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Wet landings, equatorial sun and daily snorkeling. The gear that earns its place in your bag.
You don’t need much for the Galápagos, but what you bring gets used hard. Most days mix a short hike, a wet beach landing and an hour in the water, all under a strong equatorial sun.
Pack a well-fitting snorkel mask, reef-safe mineral sunscreen, a small dry bag and water shoes or sport sandals. Add a shorty wetsuit for June to November.
You’ll snorkel most days. Boats lend gear, but loaner masks often leak. A mask that fits your face is the single most useful thing you can pack.
| Verdict | Bring your own mask |
|---|---|
| Fins | Usually provided |
You’re on the equator, often on water. Mineral sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are kinder to marine life and hard to buy on the islands.
| Verdict | Bring plenty |
|---|---|
| Look for | Zinc oxide, water resistant |
From June to November the water can drop to around 19 to 22°C (66 to 72°F). A shorty or 3 mm suit makes long snorkels comfortable. Many boats rent them.
| Verdict | Depends on season |
|---|---|
| Cool season | Recommended |
Sea lions, turtles and penguins come close. An action camera or a waterproof phone housing is enough for most people.
| Verdict | Worth it for most |
|---|---|
| Simple option | Phone housing |
Wet landings and panga rides soak anything not sealed. A 10 to 20 liter dry bag keeps your camera, phone and spare layer dry.
| Verdict | Bring one |
|---|---|
| Size | 10 to 20 liters |
Some crossings are rough, especially at night. Pack what works for you and start before the boat moves. Ask your doctor about prescription patches.
| Verdict | Bring if unsure |
|---|---|
| Start | Before departure |
Most animals are close, but binoculars help with seabirds, whales and dolphins from deck. Compact and waterproof is best.
| Verdict | Nice to have |
|---|---|
| Look for | 8x or 10x, waterproof |
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