With luggage restrictions of 23kg (50Ib) per person (and sometimes less for inter-island flights), it pays to know what you really need (and what you really don’t) to make the smartest choices.

Here are our recommendations:

Recommended Packing List for the Galapagos Islands

Comfortable, lightweight, sun-protective clothing

Due to the warm weather and energetic activities on offer on the islands, most people opt for shorts and a t-shirt on their Galapagos tours. More sensible are light-weight, long-sleeved cotton shirts and long cargo pants to protect against the sun, insects and scratchy plants. Whichever you opt for, avoid tight fits, uncomfortable seams and jeans – there’s nothing quite as unpleasant as damp denim.

Good walking shoes

Alhough most of the visiting sites in the Galapagos National Park have paved paths or wooden decking, much of it is uneven volcanic terrain – spectacular to look at but tricky to walk on in flip-flops. Instead of heavy hiking boots, opt for Teva- or Chaco-style sports sandals. They’re quick-drying and ideal for the wet landings and gentle hikes on our Galapagos safari tours.

Swimwear

Bring a couple of swim suits as well as long-sleeved UV-protective swimwear to shield your back and shoulders while snorkeling (a notorious time for burning). There’s no need to bring a wetsuit: Galapagos Safari Camp and their partners will provide you with one during snorkeling and diving trips.

Warm fleece and light waterproof jacket

From around July to December temperatures dip slightly, and it can get a little chilly in the evenings, especially in the highlands of Santa Cruz where Galapagos Safari Camp is located.

For evenings, and speedboat rides, it’s a good idea to bring a warm fleece and/or a windbreaker. And whatever time of year you go on your Galapagos tour, bring a light waterproof jacket or poncho for unexpected showers.

Casual wear for evenings

The dress code for Galapagos Safari Camp is casual and guests on safari holidays generally choose loose-fitting, long-sleeved clothes, and a light jumper or fleece for the slightly cooler evenings (particularly in the Cold & Dry Season).

All the sun protection

The Galapagos sun is strong. Really strong. Located on the equator, the islands are incredibly close the sun and feel the full force of its rays. What’s more, there is sometimes little or no shade on some of the uninhabited islands we visit. So don’t skimp on the sun protection: high-factor sunscreen, good-quality sunglasses and a sun hat are a must.

Note: the use of sunscreens containing chemical elements that may affect marine ecosystems, such as OXYBENZONE and OCTINOXATE has been restricted.

Insect repellent

The best way to protect yourself from horsefly and (non-malaria) mosquito bites is to wear long sleeves and full-length pants. However, there are some moments on safaris when this is not possible, so pack a small, eco-friendly insect repellent that does not contain DEET.

A small flashlight or headlamp

To find your way safely back to your safari tent at night, you may like to carry a small flashlight or headlamp (although these are also available on request at camp). Or, simply walk by the light of the moon.

Motion sickness tablets

Those prone to sea sickness may find water crossings demanding, particularly during the garúa months of July to December when seas are more choppy. Even if you don’t normally suffer, it’s a good idea to have motion sickness tablets on hand to ensure that every crossing and boat trip is as comfortable as possible on your Galapagos tour.

Camera

It goes without saying that you’ll need a camera. Close encounters with blue-footed boobies and sea lions, staggering lunar landscapes and marine adventures with the ones you love are moments to be cherished. The best thing is that you don’t need a fancy camera with zoom lenses, or be a skilled photographer to take wonderful wildlife photos here. Animals are so fearless that you can snap away from just a few feet.

What not to bring…

Single-use plastic

Please note that as leading destination in natural conservation, the Galapagos National Park and the Galapagos Islands Council have prohibited the import of single-use plastics, including straws, plastic bags, plastic bottles, and polyurethane cups to the islands.

Food

Due to the strenuous efforts of the Galapagos National Park to rid islands of introduced species, stringent rules are in place about what things, especially foods, can be brought on Galapagos tours from the mainland. Fruits like kiwis and papayas are strictly off limits as are some seeds and nuts. Suitcases are checked prior to boarding flights to the Galapagos and any items that violate the rules are confiscated.

Rest assured that Galapagos Safari Camp ensures that all your snack and mealtime needs are more than met, all with foods that do not threaten the Galapagos ecosystem.

Products with toxic chemicals

The use of sunscreens containing chemical elements that may affect marine ecosystems, such as OXYBENZONE and OCTINOXATE are prohibited.

Plan your Galapagos Vacation

See our Safaris for our suggested Galapagos itineraries and recommended activities.