What to Pack for a Jungle Tour
Heading into the rainforest means packing with purpose. Here's a complete guide from Wild Mandari to help you prepare for the Amazon’s unique environment.
Whether you're joining us for a short adventure or a full week in Yasuní, this guide ensures you’ll be prepared for heat, mud, rain, insects — and unforgettable experiences.
1. Why Smart Packing Matters
The Amazon is magical, but it’s also hot, humid, muddy, and unpredictable. Conditions can change quickly, from sunshine to heavy rain in minutes. Your packing choices will affect your comfort, safety, and enjoyment.
Pack light, layer smart, and think waterproof.
2. Clothing Essentials
Dress to stay cool while protecting yourself from insects, sunburn, and thorny plants.
Must-Haves:
- Long-sleeved shirts (lightweight, breathable fabric)
- Long pants or convertible zip-offs
- Lightweight fleece or sweater (mornings can be cool, and for early canoe rides)
- Rain jacket or poncho
- Hat with a brim (mosquito net optional)
- Buff or bandana (for sweat, sun, dust)
- Swimsuit (optional river swim)
**Long-sleeved shirts and pants are required for jungle hikes** — especially night walks, when visibility is low and bugs are more active.
Earth tones or muted colors are best for blending into the forest and wildlife viewing.
3. Footwear
- Rubber boots (provided by Wild Mandari for all hikes)
- Trekking sandals or slip-on shoes for use around the lodge
- Quick-dry socks (bring several pairs)
Avoid heavy hiking boots — they’re bulky and slow to dry.
4. Gear to Bring
These essentials make your jungle days safer and more convenient:
- Flashlight or headlamp (a must for night walks)
- Extra batteries or a power bank
- Dry bags or waterproof cases for valuables
- Binoculars (especially for birdwatchers)
- Camera with zoom lens (200mm+ recommended)
- Power adapter (Ecuador uses 110V / plug type A/B)
5. Toiletries & Personal Items
- Mosquito repellent with DEET or picaridin
- Biodegradable soap and shampoo (provided by Wild Mandari)
- Reef-safe sunscreen
- Any personal medications
- Compact first aid kit
- Towel or microfiber cloth (provided by Wild Mandari)
- Toilet paper or travel tissues ((provided by Wild Mandari)
We provide filtered drinking water, but please bring a reusable bottle.
Real Talk About Jungle Life
The rainforest is wet, muddy, and wild and that’s part of the fun. We recommend packing one full set of clean clothes and sandals for lodge use only. You’ll wear this during: meals, hammock time, relaxing in the evenings.
Expect to re-wear the same hiking clothes for multiple days. It’s totally normal to put your muddy, sweaty clothes back on for activities. Afterward, enjoy a refreshing jungle shower and switch back into your clean lodge outfit.
Activity set + comfort set = perfect packing.
6. What NOT to Bring
- Large suitcases (we accept them but is not recomended)
- Fancy clothes or jewelry
- Hair dryers or high-energy devices
- Drones (require special permits)
- Spray deodorants or perfumes (attract insects)
A soft duffel or backpack is ideal.
Final Tip
Keep it simple. The jungle doesn’t care what you look like — it cares how well you prepared.
Pack light, pack smart, and leave room for wonder.