While it’s primarily a kick-off point to some of Peru’s most pristine Amazon jungle destinations, Puerto Maldonado’s laid back atmosphere, vibrant nightlife and unique gritty flavour is making it an increasingly popular tourist hub. It’s a bustling town that offers easy access to the virgin jungle along the Tambopata River, and in the Inketerra Ecological Reserve, Bahuaja-Sonene National Park, and Tambopata National Reserve. These protected areas encompass some of the most pristine primary rainforests on the planet, and are home to an astonishing array of exotic animals, birds, trees and flowers.