FAQ'S

The Galapagos Islands can be visited year-round, but the best time depends on your interests. The warm season (December to May) offers calmer seas and excellent snorkeling conditions, while the dry season (June to November) brings cooler temperatures and increased wildlife activity.

Download our Seasons and Wildlife Calendar to provide you with more information on yearly weather conditions and wildlife. 

Cruises typically range from 6 to 15 days. A longer cruise allows you to explore more islands and experience a greater variety of wildlife and landscapes.

Light, breathable clothing, sturdy walking shoes, a wide-brimmed hat, reef-safe sunscreen, and a waterproof dry bag are essential.

Download our Packing List for more details on what we recommend to pack.

While the waters around the Galapagos can be rough at times we recommend taking certain precautions if you are prone to seasickness:

• Bring medication for seasickness, such as Dimenhydrinate (Gravol), wrist bands, or patches, prescribed medication that help reduce motion sickness. 
• Booking a cruise when the ocean is more calm. 
• Let us know if you are more prone to sea-sickness prior to booking so we can try to accommodate this by booking you in a lower, central cabin (if available). 
• Stay on-top of it, taking anti-nausea medication before you get sea sick. 

Yes, we cater to families and offer child-friendly activities. As well as offer wet-suits and life jackets that are suitable for children. 

• Accommodations onboard
• All meals, snacks, non-bottled non-alcoholic beverages
• Guided daily excursions
• Use of snorkeling gear
• Professional naturalist guides

• Giant tortoises
• Marine iguanas
• Blue-footed boobies
• Sea lions
• Galapagos penguins
• Flightless cormorants
• Darwin’s Finches
• Land Iguanas
• And much more depending on which Islands you visit

Wetsuits are recommended during the cool season (June to November) when water temperatures are lower.  We offer various sizes of 2mm short wetsuits (end at knees and elbows) for your use, as well as basic snorkeling gear (masks & fins).  If you wish to use specific styles of wetsuits, snorkels or fins we recommend you bring those with you. 

Yes, we have Wi-Fi (Starlink) available for free on our boats.  We kindly ask that you give full attention to the guide and staff during important safety procedures and briefings.  Better yet, enjoy the digital detox and connect with nature!

Activities include guided hikes, snorkeling, kayaking, and panga (small boat) rides. Most excursions are moderate in intensity, and your guides can adjust for different fitness levels.

Most hikes have very low incline, however it is uneven terrain.  Typically each site visit hike is approximately 1.5 hours.  

Each day consists of approximately 2 site visits on land and 2 snorkels (kayaking option available at certain sites). 

All activities are optional.

We offer a variety of international and Ecuadorian cuisine to showcase the rich Ecuadorian culture.  As well as various snacks and drinks served throughout the day.

Special dietary needs can typically be accommodated with advance notice. 

To travel to Ecuador, you generally need the following:

1. Passport

• A valid passport with at least six months of validity remaining from the date of entry is required.

2. Visa Requirements

• Tourist Visa: Citizens from most countries, including the United States, Canada, the European Union, the UK, and Australia, can enter Ecuador visa-free for up to 90 days within a 12-month period.
• Extended Stay: If you plan to stay longer, you may need to apply for a tourist extension or a different type of visa (such as a temporary residency visa).

3. Entry Requirements

• Return or Onward Ticket: Proof of a return flight or onward travel is typically required.
• Proof of Accommodation: Though not always asked for, it’s advisable to have booking confirmations for accommodations.

4. Health Requirements

(Recommended)

• Yellow Fever Vaccination: Recommended if you are traveling from a country with a risk of yellow fever or visiting the Amazon region of Ecuador.

5. Travel Insurance (Recommended)

• While not mandatory, comprehensive travel insurance covering health, accidents, and trip interruptions is highly recommended.

6. Customs and Currency Declaration

• Ecuador uses the US dollar as its official currency.
• You must declare amounts exceeding $10,000 USD upon entry or exit.

Prior to entering Galapagos you will need to pay the transit control card fee ($20 usd per person).  This can be done either at the airport in Guayaquil or Quito, or done through your travel company.  Upon arrival to Galapagos, you will go through Galapagos Immigration, where you will be required to pay the Galapagos National Park entrance fee ($200 usd per person – CASH), which can also be pre-arranged via your travel company. 

Before travelling, it’s best to check  Ecuador’s official government websites for the most up-to-date information.

We provide water stations on board where you can refill your waterbottle at any given time. 

Although tap water and shower water in the bathrooms is filtered, we do not recommend drinking it. 

• Follow all park regulations.
• Stay on marked trails during hikes.
• Avoid touching or feeding wildlife.
• Use reef-safe sunscreen.
• Dispose of waste properly and recycle when possible.