Blog | Galapagos Packing List - Maidith Galápagos Inn

Welcome to the Maidith Galápagos Inn blog! Ever since Mama Maria first opened our doors here in Puerto Ayora, our family has had the joy of helping travelers experience the magic of the islands.

Preparing for a trip to the Galápagos is a bit different than packing for a standard beach vacation. Between navigating volcanic rock trails, hopping off rafts into the surf, and snorkeling with sea turtles, you need gear that can keep up with the unique environment.

Whether you are heading out from the Inn for a quick day trip around Santa Cruz or embarking on an inter-island excursion, here is exactly what you need in your suitcase.

Footwear for Every Terrain

You will be encountering two types of boat arrivals here: "dry landings" (stepping onto a dock or rocks) and "wet landings" (wading through shallow water to the beach). You need footwear for both.

Non-Slip Water Shoes For excursions to islands like Bartolome or Floreana, you will be hopping in and out of little rafts (pangas) and doing a lot of walking. A sturdy, non-slip water shoe with a good grip is absolutely essential for wet landings and rocky shorelines.
Hiking Boots If you are taking a tour into the higher parts of Santa Cruz to explore the lava tunnels, walk the grasslands, and see the giant tortoises, swap the water shoes for hiking boots to keep your feet comfortable and protected.
Casual Slip-ons Perfect for relaxing back at the hotel or walking into town for dinner after a long day of exploring.

Sun Blockers & Bug Protection

The equatorial sun is intense, and the weather can shift depending on your elevation. Coming prepared makes all the difference between a comfortable day and a painful recovery.

Long-Sleeve Dry-Fit Shirts These are the ultimate sun blockers. Look for dry-fit shirts that have built-in hoodies — when paired with a sun hat, this combo perfectly covers the back of your neck and back, saving you from a harsh sunburn.
Sun Hats & Bucket Hats These are super important to have on you at all times, no matter the excursion. The wide-brim style offers protection for your face, ears, and the back of your neck.
Lightweight Cargo Pants When you head up to the Santa Cruz highlands for tortoise tracking, lightweight cargo pants are great to make sure the local bugs do not disturb you on the trail.
Reef-Safe Sunscreen When packing your sun protection, please be cautious about the ingredients in the sunscreen you bring. Our marine ecosystem is fragile — opt for mineral-based formulas to protect the coral and wildlife you came to see.

Pro Tip

Do not forget to put sunscreen on the backs of your legs. It is the number one rookie mistake while snorkeling — you are floating face-down having the time of your life, while the equatorial sun turns the backs of your calves into crispy bacon.

— From the Maidith Team

Tip for Women

We also recommend wearing dry-fit shorts while snorkeling — they give you an extra layer of sun cover on your legs while you are in the water.

Hydration & Waterproof Tech

Excursions to spots like Pinzón and Daphne are heavily focused on snorkeling. For these water-heavy days, three things are crucial: staying hydrated, protecting your electronics, and having the ability to film underwater.

Waterproof Phone Holder & Action Camera You will want to capture the incredible marine life beneath the surface. A sturdy waterproof pouch is an inexpensive way to film with your smartphone. For higher-quality footage, an action camera like a GoPro — with a floating handle — is your best bet.
Waterproof Daypack (Dry Bag) A 15 to 20 liter dry bag is highly recommended for all boat excursions. It ensures your dry clothes and electronics stay completely safe from sea spray and splashes throughout the day.
Reusable Insulated Water Bottle Staying hydrated while swimming in the salty equatorial sun is critical. Bring a high-capacity insulated bottle and refill it with purified water at the Inn before heading out each morning.