Discover Day Trips Amazon Macaw Lick : A Once-in-a-Lifetime Amazon Adventure
Chuncho Day Trips Amazon Macaw Lick : If you’re a nature lover, wildlife enthusiast, or someone seeking an unforgettable adventure, the Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick is a must-visit destination. Nestled deep within the Tambopata Reserve in the heart of Peru’s Amazon rainforest , this incredible natural phenomenon offers travelers a rare chance to witness
hundreds of colorful macaws and other non-native birds in a breathtaking display. In addition, the experience doesn’t stop there – from wildlife sightings to cultural insights, a visit to the Chuncho Tambopata Macaw Clay Lick is a thrilling journey that promises adventure at every turn.
Tambopata Amazon Macaw Clay Lick:
- Length: Full day
- Location: Southern Peru, Madre de Dios Department, Puerto Maldonado
- Type of service: Private or Group
- Start Point : Pick-up from the Hotel/Aiport or Bus Terminal in Puerto Maldonado
- Departure: Every Day
- Activities: Amazon Photography, Sunrises and Sunsets, Macaw Clay to observe parrots, Macaws, Parakeets ,Long Walking in the Rainforest.
- Altitude: 182 – m.a.s.l.
- Best time to visit:March – November
- Meals: 1 Breakfast /1 Lunch
- Tour Guides : Professional bilingual local guide (well-equipped with guiding gear)
- Minimum of participants: 2
- Maximum of participants: 8
- Price per person: USD
Overview Day Trips Amazon Macaw Lick
Prepare for an early start and a full day of adventure. This is a remote experience that combines ground and river travel, expert-guided wildlife encounters, and unforgettable scenery.
If you’re a nature lover, wildlife enthusiast, or adventurer at heart, the Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick is your gateway to one of the Amazon’s most spectacular natural events.
Hidden deep within Peru’s Tambopata National Reserve, this vibrant clay lick draws hundreds of brilliantly colored
macaws, parrots, and parakeets who gather daily for a mineral-rich feast — a rare sight that few are lucky enough to witness.
But this experience is more than just birdwatching. It’s a full-sensory journey into the heart of the Amazon — complete with wildlife sightings, cultural insights, river navigation, and immersive jungle trekking.
Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick Full-Day Tour from Puerto Maldonado
Experience an unforgettable adventure in the Tambopata National Reserve
We depart at 3:00 a.m. from your accommodation in Puerto Maldonado to begin a unique journey to Collpa Chuncho, the largest macaw clay lick in the world.
Route to Collpa Chuncho
Our trip begins with a drive along the Interoceanic Highway, covering 48 km of paved road and 18 km through the
Amazon rainforest, until we reach the Tambopata River.
There, we board a motorized boat for a 1 hour and 30-minute ride upstream into the heart of the Tambopata National Reserve.
Wildlife Watching
During the boat ride, you’ll have the chance to witness the incredible Amazonian wildlife. It’s common to see:
Jaguars – the largest feline in South America and an endangered species (many of our visitors have been lucky enough to spot one).
Upon arrival, we’ll enjoy a camp-style breakfast on the riverbank while we get ready for one of the most stunning natural spectacles in the Amazon Rainforest Macaw Clay .
Visit to Collpa Chuncho
At the observation area, we’ll settle into viewing seats to watch hundreds of macaws and parrots arrive in the
morning to feed on the mineral-rich clay of the riverside cliff. This activity is essential to their diet and provides a
truly unique display of color, sound, and natural behavior.
Return and Additional Activities
After the clay lick experience, we return by boat to our Tambopata Lodge Inn , where a traditional Amazonian lunch
awaits us. In the afternoon, we’ll take a guided jungle walk, exploring more about the local flora, fauna, and culture.
We finish with the transfer back to Puerto Maldonado. Tripsadvisor sandoval lodge
Included in the Tambopata Tours
- lodge Entrance fee to the Tambopata National Reserve.
- Activities in the lodge Trekking.
- Motorboat transportation;
- A professional Naturalist Tour Guide;
- Meals: 1x Breakfast, 1x Lunch, and drinking water lodge (Please note: vegetarian option upon request for no extra cost!);
- Rubber boots.
Not included in the Amazon Wild :
- Any flight nor airport departure taxes;
- Travel insurance;
- Vaccination;
- Dinner on the last day;
- Drinks;
- Tips to local staff.
What to take with you to the Amazon Wild :
- 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),
- Swimsuit;
- 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,
- Toiletries,
- 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
Collpa Chuncho: The Natural Spectacle of Macaws in the Heart of Tambopata
Located in the majestic Tambopata National Reserve, in the Madre de Dios region of Peru, Collpa Chuncho (also known as the Macaw Clay Lick) is a true hidden treasure of the Amazon Rainforest. This corner of the planet is one of the most biodiverse places on Earth and offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience: watching hundreds of brightly colored macaws gather to feed on mineral-rich clay along the banks of the Tambopata River.
What Makes Collpa Chuncho So Special?
Collpa Chuncho is more than just a natural formation — it is one of the best birdwatching sites in all of South America. Each morning, just after sunrise, dozens — and sometimes hundreds — of macaws, parrots, and parakeets soar over the rainforest to reach this clay wall. Here, they feed on the mineral-rich soil, a natural behavior that helps neutralize toxins and balance their diet.
This breathtaking natural phenomenon has become a must-see for ecotourists, wildlife photographers, bird enthusiasts, and adventurous travelers from around the world.
Where Is It Located?
Collpa Chuncho is situated within the restricted area of the Tambopata National Reserve, approximately a 3-hour boat ride from Puerto Maldonado. The journey itself is part of the adventure — cruising the Tambopata River offers the chance to spot wildlife like monkeys, capybaras, caimans, and even jaguars, if you’re lucky.
Why Visit Collpa Chuncho?
- One of the largest macaw spectacles in the world
- High concentration of biodiversity: unforgettable flora, fauna, and landscapes
- Ideal for photo safaris, family trips, and romantic jungle getaways
- Eco-friendly activity that supports sustainable tourism
- Access to protected areas with guided tour options available
What Is the Experience Like?
Most travelers visit Collpa Chuncho through 2- to 3-day tour packages that include boat transportation, meals, a knowledgeable guide, and lodging in eco-lodges. Entry to the reserve requires a fee, but once inside, you’re free to enjoy birdwatching as often as you like during your stay.
Travel Tips:
- Bring binoculars and a zoom-capable camera
- Wear light clothing in neutral colors
- Follow observation guidelines to avoid disturbing the birds
- Be ready for an early start — the show begins with the sunrise
Who Should Visit?
- Collpa Chuncho is perfect for:
- Nature lovers and eco-adventurers
- Travelers seeking one-of-a-kind experiences
- Wildlife photographers and birdwatchers
- Families looking for an educational escape
- Couples in search of a deep connection with nature
A Must-Experience Adventure in the Peruvian Amazon
Visiting Collpa Chuncho is more than just a tour — it’s a direct encounter with the wild, raw beauty of nature at its finest. If you’re planning a trip to the Peruvian rainforest, make sure this unforgettable destination is on your list. It’s an experience that will leave you with lasting emotional and visual memories.
Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick . The tour is for those people who have a day and want to visit the macaw clay lick that is located in the same Tambopata Reserve that this place has the greatest biodiversity on the planet.
Want to Plan Your Trip to Collpa Chuncho?
I can help you build a personalized itinerary with tour suggestions, lodging options, and local travel tips.
What to Expect on a Typical Day Trip to Chuncho Clay Lick
1. Early Morning Departure
Most tours begin around 3:00 AM, as reaching the clay lick by sunrise is crucial. This is when the macaws are most active and vocal, providing the best viewing opportunities.
2. Overland and River Journey
From your accommodation in Puerto Maldonado, you’ll travel by road—often along the Interoceanic Highway—before boarding a motorized canoe that cruises along the Tambopata River. The journey through pristine rainforest is scenic and full of anticipation.
3. The Macaw Clay Lick Experience
Upon arrival at Chuncho, you’ll quietly observe hundreds of vibrant macaws, parrots, and parakeets as they descend onto the clay banks. These birds consume the clay to neutralize toxins in their diet, making this both a feeding ritual and a survival strategy.
Expect to see species like the Scarlet Macaw, Blue-and-Yellow Macaw, Red-and-Green Macaw, and many more.
4. Jungle Wildlife Viewing
The clay lick isn’t the only attraction. Along the way and during breaks, keep an eye out for howler monkeys, capybaras, toucans, caimans, and even jaguar tracks. Your guide will help you spot and identify the diverse wildlife of the Amazon Basin.
5. Return to Puerto Maldonado
After several hours at the site and possibly a short jungle walk, you’ll begin the return trip to Puerto Maldonado in the early afternoon. Most tours include a lunch break and offer opportunities to reflect on the day’s rare encounters.
Highlights of the Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick Experience
Largest Macaw Clay Lick in the World: Chuncho is globally recognized for its size and the sheer number of birds that visit daily.
Amazon Biodiversity: Located within Tambopata National Reserve, one of the most biodiverse regions on Earth.
Up-close Wildlife Encounters: Spot exotic birds, mammals, reptiles, and more in their natural habitat.
Photographer’s Paradise: Capture stunning images of brilliantly colored birds set against the lush green Amazon canopy.
Led by Expert Naturalist Guides: Enhance your understanding of the local ecosystem with the help of knowledgeable, bilingual guides.
Essential Travel Tips for Visiting the Macaw Clay Lick
To make the most of your Amazon day trip, consider these traveler-approved tips:
1. Book Your Tour in Advance
Tours fill up quickly, especially during the dry season (May to October) when wildlife viewing is at its best. Booking early ensures your spot.
2. What to Pack
Binoculars and camera with zoom lens for birdwatching and photography.
Sunscreen, insect repellent, and a wide-brim hat for protection from sun and bugs.
Lightweight, breathable clothing and sturdy walking shoes suitable for humid conditions.
3. Prepare for the Early Start
Go to bed early the night before—you’ll need to rise before dawn. The early wake-up is well worth it once you see the sky fill with wings.
4. Respect the Wildlife
Keep your distance, stay quiet, and never feed or disturb the animals. The clay lick is a fragile ecosystem, and responsible tourism helps protect it.
How to Visit the Chuncho Clay Lick
The starting point for most travelers is Puerto Maldonado, a gateway city to the Peruvian Amazon. From here, you can arrange your tour through:
- Local tour operators
- Eco-lodges within Tambopata Reserve
- Reputable online travel agencies offering day trips or multi-day jungle experiences
Why the Chuncho Clay Lick Should Be on Your Amazon Bucket List
This experience isn’t just about birdwatching—it’s about immersing yourself in the heart of the Amazon rainforest, connecting with one of the planet’s last great wildernesses, and witnessing behaviors that have taken place for millennia.
Whether you’re an avid ornithologist or a first-time jungle traveler, a visit to the Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick is a deeply rewarding and visually breathtaking adventure.
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Why Visit Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick?
The Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick offers much more than just a typical wildlife experience. In fact, it’s a chance to witness one of nature’s most stunning displays, explore one of the most biodiverse regions on the planet, and learn
about the unique cultures that call the Amazon home. Whether you’re interested in birdwatching, wildlife photography, or simply immersing yourself in the natural wonders of the rainforest, this day trip is an absolute must.
Important Notes:
Comfortable clothing, a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, a camera, and binoculars for birdwatching.
Wildlife: The area is home to a variety of species, including macaws, monkeys, jaguars, and capybaras.
Conservation Efforts: The tour supports sustainable tourism and contributes to the preservation of the Tambopata-Candamo Reserve.
Conclusion
The Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick is not just a tour – it’s a chance to experience the magic of the Amazon rainforest
firsthand. Whether you’re traveling for wildlife, adventure, or cultural immersion, this unique journey will leave you
with unforgettable memories and a deep appreciation for the natural world.