Complete Itinerary – Tambopata Birdwatching Tour & Bird Observation in the Peruvian Amazon – 3 Days
Discover the Best Tambopata Birdwatching Tour in Peru
The Tambopata Birdwatching Tour is an experience designed for birdwatchers, nature photographers, and travelers who want to discover one of the most biodiverse ecosystems on the planet. Located in the southern Peruvian Amazon, the Tambopata National Reserve is home to more than 600 bird species, making it one of the most important birdwatching destinations in South America.
During this 3-day, 2-night expedition, you will explore Amazonian rivers, primary rainforest, and the famous Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick, considered one of the largest clay licks in the world. Each day offers excellent opportunities to photograph and observe iconic species of the Peruvian Amazon in their natural habitat.
If you are looking for a Tambopata Birdwatching Tour with specialized guides, excellent photography locations, and incredible wildlife diversity, this program is ideal for you.
Day 1: Puerto Maldonado – Tambopata National Park – Birdwatching in Primary Rainforest .
The adventure begins with pick-up from the airport, hotel, or bus terminal in Puerto Maldonado.
We will then begin a two-hour overland journey to the port on the Tambopata River. From there, we will navigate approximately 25 minutes by boat to our ecolodge.
During the journey, it is common to observe:
Herons ,Amazon Kingfishers , Cormorants , Capybaras , Hoatzins , Hawks , Tiger , Herons , King Vultures , Monkeys moving through the treetops .
After lunch, we will enjoy a birdwatching walk through the primary rainforest.
The trails allow us to observe numerous species from the Amazonian understory and canopy. At the end of the afternoon, we will enjoy the sunset over the Tambopata River.
Night Birdwatching
After dinner, we will take a night boat excursion in search of:
Caimans , Capybaras , Owls Nightjars
Nocturnal mammals
Occasionally, it is also possible to observe wild cats moving along the river beaches.
Bird Species Observed – Day 1
During the first day, possible sightings include:
Scarlet Macaw (Ara macao) , Blue-and-Yellow Macaw (Ara ararauna) , Red-and-Green Macaw (Ara chloropterus) , Hoatzin , Amazon Kingfisher , Tiger Heron , King Vulture , Neotropic Cormorant , Paradise Tanager , Blue-crowned Motmot , Jacana , Amazonian , Woodpeckers , Trogons , Black-billed Toucan ,Oropendolas .
Day 2: Exploring the Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick – The Best Birdwatching Experience in Tambopata .
Before sunrise, we will begin our upstream navigation toward the famous Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick.
During the journey, there is a possibility of observing:
Jaguar , Tapir , Capybaras , Caimans , Giant River Otter , Harpy Eagle (occasional sighting) , Anaconda (very occasional sighting) .
Upon arrival at the observation platform, we will experience one of the most spectacular natural events in the Amazon.
Hundreds of:
- Scarlet Macaws
- Red-and-Green Macaws
- Blue-and-Yellow Macaws
- Amazonian Parrots
- Parakeets descend to consume essential minerals from the clay wall.
After breakfast, we will continue birdwatching in different habitats of the Tambopata National Reserve.
In the afternoon, we will explore specialized trails to search for new species.
After dinner, we will enjoy a night walk to observe wildlife that becomes active after dark.
Bird Species Observed – Day 2
The most frequently observed species include:
Scarlet Macaw , Red-and-Green Macaw , Blue-and-Yellow Macaw , Mealy Parrot , Blue-headed Parrot , Orange-fronted Parakeet , Toco Toucan , Toucanets , Violaceous Trogon , White-tailed Trogon , Lineated Woodpecker , King Vulture , Black Hawk , Bat Falcon , Paradise Tanager , Turquoise Tanager , Amazonian Flycatchers , Antbirds , Woodcreepers
Day 3: Tambopata Reserve – Return to Puerto Maldonado .
After breakfast, we will begin our return journey by boat along the Tambopata River.
This final navigation offers excellent opportunities to observe riverside birds and species that are active during the early morning hours.
Later, we will continue by road to Puerto Maldonado, concluding this unforgettable birdwatching expedition in the Peruvian Amazon.
Bird Species Observed – Day 3
During the return journey, common sightings include:
Cocoi Heron , Great Egret , Snowy Egret , Roseate Spoonbill , Jabiru (occasional sighting) , Southern Screamer , Green Ibis , Green Kingfisher , Amazonian Swallows , Roadside Hawk , King Vulture , Oropendolas , Caciques , Tanagers .
Other Wildlife You May Observe .
Besides the extraordinary birdwatching experience, Tambopata is home to an impressive variety of Amazonian wildlife.
Mammals , Jaguar , Ocelot , Puma (occasional sighting) , Amazonian Tapir , Capybara
Giant River Otter , Armadillo , Three-toed Sloth , Red Howler Monkey , Capuchin , Monkey , Squirrel Monkey , Emperor Tamarin , Night Monkey , Reptiles , Black Caiman , White Caiman , Anaconda , Amazonian Boa , Iguanas
Insects
- Morpho Butterflies
- Giant Beetles
- Praying Mantises
- Tarantulas
- Stick Insects
Discover Unique Birding Tour Tambopata 3 days Rainforest Expedition .
Unique Birding Tour Tambopata : Embark on a journey into the heart of Peru’s Amazon Rainforest with this Tambopata Birding Rainforest Expedition. Renowned for its extraordinary biodiversity, Tambopata is a premier destination for birdwatching enthusiasts. Witness the unforgettable spectacle of macaw clay licks, vibrant birdlife, and lush forest ecosystems teeming with life.
Highlights of The Birding Tours Tambopata 3 days .
Macaw Clay Licks: Observe hundreds of colorful macaws and parrots gather at mineral-rich clay licks.
Fascinating Wildlife: Spot an incredible array of birds, mammals, and even apex predators like jaguars.
Immersive Rainforest Experience: Explore pristine primary forests, riverbanks, and nighttime jungle trails.
Unique Birding Tour Tambopata 3 days .
- Duration: 3 Days / 2 Nights
- Location: Southern Peru – Madre de Dios Region, Puerto Maldonado
- Tour Type: Private or Group Tour
- Starting Point: Hotel, Airport, or Bus Terminal pickup in Puerto Maldonado
- Ending Point: Hotel, Airport, or Bus Terminal drop-off in Puerto Maldonado
- Departure: Daily
- Activities: Sunrise and sunset photography, birdwatching, rainforest hikes, night jungle walks, canoe excursions parrot clay lick visits, wildlife photography.
- Elevation: 182 m (597 ft) above sea level
- Best Time to Visit: March – November
- Accommodation: 2 nights at tambopata rainforest lodge .
- Meals Included: 2 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 2 dinners
- Tour Guide: Professional bilingual naturalist guide
- Minimum Participants: 2
- Maximum Participants: 8
- Price per Person: USD
Detailed Itinerary – 3-Day Tambopata Birdwatching Tour .
Discover the incredible biodiversity of the Tambopata National Reserve, one of the best birdwatching destinations in the Peruvian Amazon and home to more than 600 bird species. During this 3-day, 2-night tour, you will explore primary rainforest, navigate along the Tambopata River, and visit the spectacular Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick, one of the largest in the world.
Day 1: Puerto Maldonado – Tambopata Primary Rainforest .
Transfer from Puerto Maldonado and journey to the ecolodge. In the afternoon, enjoy a birdwatching walk through the primary rainforest, followed by a night excursion to observe caimans, owls, and nocturnal wildlife.
Featured Birds:
Scarlet Macaw , Blue-and-Yellow Macaw , Red-and-Green Macaw , Hoatzin , Amazon Kingfisher , Tiger Heron , King Vulture , Neotropic Cormorant , Paradise Tanager , Blue-crowned Motmot , Jacana , Amazonian Woodpeckers , Trogons , Black-necked Aracari / Black-billed Toucan , Oropendolas . peru bird north
Afternoon: After lunch, take a guided walk through the primary rainforest, home to ancient trees, monkeys, insects, and brightly colored butterflies.
Night: Night boat excursion to look for caimans, capybaras, and possible Amazonian felines. Dinner and overnight stay at the lodge.
Day 2: Unique Birding Tour Tambopata Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick .
Early morning departure before sunrise to witness the spectacular sight of hundreds of macaws, parrots, and parakeets gathering to feed on minerals at the clay lick. In the afternoon, explore reserve trails and enjoy a night walk.
Featured Birds:
Scarlet Macaw , Red-and-Green Macaw , Blue-and-Yellow Macaw , Mealy Parrot , Blue-headed Parrot , Orange-fronted Parakeet , Toco Toucan , Toucanets , Violaceous Trogon , White-tailed Trogon , Lineated Woodpecker , King Vulture , Black Hawk , Bat Falcon , Paradise Tanager , Turquoise Tanager , Amazonian Flycatchers , Antbirds , ,Woodcreepers .
Afternoon: Lunch at the lodge. Afterwards, enjoy a guided walk to explore the flora and fauna of Tambopata National Reserve.
Night: Night walk to listen to the sounds of frogs, insects, and nocturnal animals.
Day 3: Unique Birding Tour Tambopata Return to Puerto Maldonado .
Morning navigation along the Tambopata River with excellent opportunities to observe riverside birds before returning to Puerto Maldonado. Tambopata Lodge Inn,
Featured Birds:
Cocoi Heron , Great Egret , Snowy Egret , Roseate Spoonbill , Jabiru (occasional sighting) , Southern Screamer , Green Ibis , Green Kingfisher , Amazonian Swallows , Roadside Hawk , King Vulture , Oropendolas Caciques , Tanagers.
- Additional wildlife sightings
- Additional Wildlife Observation
Besides birds, it is possible to observe jaguars, tapirs, capybaras, giant river otters, monkeys, sloths, caimans, anacondas, boas, iguanas, as well as Morpho butterflies, tarantulas, praying mantises, and other Amazonian insects.
Other Animals:
Monkeys:
- Red Howler Monkey
- Saddleback Tamarin
- Black-headed Night Monkey
Mammals:
- Capybara
- Giant River Otter
- Sloth
- Armadillo
Occasional sightings of jaguars and anacondas
Insects:
- Butterflies
- Beetles
- Tarantulas
Why Choose the 3-Day Tambopata Birding Tour? .
World-Class Biodiversity: One of the richest regions in species diversity on the planet.
Exclusive Macaw Clay Licks: Witness an unforgettable natural phenomenon with hundreds of colorful macaws and parrots.
Tailor-Made Experiences: Expert guides accompany you to ensure unforgettable moments, from spectacular sunrises to the fascinating nocturnal life of the rainforest. Peru Bird
What’s Included in The Unique Birding Tour Tambopata 3 days
- In/Out Transfers (Airport/Bus Terminal to Lodge and back)
- Entrance to the Tambopata National Reserve
- Professional, specialized naturalist and birding guide
- Full board meals (Normal, vegan, or vegetarian options available)
- Accommodation in a comfortable tourist hostel (2 nights)
- All mentioned activities and excursions
- Courtesy welcome drink
Not Included in The Unique Birding Tour Tambopata 3 days
- Alcoholic beverages
- Any flight nor airport departure taxes;
- Travel insurance;
- Vaccination;
- Lunch on the last day.
- Drinks;
- Tips to local staff.
- Air tickets
What to take with you to The Unique Birding Tour Tambopata 3 days
- Binoculars (8×42 or 10×42): For bird and wildlife viewing.
- Camera with telephoto lens (300mm+): Ideal for wildlife photography.
- Headlamp or flashlight: Preferably with a red-light filter for night walks.
- Dry bag or waterproof cover: Protects electronics from rain and humidity.
- Rain gear: Poncho or waterproof jacket and pants.
- Hiking and rubber boots: For muddy rainforest trails; rubber boots may be provided.
- Insect repellent: Essential for mosquito protection.
- Personal first-aid kit: For minor injuries and medications.
- Sunscreen: High SPF, preferably biodegradable.
- Reusable water bottle: Purified water is provided at the lodge.
Not included in The Most Birding Photography in Peruvian
- Any flight nor airport departure taxes;
- Travel insurance;
- Vaccination;
- Breakfast on the first day and Lunch on the last day;
- Drinks;
- Tips to local staff.
What to take with you to The Most Birding Photography in Peruvian
- 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),
- Sweater (for the beginning of the tour in Andes and the cloud forest only),
- 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,
- Toiletries,
- Small towel,
- Toilet paper,
- Antibacterial gel,
- Sunscreen,
- 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.
Leave a Reply