Ecuador and the Galapagos – What to Bring

Published on: October 23rd, 2014

Last modified: August 3rd, 2022

Our list of what to bring to Ecuador. If you have any other questions, please contact your travel designer or concierge. We advise bringing a photocopy of your passport and carrying it with you, as it is a legal requirement in Latin America and you may need it when using credit cards.

The Galapagos

  • Swimsuit & Sunblock (a couple of bottles)
  • Bug repellent
  • Sunglasses and a hat
  • Good walking shoes, sandals or water shoes (2 pairs — one to keep dry, and the other for wet landings)
  • Quick drying shorts (a couple of pairs)
  • A top to wear while swimming (some people, because of the sun, might want to look into long-sleeved tops and long pants/trousers as well)
  • T-shirts or short sleeved shirts (quick drying ideal)
  • A sweatshirt, fleece or warm top (the evenings on the boat get cool)
  • A waterproof shell
  • A couple of pairs of long pants/trousers
  • A small daypack
  • We also recommend purchasing one or two underwater cameras to take photos of the animal life while snorkeling!
  • Long-sleeve light cotton shirt
  • Snorkels and masks are provided on board, though you may prefer to bring your own gear; wetsuits are available for hire on the boat
  • Binoculars

Ecuadorian Mainland

  • Layers – often in the day it is warm but temperatures drop at night-time, particularly when you are at high altitudes (Quito, Otavalo), so it is good to be able to add/take off a layer.
  • If you are trekking in Ecuador, it can get chilly so be sure to pack extra layers
  • Camera
  • Convertible pants: Light, fast drying, the legs zip off to form shorts
  • Fleece sweater and light rain jacket
  • Hat to block the sun (the sun is strong in the Andes)
  • A small backpack to take with you when you go to on day trips
  • Money belt, for important documents, passport and money
  • In Ecuador there are many arts and crafts that can be bought and it is always great to return with lots of souvenirs from your trip, so remember to leave some space for these!