A focused five-day immersion into Tambopata’s primary forest: dawn macaw clay licks, a canopy tower for skyline birding, oxbow lake paddles and ethnobotanical walks led by local guides. Read on for what to expect and how to prepare.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You step off the boat and the river exhales — a warm, humid breath that pushes you toward the lodge and the trailhead beyond. Refugio Amazonas sits on the edge of the Tambopata National Reserve, where the Tambopata River slows and forest sounds swell: macaws call like flaring color, frogs punctuate the night, and the canopy tower watches over it all.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
5 days
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness: able to manage daily walks of 1–4 km on uneven, sometimes muddy terrain and short boat transfers.
Wildlife
History
Tambopata has long been used by indigenous peoples and later by Brazil nut collectors; designation as a national reserve protects 1.3 million hectares of Amazonian habitat.
Conservation
The lodge supports research and sustainable tourism; staying on established trails and following guide instructions help minimize impact on sensitive clay licks and wildlife.
Reserve your spot on the 5 Day - Refugio Amazonas Classic Program - Group Service today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Travel light on the boat
Boats are small and luggage space limited — bring a dry bag and leave unnecessary items at the Puerto Maldonado headquarters.
Dawn is prime time
Parrot and macaw activity peaks at first light; be ready with binoculars and your camera on early departures.
Bring insect protection
Use DEET or picaridin repellents and consider permethrin-treated clothing to reduce bites on trails and night walks.
Expect muddy, uneven trails
Trail surfaces vary from boardwalk to rooty dirt; ankle-support shoes and gaiters help in the rainy season.
Lightweight rain jacket
Keeps you dry during tropical downpours and cool, damp mornings.
summer
Sturdy trail shoes with good traction
Supports ankles on muddy trails, boardwalks, and short hill climbs to overlooks.
Insect repellent and bite care
Reduces exposure to mosquitoes and biting insects during day and night activities.
Binoculars (8x–10x)
Key for identifying macaws, toucans and canopy flocks from the tower and oxbow boats.