SUMMARY
Amazon Peru Macaw Clay Lick 2 days
Guided Hikes & Night Walks
Explore jungle trails with experienced local guides who will reveal the secrets of the Amazon’s flora and fauna. As night falls, venture into the forest with flashlights for a guided night walk, where nocturnal creatures like frogs, insects, and night monkeys awaken.
Parrot Clay Lick (Optional Upgrade)
Upgrade your experience to include an early morning visit to a nearby parrot clay lick, where dozens of parrots and macaws gather to feed on mineral-rich soil — a truly unforgettable spectacle of color and sound.
Amazon Peru Macaw Clay Lick – A Complete Tour of Breathtaking Biodiversity of Amazon Peru Macaw Clay . Witness the Unforgettable Spectacle of Hundreds of Birds and Mammals Gathering at the Chuncho Clay Lick, a Natural Wonder in Tambopata Reserve. An Enriching Journey with Diverse Species and Pristine Wilderness Await
Amazon Peru Macaw Clay Lick 2 days
- Length: 2 Days/1 Nights Macaw Clay Lick
- Location: Southern Peru, Madre de Dios Department, Puerto Maldonado
- Type of service: Private or Group in the Travel
- Start Point : Pick-up from the Hotel/Airbnb/Aiport or Bus Terminal in Puerto Maldonado
- Ending Point: Drop off the Hotel/Airport or Bus Terminal in Puerto Maldonado
- Departure: Every Day
- Activities: Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick, Hiking, Tambopata Reserve, Sunrise and Sunset Photography, Night walk , Bird Watching , Long Walk in the Trips ,Amazon Rainforest Sunrise and Sunset
- Altitude: 182 – m.a.s.l.
- Best time to visit:March – November
- Accomodation :1 night in Our Lodge rivate Room with Mosquito Nets, Private Showers and Bathrooms .
- Meals .1 Breakfast /1 Lunch /1 Dinner
- Tour Guides Professional bilingual local guide (well-equipped with guiding gear)
- Minimum of participants: 2
Maximum of participants: 07
Amazon Peru Macaw Clay Lick 2 days .
This itinerary Amazon Peru Macaw Clay Lick captures the essence of each day’s activities, offering travelers a memorable adventure in the Amazon rainforest. captures the essence of each day’s activities, offering travelers a memorable adventure in the Amazon rainforest.
Amazon Peru Lake Sandoval has a healthy and thriving population ofendangered giant river otters, making it one of the best places to observe this endangered creature. where you can see wildlife such as black caimans, turtles, monkeys and all kinds of birds. The trails lead to the lake from part of the Amazon Trips.
Tour Day 1: Arrival and Rainforest Exploration -Amazon Peru Macaw Clay Lick
Pickup: Seamless pickup from Puerto Maldonado bus terminal or airport.
Transfer: To the tour office for registration and essential information.
Jungle Journey: Private 4X4 ride to Tambopata port, followed by a boat ride along the Tambopata River.
Wildlife Spotting: Opportunities to see various species including birds, capybaras, sloths, turtles, and alligators.
Lodge Arrival: Welcome drink and settling into rooms at Tambopata Lodge Inn.
Afternoon Exploration: Jungle walk through tropical and primary forests, observing diverse vegetation and wildlife.
Night Activity: River Boat tour along the Tambopata Tour , spotting nocturnal creatures such as alligators, birds, and mammals.
Accommodation: Comfortable lodging at Tambopata Lodge Inn.
Tour Day 2: Macaw Clay Lick and Return
Early Start: Rise at 5:00 am for a hot drink before boarding the boat for a 1.5-hour journey along the Tambopata River.
River Exploration: Keep watch for coastal birds, capybaras, and potentially jaguars or anacondas.
Macaw Clay Lick: Witness the vibrant spectacle of hundreds of macaws, parakeets, and parrots feasting on mineral-rich clay.
Breakfast: Enjoy a delightful breakfast during the mesmerizing macaw activity.
Return Journey: Boat ride back to the lodge with a brief stop at the checkpoint for insight into a small museum.
Afternoon Activities: Refreshing dip in the Tambopata stream, lunch at the lodge, followed by fishing at Gato stream and a visit to a local farm.
Return to Puerto Maldonado: Boat ride downriver and car ride back to Puerto Maldonado terrestrial terminal.
Conclusion: End of the tour with memorable experiences of Amazon Peru, particularly the remarkable Macaw Clay Lick.
FAQ for Amazon Peru Macaw Clay Lick Tour
1. What is the Amazon Peru Macaw Clay Lick Tour?
The Amazon Peru Macaw Clay Lick Tour is a guided, multi-day adventure that takes visitors through the dense jungles of the Tambopata region in Peru, culminating in a visit to the famous Macaw Clay Lick. The tour offers an immersive experience in the Amazon rainforest, with opportunities to witness diverse wildlife, including macaws, capybaras, jaguars, and more, while exploring the unique ecosystem and cultural aspects of the region.
2. How do I get to the starting point of the tour Amazon Peru Macaw Clay Lick ?
The tour begins with a pickup from either the bus terminal or the airport in Puerto Maldonado, where you’ll be transferred to the tour office for registration. From there, you’ll embark on a 4×4 ride, followed by a boat trip along the Tambopata River to your lodge.
3. What should I bring for the tour?
You only need to bring the essentials for your tour. Personal items, such as toiletries, clothing for jungle exploration, and any necessary medication, are recommended. You can store your remaining belongings at the tour office for safekeeping.
4. What wildlife will I see during the tour?
Throughout the tour, you will have the opportunity to see a wide variety of Amazonian wildlife, including macaws, capybaras, sloths, turtles, sunbathing alligators, monkeys, frogs, and more. You may also spot nocturnal animals like ocelots and jaguars on the night boat excursion.
5. What is the Macaw Clay Lick and why is it important?
The Macaw Clay Lick is a natural site where hundreds of macaws and other bird species gather daily to feed on mineral-rich clay. This clay helps neutralize toxins and acids in the birds’ diet. The spectacle of colorful macaws in flight and perched on the cliffs is a highlight of the tour and offers an unforgettable wildlife experience.
6. What activities are included in the tour?
The tour includes:
- A boat ride along the Tambopata River
Exploration of tropical and primary forests
A visit to the Macaw Clay Lick to observe birds
A jungle walk to observe flora and fauna
A night boat ride for wildlife viewing
Fishing at the Gato stream
A visit to a local farm for cultural insights
7. How long will we spend at the Amazon Peru Macaw Clay Lick ?
You will have the opportunity to witness the Macaw Clay Lick from 6:30 am to 11:30 am, giving you ample time to observe the birds’ behavior and the vibrant spectacle of hundreds of macaws and other species feeding on the clay Amazon Peruvian .
8. What is the accommodation like?
Accommodation is provided in comfortable lodges along the Tambopata River. These lodges offer a peaceful environment for rest after a day of exploration, with basic amenities and a welcoming atmosphere.
9. Are meals provided during the tour?
Yes, meals are provided throughout the tour, including a breakfast during the Macaw Clay Lick visit, as well as lunch and dinner at the lodge. Expect traditional Peruvian cuisine, including fresh fish, rice, and tropical fruits.
10. How physically demanding is the tour?
The tour involves moderate physical activity, including jungle walks and boat rides. It’s recommended that participants are in reasonable physical health and comfortable with outdoor activities like walking through the rainforest and navigating river waters.
11. What happens on Day 2 of the tour Amazon Peru Macaw Clay Lick ?
On Day 2, the tour begins early with a boat ride to the Macaw Clay Lick, followed by a stop at a checkpoint and a museum. Afterward, the group heads back to the lodge, where you’ll enjoy a swim in the Tambopata stream, lunch, and fishing at the Gato stream. The day concludes with a boat ride and a 2-hour car journey back to Puerto Maldonado.
12. How do we return to Puerto Maldonado?
At the end of the second day, you will take a 40-minute boat ride down the Tambopata River, followed by a 2-hour and 40-minute car ride to the terrestrial terminal in Puerto Maldonado.
ITINERARY
Amazon Peru Macaw Clay Lick .
Why Visit Amazon Peru Today?
Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, eco-tourist, or someone passionate about environmental sustainability, the Amazon Peru offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience the true heart of the jungle. From witnessing the stunning Macaw Clay Lick to observing the incredible biodiversity, every moment spent in the Amazon is a chance to connect with nature and contribute to its conservation.
Tour Day 1:From Puerto Maldonado to Tambopata Lodge Inn,Amazon Peru Macaw Clay Lick .
Amazon Peru Macaw Clay Lick – Ensure your seamless pickup from the bus terminal or airport. After a quick transfer to our office for the trips amazon peru macaw clay , you’ll register and receive essential tour information. Store your belongings and take only what you need for our Amazon Peru tour.
Our journey kicks off with a private 4X4 ride through the lush jungle, around 1 hours and 40 minutes to the Tambopata port. Here, our Amazon tour’s outboard boat awaits, and we’ll set sail along the Tambopata river. En route, you’ll spot various species – from birds to capybaras, sloths, turtles, and sunbathing alligators on fallen logs.
Upon reaching our hostel, enjoy a welcome drink and settle into your rooms. Embark on a jungle exploration, a walk through tropical and primary forests. Marvel at the diverse vegetation – towering trees, lianas, vines, and medicinal plants. Encounter a vibrant array of creatures, from butterflies to toads, frogs, monkeys, and birds.
Our day continues with a night activity. Board our boat for a remarkable experience along the Tambopata river. Witness black and white alligators, nocturnal birds, and both large and small mammals. The guide’s expertise enhances our chances of spotting capybaras, ocelots, or even a jaguar, hunting near the riverbanks. This tour promises surprises aplenty.
After an eventful day, return to our comfortable hostel for a peaceful night’s rest in your respective rooms.”
Tour day 2:
Puerto Maldonado – Airport – Bus Stations.
Amazon Peru Macaw Clay Lick – After a restful night’s sleep, we rise early at 5:00 am, preparing for an exciting day ahead. A steaming cup of hot drink fuels us up for the adventure. We board the outboard boat and begin our journey down the Tambopata River, a captivating 1 hour and 30 minutes of exploration. Our first stop is the checkpoint, where we register before continuing upstream.
As the sun graces us with a stunning sunrise, we keep watch for coastal birds, capybaras, and perhaps even the elusive white alligators. Luck may grant us a glimpse of the King of the Jungle, the jaguar, or the impressive anaconda, either on the riverbanks or nestled along the shores.
Our destination awaits – a captivating spectacle where nature takes center stage. Hundreds of macaws in vibrant shades of green, red, blue, and yellow, along with parakeets and green parrots, create a lively display of flight and noise. This ritual is a fascinating behavior, as these birds gather daily to feast on the mineral-rich, salty clay of the cliff. This clay helps neutralize the acids and toxins present in their diet of green fruits, seeds, and plants. From 6:30 am to 11:30 am, we’ll immerse ourselves in this mesmerizing performance while enjoying a delightful breakfast.
Following this enchanting activity, we embark on a boat journey back to our Amazon lodge.
A brief stop at the checkpoint offers insight into a small museum. Once at the lodge, a refreshing dip in the Tambopata stream rejuvenates us. After a satisfying lunch, we head 30 minutes downstream to the Gato stream for fishing – catfish, sardines, and smallmouth among our potential catches. The crystal-clear waters of the stream provide the perfect opportunity for a cooling swim.
A short walk offers insights into the local farm, enriching our understanding of the region. Eventually, we begin our return journey to Puerto Maldonado. A 40-minute boat ride downriver precedes a 2-hour and 40-minute car ride. Our journey concludes as we reach the terrestrial terminal, having experienced the wonders of Amazon Peru, particularly the remarkable Macaw Clay Lick.”
INCLUDED (NOT)
What is Included in the Tours Amazon Peru Macaw Clay Lick
This trip will offer you everything you need to enjoy biodiversity and nature at its best. Among the activities and services included, the following stand out:
- Private transportation ( Outboard boat) to the most remote areas of the Tambopata Reserved.
Specialized bilingual guides (English, Spanish) who will accompany you throughout the tour and provide you with valuable information about the local fauna, flora and geography.
Accommodation 1 in our ecological lodges in the middle of the jungle very comfortable with hot showers and bathrooms.
Meals 1 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 1 dinners, drinking water (vegetarian options available upon request).
A Unique Journey that Will Connect You with Nature
If you are a traveler in search of adventure and want to discover a place where nature is the true protagonist, the Manu National Park is the perfect destination.
Not only will you have the opportunity to explore one of the most biodiverse regions in the world, but you will also contribute to the conservation of this vital ecosystem.
First aid kit (including snakebite antidote and venom extractor).
Life jackets,
rubber boots
radio communications for your safety.
Not Included in the Amazonia Peru Macaw Clay :
- Any flight nor airport departure taxes ;
- Travel insurance ;
- Vaccination;
- Breakfast on the first day and Last day Lunch
- Drinks;
- Tips to local staff.
- Entrance fees to the Tambopata Reserve
What you Need to Bring to Rainforest Macaw Clay :
- Mosquito repellent (DEET 35 recommended as a MINIMUM!!),
- Original passport,
- Small backpack ,
- Long sleeved cotton shirts (preferably green coloured),
- Long cotton trousers,
- Cotton long socks (to be put into your trousers),
- Comfortable walking shoes,
- Sandals or light shoes ,
- Rain gear (e.g. rain poncho) ,
- Toiletries,
- Swimsuits;
- Binoculars (we also rent it),
- Camera and its charger,
- Plastic bags to be used for clothes and a camera,
- A hat as a protection against the Sun or rain,
- Small towel,
- Toilet paper,
- Sun cream,
- Sunglasses,
- Flashlight (with spare bulb and batteries),
- A bottled water (1 litre as a minimum),
- Pocket money (Soles) to buy some beverages and souvenirs as well as to tip.
GALLERY LODGE
Discover the Parrot Clay Lick in Tambopata: A Wildlife Spectacle in the Peruvian Amazon
Meta Description:
Looking for a unique Amazon adventure? Discover the Parrot Clay Lick in Tambopata, Peru — a colorful wildlife experience where hundreds of parrots and macaws gather in a dazzling natural ritual.
Have You Ever Witnessed a Jungle Symphony of Color and Sound?
If you’re planning a trip to Peru or are a nature enthusiast looking for your next adventure, the Parrot Clay Lick in Tambopata is a hidden gem that deserves a top spot on your travel bucket list. Nestled deep in the Peruvian Amazon, this extraordinary natural phenomenon is not just visually stunning — it’s also scientifically fascinating.
Each morning, as the mist rises over the rainforest canopy, flocks of parrots and macaws descend on exposed riverbanks to feast on clay — turning the jungle into a riot of vibrant feathers and echoing calls. But what draws them there? And why is this place so vital to Amazonian wildlife?
Let’s dive into the heart of the jungle and find out.
What Is a Clay Lick (Collpa) and Why Is It Important?
In local Quechua, the word collpa refers to a place where animals gather to consume clay-rich soil. These sites are naturally occurring and mineral-rich, providing essential nutrients — like sodium, calcium, and magnesium — that are often missing from the tropical diet.
For birds such as macaws, parrots, parakeets, and even mammals like tapirs and peccaries, these clay licks are nature’s pharmacy. The minerals help neutralize toxins ingested from seeds and fruits, aid digestion, and boost their immune systems.
These natural mineral buffets are crucial not only for wildlife health but also for understanding the complex web of life that exists in the Amazon rainforest.
The Parrot Clay Lick in Tambopata: Nature’s Living Canvas
One of the most breathtaking places to witness this phenomenon is in the Tambopata National Reserve, located in the Madre de Dios region of southeastern Peru.
Every morning, especially during the dry season, hundreds of birds gather at the Parrot Clay Lick, creating a dazzling display of movement and sound. With feathers in every imaginable shade — emerald green, cobalt blue, fiery red — the sight is as mesmerizing as a rainforest rainbow.
The air buzzes with calls, squawks, and wingbeats — a true jungle symphony that awakens all your senses. It’s not just a visual treat but a once-in-a-lifetime encounter with the raw, unfiltered power of nature.
Sister Clay Licks of the Amazon: Explore More Wildlife Wonders
The Parrot Clay Lick is just the beginning. The Tambopata region boasts several other clay licks — each with its own unique cast of characters and ecological importance.
1. Macaw Clay Lick – Tambopata
This is where you’ll see the larger-than-life macaws, especially scarlet, blue-and-yellow, and red-and-green macaws, in impressive numbers. These magnificent birds are not just larger — they’re louder, bolder, and more dramatic in their morning performances.
2. Cachuela Parrot Clay Lick
Located near Puerto Maldonado, this lesser-known site is perfect for early risers seeking a more intimate birdwatching experience. Here, you can see multiple species of parrots and parakeets up close, all within a peaceful setting away from bigger tourist crowds.
3. Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick
One of the largest and most remote clay licks in the region, Chuncho is known for its diversity and the chance to spot the elusive blue-headed macaws, a rare and endangered species. A longer boat ride is required, but the rewards are immense for dedicated bird lovers and wildlife photographers.
4. Colorado Macaw Clay Lick
This remote clay lick is a feast of color, dominated by the scarlet macaw — whose deep reds and golden yellows light up the early morning jungle like a tropical sunrise. It’s a great location for extended eco-lodge stays and in-depth wildlife tours.
Why Do Parrots and Macaws Eat Clay?
It may seem strange, but eating clay is essential for the survival of these birds. Here’s why:
- Mineral Supplementation: Tropical fruits and seeds, though abundant, often lack key minerals. Clay licks provide these nutrients in concentrated form.
- Detoxification: Many rainforest plants contain mild toxins. The minerals in the clay bind to these toxins and help birds process their diets safely.
- Social Behavior: Clay licks are also key social spaces. Birds use the opportunity to find mates, establish territory, and communicate within species groups.
- In essence, these are not just feeding grounds — they’re community hubs in the avian world.
Best Time to Visit Tambopata’s Clay Licks
The ideal time to plan your Amazon adventure is during the dry season, which runs from April to November. During this period:
- Birds gather in greater numbers.
- Clay licks are more exposed and accessible.
- Wildlife sightings are more predictable and frequent.
- Rainy season (December to March) can still be rewarding, but heavy rains may reduce visibility and accessibility to clay lick sites.
How to Visit the Parrot Clay Lick in Tambopata
Step 1: Fly into Puerto Maldonado
Puerto Maldonado is the gateway to Tambopata. Regular flights are available from Lima or Cusco.
Step 2: Travel by Boat into the Jungle
From the airport, you’ll travel by road and then by motorized canoe along the Tambopata or Madre de Dios rivers. Many lodges include transportation as part of their tour packages.
Step 3: Choose a Jungle Lodge or Guided Tour
Stay at an eco-lodge or join a multi-day tour that includes guided visits to the main clay licks. Expert naturalists will help you spot birds and understand their behaviors.
Tips for Visiting the Clay Licks
- Arrive early: Birds are most active from 5:30 AM to 8:00 AM.
- Bring binoculars and a zoom lens for the best views and photos.
- Wear muted colors: Bright clothing can disturb wildlife.
- Stay quiet and still: Noise can scare away birds.
- Pack insect repellent, waterproof gear, and sun protection.
- Final Thoughts: Experience the Magic of the Amazon
The Parrot Clay Lick in Tambopata is more than just a tourist attraction — it’s a rare chance to witness one of nature’s purest spectacles in the heart of the Amazon rainforest.
Whether you’re a seasoned birdwatcher, an eco-traveler, or simply curious about the natural world, this experience promises to transform the way you see wildlife and connect you deeply with the rhythms of the jungle.
So, are you ready to wake up to the sounds of macaws and step into a living painting of feathers and foliage?
Travel map of Jungle Rainforest
Wildlife Encounters : Cruise along the Tambopata River, where chances to spot capybaras, caimans, monkeys, and even elusive jaguars await. Bird lovers will delight in sightings of macaws, toucans, parrots, and a kaleidoscope of butterflies fluttering through the canopy.
Amazon Peru Macaw Clay Lick – If you have a flight during the transfer we will transfer you after the activity of the macaw clay lick. We have to be at the airport 2 hours before your departure so that you can check in in rainforest peru .
FREE INFO
Discover the Amazon Rainforest: A Wildlife Paradise in Peru
A Land of Extraordinary Biodiversity and Conservation Hope
Nestled in southeastern Peru, the Amazon Rainforest is one of the planet’s most vibrant and diverse ecosystems. Home to more than 500 bird species, including 20 types of macaws and parrots, this lush expanse is a haven for wildlife and a dream destination for nature enthusiasts.
Iconic birds like the Blue-and-Yellow Macaw (Ara ararauna) and Scarlet Macaw (Ara macao) fill the jungle canopy with color and sound. These species are not only a visual spectacle but also vital players in maintaining the rainforest’s ecological balance. Unfortunately, their populations are declining due to habitat loss and deforestation, highlighting the urgent need for conservation in this delicate ecosystem.
Tambopata: The Beating Heart of the Amazon
The Tambopata Rainforest, part of the greater Amazon Basin, covers a staggering area of more than 7 million square kilometers, with 5.5 million of those forming one of the most biologically rich forests on Earth.
- In this part of the Amazon, you’ll find:
- Over 200 tree species per hectare
- Countless frogs, butterflies, beetles, and amphibians
- Elusive big cats like the jaguar
One of the highest biodiversity indexes on the planet
Whether you’re a wildlife photographer, birdwatcher, or eco-traveler, Tambopata offers an unforgettable window into nature’s untouched beauty.
Why the Amazon in Peru Is a Must-Visit Wildlife Destination
Despite mounting threats from industrial development, agriculture, and illegal logging, the Peruvian Amazon remains a biodiversity hotspot and a crucial front line in conservation.
Travelers are drawn here not just for the adventure, but for a deeper understanding of sustainability. From spotting rare wildlife to exploring pristine rainforest trails, your journey in the Amazon is also a contribution to preserving it.
Brazil Nuts: A Natural Treasure of the Forest
In the Madre de Dios region, the towering Brazil Nut Tree thrives—native to Peru, Bolivia, and Brazil. During the rainy season, castañeros (local collectors) harvest the tree’s massive, baseball-sized fruits. Each fruit contains up to 15 nutrient-rich nuts, and a single tree can yield over 300 fruits per season.
Brazil nuts are a major sustainable export for the region. In Puerto Maldonado, a 50-kilo (110-pound) sack of nuts can fetch around $100 USD. You’ll often see women selling sweetened Brazil nuts at bus stations and river docks—an authentic taste of the forest, directly supporting local families.
Sustainable Conservation: Empowering Communities, Preserving Nature
The Tambopata National Reserve and Bahuaja-Sonene National Park are part of a pioneering conservation model that integrates:
- Local communities
- Indigenous knowledge
- Eco-tourism practices
By involving local stakeholders, these efforts don’t just protect the environment—they provide economic opportunities, making conservation a viable and attractive path for the people who live in the rainforest.
This initiative proves that people and nature can thrive together. It’s a shining example of conservation with impact—offering hope for ecosystems and communities around the world.
A Bold Step in the Fight Against Climate Change
The Tambopata initiative has a measurable global impact. It prevents the release of approximately 457,750 metric tons of CO₂ equivalent (tCO₂e) annually—a significant contribution to climate action.
With a 20-year outlook, this conservation program isn’t just about today—it’s about securing the Amazon’s biodiversity for future generations, while drastically reducing the environmental footprint of human activity.
Beyond Preservation: A Movement for Environmental Leadership
More than a conservation project, this is a paradigm shift. By fostering education, outreach, and advocacy, the Tambopata model builds a culture of environmental stewardship—uniting communities, researchers, travelers, and governments around a shared mission: to protect the Amazon.
The Future of the Amazon: A Call for Collective Action
The Amazon Rainforest in Peru is not just a place—it’s a living symbol of resilience and one of Earth’s most important ecosystems.
By supporting eco-tourism, buying sustainable products, or simply spreading awareness, every traveler can be part of the solution. Whether you’re visiting the world-famous Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick, walking under ancient rainforest canopies, or learning from indigenous communities, your journey helps preserve the rainforest’s magic.
Visit the Amazon. Protect the Amazon.
The future of this wonder lies in collective action. Together, we can ensure that the Amazon Rainforest remains wild, rich, and alive—for generations to come.
