Mission trip

considering a mission trip?

U.S. Passport

You must have a U.S. passport valid for the time you will be in Brazil. If you do not have a United States passport, you may apply online at https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/apply-renew-passport/how-to-apply.html. Start early, you will have to collect and file various documents and a photo. Even if everything goes smoothly, this process can take 6 weeks or longer.

Brazilian Visa

Brazil visa requirements are subject to change and vary by the country you live in. Search the internet for “Brazil Visa requirements” to determine if a visa is required and the type of visas available. Start early, you will have to collect and file various documents and a photo. Even if everything goes smoothly, this process can take 6 weeks or longer.

How do I get to Amazonas?

Having had your travel and visitation dates preapproved by Todd and Stela Moore, you will book your own airline tickets from your departure airport of choice to Manaus, Amazonas, Brazil. Todd and Stela will pick you up and return you to the airport in Manaus.

What do I pack?

As you consider packing, keep in mind that you will be approximately 200 miles south of the equator – the sun is intense and it is hot and humid year-round. The “rainy season” is basically from December through May and the “dry season” is approximately from June through November.

You will be showering and changing clothes 2-3 times per day. Clothes will be washed at Camp daily (or as needed), so 4-5 changes of clothes are enough. “Dri-FIT” clothing is ideal since it is not only comfortable, but this material also dries quickly following a wash by hanging on the line.

Here’s a basic list of what to pack – one suitcase and one (day back pack) carry-on, including:

Your U.S. passport and Brazilian visa (must have on your person at all times)
Shorts
Tee shirts
Underwear
Belt
Hat for sun/rain protection (a bucket hat works best)
Crocs or sandals (muddy shoes are washed off frequently; shoes come off while on the boat and in every house)
Clothes for airplane travel to and from
Towel, wash cloth, anti-bacterial soap, shampoo, razor, deodorant, toothbrush and tooth paste
Dew rag
Rain poncho/jacket
Chap stick
Insect / mosquito repellant with DEET
Something for chigger bites
Sunglasses (worn only when not around the villagers)
Mini-size flashlight and batteries
Bible, notebook, pens, cell phone (camera)
Personal prescription medicines and non-prescription medicines that you think you may need
Alcohol wipes
Zip-Lock bags for personal items
Trash bags for dirty clothes, etc.
$300 U.S. dollars (for misc. travel expenses and emergency needs)

Do I need to get shots before going?

Consult your physician. A shot for yellow fever may be first on your optional list. Beware of taking antibiotics that caution you to avoid the sun – such medications greatly intensify an already intense sun and you will burn severely!

What will be provided while I am there?

Approximately 60 days before you leave, you will be assessed one-time all-inclusive charge by ARM (approximately $1,000 per person for a 10-day trip) which will cover all of the following while you in Brazil:

• Bus and taxi transportation
• Hotels
• Meals (all food and drinks in towns and on the boat)
• Personal hammock, sheets, mosquito netting
• Additional personnel to assist with cook, clean, do laundry, and provide security
• Boat fuel and electricity
• Souvenirs

Will my credit card work in Brazil?

Contact your credit card company before leaving for Brazil to ensure your credit card will work in Brazil.

Will my cell phone work in Brazil?

Contact with a cellular tower in Brazil is limited, and in most places, non-existent. It is probably not prudent to pay your cellular provider a premium to place international calls from Brazil.

Will I have Internet access?

You will be able to text home from your hotel room in Manaus upon arrival and before departure. However, Internet access in Brazil is limited, and in most places other than your hotel in Manaus and the airport, non-existent.