Forest tours, despite a few mishaps, are memorable adventures that you may even want to go back again. In case you get lost, your basic forest kit can help you find a way home.
But surviving in the Amazon rainforest, the largest in the world, is a different ball game and, it is not for the faint-hearted. It runs through South American countries like Brazil, Peru, Venezuela and, Ecuador.
This dense forest is home to a vast flora and fauna. Though you hike through this rainforest with a certified travel group, it is safe to prepare for solo-survival.
1. Composure
This is an essential survival tip from survivors and guides. When you’re stranded, everything gets gloomy and prompts you to break down. But panicking will worsen the situation as it increases your thirst and appetite and reduces your analytical ability.
That means, even if you have ways to come out of the rainforest, you may overlook them in a panic only to be isolated forever. Take a deep breath and strengthen your senses.
Most importantly, do not move (or run) until you can maintain your composure.
2. Cover
There are many deadly insects in the Amazon rainforest which makes covering your body an important step. Don’t worry about humidity as it is better than getting poisonous (and painful) stings.
The climate conditions in the rainforest are warm yet wet. Wear waterproof hiking boots to thrive through the swampy ground and a long sleeve rain jacket to keep yourself warm and safe.
Brownie points if you wear a hat. The heat from the sun can burn your skin when walking in a rainforest.
3. Support Yourself with a Stick
Your feet are strong enough to walk, but there aren’t any roads paved in the rainforest. Carry a stick to check the ground before you step on it.
There can be dangerous pits, and you can foresee them by testing the ground with a staff. This supporting stick will help you avoid accidental tripping.
It doesn’t have to be a stylish walking cane. You can make yourself one from a branch.
4. Rest in a Shelter
You want to go home as soon as possible, but restless walking will hinder your journey. Give your body adequate rest, but not in an open space.
Choose a highland and tie a poncho to two trees in the shape of a tent and hold it in place with cut-down branches. If you don’t have a poncho, get a few branches and fasten them with ropes or creeper twigs to build a shelter.
Save a few branches for the fireplace. It is ideal to make a fireplace at your shelter. Fire serves many purposes.
5. Not Every Fruit Is Food
In a rainforest, you can grab a fruit from a tree to fill your tummy. This doesn’t sound difficult. But beware of the toxic fruits disguised in beautiful colors. Stay away from truffles as the forest species are poisonous.
Most times, survivors ate bugs and wasps cooked on fire rather than fruits, as the former has fewer chances of being deadly. If that sounds uncomfortable, you can pluck papayas and figs for a meal.
6. Caution At Water
The Amazon rainforest has several rivers and you will come across one quite often on your way. The river water can look harmless but drinking it directly can make you sick.
In case you have to, make a fire and heat the water before drinking. However, the best water source is rainwater and fresh dew drops. Rainforests have frequent pour-down for you to collect drinking water.
Use this water to wash your body to prevent fungal infections. Avoid swimming in the river as much as you can.
7. Down, down and down
Traveling downhill can bring you close to water sources and people. You can be even lucky enough to find other campsites. There are chances for a few communities living nearby to visit the water sources in down regions and you can ask them for help.
These tips come from the best survival shows and personal experiences of others. Watching such shows will prep you for your adventure or any unexpected landing in the rainforest.