Herping in the Madre de Dios Region

Puerto Maldonado, Peru

TE
34 reviews
Mar 1 - 8, 2026
Group size: 5 - 10
Herping in the Madre de Dios Region
Puerto Maldonado, Peru

34 reviews

$2,850
Deposit: $900
Mar 1 - 8, 2026
Group size: 5 - 10

About this trip

On this first-of-its-kind expedition, we'll not only learn about the impending threat of illegal resource extraction in the amazon, but the trip will be extremely focused on tracking down some of the Amazon's most cryptic and elusive lifeforms- Reptiles & Amphibians (Herps). We call searching for them "Herping" and as a group we'll dive into the jungle every night to find, photograph, and appreciate as many of them as possible. Diversity trumps quantity in the jungle, so we'll see new kinds of herps every single night- many either undescribed or understudied. We'll do early morning walks as our cold-blooded friends bathe in the soft sunlight and search for all 4 species of caiman in the region by boat. 


Perhaps the most exciting aspect of the expedition will be a consistent, committed and muddy search for the unrivaled king of the jungle- the Green Anaconda. Anacondas can grow up to 20 feet and are the heaviest snakes on the planet. While able to attain massive sizes, they're incredibly hard to find, imperiled in the region due to habitat loss, climate change, and local myths & legends leading to uneducated killings. We'll have access to pristine Anaconda habitat of which many behemoths have been spotted in the past, and will work our hardest as a team to get a once in a lifetime look at these apex predators. 


One more notable snake in the area we'll search for is the Bushmaster, another cryptic predator often residing in primary rainforest and Brazil Nut concessions. They're the 2nd largest venomous snake in the world, and maybe the closest we can get to seeing dragons in real life. We'll also hold extensive and fun wildlife photography workshops to help those interested in best capturing the beauty of these animals attain the most awe-inspiring shots as possible. Buckle up!

Payment Terms

The deposit to secure your spot on the trip is non-refundable for any reason. 


The balance of payment is due on December 1st and is non-refundable for any reason at this time. 

Travel Information

The meeting point for this trip is Puerto Maldonado, Peru (airport code PEM). Please wait to hear from us before booking your flight. 


You will be staying at a hotel in town on the day of arrival and the night before departing, so your flight times can be any time during the day. 


To enter Peru, your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your stay. 

What’s included

  • Puerto Maldonado Hotel
  • Jungle Accommodations
  • Jungle Meals
  • Guides and Staff

What’s not included

  • Airfare
    Not Included
  • Puerto Maldonado Meals
    Not Included
  • Travel Insurance
    Not Included. This is required to go on an expedition

Available Packages

Trip Price
Deposit: $900
$2,850
Deposit: $900

Available Add-Ons

Junglekeepers Exclusive Dry Bag 35L
$100

Meet your new adventure essential: the Junglekeepers Drybag. Designed with the demands of the rainforest in mind, this tough, lightweight drybag is built to withstand the daily challenges of life in the Amazon. Whether you’re wading through river crossings or braving sudden downpours, it will keep your gear safe and dry, so you can focus on the thrill of the jungle.

Key Features:

Weatherproof Protection: 35-liter capacity 100% waterproof with reinforced seams to keep your essentials bone dry, even in torrential rain or dropped in the river. Durable Design: Tear-resistant and built to handle rugged terrain and unpredictable weather. Comfort & Convenience: Lightweight with adjustable shoulder straps, making it easy to carry on long treks. Also features a comfortable back support. Exclusive Access: This drybag isn’t available online—it’s a unique item only accessible to participants of Tamandua Expeditions, a badge of your commitment to protecting the Amazon.

Plus, every purchase supports Junglekeepers' conservation efforts, with proceeds directly funding Junglekeepers' work to protect and preserve the rainforest.

This drybag isn’t just gear—it’s a reminder of your adventure and a meaningful contribution to a vital cause.


Pictures and details here.

Itinerary

Mar 1st
Arrive in Puerto Maldonado, Peru

Arrive in Puerto Maldonado (airport code PEM) and take a short taxi ride to the hotel. Tamandua guides will welcome you into the jungle town and make sure you are settled in your hotel. We’ll all go out for dinner and an orientation before getting a good night of rest before tomorrow. 

Your Organizer


TE
Tamandua Expeditions
34 reviews
Tamandua Expeditions originally began running trips out of the Peruvian Amazon Basin over 10 years ago. Today, we offer adventure-packed, hands on, expeditions through some of the most beautiful and challenging wilderness on earth. With locations in Peru and India. Our focus on wildlife research, conservation, and responsible adventure travel.

Reviews

Fue una experiencia, además de divertida, muy enriquecedora en todos sentidos porque la selva te pone en perspectiva con respecto a tu responsabilidad como ser humano ante las maravillas de la naturaleza. La comida y hospitalidad en Malinowsky fue simplemente maravillosa y las expediciones llenas de aventuras y sorpresas.
By CECILIA M for Herping in the Madre de Dios Region March 2025 on Mar 11, 2025
This trip is lifechanging. Junglekeepers is an amazing organization. The lodge was beautiful, the food was amazing, and the Manager Jorge, Boat Driver Nixon, and Expedition Guide Elar are super-pros. I was a little nervous going so far out into the jungle but from the second I got there I knew we were in good hands. Every day was packed with activity. Elar's knowledge of every plant and animal we came across was amazing. He had stories for every medicinal plant we came across. He would hear a bird call and be able to identify it and tell us everything about it. We saw Capybara, Caiman, Piranha, Tapir, Macaws, Tree Boas, Frogs, Spiders, 7 species of Monkey, and so much more. The air is so fresh and there's and endless amount of wild fruit to eat. I seriously can't recommend this trip enough, and it doesn't hurt that all of your money is going toward preserving and protecting a crucial area of the rainforest. Once you see the animals and the beauty of this area you'll be hooked. I can't wait to go back.
By Bob S for Junglekeeper Donors Special March 2025 on Mar 11, 2025
It was an unbelievable trip. Our host, Connor, was so accommodating, friendly and knowledgeable - we spent a lot of time every day (weather permitting) on game drives that never disappointed. I cannot believe the variety and number of animals we saw almost every time we went out. The experience far surpassed other African safari trips I have taken and I am seriously hoping to come back again another time. We had some amazing. meals including a couple of braai's (bbq) and a couple of days we we were able to explore the neighbouring beaches and towns, including lunch at the oldest bar in South Africa! We were able to learn and get a better understanding of rewilding, the reserves conservation efforts, wildlife and reserve maintenance and of course learn more about the animals. I am very grateful for the work that Junglekeepers and Buffalo Kloof are doing to help preserve our planet.
By Barbara B for Unbeatable Safari Experience : Junglekeepers Africa Jan 2025 (2) on Feb 11, 2025
I cannot put into words how fabulous this experience was. The accommodation, company, and hosts were first rate; absolutely incredible. The wildlife encounters were beyond description. It was amazing to have such an experience without crowds of tourists. I learned so much and simply cannot describe how fabulous everything was in so few words. I cannot wait to go back! Thank you jungle keepers. For those wanting to support an incredible conservation and anti-poaching initiative and make sure their money, time, and attention are going to truly dedicated and effective team in a wondrous and beautiful reserve - this is it. I am saving for my next trip already.
By Deborah G for Unbeatable Safari Experience : Junglekeepers Africa Jan 2025 (2) on Feb 11, 2025
I could not have imagined a better trip. The whole experience exceeded my expectations on every level. The staff was amazing, friendly, and kind, and our guide was so knowledgeable about the wildlife, the region, and South Africa. I can't wait to go back and do it all over again.
By Donna G for Unbeatable Safari Experience : Junglekeepers Africa Jan 2025 (2) on Feb 09, 2025
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References

JD
Went on the Operation Malinowski herping trip with Ian and William in March 2024. It was an amazing experience! They were both super knowledgeable and skilled at finding and handling the reptiles and amphibians that we found. I always felt safe, while still being able to admire the amazing animals that we found. Plus the accommodations were great, and food was amazing. Would definitely recommend the opportunity to enjoy the amazing ecosystem while supporting a great company!
By Jacob D on 26 Mar, 2024