Macaw Clay Lick Tour 2 Days
Adventure Tours in Peru, Nature Tours and Ecotourism in Peru.
12 people
2 days
Collpa Chuncho Tambopata Ecotourism Tour
The Macaw Clay Lick Tambopata Tour is a unique experience in the Peruvian Amazon, ideal for travelers who wish to connect authentically with nature and wildlife. Located in the Tambopata National Reserve, one of the most biodiverse ecosystems on the planet, this destination stands out for its Amazonian rivers, lush tropical forests, and an impressive variety of wildlife, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and birdwatching fans.
Tambopata offers an exceptional natural environment where the rainforest remains almost untouched. The area is globally recognized for being home to the famous Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick, a natural site where every morning hundreds of macaws, parrots, and parakeets gather to feed on mineral-rich clay, creating one of the most impressive spectacles of the Amazon rainforest.
During the tour, you will enjoy a complete experience in the Tambopata Amazon, combining river navigation, guided jungle walks, exploration of flora and fauna, birdwatching from strategic viewpoints, adventure activities, and night excursions to discover nocturnal animals, in addition to visiting the emblematic Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick. Everything takes place in an authentic natural environment, accompanied by specialized guides, allowing you to experience the rainforest from different perspectives and enjoy a real adventure in one of the most biodiverse destinations in Peru.
Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick tour Itinerary Summary
Day 1 – Puerto Maldonado | Filadelfia Community – Tambopata Lodge – Jungle Walk and Night Exploration
You will begin the excursion with reception in Puerto Maldonado (airport or bus terminal), then travel to the Filadelfia Community. From there, you will navigate along the Tambopata River to the ecolodge, where you will settle in and enjoy lunch, followed by a guided jungle walk for flora and fauna observation, a visit to the birdwatching tower, and enjoyment of the canopy. At night, you will participate in a night excursion to observe Amazonian wildlife. Overnight at the lodge.
Day 2 – Tambopata Lodge | Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick – Puerto Maldonado
You will start the day very early with a boat departure along the Tambopata River toward the Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick, where you will observe macaws, parrots, and parakeets in their natural habitat while enjoying a countryside breakfast. You will then take a tour along the river tributaries for wildlife observation. Afterwards, you will return to the lodge for lunch and, after a short rest, begin the transfer back to Puerto Maldonado, with an approximate arrival at 2:00 p.m.
Highlights of the Tambopata Macaw Clay Lick
- Explore the Peruvian Amazon rainforest from Puerto Maldonado, one of the most biodiverse areas on the planet.
- Navigate the Tambopata River surrounded by jungle landscapes and wildlife in its natural state.
- Visit the Filadelfia Community and access an ecolodge immersed in the heart of the Peruvian Amazon.
- Take a guided walk through the Tambopata jungle, learning about medicinal plants and ancient trees.
- Observe exotic birds and monkeys from a strategic observation tower in the middle of the tropical forest.
- Experience the adrenaline of the canopy, gliding among the treetops with unique jungle views.
- Participate in a night excursion to spot Amazonian wildlife such as caimans, tarantulas, owls, and other nocturnal animals.
- Admire an impressive Amazonian starry sky and the Milky Way under ideal conditions.
- Navigate the Tambopata River at dawn in search of wildlife such as jaguars, tapirs, and anacondas.
- Visit the famous Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick and witness one of the most impressive natural spectacles in the Amazon.
- Observe hundreds of macaws, parrots, and parakeets feeding on mineral clay in a unique natural environment.
- Enjoy a privileged birdwatching experience at one of the best observation points in Peru.
- Explore the tributaries of the Tambopata River by canoe, with constant opportunities for wildlife sightings.
- Experience an authentic connection with nature in a protected Amazon reserve.
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Itinerary
Day 1: Puerto Maldonado – Filadelfia Community – Night Exploration
Beginning of the adventure in the Peruvian tropical rainforest
To experience this adventure, you can arrive in Puerto Maldonado in two ways: by a flight of approximately 45 minutes from the city of Cusco, or by overnight bus, departing at 8:00 p.m. from Cusco and arriving in Puerto Maldonado around 6:30 a.m..
Our team will be waiting for you at the airport or at the bus terminal to welcome you and accompany you to the main office, where you will complete the registration process and receive the initial instructions before beginning your adventure in the Amazon.
At 9:30 a.m., you will begin the transfer by vehicle to the Filadelfia Community, on a journey of approximately one hour through jungle landscapes that anticipate the adventure. From there, you will continue the journey navigating the Tambopata River for about 20 minutes until reaching our ecolodge, located in the lush Peruvian Amazon.
After settling into your comfortable room with private bathroom, shower, and beds with mosquito nets, you will enjoy a traditional Amazonian lunch. With renewed energy, you will begin a guided walk through the Tambopata rainforest, an experience that will connect you directly with nature.
For approximately two hours, you will walk along trails surrounded by lush vegetation, where you will learn about Amazonian medicinal plants and majestic trees over 600 years old. Our naturalist guide will share knowledge about local wildlife and take you to a watchtower, a privileged spot for birdwatching, where you may observe species such as the hoatzin, as well as other birds and monkeys.
To end the day with adrenaline, you will experience the canopy, gliding through the treetops and observing the jungle from a unique perspective.
As evening falls, you will return to the lodge to rest before dinner. Afterwards, you will take part in a night excursion in the Tambopata Reserve, ideal for spotting animals such as tarantulas, owls, caimans, and other nocturnal inhabitants of the Amazon rainforest.
If the night is clear, you will have the opportunity to observe an unmatched starry sky, with the Milky Way shining over the Peruvian Amazon.
- Day difficulty level: Easy – moderate
- Minimum altitude: 180 m a.s.l. (Puerto Maldonado)
- Maximum altitude: 220 m a.s.l. (jungle trails in Tambopata)
- Day hike duration: Approx. 2 hours
- Night walk duration: Approx. 1 hour
- Average climate: 24 °C – 30 °C, with high humidity (80 % – 90 %)
Day 2: Boat Ride – Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick
Macaw watching in the Tambopata National Reserve
Very early, you will begin the adventure toward one of the most unforgettable experiences of the trip: the Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick in Tambopata.
On this day, you will navigate by boat along the Tambopata River for more than 30 minutes, enjoying the Amazonian landscape. With some luck, during the journey you may spot jaguars, anacondas, tapirs, or other animals that inhabit the riverbanks.
Upon arriving at the famous Chuncho Clay Lick, also known as a clay lick, you will witness a unique natural spectacle. Red- and blue-winged macaws, hundreds of parrots and parakeets gather every morning to feed on mineral-rich clay, creating a scene full of color and sound. This activity is ideal for birdwatching. You will remain at the site for more than three hours, accompanied by a countryside breakfast.
After the visit, you will continue exploring the tributaries of the Tambopata River by canoe, slowly moving through the jungle. With luck, you may observe tapirs, wild pigs, monkeys, caimans, turtles, and numerous birds. The jungle always surprises.
Upon returning to the lodge, you will enjoy lunch before beginning the return journey combining a canoe ride and an overland trip to Puerto Maldonado. Arrival will be around 2:00 p.m., with transfer to the main square, hotel, or airport.
- Tour difficulty level: Easy – moderate
- Minimum altitude: 180 m a.s.l. (Puerto Maldonado and Tambopata River)
- Maximum altitude: 220 m a.s.l. (Amazonian trails and lakes)
- Boat navigation duration: 30 – 40 minutes per section
- Time at the Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick: Approx. 3 hours
- Duration of walks and exploration: Approx. 2 – 3 hours
- Average climate: 24 °C – 30 °C, with high humidity (80 % – 90 %)
Included
What Is Included in the Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick Tour
This tour has been designed so that you can enjoy a complete experience in the Peruvian Amazon without worrying about logistics. From your arrival in Puerto Maldonado until the end of the tour, everything is carefully organized so you can enjoy nature, wildlife, and the tropical rainforest with total comfort and safety.
- Pickup at the airport or bus terminal in Puerto Maldonado:
Upon your arrival, our team will be waiting to welcome you and comfortably transfer you to our main office. - Land and river transportation:
Includes all transfers by tourist vehicle and boat along the Tambopata River, both to reach the lodge and to carry out the scheduled excursions. - Professional local bilingual guide (Spanish – English):
Throughout the entire tour you will be accompanied by a guide specialized in the Amazon, who will guide you during daytime and nighttime walks, the boat ride, and the visit to the clay lick. - Entrance to the Tambopata National Reserve and the Macaw Clay Lick:
Official access to the Tambopata National Reserve and the Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick is included, allowing you to observe one of the most impressive natural spectacles of the Amazon rainforest. - 01 night of accommodation in an Amazon lodge:
Stay in an ecolodge located deep in the Tambopata jungle. The rooms feature a private bathroom, shower, beds with mosquito nets, and a natural environment ideal for rest. - Full meals during the tour:
- 02 typical Amazon lunches:
One upon arrival at the lodge and another before returning to Puerto Maldonado. - 01 dinner at the lodge:
To close the first day of adventure. - 01 countryside breakfast:
Served at the Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick during the birdwatching activity.
- 02 typical Amazon lunches:
- Guided walks:
Exploration of natural trails where you will learn about ancient trees, medicinal plants, and the biodiversity of Tambopata, as well as visit an observation tower for bird and monkey watching. - Canopy activity (zip line):
An adrenaline-filled experience sliding among the treetops and observing the jungle from a unique perspective. - Night excursion in the jungle:
Guided night walk to observe species that appear at night, such as caimans, tarantulas, owls, frogs, and other Amazonian animals.
Not Included
What Is Not Included in the Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick Tour
Although the tour covers all essential services for a complete experience in Tambopata, there are some aspects that are not included in the package and that you should take into account before traveling.
- Airline or bus tickets to Puerto Maldonado:
The tour does not include airfare or land transportation tickets from Cusco or any other city to Puerto Maldonado. These must be purchased independently by the traveler. - Personal expenses and extras:
Personal expenses such as additional drinks, snacks, souvenirs, phone calls, laundry, or others are not included. - Travel insurance or medical insurance:
The package does not include travel insurance. It is recommended to have insurance that covers medical emergencies, accidents, cancellations, or loss of luggage. - Tips:
Tips are not included and are completely optional. However, they are a way to show appreciation for good service.
Packing List
Essential Packing List for the Tambopata Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick Tour
Due to the warm climate, high humidity, jungle hikes, river navigation, and nighttime activities, it is important to bring practical and lightweight luggage. Below, we indicate the essentials you should bring to enjoy the tour with total comfort and safety.
Documents and money
- Original ID or passport:
Required for lodge registration and access to the Tambopata National Reserve. - Travel insurance:
Recommended, as activities include hiking, navigation, and contact with wildlife. - Vaccination card:
The yellow fever vaccine is recommended. - Cash (Peruvian soles):
For tips, handicraft purchases, or snacks.
Footwear
- Sturdy trekking boots or shoes:
Waterproof or quick-drying, with good grip for wet and muddy trails. - Sandals or lightweight footwear:
To rest your feet at the lodge after hikes. - Long cotton or trekking socks:
To protect against insects and prevent chafing.
Clothing – Layering system and protection
- Breathable shirts:
Preferably long-sleeved to protect against mosquitoes and sun. - Lightweight trekking pants:
Long, quick-drying, and comfortable for walking in the jungle. - Extra clothing:
To change after river navigation or wet excursions. - Light waterproof jacket or poncho:
Rain is frequent in the Amazon, even during the dry season. - Hat or cap:
To protect against sun or rain. - Buff or multifunctional scarf:
Useful against sun, dust, or insects. - Comfortable and lightweight underwear:
Ideal for warm and humid climates.
Insect and sun protection
- Mosquito repellent (minimum DEET 35):
Essential during hikes and boat rides. - Broad-spectrum sunscreen:
Indispensable to protect the skin from the Amazon sun. - Sunglasses:
Preferably polarized for areas with sun reflection on the river.
Backpack and organization
- Small backpack (20–30 L):
To carry essentials during hikes, navigation, and visits to the clay lick. - Plastic bags or dry bags:
To protect clothing, documents, and electronics from humidity.
Hydration and snacks
- Reusable bottle or hydration bladder:
Stay hydrated during all activities (1–2 L). - Energy snacks:
Dried fruits, energy bars, or chocolates.
Equipment for observation and adventure
- Binoculars:
To observe birds and wildlife, especially at the Macaw Clay Lick. - Camera and extra battery:
To capture the colors and unique moments of the Amazon rainforest. - Headlamp or small flashlight:
Necessary for night excursions and movement around the lodge. - Trekking poles:
Optional, useful on wet or slippery trails.
Hygiene and health items
- Personal hygiene items:
Toothbrush and toothpaste, biodegradable soap, wet wipes, and deodorant. - Lightweight quick-drying towel:
Useful at the lodge or after wet excursions. - Personal first aid kit:
Pain relievers, bandages, adhesive bandages, personal medications, and preventive treatments.
Final tips
- Comfortable clothing and footwear:
Prioritize comfort and safety in a humid and slippery environment. - Light and organized packing:
Bring only the essentials; the tour lasts 2 days and 1 night. - Protection against the Amazon climate:
Be prepared for heat, rain, humidity, and intense sun. - Respect for nature:
Do not leave trash on the trails or at the Macaw Clay Lick.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick Tour Tambopata
If you are planning your visit to the Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick in the Tambopata National Reserve, it is normal to have questions about transportation, activities, and safety recommendations. Below, we answer the most frequently asked questions so you can enjoy a safe, comfortable, and well-organized experience.
Where is the Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick located?
The Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick is located within the Tambopata National Reserve, in the region of Madre de Dios, near Puerto Maldonado, in the heart of the Peruvian Amazon. It is one of the best places in the world to observe macaws in their natural habitat.
What is the altitude of the Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick Tour Tambopata?
The tour takes place at low altitude, between 180 m and 220 m above sea level, ideal for enjoying the warm climate of the Amazon rainforest and its great biodiversity.
What is the best season to visit the Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick?
The best season for macaw observation is from May to September, during the dry season in Puerto Maldonado, when the birds gather at the clay lick.
Where does the 2-Day Macaw Clay Lick Tour start?
The tour starts in Puerto Maldonado, either from the Padre Aldamiz International Airport or from the bus terminal. From there, the guide will transfer you to the Filadelfia Community.
What type of accommodation is included in the tour?
The package includes 1 night of accommodation in an Amazon ecolodge, with private rooms, beds with mosquito nets, private bathroom with shower, and a natural environment surrounded by jungle.
Can other Amazon wildlife be seen besides macaws?
Yes, during the tour it is possible to observe parrots, parakeets, monkeys, tapirs, jaguars, anacondas, caimans, and turtles along the Tambopata River and on jungle trails.
Does the tour include night walks?
Yes, Day 1 includes a guided night excursion in the Tambopata Reserve, ideal for observing nocturnal animals such as owls, tarantulas, caimans, and frogs.
What difficulty level does the 2-Day Macaw Clay Lick Tour have?
The tour has an easy to moderate difficulty level, with hikes of 2 to 3 hours and boat navigation of 30 to 40 minutes, suitable for people with basic physical condition.
What clothing and footwear should I bring for the tour in Tambopata?
It is recommended to bring lightweight quick-drying clothing, long pants, breathable shirts, a waterproof jacket, a cap, trekking boots, and sandals. Do not forget insect repellent, sunscreen, and a headlamp.
Is any type of vaccination required to participate in the tour?
The yellow fever vaccine is recommended, and it is advisable to carry a vaccination certificate. It is also recommended to have travel insurance.
Is the tour suitable for children and older adults?
Yes, as long as they can complete hikes of 2 to 3 hours and participate in activities such as observation towers or canopy with supervision. The lodge and boats are safe for families.
What meals are included during the Macaw Clay Lick Tour?
The tour includes 2 typical Amazon lunches, 1 dinner at the lodge, and 1 countryside breakfast during the visit to the clay lick, featuring fresh and nutritious local food.
Is previous experience in ecotourism or birdwatching required?
No experience is required. The tour is designed for beginners and enthusiasts, accompanied by specialized bilingual guides (Spanish and English).
Is it allowed to take photographs and use binoculars at the Macaw Clay Lick?
Yes, it is recommended to bring binoculars and a camera to capture macaws, parrots, and jungle landscapes. Observation is safe and responsible.
What transportation is used during the tour?
The tour combines land transportation from Puerto Maldonado to the Filadelfia Community and boat navigation along the Tambopata River, including access to the Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick and jungle tributaries.
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