1. HOW DO I GET TO THE GALÁPAGOS ISLANDS?

Fly from Quito or Guayaquil

All flights go via Guayaquil

Flight is 1.5 hours from Guayaquil

2. WHERE DO I FLY TO?

There are 2 points of arrival:

San Cristóbal

Baltra which connects to Santa Cruz

3. HOW LONG CAN I STAY?

Max stay 60 days on tourist visa

You must have a return flight booked

4. DO I NEED A VISA?

You do not need a visa, but there are fees to be paid as below.

$20 to customs at departing airport .

$100 National Park entrance fee paid in cash at airport on arrival.

Be sure to check before as these are subject to change.

5. CAN I STAY ON THE ISLANDS?

Yes, but there are only 5 inhabited islands:

San Cristóbal

Baltra

Santa Cruz

Isabela

Floreana

San Cristóbal and Santa Cruz are the main points or entry and also have the largest towns. Both have a large selection of hotels, restaurants, etc.

6. WHAT IS THE LOCAL CURRENCY?

The currency is US Dollars the same as mainland Ecuador

Be aware: There are only ATMs available on Santa Cruz and San Cristóbal islands

On Isabela and Floreana it is cash only, so make sure you have sufficient for your stay.

7. HOW DO I GET AROUND ONCE I’M THERE?

There are taxis in the form of white pick up trucks on the main islands or local bus that can get you from the airport to your accommodation.

In the main towns it is easy to walk or cycle around.

8. HOW DO I TRAVEL BETWEEN ISLANDS?

There are Ferry Boats between islands – They are small, high-speed boats that hold about 40 people.

The cost is approximately $30 each way.

Be advised, if you get travel sick then sit at back of boat outside, there will be less movement and with the fresh air you are less likely to get seasick.

The ferry boats run between the following islands

Santa Cruz – San Cristóbal

Santa Cruz – Isabela

Santa Cruz – Floreana

There are only one or two boats a day between islands so make sure you check the times and are there in plenty of time to secure your spot.

Tickets can be bought in advance from most hotels and travel operators.

9. HOW DO I MAKE THE MOST OF MY TIME THERE?

Book a cruise or day trips with us!

10. ARE THERE ANY RESTRICTIONS WHILST VISITING?

Yes, remember that the Galápagos Islands are part of a protected National Park and all National Park rules must be adhered to.

Islands can only be visited with a National Park Guide, max group size of 16 people.

There is no smoking in National parks

Animals and wildlife have priority. You must stay at least 2 metres away from wildlife and not use a flash with photography.