2D Tour of the Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick | Tambopata, Puerto Maldonado

🧭 Description

Embark on an unforgettable experience through the deep jungle of Tambopata, where the biodiversity and silence of the forest envelop you from the very first moment. This two-day tour takes you to explore one of Peru’s most amazing natural sanctuaries: the Chuncho Clay Lick, famous for its congregation of dozens of macaws that paint the sky with their colors every morning.

The journey begins in Puerto Maldonado, where you enter the heart of the forest along the Tambopata River. You’ll stay in an eco-lodge in the heart of the jungle, from where you’ll embark on guided hikes, climb a canopy tower with views of the Amazonian canopy, and take night walks to observe caimans amidst shadows and reflections.

The highlight of the trip comes at dawn on the second day, when you silently witness the daily ritual of the macaws feeding on the clay walls of the clay lick. Accompanied by a naturalist guide, you’ll learn about their behavior, their ecological value, and the magic of this balanced ecosystem.

🦜 Detailed Itinerary

Explore the deep jungle, experience a sunset from high in the Amazonian canopy, and witness Peru’s most colorful natural spectacle: the macaw clay lick.

🌿 Day 1: Living Rainforest, Hike Among Giants, and Night Caiman Watch

🚐 Pickup in Puerto Maldonado
We welcome you and depart by vehicle for the Tambopata National Reserve. The road takes you from the city to the wilderness.

🛶 Navigation on the Tambopata River
We board a motorized boat and begin our journey deeper into the jungle. During the journey, you may see capybaras, shorebirds, and herons on the riverbanks.

🏡 Arrival at the eco-lodge
Located in the heart of the jungle, we welcome you with a welcome drink and settle into a cozy room surrounded by nature.

🥾 Amazon Rainforest Hike
After lunch, we explore trails surrounded by towering trees, vines, and dense vegetation. With luck, you’ll spot capuchin monkeys, butterflies, tropical birds, or tapir footprints.

🌅 Sunset View from the Canopy Tower
We climb one of Tambopata’s highest observation towers, where you’ll see the forest from above. The sunset here is unforgettable: the sky turns golden over the jungle canopy.

🌌 Nighttime Caiman Boat Tour
At night, we return to the river to search for white and black caimans. Using flashlights, we spot their glowing eyes and listen to the sounds of the forest in the darkness.

🍽️ Dinner and Rest
We close the day with dinner at the lodge and a restful sleep amidst the sounds of the living rainforest.

🦜 Day 2: Macaws, Amazonian Museum, and Return with a Soul Full of Jungle Experience

🛶 River Trip to the Chuncho Clay Lick
We embark again on the Tambopata River to reach one of the most impressive spectacles in the Amazon: the Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick.

🦜 Macaw Observation at the Clay Lick
From a safe vantage point, you’ll see dozens of red, green, and blue-and-yellow macaws, parrots, and parakeets arrive to feed on the mineral clay. Their colors and songs make the jungle vibrate.

🍛 Lunch at the Lodge
We return to the eco-lodge to enjoy a typical Amazonian lunch with local ingredients.

🚐 Return to Puerto Maldonado
We take the boat back, then land transportation to the city. We arrive with our hearts full of nature, incredible photos, and memories that will last a lifetime.

✅ What does the 2-Day Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick Tour include?

This tour has been carefully designed to offer you a complete, safe, and worry-free experience, surrounded by nature, comfort, and adventure.

🧭 Bilingual naturalist guide (Spanish – English)
Throughout the tour, you will be accompanied by a local guide specializing in wildlife, tropical birds, and Amazonian ecology, who will enrich your experience with fascinating facts and first-hand observation.

🛶 River and land transportation included

1. Land transfers from Puerto Maldonado to the pier.
2. Round-trip motorized boat rides on the Tambopata River.
3. Caiman and macaw observation trips.

🏡 Accommodation in an eco-lodge (1 night)

1. Private or shared rooms based on availability.
2. Mosquito nets, comfortable beds, and a 100% natural environment.
3. Integrated into the forest, with basic and sustainable services.

🍽️ All-inclusive meals

1. Lunch and dinner on the first day.
2. Breakfast and lunch on the second day.
3. Menus with fresh produce, vegetarian options, or adapted options by prior arrangement.

🥾 Guided excursions included

1. Jungle hike to observe flora and fauna.
2. Climb a canopy tower with a panoramic view of the forest.
3. Nighttime boat ride to see caimans.
4. Excursion to the Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick, one of Peru’s most prominent natural spectacles.

🎟️ Entrance fees and official permits

Authorized access to the Tambopata National Reserve.
Admission to the macaw clay lick and interpretation museum.

🩺 Basic first aid kit
The guide carries a first aid kit for minor emergencies such as bites, cuts, or minor ailments.

🥤 Welcome drink at the lodge
A refreshing juice or natural infusion upon arrival to acclimatize you to the jungle environment.

❌ What’s not included in the tour?

Although the tour is very comprehensive, there are certain personal items or additional services that you should consider bringing at your own expense:

🍹 Alcoholic or bottled beverages
Sodas, beers, or specialty drinks are not included. You can purchase them at the lodge if available.

💵 Voluntary tips
Tips for the guide, cook, or lodge staff are not included, but are welcome as a token of appreciation for their service.

🎒 Personal equipment

1. Binoculars, camera, or photography accessories.
2. Small backpack or daypack for hiking.
3. Rain poncho or raincoat.
4. Headlamp or flashlight.
5. Personal hygiene items (soap, shampoo, toilet paper, etc.).
6. Insect repellent, sunscreen, and reusable bottles.

✈️ Flights or transportation to Puerto Maldonado
This package starts and ends in the city of Puerto Maldonado. Flights, buses, or taxis from Cusco or Lima are not included, although we can help you with recommendations.

📶 Internet connection or mobile signal
Most lodges in Tambopata do not have Wi-Fi or a mobile signal. Prepare to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with nature.

🧴 Personal travel insurance
Although the tour follows safety protocols, it is recommended to have travel insurance as a precaution.

🌟 Recommendations for the Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick Tour

🎒 Bring a comfortable and light backpack
For hikes and river trips, it’s ideal to have a small backpack with your essentials: water, camera, insect repellent, poncho, and snacks.

🥾 Wear jungle-appropriate clothing
Long-sleeved clothing, lightweight pants, quick-drying shirts, and comfortable underwear. Neutral colors are recommended to avoid scaring the wildlife.

🌧️ Prepare for the tropical climate
Pack a waterproof poncho, waterproof bags to protect your belongings, and an extra change of clothes in case it rains. The Amazonian humidity is constant.

🦟 Protect your skin from insects and the sun
Bring eco-friendly insect repellent with DEET, biodegradable sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses. The jungle is intense but wonderful!

🔦 Don’t forget your headlamp or flashlight
The lodge has limited power. A flashlight is essential at night, especially if you’re hiking or transferring within the lodge.

📸 Binoculars and a camera are your best allies
To make the most of bird and macaw watching, it’s recommended to bring binoculars. Also, bring your camera or cell phone with extra battery.

💧 Stay hydrated
Bring your reusable bottle. The lodge provides purified water, and staying hydrated in the hot and humid environment is key.

📵 Disconnect to reconnect
There’s no mobile signal or internet. Let your contacts know in advance and enjoy an authentic experience, far from the digital noise.

🤝 Respect the jungle and its inhabitants
Do not feed animals, do not touch the wildlife, and always follow the guide’s instructions. Your respect helps preserve this unique ecosystem.

🧼 Bring your personal toiletries
Include soap, a small towel, shampoo, a toothbrush, and toilet paper. Many lodges don’t include these due to environmental policies.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

🟢 Do I need previous experience to take this tour?
No, it’s suitable for everyone. The walks are gentle, and the pace is adjusted by the guide. You just need an adventurous spirit and a desire to enjoy nature.

🟢 What animals can I see during the tour?
The tour offers great chances to see macaws, parrots, caimans, capybaras, monkeys, herons, toucans, and otters, as well as butterflies and exotic insects.

🟢 How many macaws can be seen at the clay lick?
The number varies depending on the season and weather, but on good days, it’s possible to see dozens of vibrantly colored macaws feeding together. It’s one of the best natural spectacles in the Amazon.

🟢 Is the tour safe?
Yes, the guides are trained in first aid, the boats have life jackets, and safety and conservation protocols are followed throughout all activities.

🟢 Is it recommended for children?
Yes, especially if they are curious and enjoy nature. It is recommended for children 6 years and older, always accompanied by responsible adults.

🟢 Is a yellow fever vaccination required?
It is not mandatory, but it is especially recommended if you are coming from other jungle destinations or plan to visit Brazil or Bolivia afterwards. Consult your doctor.

🟢 What type of food is offered at the lodge?
Typical Amazonian dishes, healthy and adaptable. If you have a special diet (vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free), please inform us at the time of booking.

🟢 What happens if it rains during the tour?
Rain is part of the experience. Activities are adapted, and sightings often increase during or after rain. The jungle never stops!