I know! Packing for the Peruvian Amazon can feel overwhelming, especially if it is your first time visiting the rainforest. The climate is hot, humid, and unpredictable, so bringing the right clothing and essentials makes a HUGE difference.
This guide covers exactly what you need for a comfortable, safe, and enjoyable jungle experience in places like Tambopata, Madre de Dios, and Puerto Maldonado.
Peru Travel Guide: Understanding the Amazon Climate
The climate in the Peruvian Amazon is warm and humid all year, but it can shift quickly depending on where you are and the activities you choose. When you are out on the river, for example, boat rides can feel unexpectedly cool and windy, especially during early mornings or late afternoons. A light long-sleeved layer or even a thin coat can make a big difference in staying comfortable. Once the rainy season arrives, showers can turn into heavy downpours without warning and may last for hours, so it is important to keep your rain jacket close at all times!
At the same time, the sun remains strong even when the sky looks grey, which means sunscreen is essential from morning until evening. Understanding how these conditions can change – and preparing for each possibility – will help you fully enjoy your time in the jungle without any unnecessary discomfort. For more travel tips read our guide on Amazon Trips from Cusco: Everything You Should Know.
Amazon Jungle: Packing List For Your Trip
From thinking about what to wear in the Amazon rainforest to choosing the right backpack size, this is the ultimate packing list for your jungle adventure. Everything you may need for your adventure is covered here, whether you are planning a short lodge stay or a longer trip to Peru and the Amazon.
Read our blog posts on Puerto Maldonado Amazon Tours and Peru Amazon Rainforest Tours for more inspiration!
Passport
It sounds obvious, but people really do forget this essential item. You will need it to enter Peru, to take a flight to a jungle destination, and most jungle lodges also ask for your passport during check in, or when making the reservation. Some tours request passport details in advance for permits, so make sure you keep it with you and easily accessible during your trip.
Amazon Jungle Clothing Essentials
Next, it’s time to think about your jungle clothing. From long, lightweight layers to protection against the sun, rain, and insects, here’s what you should plan to pack. It’s important to choose clothing that keeps you cool in the heat while also providing warmth when it gets cooler, and that are breathable enough to stay comfortable in the humid environment.
Light Long Sleeves
Light, breathable, long sleeve shirts are a must for the Amazon. They protect your skin from mosquitoes, sun exposure and branches during jungle walks. Choose quick drying fabrics, as humidity is very high.
Light long sleeves for women
Light long sleeves for men
Swimsuit
Bring a swimsuit for the pool at your lodge or for refreshing dips in designated safe river spots. Not all lodges offer this, but many do.
Bikini options for women
Swimsuit options for men
Long Pants
You will want light pants, ideally quick drying and comfortable to move in. Even during hot days, long pants are essential to protect against insects and scratching plants.
Quick dry hiking pants for women
Quick dry hiking pants for men
Comfortable Thin Pants
In the evenings, it might still feel warm, but you will definitely want to wear something long because of the mosquitos. Choose comfortable thin pants, leggings or lightweight jogging pants so you stay covered without overheating. If you get cold, you can always add layers on top – a sweater or jacket works well – but for your legs, thinner pants are usually the best option for keeping both comfort and protection.
Comfortable pants for women
Comfortable pants for men
Warm Layer
Although it is the jungle, temperatures can drop at night or early in the morning, especially on boat rides. Pack a thin fleece or a lightweight warm layer to stay comfortable.
Colombia Fleece jacket for men
Colombia Fleece jacket for women
Rain Jacket
Rain in the Amazon can come quickly and heavily, so waterproof clothing is a must! No matter the season, always carry a rain jacket with you. Boat rides can also be windy, so having a layer that blocks both rain and wind will help keep you warm and dry.
Colombia Rain Jacket for women
Colombia Rain Jacket for men
Rain Poncho
Many travelers like having a poncho in addition to a rain jacket. It covers more of your backpack and dries fast. Simple plastic ponchos can be bought in Peru, but a reusable one is more eco-friendly.
Light and Long Socks
Pack several pairs of breathable, quick-drying socks. A slightly thicker pair can be useful at night, especially if your lodge is close to the river where temperatures tend to drop. Choose socks that are long enough to cover the space between your footwear and your pants, since any exposed skin in that area is a favorite target for mosquitos.
Footwear
Adequate Footwear
Comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots are essential for jungle trails, which can be muddy and uneven. Make sure they are comfortable and already broken in before your trip. Many lodges provide rubber boots for deep-mud areas, but you should still come with good footwear for general use. Read our blog post with the top hiking boots we recommend.
Waterproof hiking boots for women
Waterproof hiking boots for men
Flip Flops or Sandals
Useful for walking around the lodge, using shared showers or simply letting your feet breathe in the evenings. I prefer sandals because you can wear them with socks – always think about the mosquitos that become active at night! Sandals or adiletten are great for relaxing, but make sure to add socks so no mosquito can reach your feet.
Adidas Adilette Sandals
Accessories and Gear
Sun Hat
A sun hat is essential, especially during boat rides and midday walks. The sun near the equator is strong, even on cloudy days. I like sun hats with a mesh section that allow for better ventilation.
Bandana or Headband
A Headband is useful for absorbing sweat during walks, keeping hair back and giving extra protection from insects.
Sunglasses
Yes, you really need both rain gear and sunglasses in the Amazon. When the sun comes out, the light reflecting on the river is intense, so sunglasses are a must.
Ray-ban sunglasses for women
Ray-ban sunglasses for men
Backpack and Bags
A medium sized daypack is ideal for daily activities. You only need to carry essentials such as your camera, sunscreen, insect repellent, water and rain jacket.
Check our blog post on Machu Picchu backpacks, here you can also find the best daypack options we recommend!
One of our favorite backpacks is this one: North Face Unisex Jester Backpack
Sleeping Bag
Most jungle lodges provide everything you need, so you usually do not need a sleeping bag. Only pack one if you are joining a camping expedition, or travel by yourself
Naturehike lightweight sleeping bag for travel
If you are backpacking you might already be carrying a silk style liner to protect against bed bugs. I’ve not used it for that purpose much, but in the jungle this does work as protection against the insects.
Dry pags or zip bags
For boat rides, dry bags or waterproof pouches help protect electronics from humidity and water splashes.
Headlamp or Flashlight
A reliable headlamp or flashlight is a must for navigating lodges, trails or boat docks at night. Don’t forget spare batteries. Many trips to clay licks start well before dawn, and so you definitely need a good torch.
Outdoor Head Lamp Flashlight Waterproof
Reusable Water Bottle
Maintain proper hydration throughout your excursions. A reusable water bottle is eco-friendly and convenient for long walks or boat rides.
Binoculars
Perfect for wildlife spotting and enjoying the incredible biodiversity of the Amazon rainforest from a safe distance. Some options here. Reputable lodges will also provide good binoculars, but its nicer to have your own.
Power Bank or Portable Charger
Electricity may be limited at some lodges, so a power bank ensures your phone, camera, or other devices stay charged during your adventures. Don’t forget to add a power bank to your Peru packing checklist.
Health and Safety Items
The rainforest environment requires a few essentials to stay healthy and protected, especially with the heat, humidity and insects you will find everywhere.
Insect Repellent
Choose a repellent with DEET or picaridin to keep mosquitos and other insects away – it’s one of the most important items for the Amazon. I recommend using a repellent specifically designed for tropical areas. You can easily find them at any pharmacy in Peru.
The spray version is convenient for covering larger areas quickly, while the cream is better for direct application on exposed skin. I usually use a combination of both: cream on any free skin that isn’t covered, and spray around clothing and larger areas for extra protection.
Insect Repellent Spray with 98% DEET
High SPF Sunscreen
The sun can be strong even on cloudy days, so it’s important to pack sunscreen with high protection and apply it regularly.
Personal Medication
Bring any medication you take regularly, as well as anything you might need during your trip, since pharmacies are limited in remote areas.
What we recommend:
– Pain relievers such as ibuprofen or paracetamol (acetaminophen)
– Medicine for nausea or vomiting
– Medicine for diarrhea
– Plasters for small cuts or blisters
Women, pack sanitary items “just in case.”
You can also prepare a small first aid kit that includes these basics to stay fully prepared while exploring the jungle.
We also recommend bringing something to apply after mosquito bites to reduce itching and irritation.
Antibacterial Gel or Wipes
Useful for cleaning your hands before meals or after touching surfaces on boats, in lodges or during hikes.
Antibacterial gel
Antibacterial wipes
Toiletries
Bring basic toiletries, and choose biodegradable options whenever possible, especially if your lodge is eco-friendly or located deep in the rainforest. Water systems in the Amazon are very sensitive, so many lodges appreciate products that are gentle on the environment.
Shampoo and Soap
We always recommend biodegradable shampoo and soap. They are better for the local ecosystem.
Biodegradable shampoo with natural oils
Biodegradable shower gel with lemongrass and ginger
Toothbrush and Toothpaste
Essential for daily hygiene, especially after long, humid days in the jungle.
Deodorant
The Amazon is warm and humid, so having deodorant makes a big difference in staying comfortable. I recommend a stick or roll-on, since spray deodorant cannot be transported in a small suitcase or luggage on flights and is generally less practical for traveling.
Hairbrush
Useful after boat rides or hikes when your hair can get tangled from humidity and wind. This is the one we recommend!
Travel Towel
Lightweight and quick-drying towels are ideal, as regular towels take a long time to dry in the humid climate.
Wet Wipes
Perfect for quick clean-ups on excursions or when running water is limited. They are also helpful during long travel days.
Extra Packing Tips for the Amazon
Humidity and Drying Clothes
Humidity is extremely high in the jungle, so clothes take much longer to dry – and in some cases, they may not dry at all because of the constant moisture in the air. Quick-drying fabrics are the best option, as they stay more comfortable, are easier to wash during your trip and won’t remain damp (and smelly!) for days like heavier materials. Avoid cotton whenever possible.
Use Sunscreen at All Times
Always keep sunscreen with you, even on cloudy days. The sun near the equator is much stronger than it appears, and sunburn can happen even when the sky looks grey.
Pack Light
No matter what type of tour you book, try to pack light. You will often move around by boat, walk along narrow jungle paths or carry your bags to remote lodges. Traveling light keeps things much more comfortable.
Waterproof Organization
Pack your belongings in small waterproof bags or zip pouches. This helps protect your items from rain, splashes and humidity while keeping everything organized.
Wear Long Clothing
Even if it feels warm, long sleeves and long pants are essential in the Amazon. They protect you from mosquitos, which are especially active during early mornings, late afternoons and evenings. Lightweight, breathable fabrics keep you covered without overheating.
Travel Insurance
A jungle adventure can involve remote areas, boat rides and unpredictable weather, so travel insurance is a must. It provides peace of mind in case of medical emergencies, lost belongings or unexpected changes to your plans.
Need to get an insurance quote quickly? Try Rise & Shield or Safety Wing
The Ultimate Peru Jungle Adventure
Preparing for a trip to the Peruvian Amazon is all about staying comfortable, protected and adaptable in a climate that can change quickly. With the right clothing, gear and small essentials, you can focus fully on the incredible wildlife, lush landscapes and unforgettable experiences waiting for you.
Packing smart not only makes your adventure easier, it allows you to enjoy every moment of your jungle journey with confidence and peace of mind. If you plan well and stay prepared, the Amazon will reward you with one of the most memorable trips of your life!
Looking for more packing lists? We’ve got you covered! From hiking gear to general packing tips for Peru and beyond, check out all our recommended lists here:
- The Machu Picchu Packing List for Peru
- How to Pack for a Hike
- Inca Trail Packing List
- Packing for Peru: The Ultimate Peru Packing List
Looking for more travel inspiration for Peru and visiting Machu Picchu? We have helpful tips on how to acclimate to the altitude, and what to keep in mind regarding altitude sickness when visiting the Andes, ideas for exploring Lima, or guidance for hiking the Inca trail and planning a Machu Picchu trek. You can also reach out to our expert team, who can create the perfect personalized itinerary for your adventure. There are plenty of great places you shold explore when you visit Peru: the Sacred Valley, Lake Titicaca, Rainbow Mountain and more!
