The Tambopata National Reserve, located in the department of Madre de Dios, in southeastern Peru, is a biodiversity sanctuary that invites you to immerse yourself in the very essence of the Amazon rainforest. From the vibrant color spectacle of the macaw clay licks to the serene beauty of Sandoval Lake, Tambopata offers an unforgettable adventure for every nature lover.
The Macaw Clay Lick (Collpa de Guacamayos): A Festival of Color and Sound
One of the most impressive and sought-after spectacles in Tambopata is the visit to the Macaw Clay Lick (Collpa de Guacamayos). A “collpa” (from the Quechua word meaning salt earth) is a ravine or wall of clay rich in minerals, where hundreds of macaws (Red-and-Green, Blue-and-Yellow, Scarlet, etc.) and parrots gather at dawn to ingest this clay.
This behavior is vital for the birds, as the clay helps them neutralize the toxins from the unripe fruits and seeds they consume. The result is an explosion of color and a chorus of squawks that fills the air, creating a truly majestic natural scene. The most famous clay lick in the area is Collpa Chuncho, one of the largest in the world, attracting hundreds of these magnificent birds. Observing this phenomenon from a strategic and safe hideaway is an experience that connects you directly with wildlife at its finest.
Sandoval Lake (Lago Sandoval): A Mirror of Water and Life
Sandoval Lake is a pristine jewel within the Tambopata National Reserve and a destination that radiates peace and an abundance of life. This beautiful, crescent-shaped body of water is surrounded by a lush forest of Aguaje palm trees that create a unique ecosystem.
To reach this lake, a hike of approximately 3 km is usually required from the access point on the Madre de Dios River, which is an adventure in itself. Once there, the journey takes place in paddle canoes, silently gliding over its calm waters. This allows for the sighting of iconic Amazonian fauna, the main attraction being the majestic Giant River Otter (or Lobo de Río), an endangered species, which can often be seen fishing and playing.
Furthermore, the lake is home to the Black Caiman, the Hoatzin (a prehistoric bird), various species of monkeys (such as the Howler Monkey, Capuchin Monkey, and Squirrel Monkey), and an incredible variety of aquatic and terrestrial birds. Sunsets on Sandoval Lake, with macaws flying in to roost in the surrounding palm trees, are a perfect climax to any day of exploration.
Plan Your Tambopata Adventure
Tambopata offers a range of tour options that adjust to the time and level of immersion you seek:
- Macaw Clay Lick & Sandoval Lake Adventure 5 Days: A complete adventure that combines the Macaw Clay Lick (usually Chuncho) with the detailed exploration of Sandoval Lake and other jungle activities, offering a deep immersion into the National Reserve.
- Tambopata Adventure 4 Days: An excellent option for those with less time but who wish to experience the main attractions of the jungle, combining the clay lick spectacle with visits to Sandoval Lake and night walks.
- Tour Lake Sandoval 3 Days: Ideal for travelers who focus on the biological richness of Sandoval Lake and its surroundings, maximizing time for sighting Giant Otters, caimans, and monkeys, with a calmer and more focused pace.
Don’t wait any longer to discover the green heart of Peru! Tambopata awaits you with its colors, sounds, and the promise of a deep connection with nature.
