The 5 Best Hostels in Puerto Maldonado, Peru

1.     Parayso: El Parayso has one of the most well-preserved sectors in the sector, ideal for long walks that strengthen your relationship with the ecosystem.  You will see some of the most emblematic tress of the Amazon rainforest and with luck a variety of animals.  The hostel is owned by the Balarezo Yabar family are the founders of Tambopata’s ecotourism corridor and the original settlers in this sector.  They have a wealth of knowledge about Tambopata which they are eager to share with you. 

 

2.     Amazon Shelter: The Amazon Shelter is a non-profit organization that has implemented a wildlife shelter called the Center for Wildlife Rehabilitation and Conservation (CRCAS).  The money you pay to stay here is used to assist in the centers efforts to shelter rescued animals and eventually reintegrate them into the wild.  Your stay includes 3 meals/day and comfortable accommodations and interaction with a variety of wildlife from the Amazon. 

 

3.     Botafogo: Located at a meander of the Tambopata River, about 25 minutes from Puerto Maldonado, Botafogo is a recreation center that offers a 3-km-long sand beach during the dry season (from July to October) as well as an ideal place to relax and have fun either with family or friends. If you are a visitor to the country, this would be an ideal place to meet some locals.

 

4.     Kapievi:  Permaculture is Kapievi ecovilliage’s life guide.  This yoga center follows a health oriented approach both physically and spiritually while protecting the earth.  Your stay includes comfortable accommodations, three vegetarian meals per day and two optional yoga classes. 

 

5.     Tambopata Backpackers Hostel:  Located one block from the central plaza in Puerto Maldonado, this is a good option if you want to socialize with other tourists.  Your stay includes dorm-style accommodations and breakfast. 

 

 

Macaw Claylicks in Tambopata, Peru

Tambopata, Peru, often referred to as the “capital of biodiversity” is paradise to birdwatchers.  This region is home to 10% of the world’s parrot species.  A major feature is a series of exposed riverbanks along the Tambopata where Macaws go to eat clay. 

 

There are two theories as to why Macaws eat clay:

1.     To neutralize the toxins they ingest by eating rainforest fruits, nuts, flowers and leaves.

2.     To get minerals such as sodium, which they may need in their diet.

 

Some guidelines when visiting a claylick along the Tambopata river:

●      Claylicks can be viewed by boat along the river, or the opposite river bank.

●      Get up early so that you can arrive at the claylick early in the morning when the Macaws are most active.

●      Wear neutral colors and try to blend in.  Bright colors can scare the birds away.

●      Try to be as quiet and still as possible so as to allow the birds to behave as they would without an “audience.”

●      Bring binoculars!  You will be able to better appreciate these birds miraculous colors.

●      Bring a guide from Tambopata, who can help you to identify each species.

 

Where to go to view Macaw Claylicks:

●      Tambopata Research Center: Home to the famous Macaw Research Project. This comfortable lodge takes 8 hours to get to by boat from Puerto Maldonado so it best if you have at least 4 nights to stay. Spend the first and last night at Rainforest Expeditions closer lodge Refugio Amazonas and the nights inbetween at the research center.

●      El Gato: Owned by a family native to Tambopata, this friendly homestay offers knowledgeable guides comfortable accomodations and a claylick a 40-minute walk from the lodge. 

●      Majosehue: This budget option is located within the Native Community of Infierno. Don José Mishaja, a shaman from the Community, is the leader of this initiative. The location of Majosehue allows access to different interesting natural attractions and ethnobotanical garden. The parrot clay lick can be reached after walking only 15 minutes from the lodging house.

●      Refugio Amazonas : As a charming 32 bedroom lodge, it is well placed immediately adjacent to the Tambopata National Reserve. A comprehensive program includes a morning visit to the claylick, complete with guide.