Ecuador and Galapagos Islands Cruise
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length
10 days
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quality
This indicates the overall quality of the travel agency's products. A low rating doesn't mean it's bad - it just means it doesn't include as much, or maybe have a more standard quality than a higher quality tour. For example, a 3 star quality rating means it's a more standard/economical tour, while a 5 star is a very luxurious tour, usually including lots of amenities.
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start at
Quito, Ecuador)
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ends at
san cristobal i.
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Available tour start dates
From July 4, 2023 to January 16, 2024These are the tour start dates for the last available tour instanceContikisent us such information. There may be other departures that are not available (i.e. sold out or canceled) for this itinerary.
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language
English
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special interest
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guarantee date
Yes means there is at least one travel date guaranteed by the supplier to occur. Doesn't mean the supplier guarantees that at least one travel date won't happen, it usually means that the supplier expects a certain number of bookings for each trip so that each trip will happen. Of course, the supplier's terms and conditions allow the supplier to cancel guaranteed travel dates for certain reasons (for example, natural disasters).
No
Prices listed are per person, based on double occupancy, and are the cheapest available on at least one departure date for the tour. Prices are for tours only. Additional items, including but not limited to airfare (unless otherwise stated), travel insurance, etc., are additional costs.
$3,723.40
usable
Contact us for a special price!
overview
From the gloomy caves of Quito to the bright white beaches of Seymour Island. Whether it's a red-footed seabird that really shines or a salsa lesson - there's more to this tour than just a burst of color. From the capital of Ecuador to the most enchanting islands of the Galapagos, there's lots of laughter, crafts and water rafts in between.
visit during the visit
Baltra Island (Galapagos Islands)|Baños (Ecuador)|Bartholomew Island (Galapagos Islands)|Cerro Brujo (Galapagos)|North Seymour Island (Galapagos)|Pompet (Galapagos Islands)|Quito, Ecuador)|San Cristobal Island (Galapagos Islands)|South Square Island (Galapagos Islands)|Tena (Ecuador)
Dates, Offers and Prices
travel itinerary
more details
Dates, Offers and Prices
The following isEcuador and Galapagos Islands CruiseTour dates are available fromContiki.Select a bonus offer image to view its details, including its terms.
The supplier suggests that at least one departure point is not available for the selected year.Click hereIf you would like such trips included below.
| start date | end date | bonus offer | from Prices listed are per person, based on double occupancy, and are the cheapest rates available for that tour date. Prices are for tours only, unless otherwise stated. Other items, including but not limited to air tickets, travel insurance, etc., are subject to additional charges. | ensure? Yes means the supplier guarantees that the travel date will take place. No means the supplier does not guarantee that the trip will take place on that date, which usually means that the supplier expects a certain number of bookings on that date to confirm it. Of course, the supplier's terms and conditions allow the supplier to cancel guaranteed travel dates for certain reasons (for example, natural disasters). | |
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| Tuesday July 4, 2023 | Thursday July 13, 2023 | not available | No (depart #20230704) | ||
| Tuesday September 12, 2023 | Thursday September 21, 2023 | Exclusive prices on all Contiki tours! Exclusive prices on all Contiki tours!book anyContikiTour with us, you will get the best price! contact usPricing and availability. Valid for new bookings beginning October 21, 2020. Subject to expiration without notice. Bonus offers cannot be combined unless otherwise stated. Pricing may already reflect application of any applicable promotions. Additional restrictions apply. Certain terms and conditions apply to each offer. Additional restrictions apply. We reserve the right to correct errors. No booking fees! No booking fees!We do not charge any booking feesContikiholiday. You will definitely enjoy affordableContikiTour Packages When Booking With Us! contact usPricing and availability. Valid for new bookings beginning October 21, 2020. Subject to expiration without notice. Bonus offers cannot be combined unless otherwise stated. Pricing may already reflect application of any applicable promotions. Additional restrictions apply. Certain terms and conditions apply to each offer. Additional restrictions apply. We reserve the right to correct errors. | $3,723.40 | No (depart #20230912) | |
| Tuesday January 16, 2024 | Thursday January 25, 2024 | Exclusive prices on all Contiki tours! Exclusive prices on all Contiki tours!book anyContikiTour with us, you will get the best price! contact usPricing and availability. Valid for new bookings beginning October 21, 2020. Subject to expiration without notice. Bonus offers cannot be combined unless otherwise stated. Pricing may already reflect application of any applicable promotions. Additional restrictions apply. Certain terms and conditions apply to each offer. Additional restrictions apply. We reserve the right to correct errors. No booking fees! No booking fees!We do not charge any booking feesContikiholiday. You will definitely enjoy affordableContikiTour Packages When Booking With Us! contact usPricing and availability. Valid for new bookings beginning October 21, 2020. Subject to expiration without notice. Bonus offers cannot be combined unless otherwise stated. Pricing may already reflect application of any applicable promotions. Additional restrictions apply. Certain terms and conditions apply to each offer. Additional restrictions apply. We reserve the right to correct errors. | $3,723.40 | No (Departure #20240116) |
travel itinerary
notes:The currently selected tour version (via the "Select Season" option above) will be in the reverse order listed below. If you prefer the tour in the order listed below, please select a different version of this tour above (does not mean "reverse").
Contiki Travel Code581-2047
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Ecuador and Galapagos Islands Cruise
Contiki Travel Code581-2047
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sky
1start quito
Welcome to Quito! When we gather in the capital of Ecuador, the atmosphere will be very high. Built on ancient Incan ruins, this modern city (nicknamed "American Light") has one of the best-preserved historic centers in the United States. It was also the first city to be declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. We will go straight into the city group tour, traveling between the two hemispheres on the equator line. Squeezing in a visit to the IInti-Ñan museum should end day one nicely.
- Meals include:
- dinner
- dormitory: Hostal de La Mancha Quito (or similar)
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2Quito to Turner
It ventures away from the city and into lush jungle with spectacular views en route. A great way to spend the day.This stunning landscape is made up of vibrant hills and tumbling rivers, making it a white water rafting dream! If that's not your scene, we'll head to a hummingbird sanctuary to try and catch these beautiful birds as they buzz by. Then we'll settle down for the night and get ready for tomorrow's big adventure.
- Meals include:
- breakfast
- dormitory: Selina Tena (or similar)
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3real
Today is your day to roam the city and the jungle to your heart's content. Maybe relax with a few hot sugar cane and cinnamon drinks and traditional canelazo beer, or opt to visit a local Aboriginal community - a really cool way to really get involved and give back to your travels. You'll have the chance to meet shamans, play soccer with local children, and get a real taste of tribal life in the area. Do you like the sound of this? Perhaps consider packing some extra school supplies or a tasty snack in your luggage – definitely not a must, but definitely a hit with local kids. This afternoon, get the adrenaline pumped up a notch and hit the river for some fast and furious rafting. Nothing inspires team cohesion like a fast ride. Tonight, we will enjoy delicious meats, sauces and salads, all traditional dishes sourced locally from the region. yum
- Meals include:
- breakfast
- dinner
- dormitory: Selina Tena (or similar)
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4turner to banos
Good morning, Amazon Rover! Today we're headed to the adrenaline capital of Baños, so it's time to waddle out of the rainforest - our next adventure awaits... Nestled among tumbling valleys, waterfalls and the still-active Volcán Tungurahua, Banos is nothing short of natural beauty. No matter how adventurous you're feeling, there's something for everyone over the next two days. If "Thrill Seeker" is your middle name, choose your Zip Line and Canyoneering experience today. If you want a more gentle experience, fear not, tomorrow we have the perfect Zip Line (for beginners) to choose from.Tonight's theme is learning the art of sultry salsa dancing, including a lesson that makes our snake hips quiver. Our friendly local teacher, Edith, knows what's going on on the dance floor, and when we leave, those salsa pros won't know what hit them. After the dance floor goal is done, we'll hop around some watering holes and experience the local nightlife.
- Meals include:
- breakfast
- dormitory: Hotel Napolitano Apart Banos (or similar)
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5Banos
Today's adventure opportunities are endless, with horseback riding, canyoning and zip lining all available. Trust us, this isn't just plain old zip lining - we're talking sky bridges, rock climbing and flying through the skies, Superman style - it's pretty much the ultimate aerial adventure. Don't have such a high mind? Horse fun and canyoning will keep you on your toes. Oh, what a tough day it's going to be at Banos - deciding how best to embrace your inner adventurer.
- Meals include:
- breakfast
- dormitory: Hotel Napolitano Apart Banos (or similar)
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6Baños to Quito
Today we return to Quito for a short overnight stay.You'll still have the chance to explore this beautiful city - lucky!
- Meals include:
- breakfast
- dormitory: Hostal de La Mancha Quito (or similar)
(Video) Galapagos - Land-based vs Cruise - COMPLETE COST BREAKDOWN -
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7Quito to Bartolome Island via Baltra
Get up, guys. Our road to paradise started early this morning with our flight to Baltra Island. As promised... welcome to Paradise. On the way to the pier, take a moment to admire the turquoise sea and stunning sand... Bartolome Island. It is one of the most iconic in the Galapagos, and rightfully so. From the top of the mountain overlook the famous Pinnacle Rock and San Diego Island in the distance. This volcanic environment is the closest we Earthlings may come to experiencing a lunar landscape. But Bartolomé also has penguins. Plus white tip reef sharks and sea lions. Take that, Moon.
- Meals include:
- dinner
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8Bartolome Island via South Square Island to North Seymour Island
Goodbye Bartolomé, but fear not, more island excitement awaits you. You'll see red in the South Plaza, from the island carpet of red succulents to the red-billed tropical birds flying overhead. After a romantic morning of bird watching on the cliffs, we return to sea level to observe iguanas. Our next stop is North Seymour Island to experience the most creative and colorful mating ritual you will ever see. From clapping frigatebirds with bright red pouches to blue-footed boobies (not a euphemism) dancing to impress their future significant other. Besides the birds (and bees), we'll see sea lions and enjoy some stunning ocean views.
- Meals include:
- breakfast
- Lunch
- dinner
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9North Seymour Island to San Cristobal
Good morning everyone. Today we switched from blue feet to red feet. After breakfast, of course...After landing, we would say hello to the sea lions, then climb to the highest point of the island to see what we had to see... boobies. Three species of large seabirds inhabit here—the Nazca Booby, the Blue-footed Booby, and the Red-footed Booby (almost nature's answer to Crayola's creation.) To add more seabird beauty to the scene, frigate birds were also Will soar high. It's just breathtaking.This afternoon was all about relaxing on the beach with sea lions and seabirds. Add in the snorkeling, and the chance to visit a secluded lagoon, and you're living in what almost anyone would call an island paradise—let alone a birdwatcher's paradise.
- Meals include:
- breakfast
- Lunch
- dinner
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10Cerro Brujo to San Cristobal
Yes, we save the biggest for last. Or at least the largest of reptiles. Today's topic is the Galapagos giant tortoise. We'll visit a breeding center that works with these amazing creatures in various life stages, helping to restore populations and release them back into the wild. After an enlightening experience, you'll have the chance to do some shopping in town - and maybe pick up a handicraft or two. It's time for an emotional Galapa-goodbye. It's interesting. We will remember the coast, the cliffs and the company for many years to come. The question is, which island paradise is next? Maybe Greece?
- Meals include:
- breakfast
more details
Contikiare notifying us of the following additional details about themEcuador and Galapagos Islands Cruisetravel:
travel notes
The tour starts from Quito at 8:00 am and ends at San Cristobal Airport at 2:00 pm. It is not recommended to book a flight that arrives on the first day of the itinerary or departs before 4:00 pm on the last day of the itinerary. The cruise portion of this itinerary is operated by open age Go Galapagos Cruises and there is no Contiki Trip Manager. All passengers on this booking require full passport information.Galapagos National Park in the Galapagos Islands has a mandatory entrance fee of US$100 and an INGALA fee of US$20, payable only in cash on arrival.
meal included
Tour prices listed above are per person, in US dollars and based on double occupancy. Prices for other stay types are subject to change. Pricing is based on when the supplier last electronically sent us pricing data, which varies from supplier to supplier (usually happens overnight or multiple times per day). Prices and availability are subject to change and must be confirmed by one of our travel advisors who can contact the supplier to do so. Unless otherwise stated, the following charges are not included in the vacation price: Airfare to and from the start of the vacation; vacation airfare, unless specified in the itinerary; airline baggage fees, including checked and/or excess baggage fees; U.S. federal customs and Federal screening fees from USCIS; international air transportation taxes; agricultural taxes; other personal taxes imposed by government entities; airport taxes and fees, including September 11 security fees, passenger facility fees, federal domestic flight segment fees, U.S. and international arrivals and departure and other government-imposed fees imposed by airlines and applicable at time of booking; port taxes; passports; visas and vaccinations; gratuities to your cruise director, local host, driver, local guide and/or crew; ferries, Gratuities on trains and cruise ships; laundry; telephone calls; minibar; alcohol, beverages and food outside the contracted menu served in hotels or restaurants or on board your ship (these extra items will be billed to you before you leave the hotel, ship or restaurant Fees); airport transfers for ineligible flights; optional excursions; additional activities and excursions purchased online; airport and train station handling; travel protection; and all other items of a personal nature. Itinerary details are to be provided by the supplier. Supplier may reserve the right to change itineraries, even in the case of existing bookings. There may be cases where the tour length is included in the name of the tour, but there are versions of the tour with different lengths. You can check the true length of the tour by referring to the length value listed associated with the tour. Hotel details (including but not limited to: class/rating, description, pictures, amenities and address) are provided byContiki.We reserve the right to correct errors.
FAQs
How many days is enough for Galapagos Islands? ›
How many days should I spend in the Galapagos if I want to see every island? Laughter tells that travelers need 14-15 days to see every single island in the archipelago. However, we recommend adding in some free time between snorkeling, hiking, and exploring lava tunnels for two weeks.
How long do you need for Ecuador and Galapagos? ›5 to 6 days is perfect if you have limited time but still want a memorable experience. 7 – 8 days is very comprehensive and will allow you to experience the diversity of the different islands and landscapes. 9 – 15 days if you really want to see all that the Galapagos has to offer. To learn more . . .
How many days do you need on the Galapagos cruise? ›The Galapagos Islands is truly an extraordinary experience, but some find that a four or five-day cruise is plenty for them, while others prefer to see absolutely everything and take an eight-day cruise, or even a cruise that lasts 14 or 15 days.
What 4 things do you need to enter the Galapagos Islands? ›Visitors must have a current passport valid for more than three months, adequate funds to support themselves and a return ticket. Be sure to bring your C-card or proof of certification.
What is the best month to visit Ecuador and Galapagos? ›Each month has its own rewards (learn more below). But that said, our experts generally agree that the best time to visit the Galapagos Islands is from December to May. Why? These months coincide with the warm season and ocean conditions are clear, warm excellent for snorkeling and diving.
What month is best for Galapagos? ›The best time to visit Galapagos Islands is between December to February, although different times of year are preferred depending on the desired activities. These months are considered the warm, rainy season or garúa season.
How far in advance do you need to book Galapagos? ›Generally you should think about booking your trip between 3 to 9 months in advance. Also see: When is the best time to go to the Galapagos? How flexible are your travel dates? If you only have a week long window in which to visit the Galapagos, you will have really limited options.
What is the best way to see the Galapagos Islands? ›Your best bet for getting to the Galapagos is to fly into Baltra Island before taking a bus and ferry ride to Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz Island, the most popular tourist hub. Another option is to fly into the capital of Puerto Baquerizo Moreno on San Cristobal Island, but most cruises start in Santa Cruz.
Do I need cash for Galapagos? ›The Galapagos islands operate mainly on cash, the US dollar being the official currency since 2000. Please note, though, that $100 bills are NOT readily accepted anywhere in the islands.
What do you do on a Galapagos cruise? ›- Snorkeling (from ship or beaches)
- Panga rides (the local name for the small boats that transfer you from ship to shore, or used to explore the mangroves)
- Kayaking.
- Diving (on ships with diving itineraries)
How to spend 5 days in Galapagos Islands? ›
- DAY 1 BALTRA – SANTA CRUZ ISLAND – ISABELA ISLAND – FLAMINGO LAGOON. Today your Island Hopping Galapagos tour starts. ...
- DAY 2 SNORKELING IN LOS TUNELES. ...
- DAY 3 CHARLES DARWIN RESEARCH STATION – BAY TOUR. ...
- DAY 4 SANTA FE ISLAND. ...
- DAY 5 TRANSFER OUT – BALTRA.
You MUST NOT bring any agricultural or plant materials or any unprocessed food products to the islands. To avoid problems at customs and bag check we suggest only traveling to Galápagos with pre-wrapped snack products such as chocolate bars, etc.
Do I need bug spray in the Galapagos? ›Bug spray. While bugs aren't a major issue in the islands, you may find yourself in some spots where there are insects—and they won't leave you alone! It's a good idea to have some organic bug repellent on hand, but remember to watch where you spray it so it doesn't impact the surrounding environment.
What do you not do on the Galapagos Islands? ›Do not leave the trail. Keep your distance – please keep at least two metres away from all animals and NEVER touch them no matter how tame they appear. Don't feed the animals. Buy responsibly – when purchasing souvenirs, do not buy anything made from the flora, fauna or rocks of the Islands.
Do you need a wetsuit to snorkel in the Galapagos? ›The very short answer: It is not ultimately necessary to wear a wetsuit when swimming or snorkeling in Galapagos, but for the most enjoyable experience we stongly recommend you use one. The longer answer: Snorkeling is one of the top activities that passengers look for during a Galapagos Cruise, and rightfully so!
What are the rainiest months in Ecuador? ›The inter-Andean valleys have a temperate climate and rainy season from October to May and a dry season from June to September; average monthly temperatures are about 14.5° C in the rainy season and 15° C in the dry season.
What is the hottest months in Ecuador? ›| Quick Climate Info | |
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| Hottest Month | January (59 °F avg) |
| Coldest Month | June (58 °F avg) |
| Wettest Month | April (7.33" avg) |
| Windiest Month | September (7 mph avg) |
The Best Time to Snorkel the Galapagos
The dry and cooler season runs from June to November while the wet and warmer season lasts from December through the end of May. If you're planning to snorkel in the Galapagos, the wet season is generally preferred.
Visiting the Galapagos Islands is definitely worth every penny and time! Not only is the scenery and wildlife absolutely breathtaking, but you'll also have the opportunity to learn about a variety of unique species that can only be found in this part of the world. A unique experience that might change your life!
What is the best month to visit Galapagos and Machu Picchu? ›We recommend traveling to the Galapagos Islands and Machu Picchu any time from March through December. The most popular months to travel for both destinations is April and May, and trips sell out very far in advance. June, July, & August are the second most popular time to visit both.
How much money should I bring to Ecuador? ›
How much money should I bring? Depending on the length of your trip, plan to bring $300-600 per person for spending money, tips, taxi rides, additional visits and those meals not included in the itinerary. Cash is the easiest to carry as Ecuador uses the US dollar for local currency.
How long is the boat ride from Ecuador to Galapagos? ›It takes 3 or more days by sea to reach the Islands. The boat sailing to the Islands from mainland Ecuador usually lacks the comforts found on cruise ships and touring yachts, most likely it is a cargo boat.
Do I need a PCR test to enter Galapagos? ›International travelers are no longer required to present COVID-19 vaccination cards or proof of a negative COVID-19 test prior to entering the Galapagos Islands.
Is cruise the best way to see Galapagos? ›While you'll see Galapagos tortoises, sea lions, and iguanas on any trip to the Galapagos, a cruise is simply the best way to fully experience the diversity of species found in the Galapagos. As this is a priority for many travelers, it often ends up being the determining factor when picking between cruise and land.
Where do Galapagos cruises leave from? ›Most Galapagos cruise ships depart from Baltra Island. Until 1986, Baltra had the only Galapagos airport. Now, the airports are two - one (on Baltra) for flights from South America, and the other (on San Cristobal) serving the whole archipelago.
Do any cruise lines go to the Galapagos Islands? ›Silversea Cruises is the pinnacle of luxury expeditions in the Galápagos Islands. The ship that set the bar for what luxury expeditions should be, you can also set sail aboard Silversea's smallest ship, the Silver Galápagos. With a maximum capacity for just 100 passengers, you'll experience the islands in elegance!
Are $100 dollar bills accepted in Ecuador? ›ECUADOR & GALÁPAGOS CURRENCY
Ecuador's official currency is the U.S. dollar, so that makes it easy for American travelers. There are no currency restrictions for entry to or exit from Ecuador. However, Ecuador's banking systems and commercial sites do not accept $100 bills, so it's recommended to bring smaller bills.
Apart from Ecuadorean-minted 5c, 10c, 25c and 50c coins, which are used in parallel with the US equivalents, the US Dollar is the only legal currency in Ecuador. Credit cards and travellers' cheques are generally accepted in cities.
Do they use US dollars in Ecuador? ›Ecuador's decision to adopt the US dollar as its official currency was prompted by a default on a currency bond to a private bank, which involved the World Bank. To prevent a total collapse of its monetary system, Ecuador accepted dollarization.
What are 3 things Galapagos Islands are famous for? ›What are the Galapagos Islands famous for? Giant tortoises on Isabela, marine iguanas on Fernandina, blue-footed boobies nesting on North Seymour, and 17 other land, marine, and avian species not found anywhere else in the world are the major reasons for the Galapagos Islands' fame.
How much is the entrance to Galapagos for tourist? ›
One of the most important entry requirements is the National Park Fee. Upon arrival to the islands, a park officer will collect this National Park fee of $100 US. (Cash only, no travelers' checks.) Everybody must pay a park entrance fee of $100.00.
What are three special things about the Galapagos Islands? ›- 97 % of the Galapagos is a National Park. ...
- Galapagos has active volcanos. ...
- The number of islands is up for debate. ...
- Three varieties of colorful boobies (seabirds) ...
- Penguins in the Northern Hemisphere? ...
- Marine iguanas are excellent swimmers. ...
- Any time is a great time to visit.
- Ecuadorian Amazon. Most of Ecuador's Oriente region lies in the Amazon basin. ...
- Highlands of Ecuador. You don't have to go far out of Quito to see some of the incredible sights that mainland Ecuador has to offer. ...
- Colombia. ...
- Peru. ...
- Chile.
A 'wet' landing (which means transferring from ship to shore in a panga/zodiac dinghy and stepping out into the sea briefly at roughly ankle height before wading up onto the beach – soft sand so no need for wet shoes or any other protection).
Is it hard to go to the Galapagos? ›It is not easy to visit the Galapagos Islands – from North America, you'll have to fly to Quito or Guayaquil, and then take another flight out to the islands. For many people, that means three different flights, since most cities in the U.S. do not have a direct connection to Ecuador.
Which island is the best to stay in Galapagos? ›Santa Cruz is the best island to stay in the Galapagos Islands, it's the most popular when it comes to tourism, it has great hotels such as Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel, and you can take a boat trip to other islands from here.
How long is a Galapagos cruise? ›If you are looking for a thorough introduction to the Galapagos, an 8-day trip is probably your best choice. 8-day Galapagos cruises are the length of trip most frequently recommended by experts because they strike a excellent balance between the very short 4 and 5-day cruises and the much longer 15-day cruises.
What is the only way to tour the Galapagos Islands? ›The Galapagos National Park covers more than 3,000 square miles of islands and ocean, with virtually all visitor sites accessed only by boat. Even land-based tourists must take a day boat to explore the Islands' unique nature and wildlife.
Are Ziploc bags allowed in Galapagos? ›Single-use plastics are NOT allowed into the Galapagos Islands. You need to bring a reusable water bottle!
What are the biggest problems in Galapagos Islands? ›Overfishing and illegal industrial fishing are serious threats to the islands' delicate marine ecosystem. They deplete commercial fish, destroy marine environments, and harm local communities whose livelihoods and health depend on fish.
Can you drink alcohol in the Galapagos Islands? ›
ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES
The legal drinking age in the Galapagos Islands and Ecuador is 18. For your safety and that of your fellow guests, please drink responsibly and with moderation.
Most public places on the inhabited Galápagos Islands do, in fact, have public restrooms. They might not contain things like running water and toilet paper, though, so it's a good idea to carry your own pack of tissues and some hand sanitizer.
Should I bring my own snorkel gear to Galapagos? ›Snorkel Gear
If you have your own snorkeling, it is nice to bring them to your trip so you would not have to rent.
Be a Respectful Observer
It may sound obvious to some, but one of the most important Galapagos rules is not to touch the animals. Wildlife in the Galapagos archipelago is so unbothered by the presence of humans that people can get extremely close to each creature without them even moving an inch.
There is no “wrong” time to visit Galapagos: different times of the year have different things to see and do. The birds, tortoises and dazzling marine life are always there, waiting for their photos to be taken. Its geographical location, right on the equator, makes the temperature variation minimum through the year.
What is the Galápagos Island controversy? ›The Galapagos Affair: Sex, Murder and Mystery in the Islands
Though today the Galapagos Islands remain quiet and sleepy, in 1934 the Galapagos captured the world's attention of an international scandal of sex and murder with a Berlin Doctor and his mistress start a new life on uninhabited Floreana Island.
Galapagos is not a cheap place to visit (but so worth it). Due to their location, the challenges of sustainable tourism there, and the need to support local development, the Galapagos Islands are more expensive than the mainland of Ecuador. While budget travel is feasible, the trip can still cost you a lot.
Can you visit Galapagos without a tour guide? ›First off, yes, you can visit the Galapagos Islands without a tour. This is the most important myth to dispel, as there are four islands that tourists can reside on without being on any sort of tour. These islands are Santa Cruz, San Cristobal (a.k.a. Chatham), Isabela, and Floreana (a.k.a. Charles or Santa Marta).
Can you walk on the Galapagos Islands? ›Despite being famed for its magnificent natural beauty and remarkable wildlife species, many travellers wonder if you can hike in the Galapagos Islands. We're here to set the matter straight: you absolutely can. The untamed landscapes of the archipelago make wonderful places to explore on two feet.