The Tambopata Research Center Tour
Positioned in the middle of the wildlife-rich Tambopata National Reserve, near one of the largest macaw clay licks in the Amazon Rainforest, you will find the Tambopata Research Center.
On our Tambopata Research Center tours, you will explore deep in the Tambopata National Reserve. You will visit the nearby macaw clay lick and enjoy guided rainforest walks to find many different animals and plants. The lodge also houses researchers studying macaws and Amazon animals who will provide optional rainforest talks.
The lodge offers 24 comfortable rooms and suites. These include your choice of Standard, Comfort, Suite and the Deluxe Suite. All of the accommodation options are styled with authentic Ese-Eja décor, which has been crafted by artists from the Infierno community.
Each of the Tambopata Research Center lodge rooms and suites offer private ensuite bathrooms with hot water showers. The Deluxe Suite is the most luxurious and spacious accommodation, which offers a large outdoor deck with sofas and an outdoor tub. WiFi is also available.
Choose tours of 4-days and over to explore the species-rich Tambopata National Reserve. Enjoy guided tours with your skilled Amazon guide to find many different animals, such as howler monkeys, capuchins, squirrel monkeys, and colorful birds. You will also visit one of the largest macaw clay licks in the Amazon Rainforest. This is a great place to see hundreds of these colorful and intelligent parrots.
A highly recommended Amazon lodge, the Tambopata Research Center is also a research center for Amazon wildlife, specifically centered around macaw research and the clay licks. Enjoy talking with researchers to get a greater understanding of the work we’re doing and learn more about the macaws themselves.
The remote location of the Tambopata Research Center, presence of wildlife researchers, and the skilled naturalist guides means this is an excellent place to explore Amazon Rainforest nature and wildlife.
The rainforest around the lodge is an uninhabited part of the Tambopata National Reserve and is located next to the Bahajua-Sonene National Park. This means the animals and plants are at carrying capacity for the environment to give you an incredible experience of the Amazon Rainforest.
I wanted to take a break from my typical daily routine and immerse myself in nature, and this is exactly what I found at the Tambopata Research Center. I stayed there for a week in March and it ended up being my favorite experience in South America.
- Marc
For: The Tambopata Research CenterThe Tambopata Research Center Accommodation
Rooms at the Tambopata Research Center are open to the surrounding rainforest. This means you can immerse yourself in the Amazon's tranquility and atmosphere making the most of the ecosystem.
The openness also means that monkeys and other Amazon Rainforest animals are often visible from the comfort of the lodge itself. A rarity in the Amazon, mosquitoes are not really a problem around this area of rainforest. We made the most of this fact at the Tambopata Research Center.
Rooms - Twenty four bedrooms, which includes 8 Superior Rooms, 8 Comfort Rooms, 4 Suite Rooms, and 4 Deluxe Suites. There is also a common area and dining room. Bedrooms are separated from one another by light cane fencing. Rooms are private but not soundproof. All rooms are connected by raised boardwalk.
Common Areas - Common areas are open and spacey and offer ample area for resting and socializing. They include a dining room and bar, a reception lounge with souvenir shop, and an interpretation center.
Macaws - The largest known macaw clay-lick in the Amazon is 500 yards from the lodge.
Researchers - The research quarters is a two story building usually full of scientists and their assistants from the macaw project.
Communication - In daily contact with our offices in Puerto Maldonado and Lima via internet, satellite phone & HF radio.
Mosquito Nets - All rooms have mosquito nets on beds, bedside tables and a rack of clothes hangers.
Jungle Views - Bedrooms open out to the surrounding rainforest. This means that guests can enjoy this unique ecosystem even on their downtime. Many animals, including monkeys are often visible from the lodge itself.
Natural Construction - A simple, airy lodge built from traditional materials such as wood, palm fronds and clay.
Hot Water
Hot water is available in the Tambopata Research Center.
Electricity
A generator is turned on once a day to recharge batteries for guests or lodge facilities. At night it is very dark, so we recommend good flashlights. Light is provided by numerous kerosene lamps and candles.
Food
In the dining room, enjoy self-serve three course meals at the Tambopata Research Center. Meals include soup or appetizers, salad, main courses, and desserts. Enjoy a mix of both Peruvian and international cuisine.
All fresh fruits and salads are thoroughly cleaned before serving. We also provide unlimited amounts of boiled, filtered, cooled drinking water, coffee or tea and we provide fruit juices during the meals. If any visitor has special dietary requirements, we are happy to make individual arrangements, but please notify us using the contact form.
The Tambopata Research Center Tour Summary
The Tambopata Research Center provides an in depth Amazon Rainforest experience. Over 20 years, research has been carried out at the lodge on the nearby large Macaw clay lick, one of the largest in the Amazon Rainforest. One of the rules in Amazonia is that the farther away from urban areas you are, the more wildlife you will find living in the area, and this is certainly true at this lodge.
Activities
- Claylick - Visit this large river bank while Macaws and parrots make a raucous and colorful spectacle which inspired a National Geographic cover story.
- 5 Habitats – Close and easy hikes to bamboo, flood plain, terra firma, palm and riverine rainforest habitats
- Small Tower – Climb our small jungle tower for a great view of the palm swamp and blue and gold macaws that inhabit the area surrounding it.
- Macaw Project - Interact with researchers studying Macaw feeding habits, genetics, radio tracking and macaw parasites.
- Extra Activities – Citizen Science, Amazon Cam, Discovering New Species, visits to the uninhabited heart of the rainforest
Tambopata Research Center & Tambopata Reserve
The TRC’s greatest attraction is the rainforest – and creatures – that surround it. Species you have a strong chance of spotting during your stay include:
- Macaws - The largest known macaw clay-lick in the Amazon is 500 yards from the lodge.
- Dusky titi monkeys
- Squirrel monkeys
- Brown capuchin monkeys
- Howler monkeys
- Spider monkeys
- Capybara
- Caiman
- Agouti
- White lipped peccary
Although very difficult to see, jaguars, tapirs and harpy eagle are also occasionally glimpsed by guests
Video Introduction
Tour Info
- Country: Peru
- Focus Area: Tambopata National Reserve
- Duration: 4, 5 days+
- Start Point: Puerto Maldonado Airport (PEM)
- End Point: Puerto Maldonado Airport (PEM)
Tour Highlights
- The most remote ecolodge inside the Tambopata National Reserve, facing the Bahuaja Sonene National Park.
- Immerse yourself in one of the world's most biodiverse forests at the Tambopata Research Center,
- Visits to the the region's two most significant clay licks: the Colorado and Chuncho Clay licks.
- Support research and conservation efforts that have been ongoing at the center since 1989, contributing to vital conservation research in the area.
- This is not a typical hotel but a comfortable ecolodge with 28 rooms nestled in the rainforest, making it ideal for nature lovers and photographers.
- The lodge boasts 300 meters of elevated walkways situated perfectly between the forest canopy and floor, enhancing wildlife observation opportunities.
More About The Tambopata Research Center
- Tambopata Research Center is located inside Tambopata National Reserve, opposite Bahuaja National Park on the Tambopata River in Madre de Dios, Peru.
- To begin your rainforest tour, you take a quick plane trip from Lima (1 hour and a half) or Cuzco ( 30 minutes) to the Amazonian city of Puerto Maldonado in Southeastern Peru.
The Tambopata Research Center Activities
Rainforest Master Hike
Traverse winding trails, carefully navigating the intricate pathways of leaf-cutter ants, as you delve deep into the jungle's mysteries. With the expertise of our guides, expect to witness a stunning array of wildlife, from elusive monkeys to vibrant birdlife hidden amidst the canopy.
This immersive journey offers more than just a scenic hike; it provides a profound understanding of the Amazon's intricate ecosystems. Learn about the rich tapestry of landscapes, from lush new growth forests to expansive palm swamps, and discover the symbiotic relationships between plants and animals.
For hardcore hikers and nature enthusiasts alike, the Rainforest Master Hike offers unparalleled access to pristine wilderness and rare wildlife sightings. Be prepared for a challenging yet rewarding experience, equipped with ample water and repellent to conquer the humid terrain.
Amazon Birdwatching
Nestled in Tambopata, Peru, our location is a haven for bird enthusiasts. With over 600 bird species living in the region, it ranks among the premier birdwatching destinations globally. Our lodges are strategically placed near diverse habitats, enhancing your chances of a rich birding experience. Whether you are a novice or an expert birdwatcher, our tailored birding activities cater to all levels of interest and ability, promising an engaging and memorable birdwatching adventure.
Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick
As dozens of vibrant parakeets, colorful parrots, and magnificent macaws descend upon the clay lick to partake in its mineral-rich bounty, you'll be mesmerized by the sight and sound of this extraordinary gathering. The largest and most vocal of them all, the Red and Green Macaws, leave an unforgettable impression as they feast on the nutrient-laden clay.
For nature enthusiasts and families seeking an unforgettable tropical bird encounter, the Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick is a must-visit destination in Tambopata. Immerse yourself in the humid jungle ambiance as the air reverberates with the macaws' calls, creating an atmosphere unlike any other in the world.
Sunset Cruise
Your guide will talk about the dynamics of this Amazonian river as you watch for rainforest wildlife and see macaws fly overhead before enjoying the jungle sunset.
Low / Length 2:00 hrs
Amazon Creek Trail Hike
Nestled within the remote expanse of the Tambopata Research Center lodge, the Wild Creek Trail offers unparalleled opportunities to immerse yourself in the rich biodiversity of the rainforest. Meandering deep into the heart of the forest, the trail unveils the pristine beauty of Terra Firme, showcasing untouched landscapes teeming with life.
Prepare to be captivated by the trail's natural splendor, as crystal-clear creeks reveal glimpses of elusive fish, frogs, and other shy denizens of the jungle. Guided by experienced naturalists, delve into the intricacies of rainforest creek ecology, gaining insights into the delicate balance of this unique ecosystem.
Discover a landscape in constant flux, where Amazon creeks evolve with the seasons, nurturing a plethora of plant and animal species found nowhere else. Encounter playful troops of Squirrel Monkeys and Brown Capuchin Monkeys, delighting monkey enthusiasts, while avid birdwatchers revel in the sight of exotic avian species adorning the treetops.
For the fortunate few, a chance encounter with the elusive Tapir adds a touch of magic to the journey, offering a rare glimpse into the hidden wonders of the forest floor. Embrace the Wild Creek Trail experience—a testament to the untamed beauty and boundless biodiversity of the Amazon Rainforest.
The World of Butterflies
Delve into the world of Morphos, Tiger Butterflies, and Owl Butterflies, marveling at their intricate patterns and fascinating behaviors. Guided by your knowledgeable companion, gain insights into the intricate art of rainforest camouflage and butterfly behavior, enriching your understanding of this mesmerizing ecosystem.
Monkey Search
As you search the towering jungle canopy, a symphony of caws, screeches, and purrs fills the air, signaling the presence of elusive monkey species. Your patience is rewarded as the forest comes alive with the arrival of the majestic Red Howler Monkey, heralding the beginning of a thrilling wildlife encounter.
From the acrobatic Spider Monkeys to the boisterous Brown Capuchin Monkeys, each step along the trail offers the chance to glimpse the richness of Amazonian biodiversity.
But the Monkey Search promises more than just monkey sightings. Explore the depths of the forest, where hidden tracks of elusive predators like Pumas, Ocelots, and Jaguars hint at the untamed wilderness that surrounds you. This untouched realm of Amazonia offers a glimpse into the true essence of the tropical wilderness.
Night Lectures
Colorado macaw clay lick
As the sun ascends higher, the air resonates with the vibrant cacophony of wild parrots, macaws, and parakeets, painting the sky with a kaleidoscope of colors. Through powerful scope, every intricate detail of their plumage comes into focus, a testament to the mesmerizing beauty of nature's handiwork.
Enjoy the magic of the Colorado Macaw Clay Lick, a renowned hotspot for avian enthusiasts and researchers alike. Marvel at the sight of majestic Scarlet Macaws, neon green Mealy Parrots, and a myriad of other species feasting on the rich clay, a ritual that has captivated the imagination of visitors and graced the pages of National Geographic.
Rates & Inclusions
4 days / 3 nights
Standard (Double Occupancy): $1,545
Standard (Single Occupancy): $2,409
Comfort (Double Occupancy): $1,749
Comfort (Single Occupancy): $2,799
Suite (Double Occupancy): $2,043
Suite (Single Occupancy): $3,267
Deluxe Suite (Double Occupancy): $2,349
Deluxe Suite (Single Occupancy): $3,759
5 days / 4 nights
Standard (Double Occupancy): $2,060
Standard (Single Occupancy): $3,212
Comfort (Double Occupancy): $2,332
Comfort (Single Occupancy): $3,732
Suite (Double Occupancy): $2,724
Suite (Single Occupancy): $4,356
Deluxe Suite (Double Occupancy): $3,132
Deluxe Suite (Single Occupancy): $5,012
6 days / 5 nights
Standard (Double Occupancy): $2,575
Standard (Single Occupancy): $4,015
Comfort (Double Occupancy): $2,915
Comfort (Single Occupancy): $4,665
Suite (Double Occupancy): $3,405
Suite (Single Occupancy): $5,445
Deluxe Suite (Double Occupancy): $3,915
Deluxe Suite (Single Occupancy): $6,265
Notes
- Programs per person based on double & single occupancy
- Transfer-in (From Puerto Maldonado to Lodge): we have two departures daily at 13:00 and 14:30
- Transfer-out (Lodge to Puerto Maldonado): Two daily departures at 07:00 and 08:00
- There is an additional $75 per person charge for entrance into the national park
Included
- All meals, accommodations and services
- All river transportation and transfers from and to the airport of Puerto Maldonado.
Not Included
- International or domestic airfares
- Airport departure taxes or visa fees
- Excess baggage charges
- Additional nights during the trip due to flight cancellations
- Alcoholic beverages or bottled water, snacks, insurance of any kind, laundry, phone calls or messages, reconfirmation of flights and items of personal nature.
Operated By Rainforest Expeditions
About Rainforest Expeditions
In 1989, Eduardo Nycander, a wildlife photographer and architect passionate about nature and conservation, was invited by the Wildlife Conservation Society to photograph macaws in a stunning and wildlife-rich region of Tambopata, Peru.
Overwhelmed by the wildlife and beauty of the region, Eduardo constructed a research center for studying the wildlife, including a 10,000-hectare forest concession protecting the area.
Later joined by a former researcher of the macaw project, Kurt Holle, Rainforest Expeditions was officially founded in 1992 as a tourism company. This allowed everyone, not just researchers, to experience and appreciate this incredible and wildlife-rich region.
Now operating 3 distinct lodges, Rainforest Expeditions have become one of the leading, and most awarded, tourism companies in the Peruvian Amazon. They are regularly honored at the World Travel Awards, consistently receive high praise from guests, and have been featured in National Geographic, Condé Nast Traveler and Conservation International.
Rainforest Expeditions Details
Room Options
Standard
Standard rooms provide an authentic Ese-Eja décor, which has been crafted by artists from the local community of InfIerno. All …
Comfort
Comfort rooms provide authentic Ese-Eja décor, which has been crafted by artists from the local community of Infierno. All rooms …
Suite
Suite rooms provide authentic Ese-Eja décor, which has been crafted by artists from the local community of Infierno. All rooms …
Deluxe Suite
Deluxe Suite rooms have an authentic Ese-Eja décor which has been crafted by artists from the local community of Infierno. …
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