Witness hundreds of macaws feeding at a clay lick and glide a rowing boat through Lake Sandoval on this compact 3-day Tambopata itinerary. Expect early starts, river travel, and focused wildlife viewing guided by local experts.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Dawn on the Madre de Dios arrives like a slow, warm breath. River mist lifts in curtains and the rainforest exhales — macaws carve bright arcs through the air and the river grumbles past the sandbanks. This three-day route centers on two of Tambopata National Reserve’s most dramatic draws: the clay licks where macaws and parrots gather, and Lake Sandoval’s mirrored water where otters and caimans patrol the margins.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
3 days
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness; comfortable walking 3–5 km on uneven, sometimes muddy rainforest trails and boarding small boats.
Wildlife
History
Tambopata sits within ancestral lands used by Indigenous groups and later became a conservation focus after extraction pressures in the 20th century highlighted the need for protected corridors.
Conservation
The reserve is managed to balance tourism with species protection; small-group visitors and local guide fees fund monitoring and anti-poaching efforts.
Reserve your spot on the Lake Sandoval and Collpa de Macamayos 3 days 2 nights today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Early starts for best viewing
Bird activity peaks at dawn; plan to be at the collpa well before sunrise for the full spectacle.
Protect against insects
Bring EPA-registered repellent and long-sleeve layers for evenings near water where mosquitoes are active.
Waterproof your kit
Boat transfers and rainforest humidity mean dry bags or zip-top bags keep cameras and documents safe.
Respect viewing distance
Stay on designated platforms and follow your guide—close approaches disturb nesting and feeding animals.
Sturdy waterproof hiking shoes
Provides grip on muddy trails and stability on lodge walkways.
Insect repellent (DEET or Picaridin)
Reduces mosquito and biting-fly exposure during dawn/dusk outings.
Waterproof dry bag or zip-top bags
Protects electronics and documents during boat transfers and sudden downpours.
Binoculars (8x–10x)
Necessary for detailed views of collpa activity and canopy birds from a distance.