If you’re heading to the Peruvian Amazon and looking for something truly unforgettable, let me tell you about one of the most magical experiences I had — visiting the , near Puerto Maldonado. This place is a hidden gem deep in Tambopata National Reserve, where hundreds of macaws and parrots gather each morning in a vibrant explosion of color and sound.
I had always dreamed of seeing macaws in the wild, and Chuncho Clay Lick is one of the best places in the world to witness this natural spectacle. The name “clay lick” refers to the exposed riverbank where birds gather to eat clay. It might sound strange, but the minerals in the clay help them detoxify their diet of fruits and seeds — a brilliant example of nature’s intelligence.
Getting to Chuncho is part of the adventure. From Puerto Maldonado, we took a drive through the lush rainforest, followed by a boat ride along Tambopata River. The early morning light shining over the jungle was already worth the trip. But nothing could compare to what came next.
As the sun rose, the trees came alive. First came the sounds — high-pitched calls echoing through the forest. Then, they appeared: scarlet macaws, blue-and-yellow macaws, and red-and-green macaws, descending in pairs to the clay wall. Dozens, then hundreds of them, perching, calling, and pecking at the clay. It was like watching a living rainbow unfold right in front of my eyes.
As the Tour Guide said, the best time to visit is during the dry season, from April to November, when sightings are more frequent and the birds are more active. Our guide explained how this spot plays a vital role in bird conservation, and how local tourism helps protect this incredible habitat.
If you’re a nature lover, birdwatcher, or simply want to experience something extraordinary, I can’t recommend the Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick in Puerto Maldonado enough. It’s one of those once-in-a-lifetime experiences that will stay with you forever.
So if you’re planning a trip to the, make sure to include a visit to this. Trust me — waking up before dawn has never been so worth it.
Noa Amir, Israel.
Plan Your Amazon Tour Today! Contact us to help plan your tour to the Peruvian Amazon!
✉️ Email us at:
📲 Or reach us on WhatsApp: