The Ecuadorian Amazon is home to a great variety of natural wonders, among them are the saladeros, which is undoubtedly an amazing natural event. These places that are also known as “collpas” are spaces where certain animals gather to consume clay as it is essential in their diet because it is rich in minerals. Besides considering this phenomenon as something incredible from an ecological perspective, it also provides tourists with a unique opportunity to observe the jungle fauna in its most natural state.

Saladeros are specific areas in the jungle where a large amount of clay rich in sodium, potassium, calcium and other minerals accumulates. These natural spaces are essential for the animals that frequent them, since they are of great help to neutralize toxins present in the plants they usually consume in the jungle and to replace nutritional deficiencies in their diet. It is common to observe several mammals visiting these places, among them are monkeys, macaws, parrots, tapirs and other species. 

The experience of witnessing these species coming together in one place to consume clay is, without a doubt, an incredible natural spectacle that shows the interconnection between the ecosystems of the Amazon. You can enjoy this activity thanks to several tours offered by a few lodges in the Amazon, which will allow you to get close to this area and observe the parrot saladero, one of the most popular in the region. 

In Ecuador, several of the most well-known protected reserves in the Amazon feature salt licks, and most of these locations require authorized guides for entry. Depending on the location, tourists can access by canoes or hiking, but these types of activities, although in most cases are quite far from the lodges, and there are very few that offer the opportunity to visit these places because of their remoteness.

• Yasuní National Park: In this vast territory you can find the macaw clay lick, one of the most visited tourist attractions due to the amount of birds that can be found. 

Visiting a saladero is not only a walk through the Amazon rainforest, it is also a good opportunity to:

1. Observe wildlife: It is the perfect place to look at wild animals typical of the Amazon because in these saladeros large numbers of animals of different species such as macaws, parrots and sometimes tapirs are concentrated. 
2. Nature photography: Visiting a saladero is a good opportunity to capture animals in their natural habitat. 
3. Learn more about the Amazon ecology: The Amazon showcases a wide and incredible biodiversity, highlighting the fascinating nature that creates such spaces naturally.

The saladeros are fragile and important places for the fauna of the Amazon. Uncontrolled tourism or tourism without adequate measures can damage the area and cause wear and tear or alter the behavior of the animals that frequent this area. Therefore, the conservation of the salt licks is essential to maintain the balance of the ecosystem. 

Visitors must follow strict rules, such as not leaving garbage in the surrounding area, avoiding loud noises, and respecting the designated observation hours to reduce disturbance to the fauna. In addition, sustainable tourism, which we promote as Responsible Travel, plays a fundamental role for tourists to get to know these places while at the same time collaborating in their protection.

Only certain activities are allowed in the saladeros, in order to minimize the environmental impact and ensure the protection of the fauna. Among the permitted activities are the following:

• Wildlife observation: With the use of binoculars or cameras, visitors can enjoy watching animal behavior from elevated observation platforms. 
• Guided walks: In these areas you will always be accompanied by a local guide who will offer a detailed explanation about the ecosystem of the saladero and the importance of its conservation, while you explore the place on a long walk. 
• Photography: If you visit this place it is a must to take home a souvenir, and capturing images of the behavior and habitat of the animals is one of the main attractions.

The Saladero is one of the best known places in the Amazon and is a must-visit destination for bird lovers. If you are planning to visit the Saladero, here are some recommendations to make your visit an unforgettable experience: 

1. Take a camera with you to record the most important moments during bird watching at the Saladero. 
2. Always wear comfortable clothing suitable for the humid climate of the area, as you will be in constant movement during your explorations and visits to the saladero. 
3. It is important to bring repellent for mosquitoes and other insects. 
4. Follow to the letter all the rules of the tour guides and respect the regulations in force for the protection of the environment. 
5. The opportunity to learn more about biological diversity and the relevance of preserving birds in the area.

The salt licks are more than a tourist attraction; they represent the abundance and complexity of the Amazonian ecosystems. The experience of observing the relationship between animals and their environment is something that impacts any tourist. With the support of tour operators such as Responsible Travel, you have the possibility to discover these natural spectacles in a sustainable way, favoring the preservation of the Amazon and its biodiversity. Take this opportunity to discover a saladero and live a memorable experience in the heart of the jungle!