Galapagos Travel Recommendations

Unique Experiences

Travel Recommendations

With 21 islands sprawled across 8,010 km², the Galapagos has been considered as one of the most special and pristine destinations for those seeking a unique and different adventure.

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Galapagos unique experiences

• SNORKELING WITH SEA LIONS
  
• SWIMMING AND ENJOYING WITH GALAPAGOS PENGUINS
  
• WALKING WITH GIANT TORTOISES
  
• CETACEANS OBSERVATION
  
• HIKE TO THE SECOND LARGEST VOLCANIC CRATER
  
• HANG OUT WITH MARINE IGUANAS
  
• REMEMBER THE PIONEERS IN FLOREANA ISLAND
  
• ADMIRE THE FLIGHTLESS CORMORANT
  
• SURPRISE YOURSELF WITH A PIECE OF MARS ON EARTH AT RABIDA ISLAND
  
• TAKE A PICTURE OF THE PINNACLE ROCK

The complete list of what to do in Galapagos

Galapagos Travel Recommendations

The following Galapagos travel recommendations try to include everything you should know to prepare your trip to the Galapagos archipelago.

When is the best time to travel to the Galapagos?

Due to their position on the equator, the islands have only two seasons: warm and rainy. However, the climate does not undergo significant temperature changes. Therefore, the Galapagos can be visited all year round.

The only factor that could change the tourist’s experience on the islands is rain. However, even during the so-called rainy season, rainfall in the Galapagos is minimal. The Galapagos Islands are very arid, which means that even in the rainy season you can enjoy the equatorial sun,accompanied by short and light drizzles,known as garúa.

Changes in temperature are caused by the sea currents – the cold Humboldt current and the warm El Niño current that generate more or less evaporation according to which of the currents has a more significant influence throughout the different months of the year.

Rainy Season: December to April

Dry Season: May to November

How to visit the Galapagos Islands?

There are two main options when traveling to the Galapagos Islands: Island Hopping or by Cruise. Generally speaking, the best way to travel the Galapagos is on a cruise. Unless you’re terrified of boats, have a tight budget, or hate the idea of being on a boat for a week, book a cruise! You’ll waste less time running back and forth, and you’ll ensure that you will see as many distinct areas of the Galápagos Islands as possible.

See the main differences between Cruises and Island Hopping in Galapagos

Money

We suggest that you have enough cash on hand to pay for souvenirs and for purchases at small shops and markets as many small businesses do not accept credit cards.

Please note that most businesses in Ecuador, including restaurants and other large stores, do not accept bills larger than $20. 

Travelers checks are NOT accepted.

Galapagos Fees

Galapagos National Park Entrance Fee: The Galapagos National Park fee and municipal tax is $200 per adult and $100 per child. Citizens of countries belonging to UNASUR receive a 50% discount. This fee can often be prepaid depending which operator you chose for your Galapagos trip. Otherwise, it is payable in cash upon arrival in the islands.

Transit Control Card: Everyone visiting the Galapagos must purchase a Transit Control Card. This card costs $20 and the funds collected are used for the inspection and control necessary to avoid biological plagues form entering the islands. The Transit Control Card can often be prepaid depending on which operator you chose for your Galapagos trip.

Otherwise it can be purchased in cash at the airport in Quito or Guayaquil prior to departure to the islands.

Galapagos travel packing list

Essentials:

• Broad-brimmed hat
• Sunscreen with high SPF factor
• Sunglasses
• Lightweight trousers
• Lightweight long sleeve t-shirts to protect yourself from the sun
• Swimsuit (at least two)
• Lightweight short sleeved T-shirts
• Comfortable, close-toed shoes
• Flip flops or Teva type sandals
• Refillable water bottle
• Ziplock bags to protect electronic equipment from water as wet landings are made by jumping from the panga (Zodiac)to the beach, making getting your feet and calves wet unavoidable

Optional:

• Binoculars
• Photo/video camera
• Small backpack

Insurance Requirements

Bespoke Galapagos does everything possible to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. However, travel inevitably involves some risk and this should be recognized by our clients. Travel insurance is a cost effective way of protecting yourself and your equipment should incur any issues such as trip cancellation, delays, medical emergencies, baggage loss or equipment damage. It also gives you peace of mind.

Please make sure your travel insurance covers all activities planned on your trip.

It is not necessary to bring medical or travel insurance to visit Ecuador or Galapagos.However, we highly recommend it.

More Information here.

National Park Rules

The Basic Rules:

• National Park Rules
• Follow your guide’s instructions at all times.
• Do not touch or feed the animals.
• Do not disturb or chase any animals.
• Keep two meters distance from the animals.
• Do not litter.
• Do not smoke on the islands.
• Do not take food or drinks onto the islands (bottled water is ok).
• Do not remove any animal, animal remains, plant, plant remains or rock material from the islands.
• Stay on the marked trails.
• Stay with your group and guide at all times.
• When you leave the visitor site, please clean your shoes.
• Shore visits are between 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
• Extension poles for cameras or drones are not allowed.

Galapagos basic information

Outlets and converters

The electrical current in Ecuador is 110 volts (same as in the U.S.). Outlets throughout Ecuador are also U.S. style (two flat pins).

Time zone

The Galapagos Archipleago is located in the GMT -6 time zone.