Interesting things to know before coming to volunteering programs

• Suitable Clothing for working outdoors in warm weather with full sun and/or cool rainy conditions at the lodge.
• Light-weight trousers for easy drying (long trousers to protect against insect bites.)
• Lots of pairs of socks
• T-shirts – (dark colours are preferable for birding)
• Long sleeved shirt
• Polar fleece pullover (it can get chilly in the lodge at night)
• Waterproof jacket or rain poncho
• Rubber boots are very useful. We have a limited supply of these for borrowing (sorry no boots larger than EUROPEAN size 44.)

Other

• Torch or head-lamp and spare batteries (we ask that you take used batteries back with you as there are no safe disposal facilities in Ecuador.)
• 2 towels
• Work gloves
• Water bottle – ordinary plastic bottle is fine.
• Small backpack for trips to and from the lodge, plus waterproof cover.
• Waterproof cover for large backpack (in winter)
• Sandals/flip-flops or thick socks for inside the lodge
• Sun hat
• Insect repellent* (Natural repellent if possible. DEET isn't necessary)
• Sun screen*
• Basic personal first aid kit and sufficient supplies of medicines that you need to regularly take
• Biodegradable toiletries to minimize contamination of the forest
• Earplugs for light sleepers – you will be sharing accommodation
• Books - Santa Lucía has a small collection of books for exchange
• Binoculars (optional) - magnification is not very important, but binoculars that work well in low light and that focus well to under ten feet are key. Basic 7 x 35s are fine.