Puerto Maldonado Culture and Sights

Sights

Puerto Maldonado overlooks the confluence of the rivers Tambopata and Madre de Dios. From the park at the end of Jirón Arequipa, across from the Capitanía, you get a good view of the two rivers, the ferries across the Madre de Dios (soon to be replaced by the new bridge) and the stacks of lumber at the dockside. The Brazil-nut harvest is from December to February and the crop tends to be good on alternate years. Nuts are sold on the street, plain or coated in sugar or chocolate. El Mirador (at the junction of Av Fitzcarrald and Av Madre de Dios, Mon-Sat) 0900-1700, Sun 1200-1700, US$0.60, is a 47-m-high tower with 250 steps and three platforms giving fine views over the city and surrounding rainforest. There is also a toilet at the top – no curtains – from which there is an equally fine view over the city! Museo Huamaambi (26 de Diciembre 360, US$1) contains photos and artefacts pertaining to the Harakmbut culture of central Madre de Dios. Jippa Butterfly House (adjoining the airport entrance (a 5-min walk from the terminal building), open 0800-1330, US$5) breeds butterflies as part of a sustainable development project and offers guided tours. Worth a visit if you arrive early for your flight or if it is delayed.

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