Excursion to the Chuncho Clay Lick |Parrot - Macaw Watching|

Embark on an unforgettable excursion to the Chuncho clay lick, a premier destination for parrot and macaw watching. Experience the breathtaking sight of hundreds of colorful birds as they gather to consume mineral-rich clay, essential for their diet. This adventure includes a scenic boat ride, wildlife sightings, and expert guidance – all with hassle-free transportation and amenities. Discover the wonders of the Peruvian rainforest and learn about the vibrant world of these magnificent birds.

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Key Points

Experience one of the largest natural clay licks in the world, where hundreds of colorful parrots and macaws gather to feed on mineral-rich soil.
Enjoy a guided excursion that includes transportation, a bilingual guide, and the opportunity to spot wildlife such as capybara, tapir, deer, and jaguar.
Set out on a one-hour boat ride on the Tambopata River, with chances to observe wildlife along the way, before arriving at the Chuncho clay lick.
Witness the vibrant and lively feeding activity of the birds, which exhibit their stunning feathers and engaging chatter.
Explore the nearby riverbanks for additional wildlife sightings after the breakfast served while waiting for the macaws at the clay lick.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Excursion Overview

The excursion to the Chuncho clay lick offers visitors a unique opportunity to witness the captivating sight of hundreds of colorful parrots and macaws congregating at one of the largest natural clay licks in the world.

This day-long adventure includes transportation, an English and Spanish-speaking guide, and entrance fees. Participants can expect to see a variety of wildlife, including capybara, tapir, and deer, and may even spot a jaguar.

The highlight of the excursion is the chance to observe the parrots and macaws at the clay lick, where they gather to feed on the mineral-rich clay.

Looking for more options in Puerto Maldonado? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Itinerary Details

The excursion begins with a 3:10 am pickup from your hotel. You’ll travel by land to the Filadelfia community, then navigate the Tambopata River by boat for about an hour. Along the way, you may spot capybara, tapir, deer, and possibly jaguar. Once at the Chuncho clay lick, you’ll wait for the arrival of the colorful macaws and enjoy breakfast while observing their activity. At 1:00 pm, you’ll depart for the city.

| — | — | — | — |

| Return: 1:00 pm |

Wildlife Viewing

During the journey to the Chuncho clay lick, travelers may spot an array of wildlife native to the Peruvian rainforest.

Capybaras, the world’s largest rodents, may be seen grazing along the riverbanks. Elusive tapirs, strange-looking herbivores, could appear in the dense foliage. Deer might dart through the undergrowth.

If fortunate, guests may even catch a glimpse of the legendary jaguar, the largest cat in the Americas.

While the focus is on observing the vibrant parrots and macaws, the surrounding ecosystems offer a diverse natural spectacle that complements the main attraction.

Activity at Chuncho Clay Lick

Hundreds of colorful parrots and macaws gather at the Chuncho clay lick every morning, putting on a spectacular display for visitors.

The iconic birds descend upon the exposed clay banks to consume the mineral-rich soil, an important part of their diet. Guests wait patiently, observing the lively activity through binoculars.

Iconic birds descend upon exposed clay banks, consuming mineral-rich soil as guests observe their lively activity through binoculars.

As the birds feed, they chatter and squawk, their vibrant feathers shimmering in the early morning light.

After breakfast, the group explores the nearby riverbanks, hoping to spot other wildlife like capybaras, tapirs, or even elusive jaguars before departing the Peruvian rainforest.

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Highlights of the Excursion

Witnessing the vibrant display of hundreds of parrots and macaws at the Chuncho clay lick is the undisputed highlight of this excursion. Visitors are captivated by the incredible sight of these colorful birds gathering to consume the mineral-rich clay, which serves an important function in their diet. The experience is enhanced by the serene Peruvian rainforest setting, where guests may also spot other wildlife like capybaras, tapirs, and even the elusive jaguar.

| Key Highlights | |

| — | — |

| Witness the largest parrot and macaw clay lick in the world | See hundreds of vibrant parrots and macaws |

| Observe these birds in their natural rainforest habitat | Spot additional wildlife like capybaras, tapirs, and jaguars |

There's plenty more to explore in Puerto Maldonado

Inclusions

The excursion includes a hotel pickup and return transfer, transportation by bus or minibus, an English and Spanish-speaking guide, the entrance fee to Tambopata National Reserve ($15), and travel insurance.

The hotel pickup and return transfer ensure a seamless start and end to the day’s adventure. The bus or minibus ride provides comfortable transportation to and from the destination.

The knowledgeable guide, fluent in both English and Spanish, offers valuable insights throughout the journey. The entrance fee grants access to the protected Tambopata National Reserve, home to the remarkable Chuncho clay lick.

Travel insurance provides additional peace of mind.

Booking Information

To book this excursion, travelers can check availability for the desired starting times. After selecting the number of participants and the date, the meeting point is available on Google Maps. The booking process is straightforward and can be completed without upfront payment. This reserve now & pay later option allows travelers to secure their spot without an immediate financial commitment.

| Option | Details |

| — | — |

| Availability Check | Confirm desired start times |

| Participant Selection | Choose number of travelers |

| Date Selection | Pick preferred excursion date |

| Meeting Point | Provided on Google Maps |

Exploring the Peruvian Rainforest

Embarking on this Chuncho Clay Lick excursion, visitors enjoy the captivating realm of the Peruvian rainforest. The journey unveils a tapestry of natural wonder, where diverse wildlife thrives amidst the lush, verdant canopy.

Witness the mesmerizing dance of colorful macaws and parrots as they gather at the clay lick, a unique geological phenomenon that attracts these magnificent creatures.
Navigate the Tambopata River, exploring the serene waterways that wind through the heart of the rainforest, with the possibility of spotting elusive animals like capybaras, tapirs, and even the majestic jaguar.
Embrace the tranquility of the surroundings, allowing the sounds of the forest to soothe the senses and transport you to a world of pure enchantment.
Savor the opportunity to connect with the natural world, gaining a deeper appreciation for the fragile yet resilient ecosystem that makes the Peruvian rainforest a true treasure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit the Clay Lick?

The best time to visit the clay lick is during the dry season from May to October when the parrots and macaws congregate in large numbers to replenish essential minerals in the clay. This offers optimal wildlife viewing opportunities.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Excursion?

Yes, guests can bring their own food and drinks on the excursion. The tour includes breakfast, but travelers are welcome to pack additional snacks or beverages to enjoy during the wildlife viewing experience.

Is There a Minimum or Maximum Group Size for the Tour?

The tour has a maximum group size, typically between 8-12 participants. There’s no minimum group size, as the excursion runs with a single traveler. Group size may vary depending on demand and availability.

Are There Any Age Restrictions or Requirements for the Activity?

There are no age restrictions for this excursion. Children of all ages are welcome, though the early start time and boat ride may not be suitable for very young children. Parents should use their discretion when booking.

How Difficult Is the Boat Ride and Hiking Involved in the Excursion?

The boat ride is about an hour long and relatively calm, though the rainforest terrain requires some hiking. The activity is moderately strenuous but accessible to most visitors with a reasonable level of mobility.

The Sum Up

Witness the incredible spectacle of hundreds of vibrant parrots and macaws gathering at the Chuncho clay lick. This unforgettable excursion offers a unique chance to observe these magnificent birds up close as they consume essential minerals. With a scenic river journey, diverse wildlife encounters, and expert guidance, it’s an immersive adventure into the heart of the Peruvian Amazon.

You can check availability for your dates here: