Might be dumb questions but...
We are going on the hidden Galapagos/Peru trip in April 2026. I've been watching many You Tube Videos on the area and one specifically on the Silver Orgin albeit not a Tauck trip. I noticed in the videos that some but not all people had a single walking stick.
Does every one who wants a stick get a stick?
The video also mentioned that you could not bring your own sunscreen. Is this true? What if your makeup has SPF in it?
Thanks!
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I brought my own walking stick, and I brought my own sunscreen.
I recall they do provide some walking poles. Didn’t need one last trip, may use one next time. Most important are sturdy walking shoes to protect from stones and sharp lava on some of the islands.
One type ofsunscreen is preferred, I can’t recall, but google marine life safe sunscreen
Here we are, don’t forget google can be useful
For marine life-safe sunscreen, choose mineral-based formulas with non-nano zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, which physically block UV rays without harming corals, and avoid chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate. Look for labels specifying "non-nano," "micro-sized," or "reef-friendly," but always check ingredients for these key minerals and the absence of harmful chemicals, as the term "reef safe" isn't regulated.
When we went to Machu Picchu (as part of this trip) the TD bought everyone a walking stick for use in Machu Picchu. So we had it when we went to the Galapagos. Some of the terrain in the Galapagos can be challenging so having a walking stick is helpful.
Interesting sunscreen information. I use a mineral based sunscreen but had no clue about nano/non-nano. It turns out mine is non-nano. Thank you, British, for the lesson.
Thank you all- VERY Helpful. @British when we went on our safari- i bought the shoes you recommended (the close-toed Merrils and the open toed Keens). They were great and are still my favorite (though least fashionable) shoes. For walking on the islands do you have a recommendation? So far you are two for two!
Hi, I’m taking my Merrills and my CLOSED toe Keens plus some kind of cheap water shoe when I go back in July
I did this trip last May. Many people brought their own walking sticks - foldable with rubber tips. The TD provided some but I do not recall if they had enough for everyone. Many people used 2 - like ski poles and they came in very handy at both Machu Picchu and some of the lava fields in the Galapagos - which were often jagged or cracked so you'd step on one side and it would shift under you.
I was on the Silver Origin - it was a Tauck trip but there were others on the ship not thru Tauck. They provided sunscreen - I can't recall what they called it now - sea safe or marine safe...anyway, you can search on line and find the same kind - I brought my own sea safe deodorant and sun screen and ended up using their sun screen. I did not use any products that were not certified marine/reef/ sea life safe. Honestly, I'd be hesitant to wear non-marine/sea/reef-safe makeup -- why harm the animals and sea life to look good for the 5 minutes before you get wet or sweaty?