Frequently Asked Questions

Are children allowed to go on the trip?

Children must be at least 12 years of age to go on the trip. Please note: Exceptions to the age requirement are possible. It is solely at the discretion of the trip leader whether or not a child, below or above the age of 12, will be allowed to go on the trip. Parents and children will be asked to meet with the trip leader on an individual (family) basis in determining each child’s maturity level, their ability to tolerate the physical and emotional aspects of the trip and to ensure the parents’ understanding of their responsibility for their child throughout the duration of the trip in the event the child be allowed to participate.

What do women wear on a typical day?

Ladies may wear comfortable shorts and T-shirts during the day. For the evening services, dresses or skirts/blouses are suggested. It will be hot, yet you must dress conservatively. Please no bikinis, bare midriffs, spaghetti straps, tank tops, short shorts or tightly fitting tops. Cotton fabrics are strongly suggested.

What do men wear on a typical day?

Men may wear shorts or long pants to work in. Long pants/Bermuda shorts are required for the evening services. A shirt must be worn at all times. Be careful what your T-shirts say (beer ads, scary pictures, etc.) and if they have anything on them that might confuse the villagers.

Should I bring jewelry?

Jewelry, with the exception of watches, wedding rings, and small earrings need to be left at home. We don’t want to stereotype the image of rich Americans.

How can I get by on three changes of clothes for a 10-day trip?

The laundry will be done daily so there is no need to bring more than a three-day supply of changes. Don’t take anything you wouldn’t mind losing or leaving behind.

What do I wear on the plane?

Please wear long pants, Bermuda shorts or a dress while traveling.

What is the food like?

The food on board the boat is fabulous, however you may like to take along peanut butter, crackers, candy bars, or any favorite snack.

Where do we sleep?

A hammock will be provided for you and it is yours to purchase at the end of the trip (Optional). A pillow and a blanket are also provided.

Will there be any time to shop?

You will have an afternoon to shop at the end of the trip. Take a little cash if you desire. Most shops accept MasterCard and Visa.

Are we expected to tip the crew and interpreters?

Our interpreters and crew will become invaluable to us and will become like family. At the end of the trip a cash gift will be collected and divided among them. This is an optional donation, but if you decide to contribute, whatever you feel led to give will be greatly appreciated. We discourage any one-to-one gifts because this seems to create competition among the crew members for our attention.

What do I pack in?

You should pack personal belongings in one soft carry-on bag. (45 in/114 cm and no more than 40lbs) In addition you are allowed to carry a small backpack or purse. Two 70Lb. suitcases are also permitted per person; however, these will be necessary to carry supplies needed for the trip.

What about medicine?

If you are on any kind of medication, please take it with you. If refrigeration for such medication is needed, such as Insulin, be sure to let us know. Please advise the trip physician prior to our departure of any medical needs. We also recommend you bring a small emergency medication kit for yourself. This kit may contain anti-diarrhea medicine, Pepto-Bismol, Tylenol, Dramamine, allergy medicine, etc. To avoid problems when passing through customs, keep medicines in their original, labeled containers.

What if I lose my passport?

Before the trip begins make two photocopies of the picture/information page of your passport. Keep one and give the other one to your trip leader in case it is lost or stolen.

How can I prepare myself physically for the trip?

A brisk walk in the heat of the day is very helpful to begin getting accustomed to the temperatures on the river. Drink lots of water before, during and after the trip!

How can I prepare myself spiritually for the trip?

Pray, pray, pray!! Get a prayer partner or a group to pray specifically for you and your needs. Study your evangelism tools included in this booklet to be prepared to present the Gospel message in a way that is comfortable to you. Be aware that while you are telling people about God, God will be teaching you many valuable lessons too. Many times we are so busy “doing” that we forget to quiet our hearts and listen to what God is teaching us.

How can I prepare myself mentally for this trip?

The key words on any mission trip are FLEXIBILITY and PATIENCE! From the moment the trip begins until you have returned home plans and events seem to change with every turn. If you know this ahead of time and are prepared for these changes, the trip can be fun and exciting. God is in control of our plans and we are always amazed how creative He is and how much we learn.