Packing for a dive trip to the Galapagos Islands requires thoughtful planning to ensure you’re prepared for everything from strong currents to diverse marine encounters and changing weather conditions. The Galapagos’ remote location, unique dive environments, and varying water temperatures mean that divers should pack strategically for both comfort and safety. Here’s a guide to the essential items you’ll need for an unforgettable, well-prepared dive adventure in the Galapagos.
1. Wetsuit or Drysuit
Water temperatures in the Galapagos vary between seasons, with colder waters (65°F – 72°F) from June to November and warmer waters (75°F – 82°F) from December to May. In the cold season, a 5mm-7mm wetsuit or a drysuit is highly recommended to stay warm during multiple dives. For the warmer season, a 3mm wetsuit should suffice, but if you tend to get cold, it’s best to go with a thicker suit. Layering with a wetsuit vest can also help add extra warmth in colder waters.
2. Hood, Gloves, and Booties
In addition to your wetsuit, packing a hood, gloves, and booties is essential for diving in cooler waters and strong currents. A hood helps retain body heat, especially during longer dives. Gloves not only provide warmth but also protect your hands in case you need to grip rocks or steady yourself in strong currents. Booties provide both thermal protection and a better fit with open-heel fins, which are ideal for diving in the Galapagos.
3. Open-Heel Fins
For diving in the Galapagos, open-heel fins paired with booties offer greater comfort and control in colder water and rugged underwater terrain. The strong currents at some dive sites make powerful fins necessary, so choose a pair that provides excellent propulsion. Open-heel fins also make it easier to adjust for comfort when wearing thick booties.
4. Dive Computer
A dive computer is essential for Galapagos diving, where dive sites can range in depth and often include complex underwater landscapes. A computer helps you track your depth, dive time, and nitrogen levels, ensuring you stay within safe limits during each dive. Many Galapagos dive sites are deep and challenging, so a reliable dive computer can make your dives safer and more enjoyable.
5. Surface Marker Buoy (SMB)
The currents in the Galapagos can be unpredictable, so bringing a surface marker buoy (SMB) is essential for safety. An SMB helps you stay visible to dive boats, especially in areas where currents may carry divers away from the group. Even if your dive operator provides them, having your own SMB adds an extra layer of security, especially in remote locations.
6. Reef-Safe Sunscreen
The Galapagos Islands are a protected marine reserve, and preserving the marine environment is crucial. Using reef-safe sunscreen protects both your skin and the local ecosystem by preventing harmful chemicals from affecting marine life. Be sure to choose a sunscreen labeled as reef-safe and apply it before dives, as the sun in the Galapagos can be intense.
7. Underwater Camera or GoPro
The Galapagos offers some of the world’s most incredible marine life encounters, from hammerhead sharks and sea lions to vibrant coral reefs. An underwater camera or GoPro allows you to capture these memorable moments and share them with others. If you’re bringing a camera, be sure to have an underwater housing unit rated for the depths you’ll be diving and a red filter to enhance colors underwater.
8. Dry Bag for Gear
A dry bag is invaluable for keeping your personal belongings safe and dry during boat rides between dive sites. Use it to store items like your phone, towel, and other valuables you want to keep dry while you’re out on the water. A dry bag with a capacity of 10-20 liters is usually sufficient for essentials and can be easily stored on the boat.
9. Lightweight, Quick-Dry Towel
A quick-dry towel is useful between dives, especially since boat rides to different dive sites can sometimes be windy. These towels are compact, absorbent, and dry quickly, making them ideal for dive trips. Having a lightweight towel that can fit in your dry bag will make it easy to stay comfortable and dry on the boat.
10. Waterproof Logbook
Recording each dive in your logbook is a great way to document your experiences and track your diving progress. A waterproof logbook can withstand the humid and sometimes wet conditions on a dive boat, helping you keep track of species sightings, dive depths, and any unique aspects of each dive site. Plus, it makes a great keepsake of your Galapagos adventures.
11. Eco-Friendly Toiletries
Since the Galapagos is a protected area with strict environmental regulations, it’s recommended to bring eco-friendly toiletries, including biodegradable shampoo, conditioner, and soap. By using environmentally friendly products, you help reduce the impact on the sensitive marine environment and support local conservation efforts.
12. Anti-Fog Spray for Mask
Condensation can be a common issue when diving, especially in colder waters. Anti-fog spray or gel is an essential item to keep your mask clear and your visibility optimal. Applying a few drops before each dive helps prevent fogging, allowing you to fully enjoy the underwater views of the Galapagos.
13. Personal First Aid Kit
A small personal first aid kit can come in handy, especially in remote locations like the Galapagos where medical facilities may be limited. Include items like band-aids, antiseptic wipes, seasickness tablets, and any personal medications you may need. Having a first aid kit on hand ensures you’re prepared for minor issues that may arise during your trip.
14. Rehydration Tablets
Diving can be physically demanding, and it’s essential to stay hydrated, especially in the warm, sunny climate of the Galapagos. Rehydration tablets or electrolyte powders can help replenish essential minerals and keep you hydrated between dives. They’re easy to pack and make a big difference in maintaining energy levels throughout the day.
Final Tips for Packing
The Galapagos Islands’ remote location means that some items may be hard to find or expensive to purchase on-site, so it’s best to bring everything you’ll need from home. Since the Galapagos has limited space for waste disposal, pack lightly and avoid disposable items when possible to minimize your environmental impact.
Final Thoughts
Preparing for a dive trip to the Galapagos is all about anticipating the conditions and packing with both comfort and sustainability in mind. With the right gear, you’ll be ready to enjoy the islands’ stunning marine life and challenging dive sites while protecting the delicate ecosystems that make the Galapagos such a unique and precious destination. By packing these essentials, you can ensure a safe, comfortable, and environmentally responsible adventure in one of the world’s top diving destinations.
