Santa Cruz, Ecuador: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]
Empty Lighthouse is a reader-supported site. This article may contain affiliate links to Amazon and other sites. We earn a commission on purchases made through these links.
Ready to pack for Santa Cruz, Ecuador? If you're planning to go to Santa Cruz, we've got some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.
Contents
- When to go to Santa Cruz
- Important essentials for Santa Cruz
- Activities for Santa Cruz
- Santa Cruz in January: weather and what to pack
- Santa Cruz in February: weather and what to pack
- Santa Cruz in March: weather and what to pack
- Santa Cruz in April: weather and what to pack
- Santa Cruz in May: weather and what to pack
- Santa Cruz in June: weather and what to pack
- Santa Cruz in July: weather and what to pack
- Santa Cruz in August: weather and what to pack
- Santa Cruz in September: weather and what to pack
- Santa Cruz in October: weather and what to pack
- Santa Cruz in November: weather and what to pack
- Santa Cruz in December: weather and what to pack
When to go to Santa Cruz, Ecuador
Based on the climate and weather in Santa Cruz, Ecuador, the best time to go is July. See below for details.
What to wear/what to pack for Santa Cruz, Ecuador
Already know when you're traveling?
Here are some general tips on what to wear in Santa Cruz, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.
What to wear/what to pack for Santa Cruz, Ecuador by month
January
January in Santa Cruz is really hot. Temperatures average in the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day. It rains about a third of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sunglasses
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Skirts
Loose-fit shorts
Waterproof sandals
Breatheable shirts
A cooling shirt can make you comfortable and guard against the sun:
Insulated water bottle
Our first choice also removes contaminants:
thisBug repellent
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses to provide UV protection and help you stay cool.
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.If you're going to the beach
A rain poncho to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We like these rain boots:
Rain pants
These are a lifesaver in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a perfect choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things remain dry. We like:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb choice.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly option.
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Santa Cruz. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines frequently losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Given current world events, Ecuador has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to get the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters on sale are just plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most countries.
Travel pillow
A good option is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
February
February in Santa Cruz is really hot. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 80s F (low 30s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Loose-fit shorts
Bug repellent
Waterproof sandals
Sunglasses
Skirts
Breatheable shirts
A cooling shirt can keep you cool and protect you from the sun:
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses offer UV protection and help you stay cool.
Insulated water bottle
Our choice also removes contaminants:
thisSunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.If you're going to the beach
A rain coat to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We use these rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants are vital in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is a great one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things stay dry. We like:
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly option.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's useful to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb kit.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports repeatedly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Santa Cruz. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Given current world events, Ecuador has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to pick the right kind. The vast majority of adapters available online are just plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most areas.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel pillow
A great choice is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
March
If you visit Santa Cruz during March, you will probably notice that it is extremely hot. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 70s F (low 20s C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about half of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Skirts
Breatheable shirts
A good breatheable shirt can keep you cool and guard against the sun:
Loose-fit shorts
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses offer UV protection and help you stay cool.
Waterproof sandals
Bug repellent
Sunglasses
Insulated water bottle
Our first choice also filters contaminants:
thisTravel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.If you're going to the beach
A rain jacket to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We use rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants will be vital in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is an excellent option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings stay dry. We suggest:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good kit.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly choice.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Santa Cruz. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports frequently losing things recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Given current world events, Ecuador has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel pillow
A great choice is this one
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you get the right kind. Many adapters that you can buy are simply plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most locations.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
April
In April, Santa Cruz can be sweltering. Temperatures routinely are in the high 80s F (low 30s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 70s F (low 20s C). This is also a rainy time for Santa Cruz, with several of the days of the month having rain.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Skirts
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Breatheable shirts
A breathing shirt can make you comfortable and guard against skin damage:
Waterproof sandals
Loose-fit shorts
Insulated water bottle
Our fave also removes harmful contaminants:
thisCool and dry dresses
These dresses offer UV protection and cool you.
Sunglasses
Bug repellent
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.If you're going to the beach
A rain poncho to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend these rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants can be a lifesaver in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a great option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases don't get wet. We recommend:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly option.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great option.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's wise to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports frequently losing things these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Santa Cruz. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Given current world events, Ecuador has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel neck pillow
Our fave is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to pick the correct type. The vast majority of adapters available are simply plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most locations.
May
May can be sweltering. Temperatures average in the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day. It rains a bit less than half of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Waterproof sandals
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses can provide UV protection and keep you cool.
Bug repellent
Insulated water bottle
Our choice also cleans harmful contaminants:
thisBreatheable shirts
A cooling shirt can make you comfortable and guard against skin damage:
Loose-fit shorts
Skirts
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Sunglasses
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.If you're going to the beach
A rain coat to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants can be essential in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is a perfect option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases don't get wet. We like:
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's important to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great one.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly choice.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Santa Cruz. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines frequently losing things nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Given current world events, Ecuador has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel neck pillow
A versatile choice is this one
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you choose the right kind. The majority of adapters for sale now are simply plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most countries.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
June
June is extremely warm. Temperatures average in the 80s F (high 20s C) during the day. It rains occasionally.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Bug repellent
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Breatheable shirts
A good breatheable shirt can make you comfortable and guard against skin damage:
Sunglasses
Skirts
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses include UV protection and keep you cool.
Loose-fit shorts
Waterproof sandals
Insulated water bottle
Our pick also filters contaminants:
thisTravel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.If you're going to the beach
A rain poncho to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants can be essential in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is a great one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags don't get wet. We suggest:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly option.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's wise to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent choice.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Santa Cruz. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines repeatedly losing bags these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Given current world events, Ecuador has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel neck support pillow
Our favorite is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to get the necessary kind. The majority of adapters that you can buy are simply plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most locations.
July
July in Santa Cruz is warm. Temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day. It rains a bit less than half of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Light skirts
Sandals
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Short pants or heavy shorts
Bug repellent
Breathable footwear or sandals
Extra socks
Sunscreen lotion
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.Beach necessities
If you're going to the beach:
A rain poncho to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We like rain boots:
Rain pants
These will be a lifesaver in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is an excellent choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases stay dry. We suggest:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb kit.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly option.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Santa Cruz. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines repeatedly losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Given current world events, Ecuador has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel neck support pillow
A versatile choice is this one
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you choose the necessary type. Most adapters available are just plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most countries.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
August
If you vacation in Santa Cruz during August, you are likely to find that it is extremely warm. Temperatures tend to hover around the 80s F (high 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 60s F (high 10s C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain 5-10 days this month.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Insulated water bottle
Our fave also filters harmful contaminants:
thisLoose-fit shorts
Breatheable shirts
A breatheable shirt can keep you cool and guard against the sun:
Bug repellent
Sunglasses
Skirts
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses to provide UV protection and cool you.
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Waterproof sandals
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.If you're going to the beach
A rain poncho to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest these rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants will be essential in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is a perfect choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things stay dry. We recommend:
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly option.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's wise to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good value.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines constantly losing things these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Santa Cruz. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Given current world events, Ecuador has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to pick the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most countries.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel neck support pillow
Our favorite is this one
September
In September, Santa Cruz is extremely warm. Temperatures routinely are in the low 80s F (high 20s C) range. At night, lows are in the 60s F (high 10s C). This is also a rainy time for Santa Cruz, with most of the days of the month having rain.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Bug repellent
Light skirts
Sunscreen lotion
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Short pants or heavy shorts
Breathable footwear or sandals
Sandals
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Extra socks
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.Beach necessities
If you're going to the beach:
A rain coat to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We like rain boots:
Rain pants
These are essential in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is a perfect one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags stay dry. We like:
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb value.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly choice.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Santa Cruz. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Given current world events, Ecuador has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to pick the right type. The vast majority of adapters for sale now are just plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most areas.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel neck pillow
A versatile choice is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
October
If you visit Santa Cruz during October, you might notice that it is hot. Temperatures tend to hover around the 80s F (high 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 60s F (high 10s C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Waterproof sandals
Breatheable shirts
A breathing shirt can keep you cool and protect you from skin damage:
Skirts
Bug repellent
Sunglasses
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses can provide UV protection and cool you.
Insulated water bottle
Our favorite also filters dangerous contaminants:
thisLoose-fit shorts
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.If you're going to the beach
A rain poncho to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We use rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants are vital in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a perfect choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases don't get wet. We like:
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly choice.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great choice.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports constantly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Santa Cruz. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Given current world events, Ecuador has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel neck support pillow
What we like is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you get the right type. A lot of adapters currently sold are simply plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most locations.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
November
Traveling to Santa Cruz in November, you will notice that it is pretty consistently hot. Expect it to rain 5-10 days this month. Daytime temperatures are in the 80s F (high 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Waterproof sandals
Sunglasses
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses include UV protection and help you stay cool.
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Insulated water bottle
Our best choice also removes dangerous contaminants:
thisBug repellent
Skirts
Breatheable shirts
A cooling shirt can keep you cool and protect you from the sun:
Loose-fit shorts
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.If you're going to the beach
A rain coat to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend these rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants can be vital in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is a perfect one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings stay dry. We recommend:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly product.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent kit.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Santa Cruz. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports repeatedly losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Given current world events, Ecuador has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you find the necessary kind. Most adapters currently being sold are just plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most places.
Travel neck pillow
A top rated pillow is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
December
December here is extremely hot. Temperatures average in the 80s F (low 30s C) during the day. It rains about a third of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Loose-fit shorts
Breatheable shirts
A good breatheable shirt can make you comfortable and guard against the sun:
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses to provide UV protection and help you stay cool.
Waterproof sandals
Insulated water bottle
Our best choice also cleans harmful contaminants:
thisBug repellent
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Skirts
Sunglasses
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.If you're going to the beach
A rain poncho to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We like rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants can be vital in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is a great choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things don't get wet. We recommend:
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly product.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great option.
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines frequently losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Santa Cruz. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Given current world events, Ecuador has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel neck pillow
A great choice is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you pick the right kind. Most adapters currently sold are just plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most locations.
What to do in Santa Cruz, Ecuador
Santa Cruz is one of the most stunning archipelagos in the world. The island offers a diverse range of experiences for all kinds of travelers. The island is famous for its amazing wildlife, pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and adventurous hikes. Visitors can spot rare animals in their natural habitat and explore the unspoiled nature. So, whether you're an adventurer at heart or just looking for a relaxing vacation, Santa Cruz in Galapagos, Ecuador, has something for everyone. Here are the top tourist attractions you must visit in Santa Cruz:
Tortuga Bay:
Tortuga Bay is one of the most popular and breathtaking beaches located in Santa Cruz. It's a pristine white sand beach, surrounded by clear turquoise water, mangroves, and cacti. The beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the vibrant marine life.
Galapagos Giant Tortoises:
The Galapagos Giant Tortoises are one of the most iconic and rare species in Santa Cruz. These reptiles can live up to 100 years old and are the largest living tortoises in the world. Visitors can encounter these amazing animals in their natural habitat at the Galapagos National Park.
Charles Darwin Research Station:
The Charles Darwin Research Station gives visitors a comprehensive insight into the fascinating history and diversity of the Galapagos Islands. The research station houses giant tortoises, land iguanas, and various other species that are unique to the Galapagos Islands. The station also provides various educational programs, research projects, and conservation efforts.
El Chato:
El Chato is a tortoise reserve in Santa Cruz; it also houses lava tunnels and well-maintained walking trails. Visitors have the opportunity to watch Galapagos Giant Tortoises moving in their natural habitat. The surrounding greenery and vegetation make El Chato a picturesque location for photography.
Academia de Idiomas:
Academia de Idiomas is the best place for visitors to learn Spanish in Santa Cruz. The Academy provides Spanish immersion courses and one-on-one classes with experienced, qualified instructors. This is a great opportunity for visitors to improve their Spanish skills while experiencing the local culture and lifestyle.
In conclusion, Santa Cruz in Galapagos is a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and nature lovers. The island offers a plethora of activities and attractions that will keep visitors fully entertained throughout their stay. You can explore the stunning beaches, visit the Galapagos Giant Tortoises, take a deep dive into the marine life, or stroll through the research stations to learn about the history and conservation efforts of Galapagos. Start planning your trip to Santa Cruz and discover the natural beauty and vibrant culture that this island offers.

About your travel guide
Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.
Check out our guides for these other locations: Tocache, Peru, Mathura, India, Nakhon Sawan, Thailand, Nanling National Forest Park, China, Ferizaj, Kosovo, Horonobe, Japan, South Aegean Islands, Greece, Harlech, Wales, United Kingdom, Glenview, Illinois, United States of America, Monroe, Ohio, United States of America, and North Frisian Islands, Germany.