Planning to travel to the rainforests depends on whether one is going to visit a tropical rainforest or a temperate rainforest. Because rainforests exist all over the world, tourists will need to do independent research on the country where the rainforest is located and decide if the political situation in the country is safe for travel and to get information on what documentation will be necessary.

Travel to a Tropical Rainforest

Tropical rainforests are hot and humid. Because they are so close to the equator, tropical rainforests have strong sun light. The high humidity and rainfall make the rainforest a prime breeding ground for millions of insects. When packing for a trip to a tropical rainforest, tourists should bring plenty of light, synthetic, breathable, and quick-drying or waterproof clothing. Long sleeves and long pants will help protect the tourist from insect bites and too much sun. A hat with a wide brim that covers the neck, ears, and face is a must. Bugs are at their worst in the evening and at night, so those who wish to wear shorts during the hot midday can do so without too much fear of getting bitten. Because it takes so long for clothes to dry in the tropics and most clothing items will be drenched by day’s end from perspiration, tourists will want to take a minimum of one full change of clothes for each day of the trip, possibly more.

Insects are a problem in the tropical rainforests. How bad they are changes from day to day, depending on the weather and the amount of standing water in the areas where the tourist will be traveling. Tourists are advised to bring plenty of insect repellant containing DEET, as well as plenty of sunscreen. There are few places to buy refills along the trip. At night, the lodges provide mosquito netting for sleeping areas.

Before the trip, tourists should have vaccinations for Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and Yellow Fever.

Travel to a Temperate Rainforest

Temperate rainforests have fewer travel issues because of the climate differences. Although tourists should always take care for insects, extreme sunshine will not be as much of a problem. The weather is always changing in these regions and some days can be rather cool. Tourists will want to prepare for a trip to a temperate rainforest much in the same way as they would for a camping trip.