The islands have a very interesting climate moderated by both the ocean currents and altitude. There is a six-month-long dry period (June to November) during which it rarely rains, with cooler temperatures, while the months of January through May are hotter and more humid. However, it is a pleasant environment all year round and offers great activities to discover the fauna and flora. For that purpose, we recommend you to pack wisely to fully enjoy your stay in the islands.

First of all, remember to put on sun block at all time. The sun is strong, especially during land visits and while sailing. Caps, hats and sunglasses are almost inevitable to protect yourself from the sunrays.

At night, it might get chilly, especially while sailing. We recommend that you wear a light jacket or windbreaker, as well as light cotton pants. Long-sleeved shirts are good to avoid sunburns, and to protect yourself from night chills.

For the visits, we recommend you two types of shoes. For land visits, you will need comfortable trekking shoes or sneakers. Trails are sometimes rocky depending on the islands you are visiting. For wet landing (when disimbarking on a beach), flip flops or sandals are the best options, especially if you spend the afternoon on the beach itself.

Of course, shorts and swimsuits are a must. You don’t want to miss the occasion to snorkel in the cristal waters of these islands, swimming with sea lions and discovering the unique marine ecosystems. In general, cruise ships and yachts will most likely provide you with snorkeling gear, free of charge. Some of them might have a flat rental fee for the entire cruise. Wetsuits are usually not necessary, unless you’re planning to scuba dive. You should get more information by reading our cruise details pages, where we specify all amenities offered on board. This rule applies for diving equipment as well.

Because the islands remain a protected environment and has been so for several generations, you won’t be allowed to carry any food and other specific items with you on the plane. At the airport, you will go through a screening process before checking in your luggages to ensure that you are not in possesion of any forbidden items. Here is a short list of things you should avoid carrying in your suitcase or hand luggage:

- Plants
- Animals
- Some fruits
- Meats
- Vegetables
- Seeds
- Dairy products
- Sand or Soil

Finally, remember that there is a National Park Entrance Fee of $USD100.00 per person for foreigners to pay upon arrival on the islands. Additionally, domestic airline regulations permit 20 kilos (44 lbs) per suitcase, with a maximum of two suitcases per person.

Galapagos packing list (some items are already part of the general list)

- Insect repellent (not as much as in the Amazon).
- Good binoculars for wildlife viewing.
- Camera/video camera with extra memory cards.
- lightweight cotton pants (for the hikes).
- Long-sleeved lightweight shirts.
- Two or three T-shirts.
- One or two pairs of shorts.
- Swimsuit.
- Lightweight sweater or jacket.
- Raingear.
- At least a pair of good socks for each day.
- One pair of sneakers or trekking shoes.
- Sandals/flip flops (for the beach and on board of the ship).
- Small backpack for excursions.
- A bottle to carry water on hike (sometimes provided by the cruise).
- Plastic bags.
- Sunscreen.
- Cap or hat.
- Sunglasses.
- Mask and snorkel.
- Motion sickness pills (for people with motion sickness problem).