Get ready to delve into luscious foliage and ancient temples! This post will provide you with resources to create a thrilling and immersive experience in the heart of the jungle that will make a truly unforgettable adventure for your players.
Welcome, intrepid adventurers and Dungeon Masters, to another exciting post from Firelight Fables, your ultimate destination for immersive fantasy and TTRPG scents!
Today, we spotlight our Verdant Jungles candle, designed to transport you straight into the heart of a lush, vibrant jungle setting.
We hope that this scent and the resources below help you create a truly immersive and memorable jungle-themed experience for your players.
Here is what you will find in this post:
Click any of the links below to be taken directly to that section.
Resources to create an exciting, unique jungle adventure, including:
Strategies and resources for boosting immersion and stimulating all five senses in a jungle themed adventure, including:
Additional outside D&D resources for your jungle themed adventure.
Let's dive in!
Story Hooks & Encounters for an Unforgettable Jungle Adventure
Here's some unique story hook ideas to get your next adventure rolling. Take these and make them your own!
1. The Poisoned Grove: Navigate a toxic grove guarded by a corrupted treant and awakened plants. Cleanse the grove to restore its natural beauty and receive a blessing.
2. Felled Dinosaur Mystery: A gargantuan dinosaur has been slain in the jungle. Who or what could have bested such a monstrous creature? Your party must uncover the truth behind this unsettling discovery. Will you become the hunter or the hunted?
3. Haunted Temple: The ghosts of an ancient, forgotten tribe begin to haunt the lands
around an unearthed jungle temple. Unravel the secrets behind their demise and purge the temple of whatever evil keeps their souls from eternal rest. Download a free jungle temple map here.
4. Tribal Tattoo Artist: A local tattoo artist offers your party free magical tattoos if they are successful in clearing out a pesky displacer beast that has found its home conveniently where he finds his ink ingredients.
5. Were-Panther Bandits: A group of were-panther bandits have been terrorizing local caravans. Track them down put an end to their reign of terror.
6. Skeleton's Skull: Encounter an animated skeleton struggling to retrieve its talking skull from mischievous baboons. Help or hinder it—your choice could lead to unexpected consequences.
Jungle Skill Challenges
Here are some exciting skill challenges you can incorporate into your D&D jungle adventure!
If you have experience running this mechanic in game and determining difficulty levels, click here to be taken straight to our skill challenges
If you are new to running skill challenges or want a brief refresher on how they work, keep reading.
We believe this video by the Dungeon Coach is the most clear and concise resource for beginners, sharing how to run skill challenges and offering excellent examples of how they could play out in-game. You can also check out these Skill Challenge resources by Kobold Press for more info.
Unless otherwise specified, we assume this rule system will be used for skill challenges. Occasionally, we may provide different styles of skill challenges, but we will specify any variations in the descriptions provided.
A couple notes on running skill challenges:
Setting DCs and Number of Successes Needed: We recommend utilizing these charts in the GMs binder to determine the DC required for earning a success, as well as the number of successes needed to succeed on the skill challenge.
Using Spells: If a player wants to cast a relevant spell to enhance their chances of success, we recommend that they still make a skill check associated with their desired outcome, and then add the spell's level x 2 to the roll (ex. a second level spell = +4).
Complications: It can be fun to add in complications in the form of hazards, terrain changes, third party interventions, dangerous events, etc., at the end of each round. Sometimes we will provide complication suggestions for many of the skill challenges.
Degree of Success/Failure: It can be helpful to have different outcomes based on the number of failures accumulated. We will provide suggested outcomes based on the degree of failures.
Treasure Hunt
Skill Challenge
The PCs have come into possession of an ancient treasure map. Driven by the promise of lost riches, they set out to find the hidden treasure. However, the map is worn and bears intricate puzzles that must be deciphered. Not only that, but they aren't the only ones on the hunt for this treasure... How do your players go about deciphering the map, navigating to the location, beating out the competition and finding the treasure?
*Note: this challenge is best run when they have imminent plans the following day, so they can't simply rest off the negative effects acquired from failures.
If successful in completing the challenge: The PCs decipher the map and know where the item is buried. They arrive at the site before the competition. Automatically finding the treasure could be included at the DMs discretion.
Results based on # of failures:
1 Failure: The party faces minor setbacks, simply taking longer to find the treasure.
2 Failures: The party suffers significant delays and they lose some supplies, losing 3 days worth of rations.
3 Failures: The party becomes severely lost, losing 1 weeks worth of rations, and their competition arrives to the treasure before them. They could already have taken the treasure or this could lead into a difficult combat scenario.
Jungle Storm
Skill Challenge
The sky darkens unexpectedly, and the oppressive heat of the jungle is swiftly replaced by a chilling wind. The distant rumble of thunder grows louder, and the thick canopy above begins to sway as a fierce storm rapidly approaches. The party has limited time to react and must use their survival skills to find or create shelter before the full force of the storm hits.
If successful in completing the challenge: The PCs are able to weather the storm, holding on to all their belongings and staying comfortable through the night.
Results based on # of failures:
1 Failure: The party manages to shelter themselves, but it's not ideal. They are exposed to some of the storm's effects, leading to each party member taking 1d12 cold damage.
2 Failures: The party's shelter is insufficient, causing them to endure the brunt of the storm. Each member takes 1d12 cold damage and does not gain the benefit of a long rest. Additionally, some supplies get damaged or lost.
3 Failures: The party fails to find or create shelter entirely and suffers severely from the storm. Each member takes 1d12 cold damage, does not gain the benefits of a long rest, and gains 1 point of exhaustion. Additionally, some supplies get damaged or lost.
Raptor Racing!
Medium Difficulty Skill Challenge
A secluded jungle village is about to start a race, taking to the backs of velociraptors! This skill challenge starts with some light raptor wrangling. After securing your raptor, each party member must face off against each other and the tribal racers. You, as the DM, can determine the reason for this race and what success means for the player that can complete every round of the skill challenge.
HOW TO RUN THIS CHALLENGE: This skill challenge will function a little differently.
EACH PLAYER will partake in every round of skill checks. The goal is to be the last man standing. The checks will get increasingly more difficult. Adjust the DC difficulty based on your player's levels. There will be two specific skill checks the players have the option of choosing from in each round.
Once a player fails a roll, they are out of the challenge. Once If two PCs make it to the end of the challenge, there will be a tie breaking roll.
Optional Pre-Skill Challenge Check:
Each party member can attempt to tame their raptor with an Animal Handling check (DC 12). The outcome of this check will affect their performance in the race.
On a success, the player successfully mounts their raptor.
If they succeed by 5 or more: The player tames the raptor exceptionally well and gains advantage on all skill challenge checks.
If they fail by 5 or more: The player struggles disastrously trying to mount their raptor and gets disadvantage on all skill challenge checks.
Skill Challenge Checks
1. Mount Your Raptor
The players must mount their raptors and prepare for the race. Make either an Athletics check (DC 10) or Acrobatics check (DC 10).
2. Navigating the Jungle Terrain
The players must navigate through dense jungle course, avoiding obstacles and maintaining control of their raptors. Make either a Nature check (DC 11) or Perception check (DC 11).
3. Raptor Handling
The players must maintain control of their raptors. Make either an Animal Handling check (DC 12) or Survival check (DC 12).
4. Fight Off Competitors
Your rivals attempt to thwart your success by attempting to shove you off your raptor. Make either a Strength Saving Throw (DC 13) or Dexterity Saving Throw (DC 13).
5. Final Stretch
The players must urge their raptors to pick up speed in the final stretch of the race. Make either an Intimidation check (DC 14) or Persuasion check (DC 14).
Success: If a single player successfully completes all challenges, they win the race! If multiple players successfully complete all challenges, repeat the final round, treating it as a roll off. The opposing players may choose to roll Intimidation or Persuasion. The highest roll wins.
If one player successfully completes the challenge, here are some ways success could manifest:
The players gain favor with the local tribe and they aid them in their adventures.
Preventing the tribe from attempting to offer the party as a sacrifice to their god.
Winning one of the Jungle-inspired magic items listed below.
They learn the location of an ancient treasure.
They receive their velociraptor as a companion to aid them on their journey.
Failure could simply result in not gaining one of the above benefits OR could lead to a falling out with the tribe, causing them to be constantly hunted on their nearby adventures.
Unique Jungle-Themed Magic Items
We've crafted some fun jungle-inspired magic items and trinkets for your players to discover!
Serrated Boots
Wondrous item, uncommon
These sturdy, rugged boots are equipped with serrated edges and a reinforced design to help you traverse difficult terrain effortlessly and avoid entanglements, both natural and magical. While wearing these boots, you are not affected by difficult terrain in a jungle setting and are immune to the effects of the Entangle spell.
Mask of the Predator
Wondrous item, rare
This intricately crafted mask resembles the face of a fearsome predator. While wearing this mask, you can choose a beast within 30 feet. The targeted beast must make a Wisdom saving throw (DC 15). On a success, the mask's power does not take effect on the creature's mind. On a failure, you may choose to instill the idea that you are a predator in the creature’s mind, giving you advantage on all checks made against this creature for the next 10 minutes.
Fanged Pendant (Cursed)
Wondrous item, rare (cursed)
This pendant is adorned with a fang from a velociraptor. As an action, the player can use the enchanted fang to transform into a velociraptor for 8 hours. Your stats are replaced by that of a Velociraptor stat block, except your Intelligence and Wisdom scores remain the same. You may use this ability once per long rest. Curse: Once transformed, you cannot revert back without a Remove Curse spell until 8 hours have passed.
Extra Potent Bug Spray
Wondrous item, uncommon
This vial contains a powerful mixture that, when applied, grants you immunity to disease and the poisoned condition for eight hours. However, the strong odor also imposes disadvantage on Charisma checks while under its effects. This vial contains enough for 4 uses.
Cloak of the Tropics
Wondrous item, common
Crafted from the colorful feathers of tropical birds, this cloak provides both beauty and utility. While wearing this cloak, you may cast Feather Fall once per long rest without expending a spell slot. Additionally, you become immune to adverse effects, such as exhaustion, resulting from extremely hot weather conditions.
Jungle-Themed Spells
We couldn't resist creating some jungle-inspired spells for you!
Cantrip: Jungle Snare
School: Conjuration
Casting Time: 1 action
Range: 30 feet
Components: V, S, M (a small vine or piece of jungle foliage)
Duration: 1 minute
Description: You conjure a magical vine that snakes across the ground to entangle a creature within range. The target must succeed on a Dexterity saving throw or be restrained by the vine. At the start of its turn, the creature can use its action to make a Strength check against your spell save DC, freeing itself on a success. The vine withers away at the end of the spell.
2nd Level Spell: Verdant Grasp
School: Transmutation
Casting Time: 1 action
Range: 60 feet
Components: V, S, M (a leaf from a jungle plant)
Duration: Concentration, up to 1 minute
Description: You summon the power of the jungle to ensnare your enemies. Choose a point within range. Vines burst from the ground in a 20-foot radius centered on that point. These vines turn the area into difficult terrain and attempt to restrain creatures within it. Each creature in the area must succeed on a Strength or Dexterity saving throw (it's choice) or be restrained by the vines for the duration. A restrained creature can use its action to make a Strength Saving Throw against your spell save DC. On a success, it frees itself.
4th Level Spell: Predator's Prowess
School: Transmutation
Casting Time: 1 action
Range: Self
Components: V, S, M (a talon from a jungle predator)
Duration: Concentration, up to 1 hour
Description: You imbue yourself with the predatory instincts and abilities of a jungle predator. For the duration, you gain the following benefits:
You have advantage on Dexterity (Stealth) checks.
You gain darkvision out to a range of 60 feet.
Your movement speed increases by 10 feet.
In addition, you can use your action to unleash a fearsome roar. Each creature of your choice within 30 feet of you must succeed on a Wisdom saving throw or be frightened of you for 1 minute. A frightened creature can repeat the saving throw at the beginning of each of its turns, ending the effect on itself on a success. After a creature saves against your fearsome roar, they are immune to its effects until after a long rest.
Ferocious Jungle Monsters
Here's some of our favorite D&D monsters for Jungle settings.
1. Dinosaurs: These prehistoric beasts are not just relics of a bygone era, but living nightmares that roam the jungle, testing the courage and skill of those who dare to challenge them.
2. Undead: Face the terrifying undead, including animated skeletons and zombie dinosaurs.
3. Weretiger: Beware the cunning and ferocious weretigers lurking in the shadows, waiting for the perfect moment to pounce.
4. Displacer Beast: These elusive, panther-like creatures make for a challenging foe with their displacement abilities.
5. Yuan-ti: Beware of the hiss of these serpentine creatures, for behind their beaded eyes lie secrets as deep and treacherous as the darkest depths of the jungle.
Jungle Traps
From hidden pitfalls to poison dart traps, the jungle is filled with dangers at every turn. Here are some ideas of various traps designed to challenge and surprise your players!
The Poisoned Pool
A tranquil pool of water with a crystalline sheen lies at the center of a dense part of the jungle. The water is enticingly clear, seemingly perfect for bathing, drinking, or cannonballing into! It shows no immediate signs of danger. What the players don't know is that the plants surrounding the pool are poisonous and have leached into the water.
Effect: Five minutes after a creature touches or drinks the water, they must make a Constitution Saving Throw (DC 16).
On a failed save, the creature takes 3d6 poison damage. They can repeat the saving throw after each long rest, continuing to take 3d6 poison damage every day until they successfully save or are the target of a Protection from Poison spell.
On a successful save, the creature instead takes 3d6 poison damage immediately, but has no lingering effects and will not continue to take damage from the poisoned water.
Countermeasures: A player can make a Survival (DC 15) or Nature check (DC 15) to determine that the plants surrounding this pool are poisonous and have leached into the water.
Collapsing Ceiling
In a grand chamber of the jungle tomb, ornately carved pillars support the ceiling. The room seems to have been a place of significance, perhaps a burial chamber or a treasure vault. As the adventurers explore the chamber, disturbing a particular artifact or stepping on a specific tile triggers a mechanism that releases the supports holding up the ceiling, causing it to collapse.
Effect: If triggered, a part of the ceiling collapses, causing massive rubble to fall. All characters in the chamber must make a Dexterity saving throw (DC 16).
On a failed save, they take 5d10 bludgeoning damage and are restrained by the rubble. Those restrained by the rubble must succeed on an Athletics check (DC 15) to free themselves.
On a successful save, they take half damage and avoid being restrained.
Countermeasures:
Detection: A successful Investigation check (DC 18) reveals the precarious state of the ceiling and the hidden mechanism connected to the central artifact or tile.
Disarm: A successful Arcana Check (DC 18) or Thieves' Tools check (DC 18) is required to disarm the mechanism without triggering the trap.
Venomous Vine Snare
In a seemingly serene part of the jungle, vibrant flowers and lush greenery mask the presence of a naturally hidden trap. The area is rich with life, and colorful butterflies flit among the plants, creating a false sense of security. When a specific plant is brushed against or stepped on, venomous vines snap up from the ground, attempting to ensnare and inject venom into the trespasser.
Effect: If triggered, the venomous vines spring up and wrap around the nearest character. The character must make a Dexterity saving throw (DC 14).
On a failed save, they take 1d6 piercing damage and 1d4 poison damage, and must succeed on a DC 13 Constitution saving throw or be poisoned for 1 hour.
On a successful save, they manage to avoid the vines, taking no damage.
Countermeasures:
Detection: A successful Perception check (DC 13) or Survival check (DC 12) allows characters to notice the slightly unnatural arrangement of vines and how they move slightly when the PC is nearby and therefore carefully avoid contact with them.
For more inspiration and ideas, check out D&D traps and monster ideas on Tribality and Dungeon Masters Only on D&D Beyond.
Dungeons & Dragons Modules
For those seeking pre-made D&D modules, we have compiled a list of adventures that align with the jungle theme.
Tomb of Annihilation: Travel through the cursed jungles of Chult to discover why the denizens of this peninsula have been afflicted with a life-sapping curse. Here's a video with our founder, Kasey, sharing why we love this candle paired with this adventure:
One-Shot Wonders - Foes in the Foliage Adventure: In the heart of the rainforest, a native druid has discovered a tree that is on the verge of transforming into a mighty sentient Treant. Aware that a clan of territorial Dryads will go to great lengths to prevent this change, the Druid has enlisted the party to safeguard the sacred sapling from any harm.
The Hidden Shrine of Tamoachan: Dungeon in Chapter 3 of Tales from the Yawning Portal.
Temple of the Basilisk Cult: This is an adventure you can get for free by subscribing to the Arcane Library. In this adventure, something sinister stirs in the jungle. The PCs are in charge of stopping the bloodbath when a cult of basilisk-worshipers attacks an archaeological site. It's up to the party to stop them before they strike again.
Additionally, Fangs of Oatali is another jungle themed adventure by the Arcane Library that would pair well with this theme.
D&D Jungle Immersion Tips & Tricks
Bring your tabletop adventures to life by immersing all five senses! Here are some ways how.
Smell
Obviously, light our Firelight Fables Verdant Jungles candle to fill your gaming space with the rich, earthy scent of thriving flora! 😀 We also have this scent available in wax melt and room spray form for those who want a flame-free alternative.
Touch
Add touch to your game by incorporating tactile objects and accessories on your table! Here are some suggested methods to fully engage this sense.:
Treasure Map: Give your players something to search for with a hands-on map that can unfurl into a new mystery! You could add a puzzle or riddle they have to solve before finding the treasure...
Lantern Prop: Change up both the lighting and your table setting with this YouTube tutorials for crafting lantern props, assisting them as they trek through temple dungeons or waterfall caverns. This craft works great for both sight and touch immersion! You can also simply buy lanterns if you don't want to craft them. Another fun way to tie this in with the Treasure Map is to make them solve a puzzle or riddle only by lantern light.
Sight
We've provided some visual resources below that you can use to help draw your players deeper into the jungle.
Pinterest: Find inspiration for characters, monsters, magic items, homebrews, and more in our personalized Verdant Jungles Pinterest board!
DIY Terrain: Create jungle terrain to use in your games with tutorials like Making Jungle Terrain and DIY Forest Scatter Terrain!
Lighting: Adjust your lighting to match the time of day in-game, enhancing the atmosphere. Check out this this video by Atmoseeker about how to enhance and change lighting for your Dungeons and Dragons games!
Table Setting: Create an ominous atmosphere of impending threats by placing crafted-homemade bones around the table! Add lush foliage, whether fake or real, around the room or table. A simple indoor plant or two can really change the mood!
Visual Ambience: Enhance gameplay with videos of jungle ambiance to immerse yourselves inside the jungle setting.
Here's one of our favorites below:
Taste
Immerse the taste buds with jungle inspired food and drink. Snackage is a must at any D&D session. Here's some fun ways to incorporate this sense:
Jungle-Themed Snacks: Prepare themed snacks like a skull themed guacamole or snake-wrapped hotdogs!
Jungle Drink: Feeling parched travelling through the wilds? A Frozen Jungle Bird Cocktail and a Zombie Cocktail are tasty drinks to accompany any adventurer to keep cool beneath the sun.
Sound
To create a stimulating atmosphere with music and ambient sounds, consider the following ideas:
Soundscapes: Set the mood with jungle ambience from Sword Coast Soundscapes like Tomb of Annihilation on Spotify!
Firelight Fables Spotify Playlist: Looking for jungle themed tunes? Check out our handcrafted Firelight Fables playlists made specifically for our Verdant Jungle candle!
Jungle Ambiance: Here is a nighttime jungle ambiance as well if your party is slumbering in the wilds!
We trust that these immersive ideas have sparked your imagination and will enhance your next adventure into the jungle.
Remember to ignite a Verdant Jungles candle to kickstart the adventure!
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