Peru Birding Tours: Manu National Park

Our departure time is scheduled for 6 am, and we anticipate reaching Tambo Blanquillo at around 1 o’clock in the afternoon. We will search the riverbanks for wildlife along the way. Once we arrive, a tasty lunch will be provided, followed by an invigorating walk along one of our numerous trails, which greatly increases the likelihood of encountering wildlife. The final decision on which trail to explore will be made by our knowledgeable guide, ensuring that the best option is chosen. As the day draws to a close, we will enjoy a delightful dinner and spend the night at the cozy Tambo Blanquillo Lodge.

Day 5: 

An early wake-up call around 5:00 am will mark the start of our day as we set off for the renowned Blanquillo Macaw Clay Lick, widely considered the best in the world. Following a brief 15-minute boat ride and a 30-minute walk, we will arrive at the Macaw Clay Lick facilities. Here, a spacious and comfortable hideout awaits, positioned a mere 50 meters from the Ccollpa (Clay-lick), ensuring an optimal view of the spectacle. The hideout’s proximity eliminates the need for camera zooming as you witness a breathtaking display unfold before your eyes. As the sun begins to rise, a vibrant burst of life and color unfolds as flocks of parakeets, parrots, and macaws converge to indulge in the clay, neutralizing their pH levels. With patience, you’ll witness the stunning red-and-green macaws gradually emerge, cautiously scanning the surroundings for any potential threats, such as Jaguars and Ocelots, which are frequent visitors. Once the coast is clear, they descend upon the clay of the Ccollpa, showcasing an unparalleled exhibition of colors and vocalizations as they feed on the hardened surface. While they savor the clay, you’ll have the incredible opportunity to enjoy a delicious breakfast amidst this remarkable spectacle.

After this extraordinary experience, we’ll return to the lodge to rest and recuperate from the eventful morning. Lunchtime will provide an opportunity to relax, read, or take leisurely walks around the lodge. In the afternoon, we’ll embark on the Camungo Loop, which includes a visit to Cocha Camungo and an obligatory stop at the Camungo Observation Tower. This tower, the tallest in the entire Peruvian Amazon, stands at a lofty 50 meters. Constructed alongside a magnificent 400-year-old Ceiba tree, the tower maintains a respectful distance, allowing the tree to continue its growth undisturbed. From the tower’s vantage point, you can observe several bird species high in the canopy, which are rarely seen from the forest floor. Monkeys are also frequent visitors to the neighbouring trees.  Following this engaging activity, we’ll return to the lodge for a cozy dinner and a well-deserved rest.

Day 6: 

After indulging in a wholesome breakfast, we will devote most of the day to exploring the remarkable Blanco Oxbow Lake, the most diverse in the region. During the boat journey to the lake, it is not uncommon to spot peccaries and other mammals roaming along the riverbanks. In the early morning sun, after a night of hunting, it is a frequent delight for visitors to witness Jaguars resting and basking in their majestic presence.

Once we reach the lake, we will embark on another catamaran, as we have one available for each lake, and gently navigate through the water teeming with Giant River Otters, caimans, and other apex predators. The Oxbow Lake is a haven for various monkey species, often observed feasting on fruit-laden trees along its shores, while Snail Kites feast on the abundance of water snails. This lake is renowned in the region for its impressive array of more than 600 bird species!

After this captivating experience, we will return to the lodge for a remarkable lunch and a deeply relaxing moment, allowing us to rejuvenate for the next adventure. In the afternoon, we will visit the Mammal Clay Lick, embarking on a one-hour walk along the Mammal Trail to reach this fascinating site. Along the way, we may encounter numerous monkey species, such as the Spider Monkeys, Squirrel Monkeys, Howler Monkeys and Saddle-backed Tamarin Monkeys, as well as a diverse array of reptiles and invertebrates. Upon reaching the Mammal Clay Lick, we can settle into the specially prepared tents and patiently await the arrival of tapirs, huanganas, capybaras, and even jaguars as they indulge in clay consumption. This activity takes place at night, creating an atmosphere of anticipation and relaxation. The decision to visit this location will depend on the time of year, as the animal activity at the clay lick diminishes in June. In such cases, opting for a walk along one of our trails, offering a higher chance of wildlife sightings, will be the guide’s astute choice.

As night falls, we will savor a delightful dinner while marveling at the captivating panorama. It is a perfect moment to bid farewell to our final night at the Tambo Blanquillo, cherishing the memories of our extraordinary experiences.

Day 7: 

Rising very early in the morning, we prepare to embark on our final journey down the renowned Madre de Dios River. As we traverse its waters, a nutritious and fresh breakfast will be served, allowing us to simultaneously observe the abundant wildlife. 

Upon reaching Boca Colorado, we will continue our route by land, making our way to Puerto Carlos and crossing the Inambari River until we reach Santa Rosa. From there, a van will transport us to either Puerto Maldonado or Cusco, based on the group’s preferences.

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