Pack smart for your
Amazon tour to stay comfortable and ready for every part of the journey. Except for the occasional internal flight, we'll be taking canoes, kayaks, jeeps, vans, and our own feet between destinations. A sturdy internal frame backpack is super handy for this kind of travel, and a strong duffel bag works great too. Some travelers manage with a rolling suitcase, but honestly, we don’t really recommend it. Remember, we may have to carry our bags short distances, and if you can put everything on your back, you'll be happiest! Besides a pack or duffel bag, a small day pack is advised, although you can purchase a locally made bag in Lima or Quito when we arrive. Below is a suggested packing list for an Amazon trip.
One backpack, sturdy duffel bag, or easily managed suitcase.
Daypack
- Sturdy shoes or hiking boots are comfortable for walking
- Sandals or shoes you don't mind getting wet
- Money belt or pouch. Leave your wallet at home - they make easy targets for pickpockets in the city.
- Personal medications
- Camera, film, and waterproof case
- Clothing - Generally, the Amazon is quite hot, but during the evenings, if it rains, it can cool down quite a bit. Fast-drying clothes that can be layered work best.
- The following is a suggested list of clothing:
- Light, water-resistant jacket that will keep you warm on a cool evening or during a sudden downpour, yet can be stuffed away or worn loosely on a warm day
- Cheap rain poncho - the lodges have ponchos, but it's best to be prepared!
- Fleece or wool sweater
- Two pairs of shorts and/or swimming trunks
- Bathing suit
- One to two pairs of pants - one that can be worn to a nice restaurant or club, and another rugged pair for hiking in the rainforest
- One long-sleeved shirt or blouse and 2-3 short-sleeved shirts - a long-sleeved cotton shirt is great for the jungle.
- Three pairs of cotton socks
- Underwear
- Suitcase ready for travel
Other essential things to pack for Amazon
Contact lenses (if you wear one)
An extra pair of eyeglasses
Anti-bacterial soap, toilettes, or gel such as Purell
Sunblock of at least 15 SPF - the tropical sun is strong
Insect repellent with DEET (diethyl-metatoluamide)
Anti-itch cream for insect bites
Flashlight or headlamp with extra batteries
Toothbrush, toothpaste, toiletries, etc
Sunglasses
Swiss Army style knife
Sun/ rain hat
Plastic bags (zip lock bags and a larger trash bag)
Water bottle
A small padlock to lock your bag shut
Travel alarm clock
Writing materials for traveling thoughts and addresses
First Aid Kit:
Note that this is not the mandatory list of items but things you might include in your first aid kit. Feel free to think of important first aid materials you might need to bring for you or your family. Do not forget to include your prescription medicines or maintenance medicines.
Pepto-Bismol for mild diarrhea
Throat lozenges
Motion sickness medication
Sunburn salve, such as aloe vera gel
Aspirin or other painkillers
Antibiotics for travelers' diarrhea (TD)
Antacid tablets
Band-Aids
Ace Bandage
Mole skin for blister
1. What should I pack for an Amazon tour?
Pack light, breathable clothes for the humid Amazon weather. You’ll want long sleeves and pants for bug protection, sturdy shoes, insect repellent, sunscreen, and a rain jacket. Don’t forget a daypack and a refillable water bottle—hydration is key in the rainforest heat.
2. What’s the weather like in the Amazon?
The Amazon is hot and humid year-round, with temperatures averaging between 77–88°F (25–31°C). Rain is frequent, especially from December to May, so waterproof gear and quick-dry clothing are essential for any Amazon river cruise or jungle hike.
3. Do I need hiking boots for an Amazon rainforest trip?
If your Amazon tour includes jungle treks, hiking boots or waterproof walking shoes are a great choice. For river cruises, you can get by with sturdy walking shoes or sandals—but they should be secure and okay to get wet.
4. Is a backpack or a suitcase better for Amazon travel?
Go for a backpack or soft duffel bag over a rolling suitcase. You'll likely be hopping between boats, vans, and dirt trails. A flexible, easy-to-carry bag makes all the difference on rugged Amazon tours.
