IMPORTANT
INFORMATION
Essential Travel Tips for the Galapagos Islands
To make sure you're ready for your adventure on the Galapagos Islands, here are some tips to avoid any unwanted surprises so your trip runs smoothly and you can focus on fun and making memories.
Currency and Payments:
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The Galapagos Islands operate primarily in cash, using the US dollar.
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Bring small bills; $50s and $100s the majority of the time are not usable.
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The National Park entrance fee is $200 per person for non-residents ($30 for Ecuadorian residents and those with an Ecuadorian ID/Cédulas).
Travel Fees:
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A $20 immigration card fee is payable when checking in for your flight to the Galapagos. Keep this card throughout your trip as you will need to show it at the end when you leave.
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A $200 National Park entrance fee is collected upon arrival (cash only and can be paid with two $100 bills).
Luggage Inspection:
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Your suitcases MUST be inspected and x-rayed at the airport by the Galapagos personnel before heading to the check-in counter. Items like fruits, seeds and non-processed foods are prohibited from entering the Galapagos. Bags are zip-tied by the control officer after inspections.
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When you're moving between islands your bags are expected to be unlocked for inspection.
Travel Tips:
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Pack a change of clothes and essential medicines in your carry-on. Lost checked bags can be hard to recover when island-hopping.
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Laundry services are available on each island at minimal cost with same-day pick-up.
Snorkeling:
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Snorkeling trips include sanitized masks and fins, but bringing your own gear ensures you're ready for impromptu snorkeling during your free time.
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Wetsuits are recommended due to the cold water and for protection from lava rocks. Rentals cost $5 for shorties and $10 for full suits, per excursion.
Electricity:
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Outlets are the same as in the US.
Water and Bathrooms:
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Tap water is not potable; drink bottled water or refill at designated stations.
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Ecuadorian pipes do not accept toilet paper so dispose of toilet paper in wastebaskets, not toilets. Toilet paper is often located outside bathroom stalls, usually near the sinks, rather than inside each individual stall. We suggest you carry some spare paper with you to avoid any unpleasant surprises.
By following these tips, you'll be well-prepared for a smooth and enjoyable visit to the Galapagos Islands.
Packing List
You will be most comfortable and protected if you are travelling with the following items.
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Passport
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Comfortable walking shoes
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Sandals
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Swimwear
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Lightweight clothing
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Hat or cap
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Sunglasses
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Reef-safe sunscreen
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Insect repellent
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Reusable water bottle
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Waterproof backpack or dry bag for excursions
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Camera
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Personal medications
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Light rain jacket or windbreaker
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Waterproof phone case
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Portable charger (power bank)
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Personal snorkeling equipment (optional)
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Hat for Sun Protection
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Rain Jacket
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Sturdy Walking Shoes
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Water Shoes
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Bug Spray
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Sunscreen (*Reef Safe)
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Refillable Water Bottle
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Seasick Patch or Meds (precautionary)
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Thumb Drive (our snorkel tour operators provide all photos and videos for free)
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Cash (there are some cash machines on Santa Cruz, San Cristobal and one Isabela but relying on them is a bit iffy)
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A Light Jacket or Sweater (The sun goes down at 6 pm here on the equator and the temperature can drop)
*If you plan to rent flippers during your trip, please let me know your shoe size in advance.
*As well, if you are visiting Sierra Negra in Isabela you will want to have long pants, sturdy shoes or hiking boots, and a rain poncho or jacket.
*Things like sunscreen, bug spray, and essentials can be much more expensive on the islands than on the mainland or outside of Ecuador. Please check that you have those things with you in carry-on sizes to save some time and $ once you arrive.
Special Discounts for Ecuadorian Residents and Senior Citizens
One of the advantages of living in Ecuador is that both Ecuadorian citizens and foreign residents with a valid Ecuadorian cédula are entitled to significant discounts when visiting the Galápagos Islands.
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Galápagos National Park Entrance Fee
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Foreign visitors (12 years and older): USD $200
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Foreign visitors under 12 years old: USD $100
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Ecuadorian citizens or foreign residents with a valid Ecuadorian cédula (12 years and older): USD $30
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Ecuadorian citizens or foreign residents with a valid Ecuadorian cédula under 12 years old: USD $15
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Ecuadorian citizens or foreign residents with a valid Ecuadorian cédula over 65 years old: USD $15
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Visitors with a CONADIS disability card: USD $15
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Galápagos Transit Control Card (TCT)
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USD $20 per person
Discounts on Flights to the Galápagos
Foreign residents with a valid Ecuadorian cédula may qualify for resident fares when traveling between mainland Ecuador and the Galápagos Islands.
Typical round-trip airfare ranges are:
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International visitors: approximately USD $350–$550
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Ecuadorian citizens and foreign residents with a valid Ecuadorian cédula: approximately USD $180–$320
Actual prices vary according to season, airline, route, and availability.
Additional Benefits for Senior Citizens
Under Ecuadorian law, Ecuadorian citizens and foreign residents aged 65 and older may qualify for additional discounts on domestic airfare, including flights to and from the Galápagos Islands.
Example Cost Comparison
International Visitor
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National Park Entrance Fee: $200
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Transit Control Card: $20
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Round-trip airfare: $350–$550
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Estimated total: $570–$77
Resident with Ecuadorian Cédula
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National Park Entrance Fee: $30
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Transit Control Card: $20
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Round-trip airfare: $180–$320
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Estimated total: $230–$370
Accommodation recommendations in Quito and Guayaquil
If Flying Through Guayaquil
Recommended hotels:
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DC Suites Airport Hotel
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Holiday Inn Guayaquil Airport
If Flying Through Quito
Recommended hotels:
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Wyndham Quito Airport
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Holiday Inn Quito Airport
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Wyndham Garden Quito Airport