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What to bring to the Galapagos Islands
Packing tips and suggestions
In short, less is more when planning your trip to the Galapagos Islands. The less you bring in your suitcase, the less you carry, the more you enjoy your tours. Below are some general suggestions on what you may need when travelling to the Galapagos Islands
Basic stuff
Basic Stuff
Sun Protection
- Wide-brim hat
- Light cotton scarf to protect your neck
- Sunglasses
- PABA sunscreen (at least #15)
- Sunblock
- Lip salve or ointment
- Long-sleeve light cotton shirt
- Light cotton pants
Snorkeling Gear
- Snorkel, mask (with prescription lenses if you require them) and fins
- “Shorty” wetsuit (2mm thick is all you will need)
* Most boats offer snorkelling equipment for free or at a nominal charge $20 for 8 days. They can also offer wetsuit rentals. We recommend you bring your own to assure it is always available and for higiene reasons. - Motion Sickness
- Salted Crackers
- Candied Ginger or ginger tablets
- Pressure wristband (Sea bands)
- Ear Patch
- Motion sickness pills: Gravol, Dramamine, Bonine etc…
- Plastic Bags
First-Aid
- Pepto Bismol (or Kaopectate) for stomach upset and mild diarrhea Immodium or Lomotil for more severe diarrhea
- Band-Aids
- Anti-biotic cream
- Aloe Vera cream or gel for sunburn
- Tylenol or other mild pain relief
Camera Gear
- Waterproof bag for gear
- Camera
- Video Camera
- Flash
- Telephoto Lens
- Tripod
- Lens Paper and Cleaner
- Extra batteries
- Extra Tapes
- Extra film
- X-Ray proof bag for film
Other Gear
- Travel Alarm Clock
- Binoculars
- Spare pair of prescription glasses if you wear them
- Water bottle (1 litre)
- Flashlight with extra batteries
- Toiletries
- Shampoo
- Insect repellant
- Small day pack
- Fanny pack
- Stuff sacks to organize your gear
Money & Security
- Passport
- Copy of passport
- Passport Pouch
- Credit card(s)
- Travelers Checks
- US Cash
- Money Belt
Clothing
- 2 pairs of walking shoes (one to keep dry, the other for wet landings)
- Light cotton socks
- 2 pairs of shorts
- 1 or 2 pair swimwear
- 2 pairs of lightweight long pants or skirt / dress
- Light short sleeve shirts
- Light poncho, rain jacket or umbrella
- Sweatshirt
- For Quito & The Andes
- Raingear
- Sweater or sweatshirt
Family Tours
Family Tours
When traveling with children to the Galapagos Islands there are always some additional packing suggestions when it comes to packing your suitcase. Be sure to subscribe to our newsletter in order to receive the complete Family Travel Guide.
- Notarized letter from other parent authorizing travel if both parents are not traveling together
- Snacks
- Swimsuit that offers protection from sun
- Camera (Polaroid instant picture is recommended for immediate gratification)
- Binoculars
- Whistle
- Walkie Talkies
- Snorkeling gear for smaller children
- Life Jacket (PFD) for smaller children
- Travel Games
- Journal
- Pencils for drawing & coloring
- Books
- Children’s rubber boots for Amazon
- Stronger sun lotion at least 50uv
Scuba Divers
Scuba Divers
All liveaboard boats and resorts usually will provide you with the following equipment:
- Tanks and air
- Scuba Tanks
- Weights and weight belts
- Dive Alert
It is recommended that you bring the following personal equipment in your suitcase:
- Health Certificate
- Wet Suit
- Regulator
- Diving Certificate
- Buoyancy Control Vest
- Mask and Fins
If carrying your own equipment is a problem for you, we can arrange for you to rent your dive equipment for your whole cruise. You need to inform us of your wetsuit and fin size in advance. The few dive shops renting dive equipment in Galapagos require a credit card number before passenger arrival. You can arrange to rent your dive equipment through us, see our scuba diving section for more information.
FAQ’S
Can I get most of the suggested stuff at the Islands?
Some things you can, others it is best to get them on Mainland or from home.
Can I bring alcoholic drinks for my trip?
Each person can bring to Galapagos up to 1 liter of alcohol. Uncork charges may apply.
What is maximum luggage permitted to enter Galapagos?
1 luggage up to 20 kilos & 1 carry-on / back-pack up to 10 kilos (plus camera bag or purse).
What is the currency in Galapagos and how can I get money on the Islands?
In all Ecuadorian territory, US Dollars is the only currency. It is recommended to bring enough cash from Mainland.
How much money I need in cash for my trip?
Enough US Dollars to pay for entrance fees, rentals on board, drinks, tips and extras.
We have more information for you, check out these topics ▼
We have more information for you, check out these topics ▼