Chuncho Macaw Clay Clay Tour 5D/4N

🧭 Description

Explore the Tambopata National Reserve like never before on a 5-day, 4-night trip designed for those seeking authentic experiences, close contact with nature, and wildlife observation at its finest. From the colorful explosions of macaws at the Chuncho Clay Lick to the tranquility of Lake Sandoval, this tour will take you along off-the-beaten-track routes, through sustainable accommodations, and vibrant landscapes that pulse to the rhythm of the Madre de Dios River.

☀️Itinerary

✈️Day 1: Puerto Maldonado – Entrance to the Tambopata National Reserve – Amazon Lodge

• Meet and Greet

Upon arrival at the Puerto Maldonado airport or bus terminal, our team will greet you and transfer you to the main office for tour check-in. Here, you will receive a brief orientation about the Tambopata National Reserve, safety regulations, and itinerary details.

• Transfer to the Port and Navigation:

After check-in, we will depart for Puerto Tambopata, where we will begin a two-hour motorboat trip along the majestic Tambopata River. The trip is a breathtaking visual experience with jungle landscapes, exotic birds, and the possibility of spotting monkeys, toucans, or capybaras.

• Amazonian Wildlife Observation:

During the navigation, naturalist guides will share information about the rainforest ecosystems. You’ll admire giant trees, medicinal plants, and colorful birds in their natural habitat.

• Picnic Lunch:

Stop to enjoy a box lunch with fresh Amazonian ingredients: tropical fruits, meat or fish, and natural beverages.

• Entrance to the Tambopata National Reserve:

We will continue the journey until we reach the reserve checkpoint. From here, an interpretive walk begins along trails surrounded by orchids, bromeliads, and wild mushrooms.

• Arrival at the Amazon Lodge:

Upon arrival, you will be greeted with a refreshing juice made with local fruits. You can then settle into your eco-friendly bungalow and enjoy some free time to rest.

• Reconnaissance Walk:

In the afternoon, we will explore the lodge’s surroundings to observe morpho butterflies, hummingbirds, and small mammals.

• Amazon Dinner and Night Safari:

After a delicious dinner with typical jungle dishes, we will begin a night safari to observe frogs, bats, tarantulas, and caimans. A unique experience surrounded by the natural sounds of the jungle.

🦜Day 2: Macaw Watching at the Chuncho Clay Lick and Kayak Adventure

• Early Wake Up and Amazonian Coffee:

We start the day very early with organic coffee and light snacks to take advantage of sunrise, the best time for birdwatching.

• Navigation to the Chuncho Clay Lick:

We embark on a 1-hour and 30-minute journey along the Tambopata River to reach the famous Chuncho Clay Lick, home to hundreds of macaws, parrots, and parakeets that color the sky with their flight.

• Birdwatching:

From a safe platform, you can observe this natural spectacle while guides explain their behavior and the ecological importance of the site.

• Breakfast in front of the Clay Lick:

We will enjoy a rustic breakfast with fruit, natural juices, artisan bread, and Amazonian coffee.

• Interpretive Walk:

Guided tour along the trails near the clay lick, where you can see orchids, wild mushrooms, and animals such as monkeys and sloths.

• Return to the lodge and Amazonian lunch:

Return by boat to the lodge to enjoy a traditional lunch: fish wrapped in bijao leaves, rice with chestnuts, and fresh salads.

• Kayaking Adventure:

In the afternoon, you will enjoy an unforgettable experience kayaking along the Tambopata River, surrounded by unspoiled nature and aquatic birds. Weather permitting, you can swim in safe areas.

• Amazonian Dinner:

In the evening, a traditional and nutritious dinner awaits you: juane, tacacho with cured meat, and local fruits.

🦢Day 3: Sandoval Lake – Hanging Bridge and Zip-Line

• Energizing Breakfast:

We’ll start early with a hearty and nutritious breakfast before heading to Sandoval Lake.

• Boat Transfer:

We’ll sail for 1 hour along the Madre de Dios River until we reach the reserve entrance. Along the way, we’ll be able to observe capybaras, herons, and cormorants.

• Hiking to Sandoval Lake:

A 3 km journey (approximately 1 hour) through the Amazon rainforest, where you’ll see giant trees and tropical flora.

• Traditional Canoe Ride:

Upon reaching the lake, we’ll enjoy a canoe ride where you’ll be able to see giant otters, caimans, turtles, and exotic birds.

• Box Lunch:

We’ll enjoy a natural lunch in front of the lake, surrounded by the most iconic landscapes of the Peruvian rainforest.

• Amazon Canopy and Zip-Line:

In the afternoon, you’ll experience an adrenaline-filled experience crossing hanging bridges and gliding down a 200-meter zip line through the trees.

• Amazon Sunset and Dinner:

Return to the lodge to enjoy a beautiful sunset and a dinner with fresh fish, yucca, and tropical desserts.

• Optional Night Safari:

If you wish, you can participate in a night walk to observe insects, tarantulas, and listen to the sounds of the Amazonian night.

🌴Day 4: Lake Sandoval Exploration – Wildlife Watching – Amazon Campfire

• Sunrise with the sounds of the jungle:

Enjoy a natural awakening with birdsong and an Amazonian coffee.

• Birdwatching:

From a strategic vantage point, you can observe macaws, toucans, parrots, and herons in their natural habitat.

• Lakefront Breakfast:

Full breakfast with a panoramic view of Lake Sandoval, ideal for connecting with nature.

• Guided Hike:

Interpretive tour along the lake’s trails, with the opportunity to see monkeys, coatis, iguanas, and morpho butterflies.

• Boat Ride and Lunch:

Explore the quieter areas of the lake by boat. Then, enjoy a traditional lunch with local products.

• Free Afternoon and River Cruise:

Relax in hammocks or take a boat ride on the Tambopata River to observe the sunset and wildlife.

• Amazon Dinner and Campfire:

Light dinner followed by a group campfire where guides will share stories and traditions of the native communities of the Amazon.

🎣Day 5: Farewell to the Amazon Rainforest – Return to Puerto Maldonado

• Wake up and final breakfast:

Last sunrise in the rainforest with an Amazon breakfast and panoramic views.

• Short farewell walk:

Final walk to enjoy the natural surroundings and take last photographs.

• Return boat trip:

Approximately 2-hour trip downriver to Puerto Maldonado.

• Arrival in the city and transfer:

Time to pack your luggage and visit local shops selling Amazonian handicrafts before transfer to the airport or terminal.

• End of the Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick Tour:

We bid you farewell with unforgettable memories of the Tambopata National Reserve, Lake Sandoval, and the magic of the Peruvian rainforest.

✅ What’s included in the tour?

🧭 Transportation and transfers

1. 🚐 Transfer from the airport or bus terminal in Puerto Maldonado.
2. 🚙 Transportation by 4×4 vehicle to the community of Filadelfia.
3. 🛶 River navigation by motorized boat on the Madre de Dios and Tambopata Rivers.

🏕️ Eco-friendly accommodation

1. 🛏️ 4 nights in sustainable Amazonian lodges.
2. 🌿 Private rooms with comfortable beds, private bathrooms, mosquito nets, and natural ventilation.

🍽️ All meals

1. 🍳 4 nutritious breakfasts with local products.
2. 🥘 5 traditional Amazonian lunches.
3. 🍲 4 dinners prepared with regional ingredients.
4. 💧 Purified water, hot infusions, and natural drinks.

🌳 Included Activities

1. 🦜 Macaw watching at the Chuncho Clay Lick, the most impressive in the area.
2. 🦢 Parrot watching at the La Cachuela clay lick.
3. 🛶 Canoeing on Lake Sandoval.
4. 🛶 Kayaking on the Madre de Dios River.
5. 🌉 Adventure activities: canopy walk and panoramic tower (optional).
6. 🔥 Themed evening with a campfire, local legends, and survival techniques.

👨‍🏫 Professional service

1. 👨‍🔬 Local guides specialized in ecotourism and wildlife.
2. 👣 Rubber hiking boots.
3. 🆘 Permanent assistance throughout the tour.

❌ What’s not included?

Although this is a complete package, there are services you must arrange on your own:

• ✈️Airfare or ground transportation to/from Puerto Maldonado.
• 🧴Personal items such as insect repellent, sunscreen, a flashlight, or a personal first-aid kit.
• 🧥Rain gear, a rain poncho, or a raincoat.
• 📶Mobile phone or internet services (not available at the lodges).
• 🍻Alcoholic beverages, soft drinks, and personal snacks.
• 💼Medical or travel insurance (highly recommended).
• 💸Tips for guides, boatmen, or service staff (optional).
• 🛍️Personal purchases such as handicrafts, souvenirs, or local items.
• 💡Activities outside the itinerary or extra services requested during the trip.

🌟 Recommendations

🎒 What to bring?

• 👕Lightweight, long-sleeved clothing: Protects from the sun and mosquitoes. Choose neutral colors to avoid scaring animals.
• 👖Long trekking pants or sturdy fabric: ideal for hikes in the humid jungle.
• 👟Waterproof shoes or boots: The terrain can be muddy or slippery.
• 🧥Rain poncho or raincoat: essential, especially between November and March.
• 🧢Hat or cap, sunglasses, and organic sunscreen.
• 💧Reusable bottle or canteen: This will keep you hydrated during your hikes.
• 🦟Insect repellent with DEET or a natural formula.
• 🔦Headlamp with extra batteries: essential for nighttime activities or power outages.
• 📷Camera or cell phone with an external battery (power bank) to capture the best moments.
• 🏊Swimwear and a microfiber towel, in case you want to swim in the lake or streams.

🧠 Practical Tips

• ❌Avoid perfumes and deodorants with strong fragrances: they can attract insects or disrupt wildlife behavior.
• 📵Be prepared to disconnect from the digital world: many lodges don’t have a signal or internet connection.
• 🗺️Always follow the guide’s instructions, especially during hikes and birdwatching.
• 💬Ask everything you want to know: the guides are experts and are there to enrich your experience.
• 💤Get plenty of rest before your trip: the jungle is wonderful, but it requires energy.
• 💸Bring cash in Peruvian soles, as there are no ATMs in the area.
• 🧴Bring personal or regular medications, such as pain relievers, anti-inflammatories, or stomach pills

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

🗓️ What is the best time to travel to Tambopata?

The ideal time is between April and October, during the dry season. The trails are more accessible and there are better conditions for wildlife viewing. However, the rainy season (November to March) offers a greener, more active, and more vibrant jungle.

🦜 How many macaws can you see at the Chuncho Clay Lick?

During the peak days (between July and November), you can see between 50 and 200 macaws, parrots, and parakeets feeding at the same time. It is one of the greatest natural spectacles in the Peruvian Amazon.

🦟 Are there many mosquitoes in the area?

Yes. As this is a tropical region, the presence of insects is natural. By wearing appropriate clothing and insect repellent, you can avoid bites and enjoy the outdoors without discomfort. The lodges provide mosquito nets on all beds.

💉 Do I need any vaccinations to enter?

No vaccinations are required, but the yellow fever vaccine is recommended. It’s also advisable to be up-to-date with your tetanus vaccination. Consult your health center before traveling.

📶 Will I have access to a signal or internet during the tour?

No. Most lodges in this area of ​​Tambopata don’t have cell phone coverage or Wi-Fi. This is a perfect opportunity to disconnect and connect with nature.

🍽️ What type of food is served during the tour?

The food is varied, fresh, and local. Amazonian dishes and Peruvian Creole food are included, with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options available upon request.

🎣 Can I participate in fishing even if I have no experience?

Yes! Fishing is easy and supervised by local guides. We use traditional Amazonian techniques and handcrafted fishing rods. It’s common to catch piranhas, sardines, and catfish in the river’s small tributaries.

🛏️ How comfortable are the accommodations?

The lodges included in this tour are built with sustainable materials, surrounded by nature, and feature private rooms, private bathrooms, comfortable beds, mosquito nets, and warm service from local communities.

🧳 Can I bring large luggage?

It’s recommended to bring only the essentials in a backpack or medium-sized suitcase. If you bring large luggage, you can leave it in safekeeping in Puerto Maldonado at no additional cost.