I opted for a 3-day, 2-night adventure into the Amazon rainforest near Iquitos. Drawing from the advice of seasoned travelers, I realized that three days in this lush jungle paradise was more than enough. There’s really no need to stretch it out with a 4-day, 3-night trip (which would include a night spent camping). Trust me, by the third day, I was already dreaming of returning to the comfort of the city.
Let’s dive into the essential gear you’ll want to pack:
A top-notch mosquito repellent is non-negotiable—preferably one for skin application and another for spraying. In just two days, I exhausted an entire 75ml bottle! A versatile headscarf doubles as sun protection and a shield against pesky insects.
Don’t forget a flashlight or headlamp for navigating at night, along with a sun hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, quick-dry shirts (pack two), quick-dry pants (also two pairs), a sun-protective jacket, and sturdy rain boots. Thankfully, the hotel provides the boots, so there’s no need to lug them along. Other essentials?
A power bank to keep your devices charged, a good book to pass the time without internet or electricity, and a swimsuit for any unexpected water adventures.
Now, here are a few honest tips that might make you think twice before venturing into the jungle:
1. This is crucial, so I’ll emphasize it: Women should avoid visiting the rainforest within a week before or after their period. Trust me on this—I learned the hard way! Even though I wasn’t on my period, I was close enough to take every precaution imaginable. I covered up completely, leaving only my eyes exposed, layered up until I was practically sweating profusely, and armed myself with an entire bottle of spray repellent and a box of menthol balm—all for nothing.
Meanwhile, the Spanish guys in my group strolled around in shorts and T-shirts, seemingly untouched by the mosquitoes. As for me? I became a walking buffet for the jungle’s bloodthirsty residents. By the second day, my face was swollen from bites.
2. If your idea of travel leans toward luxury, this experience may not align with your expectations. The moment you step off the plane in Iquitos, you’re hit with a wall of heat. Some of the more affordable lodges offer rustic conditions—wooden huts with minimal amenities, no clean running water, and shower water sourced directly from the Amazon River (translation: no showers for three days).
You’ll have to fetch drinking, brushing, and washing water from a communal area where the hotel supplies purified water. Electricity and internet access are limited to a few hours in the morning, afternoon, and evening, making a power bank indispensable. Of course, if roughing it isn’t your style, there are plenty of upscale lodges available—but be prepared to pay double the price!
3. That said, every experience has its trade-offs. Later, I compared notes with a friend who stayed at a pricier lodge. While their accommodations were undoubtedly superior, when we compared our activities over the three days, I realized I had experienced things they hadn’t. My itinerary included unique moments that left them envious.
Perhaps it came down to the guide or the lodge’s planned excursions, but it highlights the importance of researching different hotels and activities beforehand. After all, much of the magic in the wild is unpredictable, and sometimes, luck plays a role too.
I believe both the rainy season and the dry season are perfect times to visit the Amazon, each offering its own distinct allure. While many travelers tend to avoid the rainy season, I find it particularly enchanting. The abundance of water during this time allows boats to glide directly into remote areas that would otherwise require hours of trekking on foot.
Imagine wading through the lush jungle—a sensation so unique, it feels like the rainy season is offering you an exclusive gift. Of course, if the thought of soggy clothes, mud, and dirt doesn’t appeal to you, then perhaps my enthusiasm isn’t for everyone.
In my next post, I’ll dive deeper into the incredible sights I encountered in the heart of the rainforest. Stay tuned!
