Tambopata Eco-Lodge Program 4D/3N
Tambopata Tour 4 Days: Lake Sandoval, a Macaw Clay Lick and Three Nights in the Rainforest
Our Tambopata tour 4 days program lets you experience the southern Amazon with more time. First, you paddle across Lake Sandoval; then you get up early to see hundreds of macaws and parrots at a clay lick, while you explore the rainforest by day and night with naturalist guides.
The colorful spectacle of the Amazon rainforest
Summary
Trip overview
The Tambopata tour 4 days program is the most complete way to discover the biodiversity of the southern Amazon. Three nights at an eco-lodge let you enjoy the rainforest without rushing and, therefore, take part in the region’s most iconic excursions.
In addition to paddling across Lake Sandoval in search of giant otters and caimans, you get up early to visit the Chuncho clay lick. It is a clay wall where hundreds of macaws and parrots gather to feed on minerals, one of the most impressive natural spectacles in the Amazon.
The program also includes hikes through primary rainforest, night outings and time to relax at the lodge, so you can choose between comfortable standard accommodation or luxury eco-lodges. If you have less time, the 3-day program covers Lake Sandoval in the Tambopata National Reserve.
The best of this journey
Itinerary
Itinerary
Day 1
Puerto Maldonado and arrival at the eco-lodge
Boat ride along the river, then a night walk.
We welcome you at Puerto Maldonado airport and take you to the port to travel by boat to the eco-lodge, while you watch life along the riverbanks. After a welcome lunch, you walk the lodge trails to discover the Amazonian flora. Then, in the evening, you go on a night walk in search of insects, amphibians and other nocturnal animals.
Day 2
Lake Sandoval
Canoe trip in the Tambopata National Reserve while you look for wildlife.
Early in the morning, we head to Lake Sandoval, walk about 3 kilometers through the rainforest and explore the lake by canoe in search of giant otters, caimans, monkeys and birds. Later, in the afternoon, we return to the lodge to rest and, at sunset, we head out by boat to spot caimans along the riverbanks.
Day 3
Chuncho clay lick
Macaws and parrots at a clay lick, especially at sunrise.
We leave before dawn for the Chuncho clay lick to arrive first thing, when hundreds of macaws and parrots gather on the clay wall. Then we have breakfast facing the clay lick while we watch this spectacle of colors and sounds. Later, we return to the lodge for lunch, and in the afternoon you can rest or take an optional walk around the area.
Day 4
Rainforest sunrise and return to Puerto Maldonado
Birdwatching before the return to the airport.
Before breakfast, you can go out to watch birds around the lodge. After breakfast, we take the boat back to Puerto Maldonado and, finally, transfer you to the airport for your departure flight.
Include
Included and not included
The trip includes
- Pickup and departure transfer at Puerto Maldonado airport
- Boat transfers between the port and the eco-lodge
- 3 nights at an eco-lodge
- Full board from lunch on the first day to breakfast on the last day
- Naturalist guide in English or Spanish
- Excursion to Lake Sandoval with canoe ride
- Excursion to the Chuncho clay lick with breakfast
- Night walk and boat outing for caiman spotting
- Entrance to the Tambopata National Reserve
- Rubber boots and rain poncho during excursions
What's not included?
- Domestic flights to Puerto Maldonado
- Alcoholic drinks and sodas
- Upgrade to a higher-category lodge
- Tips for guides and lodge staff
- Travel insurance
- Personal expenses
Important information
What to bring
- Light long-sleeved shirts and quick-dry long pants
- Rain jacket or waterproof poncho
- Comfortable sneakers and sandals
- Insect repellent with DEET
- Sunscreen, hat and sunglasses
- Headlamp with spare batteries
- Binoculars and a camera with zoom
- Waterproof bags to protect your gear
- Personal medication
- Original passport
Weather
The climate is warm and humid, with temperatures between 21 and 32 °C. Rain can occur at any time; also, on some days cold fronts called friajes lower the temperature.
Best season
The program operates all year. From May to October there is less rain; however, bird activity at the clay licks varies by season and weather conditions.
Health
Vaccination recommendations, such as for yellow fever, may vary depending on your history and country of origin. Therefore, we suggest consulting a health professional before your trip.
Recommendations
Travel light, because the boats have limited space. Also, the clay lick visit requires an early start and staying quiet, so as not to scare the birds away.
Accommodations
Accommodations and services
Eco-lodge
Accommodation at an eco-lodge in the heart of the rainforest, including options from comfortable standard to luxury bungalows.
Transfers
Pickup and departure transfer at Puerto Maldonado airport, as well as transfers to the port.
River transportation
Boat rides between Puerto Maldonado and the lodge, as well as boat outings to Lake Sandoval and the clay lick.
Meals
Full board with Amazonian and international dishes, including vegetarian options.
Naturalist guides
Guides specialized in Amazonian flora and fauna during all excursions.
Gallery
Photo gallery
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
What is a clay lick?
It is a clay wall on the riverbank where macaws and parrots feed on minerals that complement their diet. Therefore, it is one of the most impressive wildlife spectacles in the Amazon.
Are macaws always seen at the clay lick?
Activity is frequent, but it depends on the weather and the season. Also, on rainy days fewer birds may be present.
Can I visit the Colorado clay lick?
The Colorado clay lick, one of the largest in the world, is located in a very remote area, so it requires longer programs at specific lodges. However, we can quote it as an extension.
What is the difference with the 3-day program?
The Tambopata tour 4 days program adds the excursion to the Chuncho clay lick and an extra night in the rainforest, so you can enjoy the activities more calmly.
How do I get to Puerto Maldonado?
There are daily direct flights from Lima and Cusco. Flights are not included, but we can quote them together with the program.
Can I customize this itinerary?
Yes. We can change the lodge category, add nights or activities and, also, combine the program with Cusco or Machu Picchu.
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