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Discover the incredible biodiversity of the Peruvian Amazon on this 2-Day Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick Tour in the Tambopata National Reserve. Witness hundreds of colorful macaws and parrots gathering at the famous Chuncho Clay Lick, explore the rainforest by boat, and enjoy unforgettable wildlife encounters with monkeys, caimans, capybaras, and many exotic bird species. Perfect for nature lovers and wildlife photographers seeking an authentic Amazon adventure.










Moderate
Hike, Jungle, Culture, Adventure
Max Altitude: 183 m (600 ft) above sea level
Group Service
The Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick 2-Day Tour is an unforgettable Amazon adventure in the Tambopata National Reserve, one of the most biodiverse regions on Earth. Travel by boat along the Tambopata River, spend the night in a comfortable jungle lodge, and witness the spectacular gathering of hundreds of colorful macaws and parrots at the famous Chuncho Clay Lick. Along the way, you’ll explore pristine rainforest trails, enjoy a night wildlife excursion, and have the chance to spot monkeys, capybaras, caimans, giant river otters, tapirs, and an incredible variety of tropical birds. Led by an experienced local guide, this tour offers the perfect combination of wildlife observation, nature, and authentic Amazon experiences.
Your Amazon adventure begins between 9:00 a.m. and 9:30 a.m. with pickup from your hotel, the airport, or our office in Puerto Maldonado. From there, we travel approximately two hours by road toward the Tambopata National Reserve, passing through the scenic landscapes of the Madre de Dios region as the city gradually gives way to lush tropical rainforest.
Our journey follows the Interoceanic Highway before continuing along a secondary forest road to the banks of the Tambopata River. Here, we board a motorized boat and navigate upstream for about 30 minutes to reach Collpas Inn Jungle Lodge. During the river trip, keep your camera ready as we may spot capybaras, caimans, turtles, kingfishers, herons, and many other Amazon wildlife species along the riverbanks.
Upon arrival at Collpas Inn, you will be welcomed with a refreshing drink and a short introduction to the lodge and the activities planned for your stay. After settling into your room, enjoy a delicious Amazonian lunch before taking a short rest.
In the afternoon, we venture into the primary rainforest on a guided nature walk. Accompanied by an experienced naturalist guide, you will discover towering ancient trees, medicinal plants, and the remarkable biodiversity that makes Tambopata one of the richest ecosystems on Earth. Along the trails, you’ll have opportunities to observe monkeys, colorful birds, butterflies, and other rainforest inhabitants while learning about the local flora, fauna, and conservation efforts.
As evening falls, we head out for an exciting night safari along the river and surrounding forest. This is the perfect time to search for white caimans, capybaras, frogs, nocturnal birds, insects, spiders, and other fascinating creatures that emerge after sunset. With a bit of luck, we may even encounter elusive mammals such as armadillos, night monkeys, or tapirs.
After this unforgettable experience, we return to Collpas Inn for a freshly prepared dinner and a relaxing overnight stay, surrounded by the sounds of the Amazon rainforest as we prepare for the highlight of the tour—the spectacular Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick at sunrise the following morning.
Our second day begins before sunrise, as we set out for one of the most extraordinary wildlife experiences in the Peruvian Amazon. After an early coffee, we depart at 5:00 a.m. by motorized boat and navigate upstream along the Tambopata River for approximately one hour while witnessing the rainforest come to life with the first light of day.
During the journey, keep an eye on the riverbanks, where you may spot capybaras, caimans, turtles, and a variety of bird species. With a bit of luck, it is also possible to encounter more elusive wildlife such as jaguars or anacondas, which are occasionally seen in the early morning hours.
Our destination is the world-famous Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick, one of the largest and most spectacular clay licks in the Amazon. Every morning, hundreds of scarlet, blue-and-yellow, and red-and-green macaws, together with parrots and parakeets, gather to feed on the mineral-rich clay. From a comfortable observation point, you’ll witness this remarkable natural phenomenon while your expert guide explains the importance of the clay lick and the ecological role it plays in the health and survival of these magnificent birds.
While enjoying this unforgettable wildlife spectacle, we will serve a delicious breakfast with views of the clay lick. The observation period typically lasts from 6:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., providing excellent opportunities for birdwatching and photography.
After the activity, we will visit the Tambopata National Reserve Control Post, where you will learn about the reserve’s conservation efforts and the exceptional biodiversity that makes this protected area one of the richest ecosystems on the planet.
We then return to Collpas Inn for a freshly prepared lunch before beginning our journey back to Puerto Maldonado. Our return includes a scenic boat ride along the Tambopata River followed by ground transportation through the rainforest, arriving in the city at approximately 4:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
This concludes an unforgettable two-day Amazon adventure, leaving you with incredible memories of the Tambopata National Reserve, its extraordinary wildlife, and the breathtaking spectacle of the Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick.
Important Note
This itinerary has been carefully planned to provide the best possible Amazon experience. As all activities take place in a natural environment, the order of excursions may be adjusted due to weather conditions, river levels, wildlife activity, or regulations established by the Tambopata National Reserve authorities.
Any modifications will always prioritize the safety of our guests while preserving the quality of the experience and providing comparable activities whenever necessary.
Per person US$300
The Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick 2-Day Tour is one of the most rewarding wildlife experiences in the Peruvian Amazon. This adventure takes you deep into the Tambopata National Reserve, where you’ll spend the night at Collpas Inn Jungle Lodge, explore pristine rainforest, enjoy a night safari, and witness the breathtaking spectacle of hundreds of colorful macaws and parrots gathering at the famous Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick. Accompanied by an experienced naturalist guide, you’ll discover one of the world’s most biodiverse ecosystems while observing a remarkable variety of Amazon wildlife.
The Tambopata rainforest has a warm, humid tropical climate throughout the year, with daytime temperatures ranging between 24°C and 32°C (75°F–90°F). Rainfall is possible in any season, although May to October is generally drier and offers excellent wildlife viewing, while November to April brings more frequent rain showers and lush rainforest scenery.
Because weather conditions can change quickly, we recommend packing lightweight clothing, a waterproof jacket or rain poncho, and sun protection.
Apply insect repellent before each excursion and reapply as needed.
Bring a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated.
Use a waterproof bag to protect cameras, phones, and other electronics during boat trips.
Carry binoculars and a camera for the best birdwatching and wildlife photography experience.
Wear sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for protection from the tropical sun.
Follow your guide’s instructions and remain quiet while observing wildlife to maximize your chances of seeing animals.
Bring cash for personal purchases, drinks, souvenirs, or optional gratuities.
Wear lightweight, breathable clothing designed for tropical climates. Long-sleeved shirts and lightweight long pants are recommended to protect against insects, vegetation, and sun exposure.
Comfortable hiking shoes or trekking boots with good grip are ideal for rainforest trails, while sandals are useful around the lodge. A rain jacket or poncho is highly recommended, as brief tropical showers may occur at any time.
To help preserve the unique biodiversity of the Tambopata National Reserve, please avoid feeding or disturbing wildlife, collecting plants or natural objects, and leaving litter in the rainforest.
Always follow your guide’s instructions and respect the regulations of the protected area. Observing wildlife from a safe distance helps preserve their natural behavior and contributes to long-term conservation efforts.
This tour involves easy to moderate physical activity, including boat navigation, guided rainforest walks, and a night wildlife excursion. Most travelers in normal physical condition can comfortably participate.
The early departure for the macaw clay lick is well worth the effort, as sunrise offers the best opportunity to witness one of the Amazon’s most extraordinary natural spectacles.
Before traveling to the Amazon, consult your physician regarding recommended vaccinations, including Yellow Fever, if applicable to your travel plans.
Stay well hydrated, use insect repellent and sunscreen regularly, and bring any personal medications you may require during the tour. If you have allergies or medical conditions, please inform your guide before departure.
With proper preparation, the Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick 2-Day Tour offers an unforgettable Amazon experience, combining spectacular birdwatching, exceptional wildlife encounters, comfortable accommodation at Collpas Inn, and the natural beauty of the Tambopata National Reserve.
The Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick is one of the largest and most famous clay licks in the Peruvian Amazon, where hundreds of macaws, parrots, and parakeets gather every morning to feed on mineral-rich clay.
The tour takes place in the Tambopata National Reserve, near Puerto Maldonado in southeastern Peru.
The tour lasts 2 days and 1 night, including accommodation at Collpas Inn Jungle Lodge.
The tour begins with pickup from your hotel, the airport, or the bus terminal in Puerto Maldonado.
You may see macaws, parrots, monkeys, capybaras, caimans, giant river otters, turtles, colorful birds, and many other Amazon species. Sightings of jaguars and anacondas are possible but cannot be guaranteed.
Yes. The clay lick can be visited throughout the year, although wildlife activity is generally highest during the dry season (May to October).
Yes. The tour is designed for travelers with average fitness and includes easy to moderate walks and boat rides.
On the second day, departure is around 5:00 a.m. to arrive at the clay lick in time for the morning wildlife activity.
You will spend one night at Collpas Inn Jungle Lodge, surrounded by the Amazon rainforest.
Yes. The tour includes 1 breakfast, 2 lunches, and 1 dinner, with vegetarian and vegan meals available upon request.
Yes. Drinking water is available during the excursions.
Bring lightweight clothing, long sleeves, hiking shoes, insect repellent, sunscreen, a rain jacket, a reusable water bottle, a flashlight, your passport, and a camera.
Electricity availability may be limited during certain hours, so bringing a power bank is recommended.
Yes. The tour is led by experienced local guides who prioritize your safety and follow all Tambopata National Reserve regulations.
Yes. Families with children are welcome, although children should be comfortable with boat rides and early morning departures.
The dry season from May to October offers excellent wildlife viewing, but the tour operates year-round.
Jaguar sightings are rare and depend entirely on nature. While they are occasionally seen along the Tambopata River, no wildlife sightings can ever be guaranteed.
Mobile signal and internet access are very limited or unavailable in most areas of the Tambopata National Reserve, allowing you to fully disconnect and enjoy nature.
Absolutely. The Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick is one of Peru’s premier destinations for wildlife photography. A telephoto lens and binoculars are highly recommended.
This tour combines comfortable jungle accommodation, a night safari, rainforest exploration, expert local guides, and the unforgettable experience of witnessing hundreds of colorful macaws at one of the world’s most spectacular clay licks, making it one of the best short Amazon adventures from Puerto Maldonado.
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