Towering jungle trees, stunning sunsets over the river, and the calls of exotic birds—there’s no place on earth quite like the Amazon. But beyond the breathtaking landscapes, the true heart of the Amazon lies in its people.
Each year, U.S. mission teams travel into the jungle with Justice & Mercy Amazon (JMA) to bring medical care, children’s programs, and the love of Christ to remote villages. Two JMI staff members, Julie and Alivia, recently traveled with these teams and shared their reflections. If you’ve ever considered serving on a mission trip with us to the Amazon, here’s a glimpse of what you can expect.
Expect a Warm Welcome from the Communities
When you step off the boat and into a village, expect to be surrounded—by kids eager to play, by families excited to share their stories, and by a community that embraces you, even if you don’t speak a word of Portuguese.
“It wasn’t unusual for kids to crowd around and for the whole village to gather when we arrived for VBS, medical clinics, and home visits,” Alivia shared. “It shows you how community-based the villages are and how friendly the culture is. Everyone there is so kind.”
Be ready to jump into games of soccer, color with children, or learn new skills like fishing or crafting alongside the villagers. These simple moments of connection often become the most cherished memories.
Expect to Hear Stories That Will Move You
Every village in the Amazon has stories—of perseverance, faith, and the daily struggles of life in the jungle. Many families face extreme poverty, medical challenges, or the impact of seasonal flooding, yet they press on.
“There are so many stories to be shared in the communities JMA serves,” Alivia said. “Come prepared to take off your shoes, sit on a front porch, and listen and pray.”
House visits can be some of the most emotional and impactful moments of the trip.
“This is a hard part of ministry but such a meaningful one,” Julie reflected. “Visiting people in their homes—some who are sick, lonely, or surviving on next to nothing—is a beautiful way to show these villagers that they are not forgotten by us or by their Heavenly Father.”
Expect to Be Pushed Out of Your Comfort Zone
Whether it’s hiking through the jungle, learning new words in Portuguese, or swimming in the river with pink dolphins, every day in the Amazon offers a chance to try something new.
“As you sleep in a hammock, try new foods, or maybe even take a boat ride to catch a caiman, you’ll find there’s more to do and discover than you ever could’ve imagined,” Alivia said. “It’s impossible to leave the Amazon the same way that you came!”
For many, one of the most unique parts of the trip is living on the Splendor, our boat that serves as home base throughout the journey.
“It’s such a sweet experience to sleep in hammocks, get up early and drink coffee on the top deck, try the amazing food our cooks prepare, and maybe even jump off the boat into the river,” Julie shared.
Expect to See the Beauty of God’s Creation
From the diverse ecosystem to the jungle canopy, the Amazon reminds you of God’s power and artistry. The river teems with life—fish, river dolphins, caiman—while the trees are home to sloths, exotic birds, and countless other creatures.
“You’ll constantly be in awe of God’s careful hand as you witness the jungle trees and vegetation, vibrant sunrises and sunsets, and the vast, peaceful river throughout your trip,” Alivia said (pictured above). “He really is the best artist.”
Julie echoed this sentiment: “I came back with a renewed vision of God as Creator.” The beauty of the Amazon is something that stays with you long after you leave.
Expect to Walk Away Changed
A mission trip to the Amazon is an opportunity to serve, to grow, and to see God at work in ways you never expected. Whether you’re playing with children at VBS, praying over a family in their home, or simply sharing a meal with villagers, you’ll experience the love of Christ in a powerful way.
“It’s such a clear picture of joy and Matthew 19:14 when Jesus says: Let the little children come to Me,” Julie says (pictured above).
If you’re ready for an experience that will deepen your faith, challenge you in new ways, and connect you with an incredible community, we invite you to join us on a mission trip to the Amazon. You’ll leave changed—grateful, inspired, and deeply aware of how God is moving among the most vulnerable.
Learn more about JMI mission trips.
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