Tambopata National Reserve – Peru

About

Nestled deep in the Madre de Dios region of southeastern Peru, Tambopata National Reserve is a paradise for bird photographers, birders, and nature enthusiasts alike. Encompassing more than 1.3 million hectares of pristine Amazon rainforest, Tambopata is one of the most biodiverse areas on the planet. With over 600 bird species recorded, this reserve offers one of the richest and most accessible birding experiences in South America.

What makes Tambopata truly special is its intersection of lowland Amazonian rainforest, riverine habitats, oxbow lakes, and areas of bamboo and palm swamp, creating a mosaic of ecosystems that support an extraordinary variety of birdlife. Its remoteness, protected status, and relatively low human impact help sustain this thriving biodiversity.

Birders visiting Tambopata can expect to encounter an astonishing array of species, from large, charismatic birds to elusive forest dwellers.

Macaws & Parrots are a treat. The clay licks (collpas) along the Tambopata and nearby rivers are famous for attracting hundreds of macaws, including Scarlet, Blue-and-yellow, and Red-and-green Macaws, as well as dozens of parrot species. These spectacular gatherings occur in the early morning and are a top draw for bird photographers. Tambopata hosts both the Harpy Eagle, one of the largest and most powerful raptors in the world, and the Black-and-white Hawk-Eagle, often seen soaring above the canopy. Hidden in the dense understory, skilled birders might spot mixed-species flocks featuring antwrens, antshrikes, and various manakins performing their unique mating displays. Also, Tambopata’s trail systems offer chances to hear the haunting calls of tinamous, glimpse trogons flashing through the canopy, and spot Curl-crested Aracaris and White-throated Toucans.

Most birding excursions start early, often before dawn, and include a mix of forest hikes, boat trips, and canopy tower observations. Guides are highly trained in spotting and identifying birds by both sight and sound, making the most of every outing.

Birding in Tambopata is productive year-round, but the dry season (May to October) is generally the best time to visit. This period offers more reliable weather, fewer mosquitoes, and easier access to forest trails. Macaw clay lick activity also peaks during the dry season, especially from July to September.

Birding in Tambopata National Reserve is an unforgettable journey into the heart of the Amazon. Whether you’re checking off bucket-list species or simply soaking in the sounds of the rainforest at dawn, Tambopata offers a deeply immersive experience for anyone who loves birds and wild places. From the moment your boat pulls away from Puerto Maldonado and the forest closes in, you know you’re in one of the world’s last great birding frontiers.

This site is featured in Owen’s new book, Birds of the Tropical Andes, available July 8, 2025.

Owen traveled to Tambopata National Reserve in December 2023.