Adventure

Tips on how to survive the jungle maze

Are you sitting comfortably in your chair right now and thinking that jungle survival is the last thing in the world that you want to think about?

But, have you ever wondered what it would be like if you got lost one day? Not having a clue what to do in such situation makes it a bad situation. Have a read of this article and hopefully you will remember the following tips, which could well save your life one day.

 

Jungle

Orientation in the jungle  

Ok, we know this sounds impossible. Finding a path in the tree labyrinth can be quite exhausting, but there are ways to get to safety.

First, try to figure out where you came from by going back and finding some recognizable parts of the trail. Head downhill to find a stream, then follow it until it becomes a river, which will lead you out of the jungle. Try to make as little noise as possible to avoid the attracting animals.

 

Jungle

If you see a higher point, a hill or a ridge, try to follow it because that likely means there is a river near. The wider the river is, more chances you have to find the way out of the jungle.

Protection 

Falling trees and branches kill quite a few people, therefore try to set your camp in an open area with no trees around your tent or your shelter. While moving through a dense jungle, walk slowly and be alert to all the sounds you hear.

 

Jungle

Malaria is another killer that causes more deaths than wars do. To protect yourself from mosquitos use a mosquito net. If you don’t have one, try eucalyptus oil or sap from a camphor tree.

 

Mosquito

If you can avoid getting into a jungle river or a pond, then do so. These waters could contain crocodiles, leeches, electric eels, anacondas, piranhas, and stingrays.

Also, there are currents and underwater branches that can pull you down. Always keep your shoes and clothes on when entering into a jungle river.

Keeping your shoes and clothes on all the time will also protect you from getting sunburn and dehydration. Drink plenty of water!

 

You can drink this water after boiling it

When walking, always use a stick to remove the branches from your way and never touch the vines because many of them are poisonous. The stick will also help you to remove spiders and snakes if they appear near you.

Water and food

If you don’t have any water reserves or water purification tablets, there is still a chance you can find a drinkable water in the jungle.

Look for fast flowing water that is less contaminated and boil it before you drink it. As for the food, your most reliable resource is the vegetation.

For inexperienced adventurers, it can be hard to recognize which are edible and which not. Before eating a plant try the juice on your skin and see if there is a reaction. Avoid red berries and plants with milky white sap.

 

Don’t drink this water

Shelter

After a long day of walking through the jungle, you would need to have few hours of sleep and stay safe at the same time. Use tree trunks to create a frame of your shelter and leave enough space in the middle to lay down. Cover the tree trunks with leaves and branches to keep you dry in case it rains.

Medicinal plants

Cordoncillo leaves are painkillers that can be chewed in a case of injury.

Cordoncillo – Author: Forest & Kim Starr – CC BY 3.0

Tawari Tree bark is useful in treating infection and are used in treatments for cancerous cells, tumors, and inflammation.

Tawari Tree – Author: Richard001 – CC BY 2.0

Rat’s tail helps with digestion.

Rat’s tail – Author: Jod-let – CC BY-SA 2.5

Now you know what to do in case you get lost while exploring a jungle. Finally, make sure you leave your trip itinerary with a friend or a camp mate, just in case anything bad happens. Good luck!

 

If you have any comments then please drop us a message on our Outdoor Revival Facebook page

If you have a good story to tell or blog let us know about it on our FB page, we’re also happy for article or review submissions, we’d love to hear from you.

We live in a beautiful world, get out there and enjoy it.

Outdoor Revival – Reconnecting us all with the Outdoors.

Stef Zisovska

Recent Posts

Ten Of The Most Stunning Waterfalls On Earth

Few sites in nature inspire more awe and wonder than waterfalls. As a result, these…

2 months ago

Nine Terrifying Birds That Look Just Like The Dinosaurs They’re Descended From

For a large number of animals, it's clear they descended from dinosaurs - think of…

3 months ago

There’s a Tree in California That’s So Special, You Could Go to Jail For Visiting It

Located deep in the heart of Redwood National and State Parks (RNSP) is the world's…

3 months ago

10 Unique Dive Spots From All Over The World

Considering that the Earth is covered by more than 70% water there are plenty of…

3 months ago

Steer Clear Of The 8 Most Dangerous Airports in the World

Most major airports are tucked away far from the main thoroughfares of cities, meaning tourists…

3 months ago

These Underwater Photos Will Make You Want To Never Swim In the Ocean Again

Imagine swimming through the ocean, having a relaxing float in a creek or adventuring in…

3 months ago