SUMMARY
The Best Journey Trips Amazon 5 days
The Best Journey Trips Amazon 5 days: Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick Colorado and Sandoval Lake .Amazonia peruvian
Tour to Tambopata National Reserve & Sandoval Lake
Discover the incredible biodiversity of the Tambopata National Reserve, one of the most fascinating destinations in the Peruvian Amazon. Immerse yourself in a unique natural paradise, surrounded by pristine primary forests, lush tropical rainforest, lakes, lagoons, streams, and mysterious palm swamps.Sandoval Lake.
One of the most amazing spectacles awaits you at the famous macaw clay lick, where up to six species of parrots, parakeets, and macaws gather every morning to feed, creating an unforgettable experience full of color, sound, and wildlife in its purest form.
This tour has been specially designed for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and adventure seekers. During our journey, we will also visit the spectacular Sandoval Lake, located in the heart of the jungle.
On board a paddle canoe, we will peacefully explore the lake, where you can closely observe caimans, turtles, a wide variety of birds, and, with a bit of luck, the majestic giant river otters. Around the lake, it is common to spot different species of monkeys in their natural habitat. Amazonian biodiversity.
- Sunrises and sunsets in Tambopata are simply unforgettable, painting the sky with unique colors.
- At night, you will enjoy a magical experience with canoe excursions, where the jungle comes alive in a completely different way.
- Experience a unique adventure in the Peruvian Amazon and connect with nature like never before.
The Best Journey Trips Amazon 5 days
- Length: 5 Days/4 Nights
- 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
- Ending Point: Drop off the Hotel/Airport or Bus Terminal in Puerto Maldonado
- Departure: Every Day
- Activities: Adventures in the Sandoval Lake Reserve, Amazon Photography, Sunrises and Sunsets, Night Walks, Palm lick to observe parrots, Macaws, Parakeets, etc., Rowing Canoe Ride, Giant Otter Observation, Bird Watching,macaw chuncho ,macaw clay lick colorado . tambopata reserved center , mammals clay , 4 night activity .
- Altitude: 182 – m.a.s.l.
- Best time to visit:March – November
- Accomodation : 4 night in OurLodge rivate Room with Mosquito Nets, Private Showers and Bathrooms .
- Meals: 4 Breakfast /4 Lunch /4 Dinner
- Tour Guides :Professional bilingual local guide (well-equipped with guiding gear)
- Minimum of participants: 2
- Maximum of participants: 7
- Price per person: USD
Colorado Macaw Clay Lick – A Spectacular Wildlife Experience in Tambopata
As dawn breaks over the Tambopata River, you glide silently across the water in a canoe while the first golden light reflects on the river’s surface. Within minutes, you reach a quiet sandbank and step ashore with your guide. Crossing the soft sand, you climb toward a lush rainforest bluff where you pause, settle onto a small stool, and enjoy a fresh cup of coffee while watching the treetops.
The forest slowly awakens. The sun rises toward the canopy, and anticipation builds. Will the birds appear at the Colorado Macaw Clay Lick?
Soon, the silence breaks with distant calls echoing through the rainforest. Colorful shapes emerge overhead as parrots and macaws begin flying toward the trees across the ravine. Through powerful spotting scopes, every brilliant feather becomes visible. The clay cliff — known locally as a colpa — reveals why this place is considered one of the most remarkable wildlife viewing sites in the Amazon Rainforest .
ITINERARY
The Best Journey Trips Amazon 5 days
The Tours Explorer in the rainforest Amazonia is one of the most extraordinary destinations on the planet for nature and wildlife lovers. xpedition in Tambopata combines three of the most impressive places in the region and Sandoval Lake.
During this journey you will explore primary rainforest, Amazonian rivers, and hidden lagoons, while observing an incredible diversity of wildlife such as macaws, monkeys, capybaras, caimans, and—with a bit of luck—even jaguars. You will also learn about the scientific work carried out at the Tambopata Research Center, one of the most important centers for studying Amazonian biodiversity.
This tour is ideal for travelers who want to experience the Amazon rainforest in depth, combining adventure, wildlife observation, and direct contact with nature.
Day 1: Puerto Maldonado – Welcome to Tambopata
The expedition begins at 9:30 a.m., with pickup from our lodge or from your hotel in Puerto Maldonado, the capital of the Madre de Dios region.
The journey to the heart of the Amazon takes approximately two hours by vehicle. The first part of the route follows a paved road, while the second continues along a dirt road that passes through tropical forest until reaching the Tambopata River, near the border of the reserve.
At the river port, our boat will be waiting to take us on a 25-minute ride upstream to the lodge. During the trip, it is common to see capybaras, herons, kingfishers, and other riverside birds along the riverbanks.
Upon arrival at Collpas Tambopata Inn Lodge, you will receive a welcome drink, and the manager will provide a brief orientation about the lodge, the activities, and the surrounding natural environment.
Introductory Jungle Walk
After lunch we will take an introductory walk that begins in secondary forest and continues into primary Amazon rainforest, where you will see enormous trees, vines, and tropical plants.
During the walk, the guide will explain the main economic activities of the region as well as the ecological importance of the forest.
- It is common to observe:
- Brown capuchin monkeys
- Squirrel monkeys
- Toucans and other tropical birds
At the end of the walk we will climb the highest canopy tower in Tambopata, offering an impressive view of the Amazon basin. The sunset from this point is simply spectacular.
We will also have the opportunity to cross a suspension bridge, an exciting experience that allows you to observe the forest from another perspective.
Night Caiman Watching
After dinner we will take a night boat excursion to search for white caimans and black caimans along the banks of the Tambopata River.
Using a powerful spotlight, we can detect the reflection of their eyes in the darkness. During this activity it is also possible to see capybaras and even Amazonian felines such as ocelots or jaguars, which sometimes approach the river at night.
Day 2: Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick
This day begins very early, around 5:00 a.m. After a hot drink to energize us, we will board our boat and navigate the Tambopata River for about 1 hour and 30 minutes, passing the reserve checkpoint.
During sunrise on the river we will have great opportunities to observe riverside birds, capybaras, and white caimans. Occasionally it is also possible to see jaguars resting on the river beaches, with an approximate 20% chance of sighting one.
Natural Spectacle at Chuncho Clay Lick
We will arrive at the famous Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick, considered one of the largest in the world.
Here we will witness an incredible natural spectacle where dozens of macaws and hundreds of parrots gather every morning to feed on mineral-rich clay.
Among the species commonly seen are:
- Scarlet macaw
- Blue-and-yellow macaw
- Green-winged macaw
- Several species of Amazon parrots
From a safe observation point we will enjoy this activity from approximately 6:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., while having breakfast in front of the clay lick.
Navigation to the Tambopata Research Center
After the macaw observation, we will continue navigating two hours further upstream along the Tambopata River. The scenery is stunning, with pristine rainforest and mountains covered in vegetation.
We will arrive at the Tambopata Research Center, an important scientific station where researchers study Amazon biodiversity.
We will take a walk around the station searching for:
- Peccaries (wild pigs)
- Monkeys
- Tropical birds
- Possibly snakes
At night there is also the possibility of seeing tapirs, one of the largest mammals in the Amazon.
Day 3: Colorado Clay Lick and Primary Forest Exploration
On the third day we will again start early with a 10-minute boat ride to visit Colorado Clay Lick, known for having one of the greatest bird diversities in the region.
On a good morning it is possible to observe up to 13 different bird species feeding on clay at the same time, making this a unique experience for wildlife photographers and birdwatchers.
Jungle Walk and Scientific Learning
After breakfast we will take another walk along a different trail through pristine primary forest.
During the hike the guide will share interesting information about macaws and parrots, as well as the scientific research carried out at the station.
The walk lasts approximately three hours, exploring an ecosystem full of giant trees, medicinal plants, and Amazon wildlife.
You will also learn about the volunteers and researchers who have been working on conservation projects in Tambopata since 1989.
Around midday we will take the boat back to the lodge, enjoying lunch during the journey.
Amazon Cultural Night
In the evening, if the weather allows, we may light a campfire and share traditional stories and Amazon legends told by local guides from Tambopata.
Day 4: Sandoval Lake in the Tambopata National Reserve
We will wake up to the sounds of tropical birds and howler monkeys living in the forest.
After breakfast we will travel 20 minutes downstream and then continue with a two-hour land transfer back to Puerto Maldonado.
There we will pick up our boxed lunch and continue the adventure to the famous Sandoval Lake, considered one of the most spectacular destinations in the Peruvian Amazon.
- Journey to the Amazon Lagoon
- The trip includes:
- 1 hour by boat on the Madre de Dios River
- 1 hour walk through tropical rainforest
Sandoval Lake is an oxbow lake that more than 100 years ago was part of the main river channel. Today it is isolated deep in the jungle, forming a unique ecosystem.
Upon arrival we will leave our luggage at the accommodation and continue to the observation tower.
From this point it is common to observe:
- Monkeys
- Amazon birds
- Turtles
- Black caimans
Day 5: Giant River Otters and Farewell to the Amazon
Before breakfast we will go out to search for one of the most iconic animals of the lake: the giant river otter.
This mammal is one of the most endangered species in the Amazon, and its population is limited. However, Sandoval Lake is one of the best places in Peru to observe them.
In addition to their impressive size, these otters have a very interesting social behavior, as they live in family groups.
Final Jungle Walk
After breakfast we will cross the lake with local families and take our final walk through primary rainforest, where we will encounter many palms, vines, and Amazon trees.
During the walk the guide will answer questions and share knowledge about Amazonian flora, fauna, and culture.
Before returning we will have time to:
- Swim in the lake
- Enjoy lunch
- Take final photographs of the landscape
Finally, we will begin the return trip to Puerto Maldonado, first by canoe, then walking along the forest trail, and finally by boat on the Madre de Dios River.
End of the Amazon Expedition
This 5-day Tambopata expedition offers a complete experience in the Peruvian Amazon, combining macaw clay licks, scientific research, and Amazonian lakes.
Your visit directly contributes to the conservation of biodiversity and sustainable tourism in Tambopata, one of the most wildlife-rich regions on Earth.
SERVICES
Included Travel amazon -5 days:
- A professional naturalist ;
- Transportation by motorboat ;
- Transportation in private vehicle ;
- Food of each day for the . Meals: 4x breakfast, 4x lunch, 4x dinner and drinking water (Note:
- vegetarian option upon request at no additional cost);
- Lodging in our Amazon lodge: 4 nights in the Lodge;
- First aid kit, including poison extractor, mosquito bite treatment, and snake bite antidot ;
- radio communication;
- a Rubber boots for trekking .
Not included in the Travel – 5 days:
- Any flight or airport departure tax ;
- Vaccination ;
- Breakfast the first day and Lunch the last day in the tour ;
- Tips to local staff in trips amazon .
- Entrance totour Reserve;
What to take with you tour amazon -5 days:
- bring with you Mosquito repellent (DEET 35 recommended as MINIMUM) before l,
- bring with you original passport,
- a Small travel backpack,
- Long-sleeved cotton shirts (preferably green) ,
- Long cotton pants,
- Long cotton socks (to put on pants),
- Comfortable shoes to walk during the explorat,
- Sandals or light shoes to take a refreshing bath during the travel on the boat,
- Rain gear (for example, rain poncho) ,
- Binoculars (we also rent it) Necessary to bring
- Camera and its charger to charge ,
- Plastic bags for clothing and a camera to cover ,
- A hat as protection against the sun or rain ,
- Toiletries,
- Small towel,
- Toilet paper,
- antibacterial gel,
- sunscreen,
- Sunglasses
- A Flashlight (with spare bulb and batteries),
- A bottle of water (1 liter minimum),
- Bring with you a Pocket money (Soles) to buy some drinks and souvenirs as well as to give tips.
GALLERY LODGE
Tambopata Lodge Inn :
(Tambopata National Reserve)
FAQs - FREE INFO
A World-Famous Macaw Gathering
The Colorado Macaw Clay Lick attracts hundreds of birds throughout the year. On clear mornings, species from the parrot family gather in impressive numbers to feed on the mineral-rich clay.
Among the most striking visitors are the vibrant Scarlet Macaw, the impressive Red‑and‑green Macaw, and the unmistakable Blue‑and‑yellow Macaw. Mixed among them are flocks of parakeets and parrots, including the bright green Mealy Parrot.
Researchers believe these birds consume clay to obtain essential minerals such as sodium, helping balance the toxins found in some rainforest seeds and fruits. Although this explanation is widely accepted, scientists continue studying the phenomenon as part of the ongoing Tambopata Macaw Project.
The vibrant spectacle of color, sound, and movement has captivated travelers and scientists alike for decades—and even inspired a feature in National Geographic.
Why Visit the Colorado Macaw Clay Lick?
Witness One of the Amazon’s Greatest Wildlife Shows
Observing macaws gathering at sunrise is an unforgettable rainforest experience. Along with dozens of bird species, visitors may also spot mammals such as the collared peccary, which occasionally visit the clay banks.
See the Amazon’s Most Iconic Birds
Large and highly social, macaws are among the most charismatic birds of the Amazon. Their powerful calls and vivid plumage make them one of the highlights of wildlife tours in Tambopata National Reserve.
Discover Ongoing Rainforest Research
The macaw clay licks of Tambopata have fascinated scientists for decades. The research carried out by the Tambopata Macaw Project continues to reveal new insights about macaw behavior, diet, and conservation in the Amazon rainforest.
Colorado Macaw Clay Lick (Collpa Colorado)
The Colorado Macaw Clay Lick is one of the most important wildlife observation sites in the Tambopata National Reserve, located deep within the Peruvian Amazon. This remarkable clay cliff attracts large gatherings of macaws, parrots, and parakeets that come to feed on mineral-rich clay.
Recognized as one of the most active macaw clay licks in the world, Collpa Colorado offers visitors an extraordinary opportunity to observe colorful Amazon birds as they gather in large numbers along the riverbank.
Key Information
- Location: Along the Tambopata River in the Amazon rainforest of Peru
- Elevation: Approximately 200 meters above sea level
Notable Species:
- Scarlet Macaw
- Red-and-green Macaw
- Blue-and-yellow Macaw
Access: River journey by boat from Puerto Maldonado, usually about 7–8 hours upriver
Ecosystem: Lowland Amazon tropical rainforest
Formation and Ecology of the Clay Lick
The clay cliffs at Collpa Colorado were naturally formed through centuries of erosion by the Tambopata River. This process exposed layers of clay rich in sodium and other essential minerals.
Every morning, macaws, parrots, and parakeets gather at the site to consume this clay. Scientists believe the minerals help neutralize natural toxins found in many rainforest fruits and seeds that make up the birds’ diet.
The result is a spectacular wildlife event where hundreds of birds may gather at the same location. Their vibrant feathers, loud calls, and social interactions create one of the most striking wildlife displays in the Amazon.
Scientific and Ecotourism Importance
The Colorado Macaw Clay Lick has become an important location for research on Amazonian bird behavior and tropical ecology. Scientists study the feeding patterns, breeding behavior, and population dynamics of macaws and other parrots.
At the same time, the site is a major ecotourism attraction within the Tambopata National Reserve. Visitors staying in nearby rainforest lodges can observe the clay lick from designated viewing platforms with guides and spotting scopes, minimizing disturbance to wildlife.
Conservation and Management
The clay lick is protected and managed by the National Service of Natural Protected Areas of Peru (SERNANP). Management efforts aim to balance responsible tourism with the conservation of critical habitats for macaws and other wildlife species of the Peruvian Amazon.
Through careful regulation and monitoring, Collpa Colorado continues to serve as both a sanctuary for wildlife and a unique destination where visitors can experience the biodiversity of the Amazon rainforest.
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