10 Tips for Going into the Jungle

What should you be mindful of before embarking on a jungle expedition? Here are 10 tips to get you started on your adventure!

Before you leave, the travel unit doctor will advise you on a series of vaccinations based on the countries and regions you plan to visit. They will also take into account the activities you plan to do and your travel style. However, you might want to change your plans along the way... So, before you plunge in headfirst, take the time to think about the health risks.

In the jungle, you should expect rain. It's hot and humid, and if you're not used to it, it can be challenging.

Generally, the outings last about half a day, leaving early in the morning and returning at noon, etc. During our stay in the jungle, we took advantage of every return to camp to shower, because with the heat, cooling off (and washing!) was vital!

Given this particular climate, think carefully before pulling out your electronic and photographic equipment.

Moreover, in many jungle accommodations, electricity is not available all day. Check locally to know the hours so that your camera battery is charged at the right time.

When traveling, I don't go more than two or three days without checking in with my loved ones, even just a sign of life to reassure them.

During my jungle expedition, I completely forgot to inform them that I would be out of contact for a week. I can't tell you the state of my inbox upon returning to civilization or the worry my loved ones experienced during those few days of radio silence. In short, keep them informed!

Dress appropriately: don't go on an expedition without long clothing. Choose lightweight, breathable fabrics that dry quickly.

And above all, do not dry them outside: caterpillars love the smell of sweat-soaked clothes (to each their own!) and will come to lay eggs. The problem is, once you put your clothes back on, you risk having the baby caterpillars developing under your skin.

Before heading into the jungle, equip yourself with a good insect repellent (DEET), and make sure you have enough. You'll need to reapply it often due to the humidity, sweating, and showers. Most importantly, protect yourself well at dusk.

In addition to long clothing, get a good backpack: one that fits well, is not too heavy, breathable on your back, and water-resistant.

Also, be sure to bring a good rain jacket, not a slicker that sticks to your skin as soon as it gets wet and keeps the warmth of your body without allowing your skin to breathe.

Check to see if boots are provided on-site: this is essential for walking in the jungle off the beaten path.

To avoid mosquito hunting in your accommodation, the rule is simple: limit the transitions between indoors and outdoors, and be brief! This is one of the first lessons we learn when we arrive in the jungle. Unfortunately, during our stay, many inconsiderate tourists disregarded this rule and liked to stop at the dining room door to chat... with the door open, of course!

Is your future accommodation in the jungle well-equipped against mosquitoes: are there mosquito nets on the windows and another one above your bed?

If not, I recommend bringing your own mosquito net, or you won't get a wink of sleep at night.

You can also spray your mosquito net with DEET every evening for more effectiveness.

Use common sense, observe how locals live, follow safety guidelines, don't wander off alone, stick to the trails, don't touch things you don't know... And don't underestimate the little critters, as they can sometimes (often?) be the most dangerous.

Similarly, respect wildlife, both wild ones and those rescued by the camp to be reintroduced into nature: don't chase them (even if it's sometimes tempting). If they want to, some will come close to you on their own (or may refuse to leave your shoulders!).

Drink plenty of water and stay in the shade as much as possible; given the ambient heat, you could quickly dehydrate.

Jumping into the water in this heat can be tempting, but check first before you dive in! Some spots can be dangerous, for example, due to caimans.

Our main risk where we were during that time of the year was the canero, a fish that's better avoided when swimming naked, as it likes to wriggle into any openings... The best advice is to ask your local guide for recommendations.

In addition to these tips, before committing to a tour, be vigilant about certain points (as with any tour):

Keep your eyes and ears wide open; it's a magical experience. You might walk for hours before seeing a monkey or any other animal (except for mosquitoes!), but what a joy to observe them and find yourself in this lush nature!

Have you ever been to the jungle or a rainforest? Any tips or anecdotes to share?

To continue reading: Find all articles related to Peru here (or from the menu: Destinations -> South America -> Peru) To prepare your travel pack: >12 tips for a successful tripExperiential tourism: 3 days with a family in the heart of the AndesHow to visit Machu Picchu