MANU MACAW CLAY LICK & RESERVED ZONE TOURS
Explore the Heart of the Amazon – Exclusive Wildlife Encounters in Peru’s Untamed Wilderness
Venture deep into the Manu Biosphere Reserve – one of the world’s most biodiverse regions – on our exclusive Macaw Clay Lick and Reserved Zone Tours. Designed for travelers seeking both authenticity and comfort, this expedition offers rare access to pristine rainforest, breathtaking wildlife, and the iconic macaw clay licks where hundreds of vibrantly colored parrots gather daily in a stunning display of nature.
This tour combines rich cultural experiences, professional naturalist guides, and carefully selected lodges to create an unforgettable journey into the Amazon.
Tour Highlights
- Macaw & Parrot Clay Lick: Witness the spectacular dawn ritual as hundreds of red-and-green macaws and other parrot species descend on the mineral-rich clay walls in the Amazon.
- Reserved Zone Access: Explore the core protected area of Manu National Park – a privilege granted to only a few operators – with expert guides who bring the forest to life.
- Rare Wildlife Encounters: Spot giant river otters, monkeys, tapirs, caimans, and elusive jungle cats like jaguars and ocelots in their natural habitat.
- Deep Rainforest Immersion: Overnight stays in jungle lodges and remote camps offer full immersion in untouched nature, far from the tourist crowds.
Manu Macaw Clay Lick & Reserved Zone 8 Days Tour
Experience one of the most extraordinary wilderness journeys on Earth in just 8 unforgettable days. This expertly crafted itinerary combines access to the legendary Manu Reserved Zone with the iconic Macaw Clay Lick, offering a deep dive into the diverse ecosystems of Peru’s southern Amazon.
Follow the Manu-Kosñipata Road, an ecological corridor that takes you from the high Andean peaks through mystical cloud forests, and deep into the lowland Amazon rainforest, navigating both the Madre de Dios and Manu Rivers. Along the way, immerse yourself in some of the richest wildlife habitats on the planet — with world-class birdwatching, large mammal encounters, and the unforgettable spectacle of macaws gathering by the hundreds at dawn.
Manu Macaw Clay Lick & Reserved Zone 9 Days Tour
Embark on the most immersive and conventional journey into the Manu Rainforest with our expertly curated 9-day tour — a full exploration of the lush biodiversity and untamed beauty that only Manu National Park can offer. This itinerary combines the breathtaking Macaw Clay Lick on the Madre de Dios River with extended access to the remote Manu River, deep within the southeastern Amazon of Peru.
Here, in one of the last untouched rainforests on Earth, you’ll search for some of the rarest and most iconic Amazonian wildlife in its most pristine habitat — from jaguars lounging on riverbanks to the elusive giant river otter, playful monkeys, and the vibrant flocks of macaws and parrots that light up the skies.
Manu Macaw Clay Lick & Reserved Zone 10 Days Tour
It offers the most comprehensive and immersive journey through the Manu Biosphere Reserve.
This expertly guided expedition takes you deep into the heart of the rainforest, where wildlife still thrives in pristine, untouched conditions. Travel across cloud forests, river lowlands, and oxbow lakes as you track rare and iconic species in their natural habitats — including the Jaguar, Giant River Otter, and Black Caiman. Witness one of the most mesmerizing natural events in the Amazon: the Macaw Clay Lick, where dozens of brilliant parrots and macaws gather at dawn to feed on mineral-rich clay walls.
This is not just a tour — it’s the ultimate wildlife encounter in the wildest corner of South America.
"Top Attractions to Explore on Manu Macaw Clay Lick & Reserved Zone Tours"
Manu Macaw Clay Lick & Reserved Zone Tours offer a variety of exciting and unique attractions that allow visitors to experience both the natural beauty and cultural richness of the region. Some of the key attractions include:
Ninamarca Funeral Towers
Discover the rich cultural and historical heritage of Ninamarca, located in the picturesque Cusco Region of Peru. Known for its ancient chullpas (funerary towers) that date back to pre-Inca times, Ninamarca is a captivating archaeological site that offers a glimpse into the region’s past. Situated at an altitude of about 3,700 meters, this site provides not only a fascinating historical experience but also breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes.
Paucartambo Colonial Town
Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and stunning landscapes of Paucartambo, a charming town nestled in the Andean highlands of Peru. Known as the «Gateway to Manu,» Paucartambo offers travelers a unique blend of cultural richness, historical significance, and natural beauty. As part of your journey with Manu Rainforest Tours, you’ll have the opportunity to explore this picturesque town, famous for its colonial architecture and its lively Fiesta de la Virgen del Carmen
Acjanaco Mountain Pass
Acjanaco, located at the edge of the Manu National Park, is a spectacular gateway to the Amazon rainforest and an essential stop on your journey with Manu Rainforest Tours. Positioned at an altitude of 3,400 meters (11,155 feet), Acjanaco marks the highest point along the Manu Road and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding cloud forests and the dramatic descent into the tropical Amazon basin.
Manu Cloud Forest
Is one of the most enchanting and biodiverse regions in Peru, and a must-visit destination for any nature lover. As part of your adventure, you’ll have the opportunity to explore this unique ecosystem that serves as a bridge between the Andean mountains and the Amazon rainforest. Located in the eastern slopes of the Andes, the Manu Cloud Forest is renowned for its lush vegetation, mist-covered landscapes, and vibrant wildlife
Machuwasi Lagoon
Machuwasi Lagoon is a tranquil, remote body of water surrounded by lush rainforest. Its calm waters serve as a haven for an abundance of wildlife, particularly bird species. The lagoon is renowned for its diverse avian population, including the spectacular hoatzin, a prehistoric-looking bird with a unique calling sound, and the striking yellow-rumped cacique. It’s also a prime location to observe macaws, parrots, and a variety of other exotic birds in their natural habitat.
Madre de Dios River
The Madre de Dios River is one of the most important waterways in the Amazon Basin, offering an unforgettable adventure for nature enthusiasts and explorers. As part of your journey, you’ll have the chance to experience the tranquil beauty and abundant wildlife of this pristine river, which flows through the heart of Manu National Park. The river winds through lush rainforests, past towering trees and diverse ecosystems, offering spectacular views and a chance to see wildlife up close.
Manu Parrot Clay Lick
The Manu Parrot Clay Lick is a natural mineral deposit found along the Madre de Dios River, where parrots and macaws gather daily to ingest the nutrient-rich clay. This unique behavior helps the birds to neutralize toxins in their diet and supplement their nutritional needs. It’s a mesmerizing sight to watch as hundreds of birds, including the stunning Chestnut-fronted macaw, blue-headed macaw, mealy parrots, and yellow-crowned amazons, Blu-headed Parrot, White-eyed Parakeet come together at dawn in a vibrant display of color and sound.
Shintuya Hot Springs
After days of exploring the wild beauty of Manu National Park, there’s no better way to unwind than a soothing soak in the Shintuya Hot Springs. These natural thermal baths offer the perfect combination of relaxation, jungle scenery, and local culture. At Manu Rainforest Tours, we include visits to the Shintuya Hot Springs in several of our Amazon itineraries, giving travelers a chance to enjoy nature’s spa experience in one of the most biodiverse regions of Peru.
Salvadorcillo Macaw Clay Lick
Located just a 40-minute jungle walk from Casa Matsiguenka Lodge, the Salvadorcillo Macaw Clay Lick offers an early-morning spectacle of Amazonian birdlife in its most untouched form. Unlike other clay licks in Manu, only one macaw species—the red-and-green macaw (Ara chloropterus)—frequents this location. In the cooler hours just after sunrise, you’ll also witness flocks of chestnut-fronted macaws, blue-headed parrots, and mealy Amazon parrots feeding on the mineral-rich clay.
Casa Matsiguenka Lodge
Deep within the untouched heart of the Amazon rainforest, Casa Matsiguenka Lodge offers travelers a truly immersive and sustainable way to experience the Manu Reserved Zone. Built and operated by the Matsiguenka (Machiguenga) indigenous community, this lodge allows you to explore the pristine jungle of Manu National Park while supporting local culture and conservation. As a proud partner of Manu Rainforest Tours, Casa Matsiguenka is featured in our multi-day Amazon adventures…
Manu River
Flowing through the heart of one of the most biologically diverse ecosystems on the planet, the Manu River is the central artery of the Manu Biosphere Reserve in southeastern Peru. Winding through cloud forests, lowland jungle, and remote indigenous territories, this majestic river offers a unique and immersive way to explore the Amazon rainforest. At Manu Rainforest Tours, we offer unforgettable river journeys along the Manu River, allowing travelers to experience pristine wildlife habitats, visit remote communities, and access the hidden treasures of Manu National Park.
Salvador Oxbow Lake
Deep within the pristine wilderness of Manu National Park lies Lake Salvador (Cocha Salvador), one of the Amazon’s most wildlife-rich oxbow lakes. Surrounded by untouched rainforest and accessible only to a limited number of visitors, this remote lake offers one of the best opportunities for wildlife watching, catamaran excursions, and connecting with the natural beauty of the Manu Biosphere Reserve.
Otorongo Oxbow Lake
Tucked away in the heart of the Manu Reserved Zone, Otorongo Lake (Cocha Otorongo) is one of the Amazon’s most secluded and wildlife-rich oxbow lakes. Surrounded by pristine rainforest and accessible only to a select number of visitors, this tranquil lake offers a front-row seat to the biodiversity and beauty of Manu National Park. At Manu Rainforest Tours, we include visits to Otorongo Lake in our exclusive multi-day jungle expeditions…
Tambo Blanquillo Lodge
Tambo Blanquillo Lodge is a jungle lodge located in a private nature reserve on the edge of the buffer zone of Manu National Park, Situated in the Tambo Blanquillo Private Reserve along the Madre de Dios River within the Manu region of southeastern Peru — accessed by boat from Manu Road ports (e.g., Boca Manu or Atalaya) after traveling from Cusco or Puerto Maldonado. Rustic yet comfortable rainforest cabins with private bathrooms, electricity, and some with limited Wi-Fi.
Blanquillo Macaw Clay Lick
Located near the Blanquillo private reserve, adjacent to the Madre de Dios River in southeastern Peru, this natural clay lick is among the largest and most active in the entire Amazon Basin. Macaws and parrots flock to the exposed riverbank to eat the mineral-rich clay, which helps them neutralize dietary toxins and improve digestion. The best time to visit the Blanquillo Clay Lick is during the dry season (May to October),
Blanco Oxbow Lake
Blanco Lake (Cocha Blanco) is an oxbow lake, formed when a river meander gets cut off, creating a calm, crescent-shaped body of water. Located near the Blanquillo private reserve in the lower zone of Manu National Park, this lake is surrounded by dense tropical forest and is accessible only by canoe, offering visitors a tranquil and immersive Amazon experience.
Camungo Oxbow Lake
Camungo Lake (Cocha Camungo) is an oxbow lake—a curved lake formed when a river meander is cut off. It’s situated near the Blanquillo Reserve, just outside the protected core of Manu National Park, making it more accessible while still offering an authentic Amazon adventure. The lake is famous for its tranquil canoe rides, rich biodiversity, and iconic canopy tower, which provides one of the best birdwatching spots in the entire Amazon Basin.
Camungo Canopy tower
The canopy tower near Camungo Lake is a tall observation platform rising above the rainforest canopy — built on and around a giant kapok (ceiba) tree. From the top, you get panoramic views over the Amazon rainforest and the oxbow lake, ideal for spotting canopy wildlife. It gives you a chance to see species that live high in the trees — macaws, toucans, monkeys, sloths, raptors, and more — that you otherwise wouldn’t easily see from the forest floor.
Dorado Eco Lodge
Unlike some lodges you can book directly, Dorado Lodge is usually a stop used in multi-day Manu jungle expedition itineraries rather than an independently bookable lodge on booking platforms. It appears in tour descriptions as a comfortable jungle lodge where groups stay while traveling by boat deeper into the Manu Biosphere Reserve along the Madre de Dios river. It’s typically reached by motorized boat down the river, often as part of a longer Manu tour.
Yanayacu Parrot Clay Lick
Yanayacu Parrot Clay Lick is a wildlife site located near Dorado Lodge along the Madre de Dios River in the Manu Biosphere Reserve. In the early morning hours, numerous species of parrots, parakeets, and small macaws gather at this natural clay wall to consume mineral-rich clay. The clay lick provides excellent opportunities for close observation and photography of colorful Amazonian birds, making it a highlight for birdwatchers and nature lovers staying at Dorado Lodge.
"Discover a Range of Unique Tours with Manu Rainforest Tours"
At Manu Rainforest Tours, we offer a variety of tours designed to immerse you in the breathtaking beauty and biodiversity of one of the most ecologically rich regions on Earth. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, wildlife enthusiast, birdwatcher, or culture lover, we have a tour that will suit your interests and provide you with unforgettable experiences.
Cloud Forest Tours
Located at the edge of Manu National Park, the Manu Cloud Forest is a transitional zone between the high Andes and the lowland Amazon rainforest…
Cultural Zone Tours
The Manu Cultural Zone is a designated area within the park where indigenous tribes, such as the Matsiguenka, Harakbut and Yine, continue to thrive, maintaining their …
Reserved Zone Tours
Is a protected area that is home to an extraordinary variety of wildlife, including rare and endangered species like the giant river otter, jaguar, and the elusive tapir.This remote…
Macaw Clay Lick Tours
A truly unforgettable experience for nature lovers and birdwatching enthusiasts. As part of your adventure you’ll have the opportunity to witness an…
Reserved Zone & Macaw Clay Lick Tours
Embark on a truly exceptional journey through two of the most remarkable destinations in Manu: the Manu Reserved Zone…
Manu Birding Tours
Manu is a birdwatcher’s paradise, home to over 1,000 species of birds, more than any other place in the world. From the lush Manu Cloud Forest…
Contact Us - Manu Rainforest Tours
Thank you for your interest in Manu Rainforest Tours! We are thrilled to help you plan your Adventure Rainforest Holiday into one of the most biodiverse places on Earth. Whether you have questions about our tours, need assistance with booking, or would like to learn more about the stunning wildlife and culture of the Manu region, we’re here to assist you.
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Email: info@manurainforesttours.com
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WhatsApp: +51 950 085 236
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Our aim is to offer you a quality and personal help since the beginning with all your holiday planning and during your journey to garantí an excellent operation of your Manu Rainforest Tours.
"Alternative Tours and Unique Experiences"
The Manu Rainforest in Peru is a true gem of biodiversity, home to over 1,000 bird species, countless mammals, and lush plant life. While traditional tours focus on hiking and wildlife viewing, the rainforest offers a variety of alternative ways to experience its incredible ecosystems and cultures. Whether you seek adventure, cultural immersion, or eco-conscious exploration, Manu offers something unique for every traveler. Below is a comprehensive list of diverse formats for exploring this extraordinary region…
Cultural Immersion and Homestay Tours
Learn More About Their Traditions
Camping and Survival Tours
Learn Essential Survival Skills such as building shelters
Volunteer and Conservation Tours
Contribute to Preserving the Rainforest
Luxury Eco-Tours
Ensuring a Luxurious & Responsible Rainforest Experience.
Photography Tours
Photograph Stunning Landscapes, wildlife and vibrant plant life
Eco-Friendly and Sustainable Tours
Learn about ongoing efforts to preserve Manu's biodiversity
Wellness and Ayahuasca Retreats Tours
A Journey of Healing and Transformation
Researcher and Educational Tours
Wildlife Monitoring to Studying Plant & Animals Species
