When you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind escape, the world’s spectacular rainforests await.
A rainforest is a great destination for adventurous nature lovers. But if you’re imagining rough accommodations with tents and sleeping bags, think again. Your journey into the jungle can be just a little bit fancy, with luxurious amenities and stunning architecture amid wildlife and nature.
Thorough planning and preparation of what you would need on a rainforest trip are crucial in making it memorable. But choose an upscale resort that balances luxury amenities with sustainable practices.
Some luxury resorts are situated in sustainable farms, like the luxury eco-resort Copal Tree Lodge in Belize, and others work closely with local communities as part of preservation programs, like the upscale Bwindi Lodge in Uganda.
To make the most out of your holiday amid lush foliage and dense canopies, bring all the necessities. Check out the following list of five essential things to bring.
Climate is a key consideration before you start lining up your clothes. Although a rainforest holiday seems like packing a lot of pants and boots makes sense, know that jungle regions have humid, rainy and hot weather. Comfortable and functional clothes are essential, but you’re booked in a posh rainforest resort.
You’ll still want to be stylish while you move around the hotel and explore its many amenities. Along with your light, breathable pants, pack your stylish maxi dress, linen shorts, cotton tops and maybe some outfits for evening activities.
Pants and maxi dresses are recommended for rainforest trips because they can protect you from insects and mud. Of course, you must pick a pair that’s made from light materials to make walking easy and avoid overheating.
Other than climate, activities are also a consideration for what you’ll be packing. Some jungle resorts offer foraging and cooking workshops, canoe trips and rainforest trekking. So you’ll need to bring clothes that’ll keep you protected and comfortable for such activities. Don’t forget to include water-proof gear and trekking shoes, and moisture-wicking long socks for those outdoor activities.
Naturally, all these resorts will have posh pools, giving you another reason to shop for luxury swimwear and other accessories to enjoy lounging by an infinity pool.
Going to a rainforest opens up plenty of photo opportunities, so be sure to bring your camera with you. Tuck it inside your hand-carry bag or bring a sturdy camera bag, which you can sling over your body and hide under a poncho should it rain.
Bring a couple of extra memory cards and batteries in case the ones already in your camera need a replacement.
Bring bug repellents if you’ve signed up for a few jungle treks and outdoor activities for protection against insects. Lip balm can also prove to be very useful — especially when the weather is too hot — to help ease chapped and dry lips.
Other things that can make your trip more “comfortable” include:
Although international resorts will have doctors on call for any emergency, consider bringing some of your medications:
Although it may seem unrealistic not to bring your mobile phones and tablets, consider just bringing one essential device. Leave room for books you’ve been planning to finish or read because the tranquil environment of the rainforest sets the perfect backdrop for a quiet relaxing activity. You can’t have a profoundly peaceful experience and enjoy an ‘escape’ when you’re getting instant messages or looking through social media.
Many rainforest resorts also offer healing experiences, from ayurvedic spa treatments to the usual yoga and meditation sessions.
During a rainforest tour, you’ll get to see plenty of animals and plants that can only be found in the wild.
Make your meet and greet with Mother Nature’s creations more astonishing by bringing binoculars, sunglasses, and a headlamp. These three items can help you see better during situations when the animals are too far away, and when the sun is shining too brightly or has already set.
You should also pack essential hiking stuff like a travel clock, a compass and a multitool (e.g., a Swiss army knife).
A journey to the Amazon, UNESCO-listed national parks or other rainforest destinations is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Your time in the jungle becomes even more special when you book your accommodation at a luxury resort.
Of course, you also need to make sure you’re rainforest-ready with the right items to wear and take with you. With this list, you’ll have everything you need for a safe and memorable rainforest resort stay.
