Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick Tour (4 Days) – Tambopata
Group
2 or more people
4 Days
Wildlife Watching in the Tambopata National Reserve
The Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick Tour is the best experience for exploring the Tambopata National Reserve, one of the most biodiverse ecosystems in the world and one of the top destinations in the Peruvian Amazon for wildlife watching. Among its greatest attractions is the Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick, considered one of the largest and most important macaw clay licks in the world, where every sunrise hundreds of macaws, parrots, and parakeets gather to feed on mineral-rich clay, creating one of the most fascinating natural spectacles in South America.
During the expedition, you will have the opportunity to observe wildlife in its natural habitat, with frequent sightings of monkeys, caimans, and exotic birds, while also discovering the extraordinary diversity of flora and fauna that makes the Peruvian Amazon one of the most biodiverse ecosystems in the world.
Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick Tour Summary
Day 1 – Puerto Maldonado | Puerto Filadelfia – Tambopata River
The tour begins with your reception in Puerto Maldonado, followed by a transfer to Puerto Filadelfia, where you will travel by boat along the Tambopata and Malinowski Rivers to the lodge, where you will enjoy lunch. In the afternoon, you will take a guided walk through the primary rainforest to observe Amazonian flora and fauna, followed by an exciting night walk in search of frogs, tarantulas, reptiles, and insects before returning to the lodge.
Day 2 – Tambopata River | Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick – Canopy Tower
At sunrise, you will take a boat trip to the famous Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick, where you will witness one of the Amazon’s most impressive natural spectacles, with hundreds of macaws, parrots, and parakeets feeding on the mineral-rich clay wall while you enjoy breakfast. In the afternoon, you will climb the Canopy Tower to admire the rainforest from above and end the day watching the sunset over the Tambopata River before dinner and your overnight stay.
Day 3 – Tambopata National Reserve | Lake Quiroz
After breakfast, a short boat ride and hike along Amazonian trails will take you to Lake Quiroz, where you will observe giant otters, caimans, turtles, hoatzins, and other wildlife species, while also discovering centuries-old trees and medicinal plants during the guided excursion.
Day 4 – Amazon Lodge | Mammal Clay Lick – Puerto Maldonado
On the final day, you will visit the Mammal Clay Lick, a place frequently visited by tapirs, peccaries, deer, monkeys, and other animals that naturally come to consume mineral-rich clay. After this final Amazon experience, you will return to the lodge to collect your luggage and begin the return journey to Puerto Maldonado, where our services conclude with your transfer to the airport or bus terminal.
Highlights of the Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick Tour
- Navigate the Tambopata and Malinowski Rivers while observing wildlife as you venture deeper into the Tambopata National Reserve.
- Explore the primary Amazon rainforest with an expert guide and discover its extraordinary biodiversity.
- Enjoy a night walk to observe tarantulas, frogs, reptiles, and insects in their natural habitat.
- Visit the impressive Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick and witness the breathtaking spectacle of hundreds of macaws, parrots, and parakeets.
- Enjoy wildlife watching, including capybaras, caimans, monkeys, turtles, and, with some luck, the elusive jaguar.
- Enjoy excellent opportunities for wildlife watching, including capybaras, caimans, monkeys, turtles, and, with some luck, the elusive jaguar.
- Climb the 50-meter Canopy Tower and admire panoramic views of the Amazon rainforest canopy while observing birds from the treetops.
- Witness the unforgettable sunset over the Tambopata River.
- Explore Lake Quiroz, one of Tambopata’s best locations for Amazon wildlife watching.
- Observe species such as the giant river otter, black caimans, hoatzins, herons, and freshwater turtles.
- Walk through the rainforest surrounded by giant Amazonian trees, including kapok trees and centuries-old shihuahuaco trees.
- Visit the Mammal Clay Lick, where tapirs, peccaries, deer, and other species naturally gather to consume mineral-rich clay.
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Itinerary
Day 1: Puerto Maldonado – Maldonado River – Tambopata River – Night Walk
Our adventure will begin with a land journey of approximately one and a half hours through the Amazonian landscapes until we reach the Port of Filadelfia. Along the way, you will see the city gradually disappear as nature becomes the true highlight of the journey.
The Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick Tour begins with your arrival at the Puerto Maldonado airport or bus terminal, where our team will warmly welcome you. You will then be transferred to our office to reorganize your luggage and store the items you will not need during the expedition.
You will begin a road trip of approximately one and a half hours to the Port of Filadelfia, traveling through the impressive Amazonian landscapes of Madre de Dios. As we leave the city behind, the scenery gives way to the remarkable biodiversity of the Amazon rainforest.
From the port, we will board a motorized boat to navigate the Tambopata and Malinowski Rivers. During the approximately 40-minute journey, you will enjoy the beautiful scenery of the Tambopata National Reserve, where you can observe birds, floodplain vegetation, and a natural environment that is perfect for birdwatching in the Amazon.
Upon arrival at the Amazon lodge, you will be welcomed with a refreshing tropical fruit drink. After settling into your room, you will enjoy a lunch prepared with local ingredients. In the afternoon, you will take a walk through the primary rainforest accompanied by a specialized naturalist guide. You will discover the extraordinary biodiversity of the Amazon while observing rainforest birds such as toucans and woodpeckers, as well as howler monkeys, squirrel monkeys, butterflies, frogs, and a great diversity of trees and medicinal plants.
Night Walk in the Amazon
As night falls, we will embark on an exciting night walk. Equipped with flashlights, we will explore the surroundings of the lodge in search of tarantulas, tree frogs, giant insects, reptiles, and other fascinating creatures that only emerge after dark. Listening to the sounds of the rainforest beneath the Amazonian sky will be an unforgettable experience.
Day Summary:
- Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
- Minimum Elevation: 180 m (Port of Filadelfia / Tambopata River)
- Maximum Elevation: 260 m (Primary rainforest trails in the Tambopata National Reserve)
- Approximate Distance Covered: 65 km by land transportation, 12 km by river navigation, and 3 to 4 km of hiking (introductory and night walk)
- Predominant Climate: Warm, humid tropical (72 °F to 90 °F / 22 °C to 32 °C, with relative humidity often exceeding 80%)
- Main Activity: Navigation along the Tambopata and Malinowski Rivers, daytime hike through primary rainforest, and nighttime wildlife observation walk
- Highlighted Wildlife: Toucans, macaws, howler monkeys, squirrel monkeys, capybaras, spectacled caimans, tree frogs, tarantulas, riverside birds
Day 2: Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick – Canopy Tower
Early this morning, we will navigate along the Tambopata River toward the Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick, considered one of the largest and the most famous clay licks in the Peruvian Amazon.
During the boat ride, you will have excellent opportunities for wildlife watching. Along the riverbanks, it is common to spot capybaras, black caimans, turtles, monkeys, and a wide variety of bird species. With a little luck, you may also see the jaguar; the Tambopata River is one of the few places in Peru where it is possible to observe this magnificent feline.
Upon arriving at the Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick, you will enjoy breakfast while we wait for the natural spectacle to begin. Gradually, flocks of hundreds of scarlet macaws, blue-and-yellow macaws, and red-and-green macaws will begin to arrive, accompanied by numerous species of parrots and parakeets, all feeding on the mineral-rich clay.
Macaw watching is one of the most popular experiences in Tambopata. The spectacular display of colors, sounds, and flights above the clay cliffs makes this one of the most breathtaking experiences the Peruvian Amazon has to offer.
After lunch and a short rest, we will climb the impressive 50-meter Canopy Tower. From this observation point, you will enjoy a panoramic view of the rainforest and the opportunity to observe toucans, macaws, parrots, birds of prey, and many other species that inhabit the forest canopy.
At the end of the afternoon, we will admire one of the most beautiful sunsets along the Tambopata River.
Day Summary:
- Difficulty Level: Moderate
- Minimum Elevation: 200 m (Banks of the Tambopata River in front of the Chuncho Clay Lick)
- Maximum Elevation: 250 m (50-meter Canopy Tower)
- Approximate Distance Covered: 20 to 30 km of river navigation (round trip to the clay lick) and 2 to 3 km of combined hiking to the tower and along the trails
- Predominant Climate: Warm and humid (24 °C to 34 °C / 75 °F to 93 °F), with high humidity and occasional morning mist
- Main Activity: Macaw watching at the Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick, canopy tower visit, and sunset observation on the Tambopata River
- Highlighted Wildlife: Scarlet macaws, blue-and-yellow macaws, red-and-green macaws, parrots and parakeets, capybaras, black caimans, river turtles, monkeys (howler monkeys and capuchin monkeys), toucans, birds of prey, and possible jaguar sightings
Day 3: Jungle Hike – Exploring Lake Quiroz
The tour continues after breakfast as we head to the beautiful Lake Quiroz, one of the best places for wildlife watching within the Tambopata National Reserve. To reach the lake, we will enjoy a short boat ride followed by a hike along trails surrounded by giant Amazonian trees such as towering ceiba trees and centuries-old shihuahuaco trees.
During the excursion, your guide will help you identify different species of birds, mammals, amphibians, reptiles, and insects that inhabit this extraordinary ecosystem. You will also learn about several medicinal plants and trees that play an important role in Amazon rainforest conservation.
Upon arriving at the lake, you will observe the remarkable diversity of Amazonian wildlife, including:
- Giant river otters
- Black caimans
- Freshwater turtles
- Amazon herons
- Hoatzins (prehistoric birds)
- Various species of Amazonian fish
The peaceful atmosphere of the lake and the incredible natural richness of its surroundings make this excursion an ideal experience for enjoying nature, photography, and wildlife watching in the Peruvian Amazon.
Day Summary:
- Difficulty level: Moderate
- Minimum elevation: 220 m (722 ft) above sea level (Lake Quiroz surface)
- Maximum elevation: 260 m (853 ft) above sea level (Moderately elevated forest areas surrounding the lake)
- Predominant climate: Warm and humid (75 °F to 93 °F), high humidity, and possible brief rain showers
- Main activity: Short boat ride and hike to Lake Quiroz, wildlife observation in the lake and primary rainforest
- Highlighted wildlife of the day: Giant river otters, black caimans, Amazon turtles, herons, hoatzins, monkeys (howler and capuchin monkeys), riverside birds, Amazonian fish, rainforest frogs, and reptiles
Day 4: Mammal Clay Lick – Return to Puerto Maldonado
On the final day of the tour, after breakfast, we will begin our hike to the Mammal Clay Lick, a natural site where different species of Amazon wildlife gather to consume mineral-rich clay, which is essential for supplementing their diet. During the excursion, you may observe:
- Tapirs
- Peccaries
- Deer
- Agoutis
- Howler monkeys
- Various species of Amazon wildlife
It is important to keep in mind that wildlife sightings depend entirely on nature and are therefore unpredictable. However, the hike offers an excellent opportunity to experience the Amazon ecosystem, walk along trails surrounded by lush vegetation, and observe wildlife in its natural habitat.
Finally, we will return to the lodge to collect your luggage before beginning your return trip to Puerto Maldonado around midday. We will drop you off at your hotel or at the airport.
End of an extraordinary adventure in the Peruvian Amazon.
Day Summary:
- Difficulty level: Easy to moderate
- Minimum elevation: 180 m (591 ft) above sea level (Puerto Maldonado / City) Maximum elevation: 240 m (787 ft) above sea level (Mammal Clay Lick area in the upland rainforest)
- Approximate distance covered: 3 to 4 km (1.9 to 2.5 miles) morning hike, 12 km (7.5 miles) return river navigation to the Port of Filadelfia, and 65 km (40.4 miles) overland transfer to Puerto Maldonado
- Predominant climate: Warm and humid (75 °F to 93 °F), with high humidity and possible light rain showers
- Main activity: Hike to the Mammal Clay Lick and wildlife observation
- Highlighted wildlife of the day: Amazon tapir, peccaries, deer, agoutis, howler monkeys, capybaras (occasionally), forest birds, and smaller understory wildlife
Experience an Unforgettable Adventure in the Peruvian Amazon
The Tambopata National Reserve is considered one of the most biodiverse places on the planet. During this adventure, you will have the opportunity to navigate Amazon rivers, explore trails surrounded by primary rainforest, observe macaws at the famous Chuncho Clay Lick, discover hidden lakes, admire breathtaking sunsets, and search for wildlife in its natural habitat.
Each day will be a new opportunity to connect with nature, listen to the sounds of the rainforest, discover unique species of flora and fauna, and create unforgettable memories that will stay with you forever.
Peru Jungle Trips invites you to discover the magic of the Peruvian Amazon in an authentic, safe, and responsible way, accompanied by expert local guides who will share with you the secrets of this extraordinary ecosystem.
The Amazon rainforest is waiting for you to experience one of the greatest adventures of your life!
Included
What Is Included in the Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick Tour
During the Peruvian rainforest tour, you will have all the necessary services included to enjoy a safe and well-organized experience in the heart of the Peruvian Amazon. Here’s what is included:
- Welcome and transfer: Our team will welcome you upon your arrival in Puerto Maldonado and transfer you to our office to organize your luggage before beginning the expedition.
- Land and river transportation: All transportation throughout the tour is included.
- Entrance to Tambopata National Reserve: The entrance ticket to the protected natural area is included.
- Professional naturalist guide: Throughout the expedition, you will be accompanied by a guide with extensive experience in the Amazon.
- 03 nights of accommodation at a tourist lodge: You will stay in a comfortable Amazon lodge surrounded by nature and wildlife.
- Private room with private bathroom: All rooms feature a private bathroom to provide greater comfort during your stay in the rainforest.
- Electricity and internet during the lodge’s scheduled hours: The lodge provides electricity and internet service, generally between 6:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m., due to the conditions of the rainforest.
- Full meals throughout the expedition: During the tour, you will enjoy meals prepared with fresh local ingredients.
- 03 breakfasts
- 03 lunches
- 03 dinners
- Mineral water during the excursion: Water will be available throughout the excursion (it is recommended to bring a reusable water bottle for the activities).
- Rubber boots: For greater safety and comfort during rainforest hikes.
- Permanent assistance from the Peru Jungle Trips team throughout the entire tour.
Not Included
What Is Not Included in the Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick Tour
Although the tour includes most of the services needed to enjoy the expedition, there are some additional expenses that you should consider before your trip.
- Airfare or ground transportation to Puerto Maldonado: The tour price does not include airline tickets or ground transportation from your city of origin to Puerto Maldonado.
- Breakfast on the first day: Due to travelers’ arrival schedules, breakfast on the first day is not included in the program.
- Lunch on the last day: Lunch on the fourth day is not included, as the return to Puerto Maldonado takes place around midday.
- Alcoholic beverages and additional drinks: Alcoholic beverages, soft drinks, or any other additional beverages must be purchased at the passenger’s own expense.
- Tips: Tips are completely optional and are given according to the quality of the service provided.
- Laundry service: The lodge may offer this service for an additional charge, which is not included in the tour package.
- Souvenirs and personal purchases: The purchase of handicrafts, souvenirs, or other local products is not included in the tour price.
- Travel insurance and medical assistance: The program does not include travel insurance or medical coverage. It is recommended to travel with insurance that covers accidents, illnesses, medical emergencies, and trip cancellations.
- Services not mentioned: Any activity, service, or expense not specifically listed in the inclusions section.
Packing List
Essential luggage for the Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick Tour
Get ready to experience a complete adventure in the Tambopata National Reserve with everything you need to enjoy the trip with comfort and safety.
- Original identification document or passport: it is strictly mandatory to enter the Tambopata National Reserve.
- Cash (Peruvian soles): for personal expenses, additional drinks, or tips.
- Small backpack for excursions: perfect for carrying water, camera, repellent, poncho, and personal items during daily activities.
- Waterproof bag for documents: additional protection against humidity or rain.
- Hat or cap: essential to protect yourself from the sun during hikes and boat trips.
- Sunscreen: although you will be surrounded by the rainforest, the sun can be intense in several areas, especially during river navigation.
- Mosquito repellent: we recommend bringing a good-quality repellent for greater comfort during excursions.
- Long-sleeved shirts or T-shirts: they help protect you from insects, vegetation, and sun exposure.
- Lightweight quick-drying pants: ideal for rainforest hikes, as they provide comfort, freshness, and protection.
- Sandals or lightweight footwear: recommended for relaxing at the lodge or using during some short excursions.
- Rain poncho: the Amazon climate is unpredictable and rainfall may occur at any time of the year.
- Flashlight or headlamp: very useful for night walks and for moving around the lodge at night.
- Binoculars: highly recommended for observing birds, monkeys, macaws, and other animals that are usually found at a certain distance.
- Camera or phone with a good camera: the Tambopata National Reserve offers unique opportunities to photograph landscapes, wildlife, and spectacular Amazon sunrises.
- Reusable water bottle: helps you stay hydrated throughout the entire expedition and contributes to environmental conservation.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Tambopata Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick Tour
If you are planning to take the Tour to the Tambopata National Reserve (Madre de Dios, Peru), it is normal to have questions. Below, we answer the most common questions so you can enjoy this experience in the Peruvian Amazon with complete peace of mind and proper preparation.
1. Where is the Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick located?
The Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick is located inside the Tambopata National Reserve, in the Madre de Dios region, Peru, on the banks of the Tambopata River. It is one of the most important wildlife observation sites in the Peruvian Amazon.
2. What is the best time to take the Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick Tour?
The best season to visit the Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick Tour in Puerto Maldonado, Madre de Dios, is between April and October (dry season), when navigation is easier and visibility for wildlife observation in the Tambopata National Reserve is better.
3. What type of climate does Puerto Maldonado have?
The climate in the Tambopata National Reserve is tropical and humid, with temperatures that usually range between 22°C and 32°C during the day, and high humidity throughout the year.
4. Is it necessary to have good physical condition for the Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick Tour?
The Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick Tour in the Tambopata National Reserve, Peru, does not require a high level of physical fitness, but it does require willingness for moderate jungle walks, boat navigation on the Tambopata River, and activities on natural terrain.
5. How likely is it to see macaws at the Chuncho Clay Lick in Tambopata?
At the Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick, located in Tambopata (Madre de Dios, Peru), macaw sightings are very likely at sunrise, although the number of birds may vary depending on the weather and natural conditions of the day.
6. Can jaguars be seen during the Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick Tour?
In the Tambopata National Reserve (Madre de Dios, Peru), there is a possibility of spotting jaguars in areas near the Tambopata River, although these encounters are rare and completely depend on nature.
7. What animals can be observed during the Tambopata Tour?
During the Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick Tour, it is possible to observe macaws, monkeys, caimans, capybaras, giant otters in Lake Quiroz, and various Amazonian birds.
8. Is there internet signal or electricity during the Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick Tour in Tambopata?
Electricity and internet access are limited and are generally available only during the hours established by the lodge.
9. How is the experience at the Canopy Tower in Tambopata?
The 50-meter Canopy Tower in Tambopata allows you to observe the Amazon rainforest from above, making it ideal for seeing birds, monkeys, and the canopy of the primary forest.
10. How far is Puerto Maldonado from the beginning of the Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick Tour in Tambopata?
From Puerto Maldonado (Madre de Dios, Peru) to the embarkation point on the Tambopata River, there is an approximately 1.5-hour land transfer, followed by navigation to the Tambopata National Reserve.
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