FAQs about Galapagos: When is the best time to travel to Galapagos?

You can visit the Galapagos any time of the year as there is always something wonderful happening in the Islands, especially with wildlife’s behavior and natural events.

From mid-June to early-December you have a mixture of warm and rain (afternoon showers), and Ocean waters are warmer and calmer due to the “El Niño” current. From mid-December to early-June is the cool/dry season on land and Ocean, especially because of the passing of the “Humboldt” current through the Archipelago.

Other related frequently asked questions

Can I kayak?
During a Naturalist cruise on board a Luxury or First Class cruise (yacht or vessel), besides hiking, snorkeling and swimming you will have single and/or double sea-kayaks on board to enjoy this wonderful sport in the Pacific Ocean while enjoying the breathtaking volcanic landscapes of the Islands, the pristine Ocean waters, and of course, the company of playful Sea lions, Sea Turtles and Birdlife and much more! Truly an experience that you don’t want to miss when available during your cruise.
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Where are the Galapagos islands?
The Galapagos Islands are located in the Pacific Ocean about 1000 kilometers (563 miles) from Ecuador, South America. The 19 Islands are distributed on both sides of the Equator surrounding the Western Hemisphere to the west of Continental Ecuador.
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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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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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What restrictions are there for senior people?

Senior travelers are welcome to board a cruise! In fact, many senior travelers find the Galapagos a must-visit destination as the Islands are a true natural treasure that attracts people of all ages!

Perhaps it is important to know that Galapagos cruises do not have complete facilities for passengers with limited mobility or that require a wheelchair. Also some excursions can be considered as strenuous as they’re on uneven terrains and lava formations, which requires a good physical state to perform.

Still, many Luxury and First class cruises are the preferred for senior travelers as they offer the kind of comfort and facilities required making their journey an enjoyable one and being able to meet other fellow travelers of similar age and interests with specialized and friendly guides.

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