and others. Here we will review some of the different types of monkeys in Tambopata and provide links to our recommended Tambopata lodges to see these fantastic primates in their natural habitat.

squirrel monkeys

Squirrel monkeys are often one of the first monkeys that visitors to the Amazon see on their tour. These curious primates can move among the trees in large groups and are often curious enough to throw small twigs at people walking below, showing their inquisitive nature. Squirrel monkeys, which range from Central America to the lower reaches of the Amazon, are rather small monkeys, measuring about 35 cm long and feeding mainly on fruits and insects.

Titi Monkeys

Titi monkeys often have brick red fur, which makes them look like a smaller version of a howler monkey. They can often be seen feeding on fruits, flowers and leaves early in the morning and have a preference for forests near water, making them frequent visitors to Amazon lakes, such as those at Sandoval Lake Lodge or the lakes near Refugio Amazonas and Posada Amazonas. . Marmosets have furry, non-prehensile tails and jump between branches. Marmosets usually live in family groups of two parents and monogamous offspring.

Capuchin Monkeys

From Central America to Argentina, capuchins are highly adaptable and are considered the most intelligent primate in the New World.

They are omnivorous monkeys and feed on a wide variety of foods, including small mammals, sometimes including other monkeys, a variety of plant material and insects.

There are many records of capuchins using tools to crack nuts or for other purposes. One of the first encounters with Brazil nuts by European explorers was that of Alexander von Humboldt, who saw capuchin monkeys cracking nuts with stones.

Howler monkeys

From Central America to the lower Amazon, howler monkeys are one of the largest monkeys in the New World and one of the most famous. They are also one of the favorite monkey sights and sounds in the Amazon, as their calls can reach 3 miles into the air. Listening to these monkeys is a fantastic experience in itself. Howler monkeys, a large monkey around 90 cm in length, are folivores that feed on leaves, flowers and buds.

Tamarin Monkeys

Tamarins are another beloved monkey to see in Tambopata. Tamarins, which again range from Central America to South America, are about 30 cm long and feed on fruits and various insects. Marmosets vary greatly in appearance and have some fascinating facial ornaments, such as the mustache of the moustached and emperor marmosets.

Spider Monkeys

One of the largest monkeys in the New World, the spider monkey has very long arms and legs and a very useful long prehensile tail. From Central America to the Amazon, spider monkeys live in groups of about 20 individuals moving with incredible agility through the forest. They feed mainly on fruits and nuts, although they occasionally feed on insects, honey and other foods.

Monkey Viewing Lodges in Tambopata

There are some fantastic lodges in the Tambopata Amazon rainforest for guided lake expeditions, rainforest hikes and boat trips to encounter Tambopata’s many monkeys and a variety of other species.

Lodges can be divided into lodges closer to Puerto Maldonado, which are often a bit cheaper, where you can still see fantastic wildlife and lodges deep in the Amazon, where some of the rarest and largest animals are found.

Wildlife Center

Heath River Wildlife Center is another lodge deep in the Amazon and the only lodge on the Heath River, which runs between Peru’s Tambopata National Reserve and Bolivia’s Madidi National Park.

Enjoy exploring the rainforest and savanna ecosystem to see many different animals, such as macaws at the large macaw clay lick and other parrots, toucans, have the opportunity to see tapirs at the tapir clay lick and a variety of different monkeys. The monkeys at Heath River Wildlife Center include marmosets, howler monkeys, night monkeys, spider monkeys and tufted capuchins.

Frequently asked questions and answers about Monkey Island

How can I get to the starting point of the adventure in the Amazon lowland jungle from Puerto Maldonado?

Pick up from the lodge in Puerto Maldonado and then head to the port of Capitanía. From there, the trip continues by boat for an hour to reach the lodge.

What kind of adventure activities are offered during the visit to the jungle lodge?

The adventure includes the experience of ascending a tower and ladder that reaches the treetops, walking on hanging bridges, zip line 190 meters long, and kayaking in the waters of Madre de Dios. The monkey island is also visited.

Is it safe to participate in the zip line and suspension bridges activity?

Yes, the zip line and suspension bridge activity is done with the supervision of an assistant. Necessary equipment is provided, and a safety protocol is followed to ensure an exciting but safe experience.

Is it possible to observe animals during the visit to the treetops and monkey island?

Yes, from the treetops you can observe colorful species of animals that normally cannot be seen from the ground. In addition, on the monkey island, capuchin monkeys, black monkey and white monkey are found, allowing a close experience with these animals.

What is the approximate duration of the activity and what is included in the package?

The duration of the activity may vary, but generally includes the boat ride, canopy experience, zip line, kayaking activity, visit to the monkey island, and return to the lodge for lunch. All equipment necessary for the activities is provided.

 

 

Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn

Inquire Now

Contact Form Demo

BOOK NOW

formulario de reserva