Short answer: pack light, quick-dry clothing with long sleeves and long pants, a rain layer, strong insect repellent, a headlamp, a reusable water bottle, sun protection, closed shoes or sandals that can get wet, your passport and your yellow fever vaccination card. Leave heavy cotton, jeans and valuables you don’t need at home.
The Amazon is hot, humid and wet all year. Good packing is less about quantity and more about the right fabrics and a few key items.
Clothing
- 2–3 lightweight long-sleeve shirts (protect from sun and insects)
- 2 pairs of light, quick-dry long pants
- T-shirts and shorts for the lodge and boat
- Swimsuit
- A light fleece or long layer for boat rides and cooler nights
- Hat with a brim
- Sleepwear and quick-dry underwear and socks
Choose neutral colors. Avoid heavy cotton and jeans — they never dry in the humidity.
Rain protection
- Lightweight rain jacket or poncho
- Dry bags or zip bags for phone, passport and camera
- Small backpack cover
Footwear
- Comfortable closed shoes or light hiking shoes
- Sandals with straps for boats and the lodge
Rubber boots are commonly used on muddy trails; ask your operator whether they are provided.
Health and insect protection
- Insect repellent (DEET or picaridin)
- Sunscreen and lip balm with SPF
- Personal medication in your carry-on
- Basic kit: plasters, antihistamine, rehydration salts, anti-diarrhea tablets
- Yellow fever vaccination card (get the vaccine at least 10 days before travel)
Ask your doctor about any other vaccines or medication for the Amazon region.
Gear
- Headlamp or flashlight with spare batteries — essential for night walks
- Reusable water bottle
- Binoculars for birds and wildlife
- Power bank; electricity can be limited in remote lodges
- Camera with a zoom lens; phone cameras struggle with distant wildlife
- Small towel that dries fast
Documents and money
- Passport (and a copy stored separately)
- Travel insurance details
- Some Colombian pesos in cash for the tourism fee on arrival in Leticia and small purchases — cards are not accepted everywhere upriver
What to leave at home
- Jewelry and unnecessary valuables
- Heavy suitcases — you’ll travel by small boat; a soft bag is easier
- Single-use plastics; Puerto Nariño is committed to being plastic-free
What our expeditions include
On our private tours, meals, purified water, river transfers and private rooms with bathrooms are included, so you can pack for comfort, not survival. Once you book, we send a detailed packing guide for your dates. See the Amazon Nature Tour or read the Colombian Amazon travel guide.
FAQ
Is it cold in the Amazon at night?
Not cold, but boat rides and early mornings can feel cool. Bring one light warm layer.
Do I need rubber boots?
They are useful on muddy trails. Many operators provide them; ask before you pack.
Can I drink the water?
Drink purified or bottled water. On our tours, purified water is provided throughout.
Ready to experience it yourself?
All expeditions are private, max 6 travelers, and depart from Leticia year-round. WhatsApp Eliceo to check availability and dates.