Travel Guide & Blog Amazon

What to Pack for the Colombian Amazon: Checklist and Health Tips

A practical packing list for the Colombian Amazon, with bag rules, the yellow fever recommendation and basic safety tips.

Dugout canoe on the Amazon River

Pack light and pack for humidity. These are the basics for an Amazon tour from Leticia.

Checklist

  • Quick-dry, long-sleeved shirts and long trousers. Avoid fluorescent colors.
  • Shoes with good grip plus a spare pair. No sandals, flats or smooth soles.
  • Insect repellent, sunscreen, a hat and a light rain jacket.
  • A flashlight with charged batteries and a personal towel for hikes.
  • A soft bag of up to 15 kg. Avoid wheeled suitcases: the boats have no space for them.
  • A waterproof daypack and plastic bags to protect electronics from humidity.

Never leave valuables on the boats: phones, cash, documents and cameras stay with you.

Health and safety

  • A yellow fever vaccination is recommended. Travelers arriving from Angola, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Uganda or Brazil need the international certificate to enter Colombia.
  • Tap water is not drinkable in any lodge; your package includes filtered water.
  • Always wear the life jacket and keep your hands inside the boat.
  • Mobile signal is poor. Leticia has ATMs and Puerto Nariño has a Bancolombia banking agent.
  • Tell us in advance about medication, allergies or dietary restrictions.

For the full plan, read our Amazon guide or browse the packages.

Frequently asked questions

Can I bring a wheeled suitcase to the Amazon?

Avoid it. Use a soft bag of up to 15 kg: the boats have no space for wheeled suitcases.

Do I need a yellow fever vaccine?

It is recommended. Travelers coming from Angola, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Uganda or Brazil must show the international certificate to enter Colombia.

Is tap water safe to drink in the Amazon?

No. Your package includes filtered water.

Want help planning this trip?

Tell us your dates and interests and we will send you a personal quote.

Registered tour operator · RNT 74577

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