Wildlife You Can Spot in Just 3 Days in Tambopata

Even with just a short visit, Tambopata is an amazing place to see wildlife. A stay of three full days is enough to spot some real highlights, without needing to head deep into the Amazon or spend a fortune.

You want to read more about our budget trip to Tambopata? Click here.

Where to Spot Wildlife (Yes, You’ll See A Lot!)

Caimans: You’ll find them in the rivers and lakes, especially Lake Sandoval and Lago Yacumama, where they come really close to boats. Black caimans live in the lakes, while other species like spectacled caimans are seen along riverbanks. They’re mostly active at night but visible during the day too.
Macaws & Parrots: Look up! You’ll often see yellow-and-blue macaws flying overhead. Parrot and macaw clay lick tours are popular in the early morning, though some are pricey (e.g., ~$150 per person for the big macaw clay lick tour). A more budget-friendly option is to just wake up early and listen, you’ll hear them before you see them.
Tarantulas: Look for small burrows in the ground or webs tucked into crevices of palm trees and banana plants. Tarantulas are nocturnal, so night is the best time to see them. Be patient, stay still, and keep quiet, they sense vibrations and will hide if disturbed.
Monkeys: Lake Sandoval is a great place to spot several species. Monkeys tend to stay high in the canopy, but sometimes they come down low enough for a good look, especially if there’s fruit around.
Giant River Otters: Sadly, they’re rarely seen these days due to river pollution and human activity. There’s reportedly just one pod left in Lake Sandoval, spotting them is extremely rare, but not impossible.
Insects & Amphibians: At night, the jungle really comes alive. Use a flashlight to spot frogs, katydids, stick insects, and more. After rain, frog activity increases. Look low and move slowly, many species are tiny and well camouflaged.
Birds: You’ll see birds everywhere. Lake Sandoval is home to the hoatzin, and Lake Yacumama is incredible in the morning with hundreds of parrots flying around and nesting. You might even spot baby parrots peeking from their holes.
Other mammals: During our night walk near the hostel, we spotted 2 kinkajous, and 3 bamboo rats. You can also see brown-eared woolly opossums and bats living under the roofs of the buildings throughout the day.

Best Tips for Short-Stay Wildlife Watching

Stay in nature, not in town: Choose a lodge or hostel surrounded by forest. You’ll start seeing wildlife without even trying, birds, monkeys, and insects often come right to you.
Book a night tour: It’s one of the best ways to see amphibians, spiders, and other creatures that only come out after dark.
Go DIY with a headlamp: Walking quietly on trails near your accommodation at night can be just as rewarding. Bring a good headlamp and closed shoes.
Bring (or borrow) binoculars: Essential for birdwatching, especially for spotting macaws and toucans in the treetops.
Mornings are golden: Wildlife is most active early in the day. Plan your activities for sunrise if you want to see birds, monkeys, or river life.
Stay quiet and move slowly: Many animals are shy and alert to sound and vibration, especially at night.