FAQs about Galapagos: How to get there?

Q: How to get there?

First, you must get to Ecuador Mainland . Make sure you arrive to Quito or Guayaquil at least one day before your departure to the Galapagos; there are no direct connections with international flights and flights to Galapagos Islands depart from mainland Ecuador early in the morning from Quito and/or Guayaquil. Visitors arrive by plane from Mainland (flight takes about 2 ½ hours) with three main Airlines: AVIANCA, LAN and TAME and arrive to Galapagos to one of its two Airports: One in Baltra Island and one in San Cristobal.

First, you must get to Ecuador Mainland. Make sure you arrive to Quito or Guayaquil at least one day before your departure to the Galapagos; there are no direct connections with international flights and flights to Galapagos Islands depart from mainland Ecuador early in the morning from Quito and/or Guayaquil.

Visitors arrive by plane from Mainland (flight takes about 2 ½ hours) with three main Airlines: AVIANCA, LAN and TAME and arrive to Galapagos to one of its two Airports: One in Baltra Island and one in San Cristobal.

Other related frequently asked questions

When should I make my reservation?

Galapagos is a top-destination for travelers, therefore cruises and tours are on very high demand year-around. It is recommended to arrange your trip at least with 6 months in advance to secure and guarantee your spots on the preferred trip.

Now, if you find the opportunity to visit the Galapagos before 6 months in advance, there is also the possibility to find cruise deals that may fill your expectations. However, if you leave your decision for the last-minute, you may not find what you were looking for a tour that will fulfill your expectations.

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Are all your prices in US dollars?

In Ecuador Mainland and the Galapagos Archipelago, U.S. Dollar has been established and used as main and only currency since the year 2000. When making payments for your trip, you may do so in your local currency at up-to-date conversion.

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How much should we tip the guide and crew?

There are no established tipping guidelines for all cruises, you should decide the amount to tip your guide and crew based on your level of satisfaction with the services provided on board and while on excursions.

On Luxury and First class cruises it is recommended to tip $15-$20 p.p. for the guide per day and the same amount per day for the whole crew. On Midrange and Economy class cruises it is recommended to tip $10-$13 p.p. for the guide per day and the same amount per day for the whole crew.

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What is the smoking policy on board the boats?

Cruises have strict policy on smoking on board: is prohibited in almost all social areas, dining rooms and cabins in cruises, but most of them do allow to smoke on designated areas in the sundeck prior request from passengers to the guide or cruise director. Smoking is strictly prohibited on inhabited islands and visitor sites during a cruise.

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How do we receive our vouchers and tickets for the Galapagos?

We send your final trip voucher with reconfirmed services 1 month before the tour dates. Our voucher also contents flight information for the confirmed route of your trip: Airlines issue e-tickets and you do not require to present printed e-tickets as at Airline’s Counter you just need to present your original Passport for check-in.

Upon payment of your tour at time of booking, we will send you a tour non-VAT invoice for your records as proof of purchase and confirmation.

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Should I charter?

If you are planning to travel with your whole Family or with a group of adventurous Friends and you like to enjoy the privacy and comfort of a private cruise with personalized and dedicated service for your party, then chartering a nice yacht is a wonderful idea!

There are several options on different categories of cruises to choose from, especially for small yachts or catamarans with capacity for up to 16 passengers. Charter cruises are best if confirmed at least 9 months before your traveling period as all Galapagos cruises are always on very high demand and several are confirmed for charters with 12 and even 24 months in advance to guarantee the charter cruise. Please contact us if you are planning to charter a wonderful cruise for your party so we can guide you on how to choose the right cruise to enjoy a memorable experience.

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