MACAWS CHUNCHO EXCURSION (4 DAYS 3 NIGHTS)

Introducing the Macaws Chuncho Excursion: An Authentic Amazonian Adventure

If you’re dreaming of an authentic jungle experience in Peru, the Macaws Chuncho Excursion offers a compelling way to explore the Amazon’s vibrant biodiversity. For $458 per person, you’ll spend 4 days and 3 nights enjoying the lush Tambopata region, with highlights like the world’s largest clay lick, spotting jaguars, tapirs, and capybaras, and observing a stunning array of macaws and parrots. The tour is centered around Puerto Maldonado and emphasizes close encounters with wildlife, authentic local lodges, and gentle river cruises.

We particularly appreciate the balance of adventure and comfort—you’ll get plenty of time in the wild, yet stay in simple, welcoming lodges that foster genuine connection with nature. The early morning boat trips, especially to the clay lick, are truly unforgettable for birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts alike. Also, the opportunity to feed monkeys and see giant otters at Lake Sandoval makes this tour stand out as a real wildlife safari.

One thing to keep in mind, however, is that the accommodations are quite basic—a point that might matter if you’re accustomed to more luxurious stays. Also, the second lodge at Lake Sandoval appears to be fully booked in some cases, which could affect your planned stay. This tour is best suited for travelers who value wildlife viewing, natural scenery, and authentic jungle lodging over plush comfort.

If you’re ready for a true Amazon adventure filled with incredible sights, sounds, and flora, this tour could be perfect. It’s especially suited for nature lovers, bird watchers, and anyone eager to experience Peru’s heartland in a relaxed, engaging way.

Key Points

• Wildlife Encounters: Expect to see jaguars, tapirs, capybaras, monkeys, and giant otters.
• Unique Experiences: Visiting the world’s largest clay lick to observe colorful macaws and parrots.
• Authentic Lodging: Staying inside the Tambopata National Reserve at Sandoval Lodge offers genuine immersion.
• Early Mornings and River Trips: The boat rides at dawn are prime wildlife viewing opportunities.
• Basic Comforts: Lodges are simple but functional; some reviews mention occupancy issues.
• Cost-Value Balance: For $458, you get full-board meals, guided tours, and lodge stay in a remote paradise.

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A Deep Dive into the Amazonian Journey

Day 1: Connecting with the Jungle

We start our adventure by being picked up from the airport or bus station in Puerto Maldonado. The 2-hour drive into the jungle takes us past plantations of yucca, banana, and pineapple, giving an immediate taste of local life. It’s fascinating to see these crops in the midst of the lush greenery—reminding us that the Amazon is not just wilderness but also a source of livelihood.

Once at Hacienda Lodge, we enjoy a hearty lunch before setting out to explore. The walk through towering trees and thick foliage offers a glimpse of the giant trees and dense canopy. Our guide, whose name we only know from reviews as “super patient,” points out interesting flora and fauna, making the jungle feel alive with possibility. The night walk is a highlight—tarantulas, snakes, insects—becoming more active after sunset. It’s a reminder that the Amazon truly never sleeps.

Day 2: Birding at the Clay Lick and Wildlife Watching

We wake before dawn, with the promise of an early boat trip along the Tambopata River. This serene ride provides a peaceful yet exciting chance to see animals like jaguars, tapirs, and capybaras in their natural habitat. The trip, about an hour and a half, brings us to the Collpa Chuncho, the largest clay lick in the world.

Here, we witness groups of 80-100 macaws and parrots descending on the clay wall, their vivid colors flickering against the jungle backdrop. Photographers and bird enthusiasts will find this a goldmine, with ample opportunities to capture these striking birds in action. One reviewer specifically mentions a guide who “spotted many different animal species with patience,” highlighting the value of knowledgeable guides in wildlife-rich environments.

Afterward, we return to the lodge for lunch and prepare for the next phase of our trip. The afternoon includes a boat ride back to Puerto Maldonado, then a transfer to a different lodge—this time inside the Tambopata Reserve. The Monkey House offers a chance to feed and observe three monkey species, adding a playful element to the experience.

Day 3: Exploring Lake Sandoval

The next morning, we set out early again, heading by boat to Lake Sandoval—a pristine, calm body of water teeming with life. Here, we encounter giant otters, several monkey species, and a spectacular array of birds and butterflies. The scenery is stunning: tall trees reflected on still water, the sound of birdsong filling the air.

We stay in Sandoval Lodge, a family-run hotel that is straightforward but comfortable enough to feel genuinely part of the jungle. The lunch of ‘JUANE’, a traditional jungle dish, is an authentic taste of local cuisine and adds to the sense of adventure. The afternoon involves exploring another part of the reserve, with the possibility of spotting more wildlife.

Later, in the evening, we go on a river cruise along the Madre de Dios River, searching for alligators in the quiet waters. This slow-paced activity emphasizes patience and observation, and the chance to see these reptiles basking at dusk is genuinely special.

Day 4: Sunrise and Farewell

The final morning offers an opportunity to witness the sunrise over the Amazon. Standing on the riverbank, watching the Madre de Dios glow with early sunlight, we feel a sense of peace and accomplishment. A final breakfast, featuring organic ingredients, rounds out the trip. Then, we’ll navigate back to Puerto Maldonado by canoe, carrying memories of a wilderness experience unlike any other.

How Does It Stack Up?

Value for the Price: At $458, this tour includes all meals, transportation, guided wildlife tours, and lodging in some of the most remote parts of the Peruvian Amazon. When you consider the multi-day guided experience with wildlife sightings and authentic lodges, it offers excellent value for nature lovers craving deep jungle immersion.

Authentic Experience: The lodges are simple but functional, providing a genuine jungle stay. This authenticity is a plus for travelers who want to avoid overly commercialized tourism and instead feel connected to their surroundings.

Wildlife & Birding: If spotting jaguars, giant otters, or colorful macaws is your goal, this tour delivers. Reviews highlight the guides’ patience and eagle eye, which greatly enhances the experience.

Logistics & Comfort: The early morning boat rides and walking tours can be physically demanding but are well worth it. Some travelers may find the accommodations a bit basic—this is jungle camping, not luxury safari.

Limitations: The lodges are busy, especially at Lake Sandoval, which could mean less privacy or a fully booked second lodge. Also, the tour doesn’t include breakfast on the first day or lunch on the last, so packing snacks might be wise.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is best suited for adventurous travelers who are genuinely interested in wildlife, birdwatching, and authentic jungle lodges. It’s excellent for those willing to accept basic comforts to get close to nature. Families with older children, nature photographers, and wildlife enthusiasts will find the itinerary especially rewarding.

If you’re looking for a luxury experience or more relaxed pace, you might prefer other options. However, if your priority is seeing the Amazon in its rawest form and learning from knowledgeable guides, this tour ticks all the boxes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of the tour?
The tour costs $458 per person, which includes most meals, transportation, lodging, and guided wildlife excursions. Keep in mind that some meals, like breakfast on day one and lunch on the last day, are not included.

How long is the tour?
It runs for 4 days and 3 nights, with specific starting times depending on availability. Check ahead to confirm your preferred dates.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak both Spanish and English, making it accessible for most travelers.

Are all accommodations the same throughout the trip?
No, you’ll stay in different lodges—initially at Hacienda Lodge, then at the Sandoval Lodge inside the Tambopata Reserve. The Sandoval Lodge is described as simple but comfortable, run by a local family.

Is food included?
Yes, full-board meals are included, with the exception of breakfast on day one and lunch on the final day. The meals feature regional dishes, including traditional jungle fare like JUANE.

What wildlife can I expect to see?
Expect to see jaguars, tapirs, capybaras, monkeys, giant otters, and numerous bird species, including macaws and parrots at the clay lick.

Are the tours physically demanding?
Yes, there are walks through jungle terrain, early boat rides, and wildlife observation that require comfortable footwear and a moderate level of fitness.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans shift.

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Final Thoughts

The Macaws Chuncho Excursion offers a genuine and rewarding peek into the heart of the Peruvian Amazon for those who want more than just a superficial tour. It’s ideal for travelers eager to see wildlife up close, spot elusive animals, and enjoy authentic lodges in a remote setting. The combination of birdwatching at the clay lick, the lakeside wildlife, and the chance to see giant otters and jaguars makes this a memorable adventure.

While the lodges are basic, the experience compensates with stunning views, close-to-nature immersion, and delicious regional food. The tour’s price reflects its inclusiveness—guides, transportation, accommodations, and meals—delivering excellent value for wildlife enthusiasts and curious explorers alike.

If you’re passionate about biodiversity, true jungle experiences, and don’t mind rustic comforts, this trip will leave you with stories and memories of the Amazon’s wild heart. It’s a chance to disconnect from daily life and reconnect with one of the world’s most extraordinary ecosystems.

Happy exploring, and may your Amazon adventure be filled with wonders—and perhaps a few macaws in flight!

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