Hi Orion. I lived in Peru for seventeen years and I've been to Machu Pichu and to the jungles in Loreto and Madre de Dios. My point is this, have you tried a STRIDER? that would be my first choice. they are bull strong,very well made. Since you mention that there will be guides, Mr.Randall's advice is sound. Maybe you would be well served with a mod. MT or an MH or an HT, the HT can be had with a smaller blade(3or4"). The other two models can be had in 6 or 8 in. STRIDER knives are made of ATS-34 with a propietary heat treat from Paul Bos. I have had a chance to play with many of them, and they are good to go! One last thing, I would avoid ALL rubber handles or handles that are smooth or slippery, if you get into a real jungle environment you WILL be wet.