INTRODUCTION

Your safety and wellbeing are our top priority throughout every expedition with Amazon Expeditioners.
Our survival programs take you deep into the Peruvian Amazon — one of the most biodiverse and powerful ecosystems on Earth. It is a land that demands awareness, respect, and preparation.
Please review the following recommendations carefully before, during, and after your journey to ensure a safe, healthy, and deeply rewarding experience in the jungle.

 

 

BEFORE YOUR TRIP

Before joining your expedition, we recommend visiting a travel medicine clinic or preventive health center.
If you have any chronic conditions, allergies to insect bites, or require specific medications, bring your full treatment and inform the expedition leader ahead of time. This helps us prepare for any unexpected situation.

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If you take prescription medication, bring enough for the entire duration of your journey and note the active ingredients (generic names), since some medications are sold under different brands in Peru.

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Vaccinations are not mandatory to enter Peru or to participate in our expeditions. However, the following are optional but recommended for those spending extended time in the jungle: Yellow Fever, Tetanus-Diphtheria (DT), Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and Rabies.

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Regarding malaria, risk is low but not absent, especially during the rainy season (December–June).
If you choose to take preventive medication, Atovaquone/Proguanil (Malarone) is the most commonly recommended due to its mild side effects. Begin 1–2 days before entering the jungle, continue daily during your stay, and for 7 days after leaving.
Other medications like Lariam (Mefloquine) or Doxycycline may cause adverse reactions and are generally not advised.
Ultimately, the best prevention is always avoiding mosquito bites through protective clothing and repellents.

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DURING YOUR TRIP

1. Report any discomfort immediately

If you feel unwell, inform your team leader right away. Some medications (like malaria pills) can cause side effects similar to tropical illness symptoms, so communication is key to accurate assessment and care.

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2. Avoid touching your face and wash your hands often

Maintain basic hygiene and always carry a small bottle of sanitizer.

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3. Wear your jungle boots at all times

Your boots protect you not only from mud and sharp roots, but also from ants, snakes, scorpions, and toxic plants. Always inspect them before putting them on.

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4. Dress in light, loose, and full-coverage clothing

Long sleeves and pants of light colors help reduce insect bites and sun exposure. Mosquito activity is highest from dusk till dawn.

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5. Use insect repellent wisely

Repellents containing DEET, Permethrin, or Picaridin are effective. However, their chemical scent can alert wildlife during hunting or observation activities. Natural alternatives like lemon eucalyptus oil are recommended in those cases.

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6. Inspect mosquito nets before sleeping

Ensure there are no holes and that the edges are tucked under your mat. Spray a fine layer of repellent around for extra protection.

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7. Avoid scented products

Perfumes, lotions, or deodorants with strong scents attract insects and can disturb wildlife — avoid them entirely during expeditions.

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8. Stay close to your guides

Never separate far away from hunters during treks or hunting trips. The jungle can disorient even experienced travelers. If separated, use your emergency whistle immediately.

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9. Drink only treated or boiled water

Hydration is essential. Consume only the water provided or treated by hunters.

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10. Do not touch or handle wildlife or plants

Observe and learn, but avoid physical contact. Many species have hidden toxins or defensive mechanisms, and even harmless handling can damage sensitive ecosystems.

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11. Swim only in approved areas

Rivers and lagoons may contain strong currents or hidden wildlife. Always wait for your guide’s approval before entering the water.

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12. Respect the environment

Never leave non-biodegradable waste in the jungle. Carry it out with you and help preserve the balance of this ancient ecosystem.

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13. Carry your safety whistle at all times

If you become disoriented or separated, use your whistle to signal your position. Three short blasts repeated every few seconds is the universal distress signal.

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HUNTING & WEAPON SAFETY GUIDELINES

During certain survival expeditions, participants will learn and practice traditional Amazonian hunting and tool-making techniques under the supervision of indigenous master hunters.

The following rules are essential for your safety and for respecting the ancestral knowledge being shared:

1. Always follow your indigenous guide’s instructions

Do not attempt to use, load, or test any weapon — including spears, bows, blowguns, traps, or machetes — unless directly supervised by your guide or instructor.

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2. Treat every weapon as if it were loaded and lethal

Even primitive weapons can cause serious injuries. Handle them with full awareness and avoid playful or careless behavior.

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3. Never point a weapon at anyone

Even when practicing, always aim toward the ground or designated targets.

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4. Maintain safe distance

When training with others, keep a clear radius of at least two meters around anyone handling a weapon or cutting tool.

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5. Inspect your tools regularly

Bows, cords, and wooden shafts can weaken in humidity. Check for cracks or fraying before each use.

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6. Use machetes and knives with control and mindfulness

Always cut away from your body and be aware of where your companions stand. When passing a knife or machete, hand it by the handle, edge facing down.

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7. No handling of traps without authorization

Some traps are highly sensitive or camouflaged. Only your instructor should demonstrate how they are set or disarmed.

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8. Firearm caution (if applicable)

In rare cases when firearms are demonstrated, only the indigenous hunter or certified instructor will handle and operate them. Participants may observe but will not use them directly unless explicitly authorized for educational purposes.

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9. Respect traditional knowledge

Remember that hunting and tracking methods are part of deep cultural heritage. Always approach with humility and gratitude, and never remove or reproduce weapons outside the authorized learning context.

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GROUP & ENVIRONMENTAL AWARENESS

• Move silently and observe attentively. The jungle teaches through listening and observation.

• Avoid sudden movements or loud noises. They can startle wildlife or alert predators.

• Communicate with hand signals during hunts or wildlife observation.

• Do not wander off at night without a guide or headlamp.

• Keep your camp area organized. Tools, knives, and food should never be left unattended.

• Be cautious around fire. Always clear dry leaves and roots before lighting a campfire, and never leave it unattended.

• Respect the indigenous community hosting you. Follow their customs and avoid taking photos without permission.

• Practice awareness. Every step in the jungle can teach you something — about nature, about survival, and about yourself.

 

 

AFTER YOUR TRIP

Deworming is Recommended
Some tropical parasites or illnesses may not show symptoms immediately. Upon returning home, consider taking a deworming treatment and consult a physician if you develop any unusual symptoms. Always inform your doctor that you recently traveled to the Amazon rainforest.

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