What to Bring
Seasons
Each season in the Amazon offers a very different picture, each beautiful and unique.
Rainy Season
January until May with February and March being the wettest months. Bursts of rain are followed by sunny periods. Temperatures are cooler at this time of the year averaging 26˚C (79˚F) with temperatures that can go up to 33˚C (93˚F) at mid day. At this time of the year, rivers swell with water and huge tracts of land are swamped. Most naturalists visit the Amazon during this season since the forest is undergoing spectacular changes. There is more fauna activity registered during this period since animals are changing from one location to another. Plants bloom and fruit trees usually bear fruit at this time to take advantage of the high water to spread their seeds. Giant water lilies (Vitoria Amazonia) are present at this time of the year. The higher water levels allow boats to venture deeper into the flooded forests at this time of the year.
Dry Season
July to December with August and September being the driest months. Average temperature is 28˚C (82˚F). October is usually the hottest month with temperatures that reach 35˚C (96˚F). Nights, however, remain cool. At this time of the year, rivers are receding as rainfall diminishes concentrating wildlife around less water area. This season is most popular with the “one time” visitor as more animal sightings occur during this period, especially from the boat. Lower water level gives spectacular journeys in lakes and flooded forests and presents white sandy beaches alongside blackwater rivers, ideal for swimming and BBQ’s.
Fishing Season
August to December. The receding waters concentrate the fish in riverbeds.
The Amazon is one of the last remaining untouched forests on earth. The wealth of plant and animal life is staggering, the sights breathtaking. As Prof.Dr. R.A.A. Oldeman tells us “The nature of the majestic Amazonian rain forests can be experienced only if we shed all human arrogance first.” Observe and learn. As a guest of this magnificent place you must treat all that is around you with respect. Every visit will be different and unique. Nature does not follow a set script. We cannot guarantee what wildlife will grace us with a visit. What we do know is that in this pristine location, many will. Do not come with set expectations and you will be richly rewarded. Tolerance is also important. You will be in the middle of the jungle; creature comforts are not the same as in the ‘civilized’ world. Power may sometimes fail; a curious animal or insect may sneak into your room or a sudden rain shower may surprise you. It is all part of the adventure.
Are children welcome at Amazonat?
Yes! Amazonat is a wonderful place for children and families. There is plenty to do at our lodges to keep everybody entertained. Viewing the beauty of the Amazon and its wildlife will make a positive impression on anybody, no matter the age. It is an experience that will stay with all for a lifetime. Remember that because we keep our groups small, our guides are able to adapt to the needs of the group. If the children have special needs or interests just let us know. That goes for the food too!
When is the best time to visit the Amazon?
The Amazon is an ever-changing environment that will always fill you with wonder. There is a lot to see in both rainy and dry season so when you should visit really depends on when best suits you. July-November is historically the busiest time at Amazonat.
What is the recommended length of stay at Amazonat?
Amazonat packages give a strong sense of the Amazon and its many ecosystems. Because of all there is to see we recommend a visit of at least a week. This gives you the opportunity to experience highlights of both rainforest and river in and around our reserve. Longer visits are rewarded with an even richer experience. If you have fewer days, shorter packages allow you to focus on either the river or rainforest. Packages can always be extended with additional days.
Are Mosquitoes and Bugs a problem?
Although Amazonat is in the rainforest, visits can be considered virtually mosquito free. This is due to the low acidity of surrounding blackwater rivers which inhibit the proliferation of insect larvae. As a result forests around us are less “buggy”. All cabins are well screened to keep bugs out. Guests are recommended to keep their doors closed and to keep the lights out at night when not in the room so as not to attract bugs.
In the peak of the rainy season (April) mosquitoes are present at Jane’s Place, our jungle survival camp, for only two weeks. While on the Amazon River (whitewater) there will be no mosquitoes while the boat is moving. When the boat pulls over to one of the banks to observe wildlife, however, mosquitoes may appear. To be safe, mosquito repellent is recommended when jungle trekking and when on the Amazon River Tours. Other than that you will be surprised how mosquito free you visit is.
Should I be concerned about malaria?
The low acidity of blackwater rivers around Amazonat inhibits the growth of mosquito larva. As a result mosquitoes are not a problem. Taking medicine for malaria is entirely up to you and your physician, however, we have had no incidence of malaria is this area. Some guests to Amazonat who were taking medicines for malaria such as Mallerone have suffered more from its side effects (headaches and stomach aches) than from anything else.v
Is it safe to drink the water?
Amazonat has its own mineral water source. You can safely drink water from the tap and even the shower. Salads and ice cubes can be eaten without any fear of contamination.
What electrical devices can I bring?
Battery chargers, computers and other appliances that do not have heating elements can be used at Amazonat. Hair dryers and other devices with heating elements draw a huge amount of current and cannot be handled by our system. As an ecolodge we aim to conserve energy use to minimize our environmental impact. We ask our guests to keep this in mind when using any electrical devices. We have wireless internet connection at the lodge. Guests can access it in their rooms or are welcome to sit at Arara Restaurant or the Game House to use this service. We also have an internet café in the Bouina Legend House reception building. Please note there is no cell phone coverage at the lodge.
Will I be able to do laundry during my trip?
Amazonat offers you the possibility of washing your dirty clothes. Just ask our receptionist for our fees.
Recommended Packing List
- Lightweight pants
- T-shirts
- Long sleeved shirts
- Shorts
- Bathing suit
- Extra socks and underwear
- Sandals
- Good walking shoes
- Extra pair of shoes
- Light rain jacket
- Sweatshirt or light jacket for cool nights
- Sun hat and sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- Binoculars
- Camera and film/memory cards
- Extra batteries
- Toiletries (no aerosols)
- Non-electric razor
- Insect repellent
- Small first aid kit
- Small backpack for carrying things on day tours and if you are planning to spend the night at Jane’s Place
- Flashlight
- Book or magazine