Ecuador is a fascinating South American Country. It is small but mighty, offering a mix of culturally rich mountain towns, wild jungle, and white-sand beaches that stretch from coast to coast. If you are planning on traveling to Ecuador, packing the right clothes may be your most challenging task. If you are in route to explore all of the country´s diverse terrain, here is a simple guide to bringing everything you need to feel comfortable and cool during a one month trek through Ecuador:
Jungle
Ecuador´s jungle territory is enchanting, it is also humid, hot and swarming with mosquitos and other fly-biting insects. The first thing to make sure is that you are up to date with your vaccines including yellow fever and malaria. As for clothing the following list will keep you covered from the sun and protected from bugs:
- Raincoat with a hood (make sure its waterproof)
- Poncho
- Lightweight long-sleeved shirts ( invest in mesh)
- Light colored t-shirts
- Lightweight spandex or leggings
- Sports-bras (quick-drying)
- A bathing suit
- Sport sandals
- Water shoes
- Rain boots
- Quick drying towel
Mountain Towns
The mountains towns of Ecuador such as Quito and Cuenca, enjoy a higher-altitude setting which also means lower temperatures. Expect to be in long pants and a sweater for the majority of your stay. T-shirts can be worn during high-noon, but the temperature usually drops quickly and without the rays of the sun, you will find yourself with a brisk chill. Use the following list as a guide for what to pack for the mountain towns of Ecuador:
- A fleece or a moderately warm jacket
- Sweaters
- Jeans
- Thicker leggings
- Flannels
- Knit-hats
- Sneakers
La Playa (The Beach)
The beaches of Ecuador are somewhat dry, windy and provide some of the best surf in all of South America. If you find yourself trekking out to a little beach town such as Canoa or Montañita, make sure you pack more than your bathing suit. Nights can be a little chilly and the beaches can be a nesting ground for jelly fish and sharp shells so you want to make sure you have the proper footwear as well. If you are heading to the beaches of Ecuador here is what to pack:
- Bathing suit ( if you plan to surf bring a one piece to prevent surf rash)
- Rash guards (Billabong and Oneil are good brands)
- Summer dresses
- Lightweight pants
- Crop tops
- Tank tops
- Light-weight long-sleeved shirts
- Light rain jacket
- Light-weight sweater
- Sport sandals (with a heavy soul)
- Water shoes
- Sneaker
Did I miss something? What would you pack on a month long trip to Ecuador?
