Galapagos Planner
Travel tips
How to get to Galápagos?
Two airlines fly to Galápagos from Quito or Guayaquil. The airports are located in Baltra (GPS) and San Cristóbal (SCY). Most flights arrive in Baltra due to its proximity to Santa Cruz. From Baltra, the transfer to the port takes approximately 1 hour. In San Cristóbal, the port is just a 15-minute walk or a 5-minute taxi ride.
Transfer from Baltra to Santa Cruz (Puerto Ayora)
From Baltra Airport, take a bus (USD 5 per person) to the dock. Then, cross by barge to Santa Cruz (USD 1 per person). From there, you can either take a taxi (USD 25-30, 45 minutes) or a bus (USD 5 per person, 1 hour) to Puerto Ayora.
Galápagos National Park Entrance Fee
| CATEGORÍA | TARIFA |
|---|---|
| TURISTAS EXTRANJEROS | |
| Turistas extranjeros mayores de 12 años | US $200 |
| Turistas extranjeros menores de 12 años | US $100 |
| TURISTAS DE PAISES CAN Y MERCOSUR | |
| Turistas extranjeros no residentes en Ecuador, mayores de 12 años, nacionales de países CAN o Mercosur | US $100 |
| Turistas extranjeros no residentes en Ecuador menores de 12 años, nacionales de países CAN o Mercosur | US $50 |
| TURISTAS NACIONALES | |
| Turistas nacionales o extranjeros residentes en Ecuador, mayores de 12 años | US $30 |
| Turistas nacionales o extranjeros residentes en Ecuador, menores de 12 años | US $15 |
| Turistas nacionales o extranjeros residentes en Ecuador, mayores de 65 años | US $15 |
| Turistas nacionales o extranjeros residentes en Ecuador con carnet de discapacidad emitido por el CONADIS | US $15 |
| Estudiantes extranjeros no residentes en Ecuador, matriculados en instituciones educativas nacionales | US $50 |
| Transeúntes nacionales o extranjeros no residentes en Ecuador, calificados con esta categoría migratoria | US $15 |
| Los menores de 2 años nacionales o extranjeros están exentos del pago de este tributo | |
| PAISES CAN: Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, Perú | |
| PAISES MERCOSUR: Argentina, Brasil, Paraguay, Uruguay | |
Climate
Galápagos has two seasons: warm (February to August) and cool (September to January). The weather is pleasant year-round.
Visiting Season
The high season is from March to July. Book in advance to find better rates for hotels and tours. Prices on the islands depend on supply, not the time of year.
| Season | Months | Air Temperature | Water Temperature | Climate Characteristics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Warm Season | February to August | 25°C - 30°C (77°F - 86°F) | 23°C - 27°C (73°F - 81°F) | Warm and humid, with light rains and clear skies. Ideal for snorkeling and diving. |
| Cool Season | September to January | 20°C - 25°C (68°F - 77°F) | 18°C - 23°C (64°F - 73°F) | Cooler weather, stronger winds, colder water due to the Humboldt current. More clouds and fewer rains. |
Tour Prices
Prices may vary during the cool season since we don’t have the same influx of tourists, and agencies may offer some discounts. While the discounts aren’t significant, you might find more available spots or last-minute deals.
Book tours in advance to ensure availability and discounts during the low season.
What to Bring to the Islands?
Light and comfortable clothing, a swimsuit, insect repellent, sunscreen, a hat, UV sunglasses, and a reusable water bottle. Don’t forget your snorkel gear if you plan to explore the sea. For photography and birdwatching enthusiasts, binoculars and cameras will be useful.
Travel Insurance
Travel safe and protected. Travel insurance covers eventualities such as medical issues or luggage problems.
Medications
Bring any specific medications from the mainland, though there are pharmacies with a varied catalog.
Food and Personal Care Products
You will find basic food options and personal care products in local supermarkets.
Cash
There are ATMs on populated islands, but it’s advisable to carry cash for taxis, fees, and small expenses