HON 120:  Spring 2004/ Ecuador- Cloudforest to Rainforest

Advice for Packing

 

Luggage: We suggest packing in two small duffel-bags or suitcases in addition to a carry-on. One reason is that we will have a 50 lb weight limit on the Quito-Coca flight and most people will want to leave a bag with their cool weather gear and souvenirs in Quito. For the trip to the Napo Wildlife Center you might want to have your clothes in a plastic bag in your duffel or suitcase to protect against rain or spray.

 

Clothing: The idea is to travel as lightly as possible. But, keep in mind that we will experience a fairly wide range of climates. We usually do a little washing in the sink once or twice (but do not leave clothes outside to dry in the Amazon). In the Quito area temperatures are usually quite pleasant during the day—cool in the early morning and evening and fairly warm at midday (ranging from low 60s to mid-80s). Layering is a good way to go: Jeans and a long sleeved t-shirt are fine in the morning, but you may wish to change into a short-sleeved shirt during the day (shorts are considered inappropriate for men and women in Quito and the surrounding area). The day we climb up to Papallacta Pass we will reach some fairly high elevations and it can be quite cold—a jacket or sweater is called for here and at night in Quito. Of course, at the Napo Wildlife Center we can expect hot and humid weather. Even though shorts are acceptable to wear here, you may wish to wear lightweight long sleeved shirts and long pants for protection against insects and sun. Avoid white or brightly patterned clothing to stay camouflaged. In general, we recommend bringing a hat for sun protection. Raingear (umbrella, rain jacket or poncho) is essential and we recommend a poncho to protect your pack and optics. Comfortable hiking shoes (2 pairs?) and rubber boots if you don’t want to wear the boots provided by NWC.  It is also likely that we will go to an upscale restaurant in Quito, so you should pack an outfit for that too…

 

 

 

Some suggestions:

Jeans/Heavy slacks 1-2 pair

Light slacks 1-2 pair

Shorts 1-2 pairs

Lightweight long sleeve shirt 2-3 pair

Short sleeve shirt 2-3 pair

Comfortable hiking shoes 1-2 pair

Sandals

Bathing suit

Pajamas or something to sleep in

Socks & underwear (depends on how much

washing in the sink you are comfortable with)

Nice outfit for restaurant

 

Other items:

 

Small day pack—this makes a good carry-on

and will be useful in the field

Camera

Binoculars

Sunscreen

Insect repellant—pump style or cream

Flashlight

Washcloth

Water Bottle—remember not to fill this from the

tap unless you know the water is purified

Kleenex or Handiwipes

Notebook and pens—to keep your journal

Alarm clock—we will be getting up early

 virtually every morning

Light reading for the plane

Woolite or something similar for

washing clothes

All prescription medicines

Passport (You definitely won’t leave home

without it…)

Cash…. some shops will not take Traveler’s

checks especially outside Quito***