Ecuador has unbeatable scenery so don’t forget your camera and video equipment. But remember to first verify that you can obtain the appropriate technology for your equipment in Ecuador, if not, make sure you bring enough photographic rolls and cassettes.

If you take specific medication, find out the generic name of it because you may not be able to find the same brand name in Ecuador, or bring enough to last you through your stay. Copies of documents are the most important and you should forget them just in case something unforeseen occurs.

For the Galapagos and the Coast you need:
lightweight clothing for warm climates
sun screen, sun hat and sun glasses
sandals, tennis shoes
bathing suit, snorkel and mask (can be rented in Quito or Puerto Ayora)
windbreaker, light weight jacket for cold nights
underwater camera and sea-sickness pills
insect repellent and malaria medicine

For the Mountains you should take:
warm coat that dries quickly (synthetic materials or wool work but avoid cotton, above all if you use it directly against the skin)
You will need all terrain shoes or boots (that dry quickly or water proof)

For the Sierra (highlands or alpine tundra)
warm clothing for paramo lands
t-shirts for sunny days
warm coat
comfortable shoes

If you travel to the Oriente (jungle) or Cloud Forest (Mindo) you will need:
light weight clothing and clothing for warm and humid climates (at least one long sleeved shirt, one pair of pants (no jeans), rain jacket or poncho, bandana, one pair of clean socks per day, sandals)
rubber boots (essential because hiking boots do not work on the muddy trails of the Amazon). Most hotels will provide you with boots or you can buy them in any town for about $5.
mosquito net (most hotels will have these)
insect repellent
medication for people that are allergic to insect bites and stings
water purifying tablets
oral re-hydration packets
binoculars (absolutely essential in the jungle)
plastic bags to keep your clothing dry and for things that shouldn’t get wet