Preparing for Your Trip

Throughout your trip, you'll be impressed by the outstanding hospitality of the staff and the people of the Amazon. Of course, there are cautions that are appropriate for any trip to such an isolated area:

• You won't need a visa, but your passport may be requested by many businesses and agencies. Make several copies. In the city, lock your passport in your room safe and carry the copy. In the lodges, ask about secure storage. You'll also be given an entry document which you must return when you leave. (It's small; put it in a safe place!)
• In Lima, think about city security. Don't walk alone at night. Keep your valuables safe and out of sight. Ask at your hotel for directions and guidance on where to tour. Do not eat street food or drink tap water outside the tourist facilities.
• There are plenty of ATMs in Lima, but you won't find them in the Explororama lodges. There's wireless Internet and phone in Ceiba Tops. For the time you'll be staying in the other facilities, give your family the emergency number that the tour provides.
• Get vaccinated for yellow fever. While shots are available in Lima and in both airports, they are most effective if you get them a week to ten days prior to the trip. (Reactions are rare and usually don't amount to more than a sore arm.)
• Pack light. It's ideal to take a backpack to separate out things you'll need in the forest, like repellent, sunscreen, a rain slicker, field glasses, camera, light cotton long sleeved shirt and pants, and socks. Your field gear will likely get wet, so keeping it away from the clothes you'll wear home is always a good idea.
• The food in all Explororama facilities is excellent, and you will find Peruvian food in general to be mildly but deliciously spiced. The diet is heavy on fresh fish and rice. Eat only fruit that can be pealed. You'll drink only purified water. Your bottles can be refilled at all Explororama facilities.
• Rely on your guide for information on where to walk, and how to prepare for each trip.

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