Vessel

About the M/V Legend

Video: Galápagos Fitness Information

Video: Snorkeling in the Galapagos

Suggested Packing List

Everyone has personal preferences when it comes to packing; for this reason, the information below is offered as a general guide and not a definitive list. You know yourself best: Use your discretion and pack what you think will serve you, based on your personal preferences and specific itinerary.

You may find many of these items in our Gear Store.

CLOTHING

Casual, comfortable clothing is suitable for most activities. You may wish to bring a slightly nicer outfit or two (eg sundress, polo shirt) if your itinerary includes dinners out or more formal activities.

Bring enough clothing suitable for the length of your program. Pack clothing that can be worn in layers to adapt to weather changes throughout the day.

• A combination of short-sleeved and lightweight, long-sleeved shirts for sun and mosquito protection
• Shorts
• Lightweight, quick-drying long pants for sun and mosquito protection
• Undergarments
• Sleepwear
• Lightweight jacket or sweater/sweatshirt
• 1-2 bathing suit(s)
• Socks
• Shoes – Consider your specific itinerary when choosing footwear. For most programs, you’ll likely want at least one pair of comfortable, closed-toe walking or hiking shoes suitable for forest hikes and walking over cobblestones or other uneven terrain. Sturdier hiking boots may be appropriate for more active itineraries. In addition, many participants opt for a pair of sturdy sport-strap sandals (e.g. Keens, Tevas, or similar) and/or casual flip-flops or sandals. In the Galápagos, a pair of aqua socks, reef walkers, or water shoes is recommended.
• Lightweight rain jacket, hooded poncho, and/or windbreaker
• Visor or wide-brimmed sun hat
• Bandana, scarf, or neck gaiter
• Wetsuit (shorty wetsuits are available to rent, but you may prefer your own)

Personal toiletries

Pack toiletries based on your personal preferences and habits. Below are just a few recommendations to keep in mind.

• Shampoo, conditioner, lotion, deodorant/antiperspirant, etc. – Note: Onboard the Legend, biodegradable soap, shampoo, conditioner, and lotion are provided. If you wish to bring your own, please make sure they are biodegradable to comply with conservation policies. If possible, avoid strong fragrances if you are sensitive to insect bites and in consideration of your fellow travelers.
• Soap and washcloth or a small, quick-drying microfiber towel – Washcloths are not standard in all hotels. If you normally use a washcloth, you may wish to bring one from home.
• Hairbrush, comb, hair ties, shower cap.
• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Razor
• Ear plugs, especially if you are a light sleeper
• Personal hygiene products
• Insect repellent with DEET or picaridin
• Reef-safe sunscreen and lip balm with SPF
• Aloe vera gel
• A travel pack of tissues – also useful as napkins or toilet paper if needed

In addition to your personal toiletries, it is useful to pack a small medical kit, which you can easily prepare. Helpful items might include: bandages, antihistamine, a pain reliever, motion sickness and/or altitude sickness medication (if you are prone to either), anti-diarrhea medicine, individually wrapped pre-moistened towelettes and/or hand sanitizer, antibiotic ointment, anti-fungal cream, moleskin for blisters, eye drops, tweezers, a mini sewing kit, and an extra pair of disposable contact lenses or eyeglasses if you wear them.

MISCELLANEOUS

Remember to pack valuables such as your passport, cash/credit cards, and medications in your carry-on luggage.

• Passport and photocopies of all travel documentation
• Personal insurance card and travel insurance information
• Money – ATM/credit card, traveler's checks, and/or cash; small bills in good condition are recommended
• Prescription medicines (if applicable), with a copy of the prescription
• Yellow fever certificate (if required; only if arriving from a country where yellow fever transmission is a risk)
• Sunglasses with strap
• Small day pack for hikes and excursions
• Flashlight and/or head lamp
• Travel alarm clock or inexpensive waterproof wristwatch with alarm – Not all hotels provide alarm clocks.
• Binoculars with lens cleaner
• Camera and related equipment, such as charger, lenses, and extra memory cards
• Reusable water bottle
• Non-perishable snacks
• Pocket knife or multipurpose tool - Pack in your checked luggage
• Zip-top style bags – useful for packing toiletries, sorting clothing, storing damp or muddy shoes, or as a dry bag for protecting electronics
• Notepad or travel journal and pen
• Music or reading material for down time, long bus drives, or on the airplane, and a portable bright light to read by
• Walking stick with rubber tip (folding or collapsible, for walking on rough and uneven terrain)
• Swim mask/fins (snorkeling equipment is available to rent and often included for most groups)
• A small quantity of laundry detergent if you’ll be washing clothing by hand
• Money belt
• Converter and adapter for electronics
• Chargers for electronics

NOTE: There is a weight limit of 50 lbs. of checked luggage and one carry-on per person for your flight to the Galápagos Islands. Your luggage and/or carry-on may be subject to inspection by the Ecuadorian government in an effort to prevent the introduction of foreign plants and animals to the Galápagos Islands.