What to Pack for an Amazon River Expedition

The following packing list contains general recommendations for an Amazon River cruise. If you are currently booked on an Amazon tour with Natural Habitat Adventures, please consult your pre-departure materials for the most comprehensive and up-to-date packing list for your trip. You will receive these pre-departure materials 60–90 days before your departure.

Items indicated in color below are typically available in the Nat Hab Gear Store. Please note that due to global supply chain issues beyond our control, we cannot guarantee that every item will always be in stock.

Adventure Guidelines

You will be in a very warm and humid environment in the Amazon Basin. Weather can be hot and cool (and wet!) during your adventure, so please pack appropriately.
We highly recommend bringing clothes made of synthetic, quick-drying material, especially during the rainy season.
Boots will be provided for your use while in the Amazon as you may encounter wet and muddy conditions.

Clothing

Lightweight neck gaiter (included in your pre-departure package)
—Provides sun, wind and/or dust protection.
Waterproof rain jacket with hood
—This should be waterproof (not just water-resistant). We recommend one that is also made of breathable material.
—Because full waterproof clothing can be uncomfortable, as it often makes you sweat in the tropics, a poncho is a good alternative to a rain jacket. The Delfin II offers ponchos on its skiffs.
Lightweight, water-repellent pants
—These are helpful if traveling during the rainy season. Again, make sure the material is breathable.
Lightweight hiking shoes/boots (optional)
—Boots will be provided for you, for any rainforest walks, so these are not required.
—A pair of closed-toe athletic shoes should serve you well for skiff excursions and any drier walks we may take.
—Make sure any shoes you bring are broken in to prevent blisters.
Tennis shoes/sport sandals
—Bring an extra pair of comfortable walking shoes appropriate for wearing around town or on the boat.
Socks
—Bring several pairs made of wool or other moisture-wicking material. Cotton socks are not recommended for hikes.
—Crew-length or higher socks are great because you can tuck pants into socks on hikes.
Fleece jacket
—For Lima and the cool/garua season in the Amazon
3–4 pairs of comfortable lightweight pants
—For Lima and for walks in the rainforest. Blue jeans are not recommended for use in the Amazon.
1 pair of nylon, zip-off pants
—For cooler mornings and warmer afternoons.
1 pair of shorts
—You may not need these if you bring zip-off pants.
3–4 lightweight, light-colored (not yellow, as it attracts bees/wasps), long-sleeved shirts
—For walks in the rainforest and time spent in Lima.
3–5 short-sleeved shirts
—We recommend quick-drying, synthetic material.
Swimsuit
Underwear
1 set of nicer clothes (optional)
—While the dress code on most of the trip is very casual, some travelers may prefer bringing an outfit for the final dinner while on board the Delfin II, though this is completely optional.

Additional Items

Cash
—For gratuities (you may want to bring envelopes for discreet presentation).
—For personal spending (souvenirs, Internet use, or food and beverages not included in your trip fee).
Reusable water bottle (included in your pre-trip package)
—In our continuing effort to operate our adventures with as little impact on the environment as possible, you will receive a reusable water bottle (unless you opted out on your Booking Form) to take with you on your adventure. We will provide drinking water throughout the adventure for you to refill your bottle. By doing this, you will avoid using multiple disposable plastic bottles.
Small, water-resistant daypack
—To carry gear during outings.
Sun hat (with brim for protection)
Small flashlight or headlamp (with spare batteries)
Binoculars
—We recommend investing in a high-quality pair, as they will definitely enhance your wildlife-viewing experience in the Amazon. Waterproof binoculars work well but are not required.
—The Delfin II has a few pairs of binoculars onboard, which you can use if you do not have your own set.
Bandana (for walks in the rainforest)
Instant cooling scarf (such as EnduraCool)
—Can be soaked in water and used to stay cool on hot days.
Electrolyte/flavor crystal packets (optional)
—Can be added to water to replace fluids in case of intestinal illness and/or enhance the taste to encourage hydration.
Outlet adapter and/or power converter
Compact umbrella (optional)
Sunglasses (with UV filter)
Earplugs
—Because we will be on a small boat, there may be light engine noise in some cabins.
Toiletries in reusable bottles to minimize waste
—Biodegradable products are preferred.
—Soap and shampoo are provided at all accommodations.
Insect repellent
—Repellents containing DEET are the most effective against mosquitoes, but please be aware that DEET is a very strong ingredient, and it can damage plastics, clothing and equipment.
Sunscreen and lip balm (at least SPF 30)
Hand sanitizer
Prescription glasses/contact lenses
Dry bags or reusable waterproof bags
—Bring several sizes. These are helpful to have on hand for wet or dirty clothing and to protect camera equipment.
Spanish/English dictionary
Collapsible walking stick or hiking poles (optional)
—A collapsible walking stick can be handy on trails; however, wooden walking sticks are available on the riverboat—just ask your Expedition Leader if you need one.
—If you are bringing poles, make sure they fit in your checked baggage, as you will not be allowed to carry them on the plane.
Hairdryer
—Hairdryers are provided at all of the accommodations used during the adventure.