What To Bring

Some warmer clothing (there are cooler times). Sweatpants and a jumper/fleece should be sufficient.

Bring long-sleeved shirts and pants for insect protection.

A headlamp, else a flashlight, preferably with NiMH (I recommend Eneloop) batteries (we have a charger), because most rooms have no light also to reach safely your room at night. A smartphone can be used, but it’s not as convenient as an headlamp.

Rubber boots are recommended. Most sizes are easily purchased in town (for about $8-$10). If you require larger than size 44 Euro (~11 US), it’s advisable to bring a pair of Wellington-style calf-height rubber work boots (a.k.a.”wellies”) with you, as the hardware stores here do not sell them in larger sizes.

Your electronics (there is an import tax on electronics here, and as a result price are often 35-100% more than they would be in many other countries).

A wide-brimmed hat is very helpful for working in the direct equatorial sun, can be bought locally.

If you are flying from the USA (or other country) there may be items that we wish to ship to you and have you bring. For example, personal items that would be too expensive to ship down, or tools that are easier to find in the USA or Europe. If you have any luggage space, please let us know.

To check

If you bring electrical devices from Europe, UK,… you’ll need plug adapter(s). In Ecuador, plugs are of the USA type. The voltage and frequency is also like in the USA, check that your devices accept that.

If you bring bug-netting (as part of a tent, hammock, bug-net,…) it should be no-see-um proof (0.5 mm or less, normal mosquito nets are 1 mm) as some of the biting insects are much smaller than mosquitoes. We can provide bug nets upon request if you are staying in a room.

Bedding

We have some good quality mattresses that you can rent for $10 per month. Naturally, you are welcome to buy one or bring something depending on preferences.

There are possibilities to hang a hammock, but as the nights are fresh or cool, you’ll need an insulation under you as an underquilt (like the “Jarbidge River UnderQuilt” or the “Revolt APEX”) or a thin closed foam or inflatable mattress.

Then you’ll need sheets, a pillow and blankets or a sleeping bag.

Those renting a room or cabin will be provided with bedding.

Suggested

  • Earplugs, the rain-forest can be loud
  • Swimwear
  • A natural mosquito repellent
  • A reusable water bottle
  • Your musical instruments
  • Umbrella (but they are easily buy-able) or a raincoat
  • Reusable shopping bag(s)
  • Running shoes
  • Quality (knee-high) socks
  • Preferred soaps, shampoos, and so on are things to consider, as vegan and environmentally friendly products are not commonly sold here
  • If you want to use toilet paper, buy some in town before heading out to the farm. We don’t provide it; we encourage using leaves or water (we have bidets).
  • A Spanish-English dictionary or other helpful materials (common phrase book, book on verb conjugations) will help with your Spanish language studies.

Not to bring

  • Temperate climate plant seeds
  • Hallucinogens

Last updated on May 12, 2022