FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

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The Galápagos Islands are located in the Pacific Ocean, about 600 miles (965 km) off the coast of Ecuador. They are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a living laboratory of evolution, home to species found nowhere else on Earth.

The Galápagos are a year-round destination—wildlife is always active. That said:

  • December to May brings warmer waters, calmer seas, and lush landscapes (great for snorkeling and photography).

  • June to November offers cooler, nutrient-rich currents that attract spectacular marine life, such as whale sharks.

There are two different options: you can either book a flight from Quito or Guayaquil airport. Usually, flights starting from Quito have a 40min stopover at Guayaquil airport. Passengers stay in the aircraft waiting until the boarding is finished in Guayaquil and take off to one of the aiports in Galapagos. 

There are two airports in Galapagos. Please pay attention before booking your trip to ensure you will arrive on the island you want to. 

San Cristobal Island: San Cristobal Airport (SCY)

Baltra Island: Seymour Airport (GPS) 

Most travelers only need a valid passport to enter Ecuador. Once there, you’ll purchase a Transit Control Card at the airports Quito or Guayaquil, and pay the Galápagos National Park entrance fee upon arrival (cash only). We as your travel consultant will guide you through every step.

There are two main airports in the Galápagos: Baltra (near Santa Cruz Island) and San Cristóbal.

  • Baltra Airport: After landing, you’ll buy tickets for a short bus ride to the Itabaca Channel, cross the water by ferry, then continue by taxi, bus, or private transfer to Puerto Ayora, the main town on Santa Cruz (about 45 minutes away). It’s a scenic route that gives you your first glimpse of the islands and can be also combined with a Highland Tour visiting Los Gemelos, lava tunnels as well as giant tortoises at its natural habitat. 

  • San Cristóbal Airport: Much simpler—the airport is right next to Puerto Baquerizo Moreno. Most hotels are only a 5–10 minute taxi ride, and some are even walkable.

We can arrange all transfers for a smooth, stress-free arrival. Just let us know. 

  • Cruises allow you to reach remote islands, waking up each day to a new landscape and wildlife encounter.

  • Island-hopping means staying in hotels on main islands like Santa Cruz, Isabela, Floreana or San Cristóbal, with day trips to surrounding sites. It’s often more flexible and family-friendly.

Yes. The islands are considered to be very safe, both for visitors and for wildlife (thanks to strict conservation rules). Crime is rare, and local communities are welcoming. The greatest “risk” is sunburn - or a sea lion stealing your spot on the beach!

The official currency is US-Dollars in Galapagos. Usually no other currencies are accepted.

ATMs are available in the main towns of Puerto Ayora (Santa Cruz) and Puerto Baquerizo Moreno (San Cristóbal), but they can run out of cash and may not always accept international cards. Furthermore, there is usually a limit of withdrawing ($200 or $300 per withdrawal).

Credit cards are accepted at some hotels and shops, but smaller businesses often prefer cash.


We recommend bringing enough cash from mainland Ecuador to cover tours, meals, and tips - just in case.

Wifi connections in Galapagos are limited. Although many tour operators as well as hotels offer starlink wifi connections, reception can differ from day to day. 

Be prepared that you might find a limited wifi-connection. Alternatively, you can buy a sim-card to be a bit more flexible when being in one of the main towns such as Puerto Ayora or Puerto Baquerizo Moreno. 

Other than that, enjoy Galapagos and go for a digital detox. 

Depending on the time visiting the Galapagos you might adjust your packing list a bit. In general, we recommend the following: 

  • Hat or cap
  • Sunglasses
  • Sunscreen (reef safe)
  • Good grip closed shoes for hiking activities
  • UV protecting long sleeve for water activties
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Microfiber towels (very practical for the beach)
  • If possible, a good camera as you might take the best pictures of your life 😉