Diamox is the perscription medication used for altitude sickness. It helps so contact your doctor before you leave and have it just in case.
I just got back from Galápagos and Machu Picchu. Fabulous trip! I took Celebrity Cruises and did the after cruise package to Machu Picchu. If you are going on a cruise- it is very fast paced even the land tours. I was always the last in line trying to get pictures. The monopod suggestion as a walking stick is a great idea but because of the fast pace, you might find it difficult to actually use it. If you are going Celebrity Cruises, they will provide you with a walking stick if you want. Our bags were never checked on the bus going up to Machu Picchu but we were cruise line sponsored.
As far as cameras, I used my Canon 80D and at Machu Picchu, I used my Tokina 12-24wide angle and my Canon 18-135 lens.
In the Galápagos, you will want a longer lens for some of the excursions. There are some treacherous terrain in the Galápagos so be careful. If you are not 100% steady on your feet and have an option to use a walking stick- take it.
Have a wonderful trip. It is truly a once in a lifetime trip!
I am new to photography and many times struggle with camera setting but each day I
learn a little more. This site is so informative and helpful to me. I read it every morning.
I was on a Alaskan cruise this July which started in Vancouver and while on a bus , the driver took a sharp turn throwing my camera bag onto the floor. When I retrieved my bag I checked my camera and my filter lens was cracked but also jammed onto my lens. I could not budge it. I remembered someone writing hat there was a great camera shop in Vancouver so I looked it up and found LEO's right around the corner from my hotel. They were able to remove the broken filter and I purchased a new one. The filter did its job- it protected my lens!
Leo's Camera shop were life savers! Extremely nice and welcoming!
I learned a valuable lesson- I always kept my hand wrapped around the strap of my camera bag for then on.
Thank you to all of you for providing all of your tips!