Tropical rainforests may be a haven for incredible biodiversity, but they've also become the crucible for many a sodden tourist about to wilt in the sweltering heat. Whether you're river kayaking or trekking through the jungle, dress in light clothing that can be layered, plus sturdy footwear and a packable rain jacket.

Dressing in Layers

Dressing in lightweight layers is the best way to keep comfortable in the hot, humid jungle, yet still be prepared if temperatures drop during a nighttime downpour. Breathability, a loose fit that creates space between your body and the fabric, and the ability to wick moisture and dry quickly are all key. Two to three pairs of shorts, two T-shirts and one long-sleeved shirt are all ideal; make the third pair of bottoms long pants if you'll be spending any time in the city and don't want to look like you just trekked out the jungle.

Choosing Your Material

Conventional wisdom is that when you need a fabric that wicks and dries quickly, you should turn to synthetics like polyester. However, if you wear pure synthetics in the jungle they will retain more body odor than natural fibers, and their relative lack of structure makes it more likely that they'll cling to your body. More robust fibers like cotton and linen are well-suited to these climates and won't absorb as much body odor, or a lightweight blend of cotton or linen with polyester offers the best of both worlds: Clothes that wick and dry quickly, but don't stink.

Choosing Outerwear

Those first few patters of rain might feel good, but if it keeps pouring down and you don't do anything to protect yourself, you'll find out just how cold a tropical rainforest can feel. Bring a lightweight, loose-fitting, breathable and packable rain jacket that you can keep tucked away until you need it. Failing that, ponchos offer a great blend of impermeability and breathability, thanks to their loose cut. Don't forget a rain hat, or at least a billed cap, to keep the rain off your face.

Footwear

You have three practical footwear options while in the jungle. Waterproof boots offer the best protection against spines and snake bites, and they'll also keep your feet from getting soaked by puddles or damp undergrowth. However once waterproof boots get wet from sweat or rain dripping down your legs, they stay wet -- and in a humid rainforest, they may never dry out for the duration of your trip. You can also opt for closed-toe sandals or breathable, fast-drying trail running shoes, which both offer less protection from bites, spines and water but won't hold any water in.

Other Things to Bring

Bring a swimsuit with you, because if you spend much time in the jungle you'll probably end up bathing in the rivers. Although limited sunlight penetrates to the bottom level of a tropical rainforest, you should still be prepared with sun protection for any time you spend outside the jungle.

Photo Credits

  • Medioimages/Photodisc/Photodisc/Getty Images
SHARE