What to Wear to the Galapagos Islands

There is quite literally no place on earth like the Galapagos Islands. Deep in the Pacific Ocean, these volcanic islands are all at once strangely familiar and strangely exotic, making packing for this unforgettable excursion an adventure in itself.

The travel experts at Metropolitan Touring have been planning trips to the islands for more than 60 years and are pros at advising visitors on what to bring for a Galapagos journey. From prepping for wet landings and off-shore hiking excursions to the best colors to avoid exciting the wildlife, here are the top tips for what to pack for a trip to the Galapagos Islands.

Shoes

Chances are, if you’re visiting the Galapagos Islands, you’ll be staying on Santa Cruz (like at the Finch Bay Eco Hotel across from Puerto Ayora) and traveling by ship to the different islands throughout the day. The day excursions can include everything from wet landings (up to your knees in the ocean) to short hikes through prickly fauna, so the guides at Metropolitan Touring recommend Teva-type sandals to keep your feet protected for all terrain.

Colors

While the animals are remarkably tame on the islands (they’ve rarely known humans to be predators and are relatively unphased by the proximity of tourists taking pictures), the only exception is the land iguanas that feast on the fallen yellow fruit from the cactus plant. To keep your feet from enticing the iguanas’ appetites, avoid wearing any yellow shoes, socks or toenail polish.

Sun Protection

The Galapagos Islands are just north of the equator, and the sun is strong no matter the time of year. Bring plenty of SPF sunblock and a light jacket or light layers to keep your skin color from becoming your brightest Galapagos souvenir.

Easy-dry Clothing

Since water and land activities often coincide in the Galapagos Islands, make sure to pack a swimsuit along with quick dry clothing to make the transition from sea to shore simple.

Wetsuit

Metropolitan Touring recommends using ‘shorty’ wetsuits from May to December, when the waters in Galápagos are colder and it’s more comfortable for snorkelers to remain longer in the water.