The Chuncho Clay Lick is an unmissable Amazonian natural spectacle: every dawn, hundreds of macaws and parrots descend to a mineral clay wall in the Tambopata National Reserve (Madre de Dios). With 260 m in altitude and hundreds of meters in length, it is one of the largest clay licks in Peru.
Here you will find practical information for tourists: how to get there (routes and transportation from Puerto Maldonado), the best time to visit and bird activity, what to bring, safety rules, and photography tips with guided tours. Each section includes key details such as permits, schedules, access, and costs.
Get ready to wake up early and live a unique experience in the Peruvian jungle.
How to get to the Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick
The Chuncho Clay Lick is located in the Upper Tambopata sector, within the Tambopata National Reserve.
The most common route starts in Puerto Maldonado and is done in two stages:
- By road:
- From Puerto Maldonado to La Joya (4.7 km, ~12 min)
- From La Joya to the Infierno Native Community (17 km, ~30 min)
- By river:
- From Infierno, navigate the Tambopata River for 5 to 6 hours by speedboat until reaching the clay lick
Tours begin before sunrise to arrive on time for macaw watching.
To enter, it is mandatory to have a SERNANP-authorized guide. Additionally, an entrance fee must be paid:
- S/30 for foreigners
- S/15 for Peruvians (per day)
Many tour operators offer 2 to 3-day packages, which include transportation, lodge accommodation, and the visit to the Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick.
Best time to observe macaws
The dry season (May–October) is the best time to visit the Chuncho Clay Lick. During these months, skies are usually clear and there is less rain, allowing better access conditions and greater bird activity at dawn.
In the rainy season (November–April), access can become more difficult due to rising river levels, although the vegetation looks greener and more lush.
Macaws arrive every morning, but the peak activity occurs between 5:30 and 8:30 am. After 10:00 am, the spectacle usually decreases considerably.
To make the most of the experience, it is recommended to:
- Wake up early
- Protect yourself from the morning cold
- Bring a camera with a telephoto lens
What to bring and safety recommendations
To enjoy the excursion comfortably and safely, it is important to pack the essentials:
- Passport or ID
- Binoculars or camera with zoom
- Insect repellent
- Sunscreen
- Hat
- Rain poncho
- Sturdy boots
- Lightweight clothing in neutral colors (preferably long sleeves)
- Water
- Also, bring snacks and a headlamp for the return.
During the visit, always follow the instructions of your guide and park rangers. Register at control points, stay in designated viewpoints, and remain quiet during observation. Do not disturb wildlife or leave trash behind.
It is recommended to wear cotton clothing and a hat, as well as apply mosquito repellent regularly.
With these precautions, you will enjoy the trip more while protecting the environment. We at Trails to Machu Picchu provide certified guides so you can explore the Chuncho Clay Lick with complete peace of mind.
Photography tips and guided tours
Macaw photography at the Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick requires some preparation, and the most important moment is the golden sunrise.
For better results, it is recommended to bring:
- A long lens (≥300 mm) or quality binoculars
- A portable tripod to stabilize the camera (if possible)
During the session:
- Avoid using flash
- Move quietly
- Capture colors from elevated viewpoints, always respecting distance
Many visitors prefer to do this experience on guided tours, since:
- They depart very early from Puerto Maldonado
- They include half-day visits (official recommendation)
Additionally, tours usually offer 2 to 4-day packages, which combine:
- Accommodation
- Boat transportation
- Expert guides
For example, some 4-day packages with a visit to the Chuncho Clay Lick are around 700 USD per person.
Trails to Machu Picchu organizes these complete packages, ensuring that photographers and nature lovers have the proper logistical support. Capture the most impressive wildlife spectacle of the Amazon with our professional support.
