Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick Tour 5D/4N | Deep Adventure in Tambopata
DESCRIPTION
The 5-Day/4-Night Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick Tour is the perfect way to discover the extraordinary biodiversity of the Peruvian Amazon while exploring the natural landscapes of the Tambopata National Reserve in Puerto Maldonado. Over the course of five days and four nights, you’ll enjoy an adventure that combines river cruises on the Amazon, jungle hikes, wildlife viewing, and adventure activities.
One of the most impressive moments of the tour will be the visit to the Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick, where you’ll witness the fascinating natural spectacle of macaws, parrots, and parakeets gathering on the clay walls to feed. You’ll also discover the beauty of Lake Sandoval, an ecosystem surrounded by palm trees and tropical vegetation, home to numerous species of birds, monkeys, caimans, and the iconic giant river otters.
During the expedition, you’ll navigate the Tambopata and Madre de Dios rivers, hike through the Amazon rainforest, and enjoy activities such as canoeing, kayaking, and nature exploration. All of this is accompanied by specialized local guides and accommodations in Amazonian lodges.
This package is perfect for travelers who want to experience a more complete adventure, disconnect from their daily routine, and get up close to the landscapes, sounds, and traditions of the Peruvian jungle, enjoying an experience that combines nature, adventure, and conservation in one of Tambopata’s most fascinating destinations.
ITINERARY
Itinerary
Day 1 – Puerto Maldonado – Tambopata National Reserve – Amazon Lodge
Boat Tour on the Tambopata River
A motorboat tour lasting approximately 2 hours, enjoying the scenery and wildlife.
Wildlife and Flora Observation
Learn about Amazonian biodiversity with a naturalist guide.
Picnic Lunch
Enjoy a box lunch featuring local products.
Entry to the Tambopata National Reserve
Interpretive hike along trails surrounded by tropical vegetation.
Arrival at the Amazonian lodge
Welcome drink, check-in, and free time to rest.
Reconnaissance walk
Explore the area around the lodge to observe birds, butterflies, and other animals.
Dinner and night walk
Regional dinner and night walk to discover frogs, insects, and other Amazonian species.
Day 2 – Collpa Chuncho – Macaw Watching – Amazon Kayaking
Early departure
Wake up at sunrise with Amazonian coffee and a light snack.
Boat Ride to Collpa Chuncho
Boat ride on the Tambopata River for approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.
Macaw Watching
Observe macaws, parrots, and parakeets in their natural habitat.
Picnic Breakfast
Breakfast featuring tropical fruits, bread, fresh juices, and Amazonian coffee.
Interpretive hike
Explore trails to discover the flora and fauna of the tropical forest.
Return to the lodge and lunch
Return by boat and a regional lunch.
Kayaking adventure
Kayaking experience on the Tambopata River, surrounded by Amazonian landscapes.
Amazonian dinner
Regional dinner and rest at the lodge.
Día 3 – Lago Sandoval – Canoa Amazónica – Canopy y Zip-Line
Energizing Breakfast
Breakfast at the lodge before starting the excursion.
Boat Ride on the Madre de Dios River
A river tour to enjoy the scenery and riverside birds.
Hike to Lake Sandoval
A trek of approximately 3 km along trails surrounded by Amazonian vegetation.
Canoe ride
Explore Lake Sandoval to observe birds, monkeys, caimans, and giant otters.
Picnic Lunch
Boxed lunch in a natural setting by the lake.
Canopy and Zip-line Adventure
A tour featuring suspension bridges and a zip line to enjoy the jungle from above.
Return and dinner
Return to the lodge to enjoy an Amazonian dinner.
Optional Night Safari
Night hike to observe frogs, insects, and other jungle animals.
Day 4 – Amazon Exploration – Wildlife Viewing – Campfire
Amazonian sunrise
Enjoy the natural sounds of the jungle as the day begins.
Birdwatching
Spot macaws, toucans, parrots, and other tropical species.
Amazonian Breakfast
Breakfast featuring local products at the lodge.
Guided Jungle Hike
Explore Amazonian biodiversity and spot monkeys, coatis, and butterflies.
Regional Lunch
Tasting of traditional dishes prepared with local ingredients.
Free Afternoon and River Cruise
Time to relax or enjoy a river cruise through the landscapes of Tambopata.
Dinner and Amazonian campfire
Regional dinner and an evening gathered around a campfire, sharing stories and traditions of the Amazon.
Day 5 – Farewell to the Jungle – Return to Puerto Maldonado
Farewell breakfast
Last breakfast at the lodge, enjoying the natural surroundings.
Short Walk
A brief walk through the surrounding area to take in the last views of the Amazonian landscapes.
Return Boat Trip
Motorboat trip to Puerto Maldonado, taking in the beauty of the river and the jungle.
End of the Tour
Arrival in Puerto Maldonado and transfer to the agreed-upon meeting point. End of our services.
INCLUDED
What’s Included?
Transportation and Transfers
Ground transfers in a 4×4 vehicle and boat trips on the Madre de Dios and Tambopata rivers.
Accommodations
4 nights in Amazonian eco-lodges with private rooms and en suite bathrooms.
Meals
4 breakfasts, 5 lunches, and 4 dinners featuring local produce, natural beverages, and purified water.
Excursions and Activities
Visits to the Chuncho and La Cachuela clay licks, Lake Sandoval, kayaking, and adventure activities.
Guide and Assistance
Specialized local guides and assistance throughout the tour.
Equipment
Rubber boots for the hikes.
NOT INCLUDED
What’s Not Included?
External Transportation
Airfare or ground transportation to and from Puerto Maldonado.
Personal Items
Insect repellent, sunscreen, flashlight, personal first-aid kit, and waterproof clothing.
Additional Services
Cell phone service, internet, alcoholic beverages, soft drinks, and personal snacks.
Insurance and Tips
Medical or travel insurance and tips for guides and service staff.
Personal Expenses
Purchases of handicrafts, souvenirs, and activities or services not included in the itinerary.
RECOMMENDATIONS
Recommedations
Before the Trip
Get plenty of rest, and be sure to bring your personal documents and any medications you take regularly. Get ready to enjoy an experience deep in the Amazon rainforest.
Clothing and Gear
Wear lightweight long-sleeved shirts, long pants, waterproof boots or sneakers, a hat, and a rain poncho.
Hikes and Excursions
Bring a bottle of water, insect repellent, and sunscreen. Wear appropriate footwear and always follow the guide’s instructions.
Evening Activities
Bring a headlamp with spare batteries to help you get around and enjoy evening activities.
Personal Care and Protection
Avoid strong perfumes, bring personal hygiene items, and use insect repellent to protect yourself from mosquitoes.
Unplugging and Relaxing
Keep in mind that some lodges do not have cell service or internet. Take advantage of the opportunity to disconnect and enjoy nature.
Health and Safety
Bring your personal medications, a power bank for your devices, and follow the guide’s recommendations throughout the tour.
Money and Personal Expenses
Bring cash in Peruvian soles for additional drinks, snacks, personal purchases, and other expenses, as there are no ATMs in the area.
FAQ's
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time of year to travel to Tambopata?
From April to October, during the dry season, although the jungle is greener from November to March.
How many macaws can you see at the Collpa Chuncho?
On days with the most activity, you can see between 50 and 200 macaws, parrots, and parakeets.
Are there a lot of mosquitoes?
Yes, since it’s a tropical area. We recommend bringing insect repellent and long-sleeved clothing.
Do I need any vaccinations?
The yellow fever vaccine is recommended, though not required.
Is there cell service or Wi-Fi?
Cell service and Wi-Fi are limited or nonexistent at most lodges.
What kind of food is served?
Amazonian dishes and Creole cuisine are offered, with special options available upon request.
Can I go fishing even if I have no experience?
Yes, fishing is easy and is done under the guidance of local guides.
What are the accommodations like?
The lodges feature private rooms, en suite bathrooms, comfortable beds, and mosquito nets.
Can I bring large luggage?
We recommend bringing a backpack or a medium-sized suitcase. Large luggage can be left in storage in Puerto Maldonado.