So you are heading to the Galapagos Islands in Ecuador on an exciting expedition but have no idea what to pack? Well luckily we recently got back from exploring the Galapagos with Lindblad Expeditions and National Geographic Expedition!
In this blog post we will be sharing everything we think you actually need to pack for a Galapagos Expedition.
Want to read more about our experience with Lindblad Expeditions on the National Geographic Endeavour II in the Galapagos?
Important Documents to Pack
Passport – You will need a passport that is valid for at least 6 months past your departure from Ecuador to enter the country.
Visa – If you are USA or Canadian citizen you do not need a visa to enter Ecuador, just your passport (with the above requirements).
Expedition Documents – If you are travelling with Lindblad Expeditions and National Geographic Expeditions they will send a small package of documents and luggage tags you will need to pack with you. These are important for you luggage transfer to and from the ship.
Health and Wellness Items to Pack
Medications – It is important to have enough prescription medications for the duration of your expedition. We also recommend bringing sea sickness medication just in case of rough seas. I always recommend bringing a small amount of Antacids and Pepto Bismol, Tylenol and Advil and Immodium (you never know)!
Important to Note: Should anything arise during the expedition, there is a medical professional onboard.
Electrolytes – From our experience it gets very hot and humid in the Galapagos and there is a lot of time spent outdoors hiking and swimming. With that, I always recommend bringing some individual packages of electrolytes to mix into water to stay hydrated. If you are sailing with Lindblad Expeditions and National Geographic they provide you with a water bottle to use during your voyage and refill stations all around the ship.
Sun Protection – The sun is VERY strong near the equator so you will need ample sun protection. The Galapagos has strict rules of only using reef safe sun block without oxybenzone and octinoxate as these chemicals are prohibited. We also recommend bringing UPF Resistant long sleeve shirts and wide brimmed hat. A wetsuit is provided to use during snorkelling which provides some sun protection as well.
Insect Repellent – At certain stops during our expedition we noticed that mosquitos and horse flies were pretty bad. We highly recommend bringing insect repellent with you during your landings!
Packing Restrictions for a Galapagos Expedition
Luggage Allowance – When packing for an expedition style trip it is important to consider luggage size and weight. In the Galapagos there is a limit on luggage allowance for the domestic flight to the islands itself. 1 checked luggage up to 50lbs, 1 carry on that weighs no more than 22 pounds and must fit under the seat in front of you or in the overhead bin. From our experience the airline is VERY strict on this policy. There is an additional checked luggage allowed if you fly in business class for the domestic flights.
Cabin Space – Another important thing to consider is the space in your expedition cruise cabin. Expedition style voyages do not always offer a ton of storage space and you do not want to waste space with empty luggage. We highly recommend packing a collapsable or soft sided luggage that can be placed under the bed to save you space!
Clothing to Pack for Galapagos Expedition
When packing for a Galapagos Expedition it is important to note that it is typically hot, sunny and can be humid. It is also important to know that the itineraries are active and you will be spending quite a bit of time outdoors. Another thing to consider is that the Lindblad Expeditions and National Geographic ship is very casual. Some people chose to wear a nicer outfit for the Captain’s welcome toast and dinner, but most people kept it very casual throughout the trip.
There is laundry service available onboard the National Geographic Endeavour II which we used a few times throughout the week. It is a pay per piece system and it was returned the next day.
- UPF Resistant Long Sleeve Shirt (x2)
- Water sandals or old sneakers for water landings (Teva is a great option)
- Closed toe shoes or hiking boots for hiking over rugged lava and terrain
- Comfortable shoes to wear around the ship (sneakers or sandals)
- Workout clothing to take advantage of the onboard gym and morning stretching classes
- Assortment of shorts, t-shirts, pants and other casual clothing
- a light rain jacket
- Fleece or sweatshirt for cooler weather or air conditioned interior
miscellaneous Items To pack
- Camera, lenses
- Waterproof covers for your camera
- Walking polls if needed (they provide wood walking sticks onboard)
- Waterproof bag (preferably backpack style for ease of transfer from zodiacs to landing sites)
- Water resistant camera like a GoPro or Osmo Action for snorkelling
What not to pack for the galapagos
Selfie Stick – A selfie stick or camera stick that extends for a waterproof camera is not allowed in the Galapagos.
Snorkels, Fins and Wetsuits – Unless you are an avid snorkeler or have a prescription mask you can leave these at home. Lindblad expeditions provides snorkels, fins, and wet suits for everyone onboard. Save the room in your suitcase for other items.
Full face snorkel masks – Full face snorkel masks are not permitted in the Galapagos.
Fresh Fruits, Vegetables – You cannot bring fresh food products in the Galapagos. Every piece of hand luggage is scanned for bio-screening as you enter the Galapagos Islands.
Final Thoughts
We hope you found this packing guide for the Galapagos helpful! If you want to read more about our Galapagos Expedition experience with Lindblad Expeditions aboard the National Geographic Endeavour II, you can read that here! If you want to see the inside of the National Geographic Endeavour II you can check that out here.
Save our Printable Packing List Below:
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