8 Mistakes to Avoid When Traveling to the Amazon – Tips

Traveling to the Amazon is one of those experiences every adventurer should have at least once in a lifetime. This vast region, spanning several South American countries, is home to the world's largest tropical rainforest and offers biodiversity unmatched anywhere on the planet. But like any great trip, exploring this region has its challenges.

In this guide, we cover the most frequent mistakes travelers make when visiting the Amazon and, most importantly, how to avoid them so your experience in this natural wonder is unforgettable and hassle-free.

1. Not buying flights early and hoping for good prices

One of the most common mistakes when traveling to the Amazon is not buying flights far enough in advance, assuming prices will not vary much. Leticia, the capital of Amazonas, has good air connectivity thanks to Latam and Avianca, the only airlines operating flights from Colombia's major cities. However, if you don't buy tickets early enough, you risk paying very high prices.

Our recommendation: buy your tickets several weeks or months in advance to secure a reasonable price. Waiting until the last few days — or worse, the day before — usually results in exorbitant fares.

2. Not factoring flight schedules into your tour planning

The flight schedule you choose can determine when you can start your activities in the Amazon. Many experiences, like visits to indigenous communities, depend on river navigation schedules, which are limited to certain hours of the day for safety reasons.

Our recommendation: if you arrive on an early flight, before 12 pm, you can start your tour that same day around 2 pm, since boats leave at that time. If you arrive on a night flight, it is best to stay in Leticia that night and start your tour the next day. For your return flight, we recommend flights after 11 am.

An ideal option for a short 3-day trip: arrive on an early flight, start your tour that same day at 2 pm, and return on the third day on a night flight.

3. Not booking your excursion in advance with a licensed company

One of the riskiest mistakes when planning an Amazon trip is not booking your excursion ahead of time with a legally established company.

Our recommendation: it is essential to book your tours with a licensed company that can guarantee both the tour itself and your safety during it. Make sure the company carries the National Tourism Registry (RNT) and is legally established.

4. Not taking precautions when navigating the Amazon River and its tributaries

Navigating the Amazon River and its tributaries is an unforgettable experience, but it also carries risks if proper precautions are not taken. Many travelers underestimate the scale and force of these bodies of water, and opt for small or poorly equipped boats.

Our recommendation: make sure the boat you travel on has all the necessary safety measures, including life jackets for every passenger. Check that the engines are in good condition; avoid boats with "peque-peque" or stationary tail engines. The government only allows outboard engines with reverse to ensure safety.

5. Underestimating the Amazon's heat and humidity and forgetting sunscreen and hydration

The Amazon is an extremely hot and humid region, with temperatures around 30°C (86°F) and a heat index that can reach 45°C (113°F).

Our recommendation: always carry a good broad-spectrum sunscreen and stay hydrated. Ideally, keep a 5-liter jug of drinking water at your lodging to refill your bottle or thermos. Remember, there is no drinkable tap water in the Amazon, so avoid drinking directly from the tap at all costs.

6. Bringing excessive, overweight luggage

A common mistake is bringing large, heavy suitcases, as if moving to the place. Especially during summer season, you will walk across islands and trails to reach communities or the Amazon River to board boats.

Our recommendation: bring only the essentials. A 30-40 liter bag is more than enough for a 4 or 5-day trip. Also bring a dry bag to protect your electronics, and a raincoat or poncho.

7. Not requesting a translator in advance

If you need a translator during your Amazon visit, it is essential to request one well in advance. Translator availability in the region is limited.

Our recommendation: notify the company you booked your tour with as soon as possible. Companies like Amazonas Jungle Tours offer tours with English translators and Spanish-speaking guides. If you need a translator in another language, staff availability may be more limited, and the company will need time to coordinate it.

8. Not bringing the right clothing for the Amazon

Humidity, heat, and rainforest activities demand clothing that protects you while keeping you cool.

Our recommendation: the best options are long trekking or adventure-style pants and long-sleeved shirts, preferably lightweight, breathable fabrics like Columbia brand. Bring long socks to wear with rubber boots, the ideal rainforest footwear (hiking shoes are not recommended here). For boat activities, comfortable, lightweight shoes are better. A good insect repellent, like the Bye Bye brand, is also essential.