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Best Places for Wildlife Observation in the Peruvian Amazon
There are 2 places that should come to your mind if you are looking for the best possibilities for wildlife observation in the Peruvian Amazon: the Tambopata National Reserve and the Manu National Park.
As we’ve been more than 30 years in Tambopata region in the buffer zone and within the national reserve, we can be of good help to guide you about this area.
Nestled in Madre de Dios – Peru, the Tambopata National Reserve haven promises an unrivaled experience for nature enthusiasts, including the most experienced documentary productions as BBC and National Geographic.
You should read: The Best Places to See Wildlife Around the World, according to the People Behind Planet Earth III
Travelers who stay within the Tambopata National Reserve have a 35% probability of spotting a jaguar from July to September. Photo: Lucas Bustamante
Tambopata National Reserve: top selection for wildlife lovers
Let’s navigate the unparalleled wonders of Tambopata National Reserve in the Peruvian Amazon, a sanctuary for wildlife lovers and a testament to the Amazon’s astonishing biodiversity:
- Diverse Wildlife Haven:
Tambopata National Reserve is a living testament to the Amazon’s biodiversity, offering a haven for a myriad of species. From elusive jaguars to vibrant macaws, every corner of this reserve pulses with life, providing an extraordinary backdrop for wildlife observation.
- Avian Extravaganza:
Birdwatchers, prepare for a spectacle! Tambopata hosts over 600 bird species, including toucans, parrots, and harpy eagles. The skies come alive with a vibrant avian display, creating an enchanting melody that resonates through the canopy.
In addition to that, Tambopata, specifically the Tambopata River, has the largest number of macaw and parrot clay licks in all of South America, the largest being those found in the Tambopata National Reserve.
- Ecosystem Exploration:
Tambopata invites you to delve into diverse ecosystems—between them, you can find: islands, lakes, terra firme forest, palm swamp or aguajal forest, and bamboo forest among others. Each expedition promises a unique encounter with the Amazon’s kaleidoscope of life, offering a glimpse into its thriving and interconnected ecosystems.
Tambopata National Reserve: What you should not fail to consider for Wildlife Observation in the Peruvian Amazon
At the heart of this wildlife spectacle lies Tambopata Research Center, offering an exclusive front-row seat to the Amazon’s wildlife observation:
- Immersive Wildlife Proximity:
Wake up to the symphony of the rainforest, with wildlife at your doorstep. Tambopata Research Center strategically places you in the heart of the action, providing an intimate and immersive experience for wildlife observation. In addition, the lodge is surrounded by natural and artificial macaw nests, making the place a paradise for macaw lovers.
- Championing Conservation:
Beyond its role as a lodge, Tambopata Research Center is a dedicated conservation ally. Engage in sustainable practices, support local initiatives, and play a part in preserving the rich biodiversity of the Amazon. At the lodge, we develop the Wired Amazon program, a collection of scientific projects that invites the guests of the lodge to become citizen scientists by participating actively in the projects developed there.
- Guided Expeditions by Experts:
Our seasoned guides lead you on thoughtfully curated expeditions. From sunrise boat rides to nocturnal jungle walks, each adventure promises a deeper understanding of Tambopata’s hidden wonders, ensuring an enriching wildlife observation experience.
Our guides are yearly trained in different topics from conservation and biology to first aid.
Guides at Tambopata Research Center
In the quest for the best place for wildlife observation in the Peruvian Amazon, Tambopata National Reserve and Tambopata Research Center stand as guardians of nature’s grandeur. Whether you’re an avid wildlife enthusiast, a passionate photographer, or a seeker of profound connections with nature, Tambopata beckons. Secure your spot at Tambopata Research Center and witness the unparalleled beauty of the Amazon’s wildlife in its most authentic form.
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What our guest say
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- Valuation Excellent
- 5/5
Michelle Smith February 2025
Cheryl Cooper February 2025
Irene February 2025
DayTrip816719 Feb 2025
Daniel S Feb 2025
Steve E January 2025
cathydmcd January 2025
Ian Northcott January 2025
Armando Texis Jan 2025
Niriksha Ravi December 2024
Marco At Miranda Dec 2024
MarcStl December 2024


Such a wonderful experience deep in a part of the Amazon, Tambopata NP. They really involve you with what is happening at the research centre with evening lectures. The meals are outstanding and the rooms are comfortable and I had the best sleep. Dino our guide was outstanding. The river trip to see the Macaw claylicks was a beautiful outing. We saw Capybaras along the river and it was very scenic. The staff are friendly and very engaging. As a tour operator who sends clients to AFRICA for safari, I was hugely satisfied. Thank you, gracious. Food & drinks: Good was simply delicious Read all


An amazing experience in the Peruvian jungle. the information about the centre was very accurate so I knew what to expect but was blown away by the experience and competence of my guide for the four nights, Juan Carlos Yatto. JC was looking for birds for me from the moment he collected me at the airport, so we saw birds on the drive and on the boat ride as well as on the excursions themselves. I was in Peru three weeks and JC was my best guide by far. Don't miss the clay licks for sure, and the tower is also well worth the climb. Food and people are wonderful and the research very interesting. Read all


Das Tambopata Research Center ist eine wunderbare Lodge im Nationalpark Tambopata. Die charmanten, miteinander verbundenen Aufenthaltsräume und Zimmer befinden sich auf hölzernen Stelzen. Bei den offenen Gemeinschaftsräumen gibt es gemütliche Sitzecken, eine wunderbare Hängemattenrelaxzone und einen herrlichen Restaurantbereich, wo zu jeder Zeit Tee, Kaffee und Wasser zur Verfügung stehen. Die stilvollen Zimmer verfügen über bequeme Betten mit Moskitonetz und moderne, saubere Duschbereiche. Die Research Center Lodge mit den Forschungseinrichtungen liegt inmitten des Regenwaldes umgeben von der reinen Natur mit der fantastischen Flora und Fauna, welche dort auch weiterhin erforscht und geschützt wird. Jeden Abend gibt es dazu sehr interessante Vorträge. Die Mitarbeiter sind sehr freundlich, offen und zuvorkommend. Die Buffets waren sehr köstlich und reichhaltig mit Gerichten aus der Region. Es wird großer Wert auf ökologische und nachhaltig umweltschonende Bewirtschaftung gelegt. Von der Lodge aus ist es möglich, mit ausgebildeten Guides in Gruppen von maximal 6 Personen verschiedene Exkursionen zu machen. Speziell Timo war ausgesprochen freundlich, auf unsere Sicherheit bedacht, ging auf die individuellen Interessen der einzelnen Personen ein und vermittelte uns in seiner kompetenten Art umfangreiches Wissen über die Pflanzen- und Tierwelt. Er hatte dabei die wunderbare Fähigkeit, versteckte Wildtiere zu entdecken, und verschaffte uns wunderschöne Momente, auch durch das mitgetragene Teleskop, wodurch wir der Tierwelt näher sein konnten. So sahen wir u.a. Brüllaffen, Kapuzineraffen und Spideraffen mit ihren Kindern, viele Vögel insbesondere Papageien wie z.B. Scharlach- und Gelbbauch-Aras sowie Wasserschweine und verschiedene Insekten. Wir können diese wunderbare Lodge absolut weiterempfehlen. Die herrliche Tier- und Pflanzenwelt in dem wunderbar erhaltenen und geschützten Regenwald des Amazonas war auf unserer Peru-Reise ein wirklich fantastisches Erlebnis! Read all


Rainforest Expeditions is a wonderful company and the Posadas Amazonas lodge is a beautiful location to spend your time in the Amazon. The staff are all incredibly kind, helpful, and knowledgeable. The tours were very fun and we saw lots of animals including River otters, monkeys, birds, and capybaras. We loved our guide Luis and all the people we met. The food was delicious and locally grown and there was never a dull moment. Would highly recommend! Read all


I went to Posada as part of a wider group trip, so did not pay for it directly. The lodge feels very far from anywhere and yet it feels incredibly safe. The rooms are open to nature, but nothing was ever damaged (use the safe boxes as advised, especially for food - not that you'll need any - the catering is excellent, with plenty of vegetarian options, and snacks are also provided between meals). There are flushing toilets, incredible shower facilities and the beds are very comfortable with mosquito nets placed at night by the staff. Drinking water vats are strategicvally placed throughout the lodge but you may have a long-ish walk to the common areas through corridors. Some parts of the corridors are open to the elements, but umbrellas are provided everywhere in case of rain. There is obviously no air conditioning, but this helps you acclimatise. The lodge is run by a family and others from the Infierno community, which gives the place a homely feel, with resident tour guides and a local geologist for citizen science projects. Massage services are available and there is a local shop for souvenirs and essentials like bug spray, clothing and torches. Tons of activities can be arranged, but it's also nice to relax in the hammocks and common areas and listen to the sounds of nature. While this hotel is not going to be for everyone, I had the most incredible time! Read all


The place to go if you want to see Macaws in the Peruvian rainforest. We stayed at the Tambopata Reaearch Centre (TRC) for three days and had Juan Carlos Yatto as our guide for the duration of our stay. We loved the mission of the TRC ie Macaw conservation and the link between Macaw nest site availability and the overall health of the rainforest. Juan Carlos Yatto (there is another JC at the research centre) was a fantastic guide and really made a difference to our experience at the TRC. His knowledge of the different species of wildlife and plants was amazing, his ability to spot things in the day or at night was phenomenal and he really made things accessible for our group. His English is excellent (including great humour when appropriate) and is a super guy. I really do recommend the TRC abd Juan Carlos Yatto as a guide. We saw an abundance of wildlife of all descriptions thanks to him and learned a huge amount without being overloaded. Read all


Two planes, a bus and a boat…that’s how we made it to TRC, and every minute was worth it. Tambopata is a jewel, from the moment you are greeted by the guide assigned to you (Juan Carlos Gonzales for us) to the last boat ride back to civilization. Juan Carlos was amazing…on just one hike he found five of the seven species of monkeys in the area! He is truly an expert..can hear, see and even SMELL animals, birds and insects to point out to us. We upgraded to a deluxe suite and it was decadent! An elegant outdoor tub and shower on a private balcony was soo nice’ Although we went in the rainy season, it never rained while on a hike or excursion. It rained for a few minutes on our late afternoon cruise , but not enough to dampen our enthusiasm, or prevent us from seeing a capybara in the mid! (And despite the warning of a lot of mosquitoes, I have been bitten more in my own back yard!) The bar is great, there’s PLENTY of food…we are going home feeling so lucky to have had such a great connection to the beauty of the Amazon. Read all


We had a fantastic time for our 3N/4D stay at Tambopata Research Center. The whole experience was marvellous. Rooms and facilities were great and meals superb. The Staff, ably led by Tanya the manager, were all friendly and helpful. This is the only lodge actually inside the Tambopata National Park, and we enjoyed being so "remote". I like that you have one guide who coordinates and takes you on all your activities; Jair our guide was amazing. One morning our planned activity was rained out, and I liked that they have alternative "wet weather" activities planned. There are lectures each night by researchers, which were very interesting. Also citizen science projects that you can participate in. All up, it was a fantastic way to experience the Peruvian Amazon. Read all


Posada Amazonas by Rainforest Expeditions is an extraordinary place. From your arrival at the airport in Puerto Maldonado all the staff is always attentive to your needs. You travel by boat to the hotel Posada Amazonas and it is a unique experience. It really is a total disconnection and a recollection with Mother Nature 🌎 The buffet lunch is delicious (already included in the price). You have a guide who speaks Spanish and English at all times and accompanies you to explore the jungle, the river and other activities. The price is worth it. Outside my room I caught a glimpse of monkeys :) The night sky is starry and very spectacular ✨️ 5 star service. I will definitely come back. Read all


I stayed with my parents at Refugio Amazonas for 3 days. We really enjoyed our stay and had a wonderful time here. The staff were extremely kind and well informed. The lodge manager- Arturo in particular was very helpful. To highlight their culture: They prepared special vegetarian meals for my parents, always ensured we felt comfortable and all our needs were met. A stay here is a must do to get a real feel of the Amazon rainforest on your trip to Peru! Noteworthy details: There are a lot of activities for kids and families to do, but my personal favourites are: Macaw Claylick, OxBow river ride, sunset cruise and the canopy tower. Read all


I can't express how amazing our guides were. Incredibly knowledgeable and able to spot birds, frogs, spiders, animals, etc. with an almost unbelievable ability. The research and contributions to the jungle they are making at the Center are to be commended. The facilities were nice and kept clean and the staff was great, but between the walls in the rooms being open to the jungle, the heat, the bugs, underpowered fans, having to completely cover up for hikes due to bugs and then getting overheated, etc. it made for a tough stay. The food was good but after a couple days became repetitive. I would recommend this for serious birders who are willing to endure a bit for an incredible adventure. Read all
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