Galapagos for International travel agencies
From where can I flight to the Galapagos Islands?
Can I go to Galapagos for 1 or 2 day´s trip?
No, it´s not possible to take a day tour to Galapagos, because of flight connectivity. Flights in average land in Galapagos between 9:00 am – 1:30 pm and the latest return flight depart at 2:00 pm In the case of two days’ trip, the passenger will only be able to visit one of the ranch or breeding centers, and of course the hotel accommodation, but no more than that. For this reason, we recommend our customers, to stay in Galapagos at least 4 days and 3 nights. In this way, they can either take a short cruise, i.e. the Galapagos Seaman Journey, or do some daily excursions on a hotel based tour (Island Hopping).
Can I change the itinerary followed by the cruise?
Can I hire a local person as a guide once I arrive at the island?
No, you can´t. In the archipelago, only certified guides are authorized to work as guides. Many of them are originally from the islands, which had studied and specialized as a naturalist guide, with at least English as a second language. However, many guides speak more than 3 languages, such as German, French or even Russian additional to Spanish and English.
Are ATM´s available in Galapagos Islands? Can I withdraw money from them?
Even in Puerto Ayora in Santa Cruz Island, and in San Cristobal Islands you can find some ATM´s that you can use. But, be aware that sometimes they don´t have a connection, and also international credit or debit cards sometimes cannot withdraw. We have been informed that the many UK and Australian cards cannot withdraw from the Galapagos Island ATM´s. Thus, we recommend to bring it.
Can I drink tap water in the Galapagos Islands? Is it safe?
Can I take a natural souvenir from the island?
Can I smoke in the Galapagos Islands or the cruises?
Can I bring my own food to the islands?
The archipelago has restrictions for bringing food to the islands. Avoid, any seed or fresh fruits. However, you can bring a limited amount of processed food such as cookies, candy bars, a limited amount of soft drinks, but everything will be checked through X-Rays and the personal of the Galapagos National Park Authority at the Airport in Quito or Guayaquil as well as your land to the island.
Can I travel to Galapagos Islands with my pet (dog or cat)?
From where can I flight to Galapagos?
You can flight to Galapagos either from Quito and from Guayaquil. The incoming flight has early departure hours from 6:00 up to past midday. On the returning flight the average is between 9:00am to 2:00 pm. You can fly with Avianca, TAME or Latam.
Cruising or Land Tour? Which one is better?
Of course, it depends on traveler needs and interest. Cruising is better for those travelers wanting to optimized their time in Galapagos by visiting as much as they can, also willing to experience cruising along the archipelago, even though the navigation most of the time is at night. On the other hand, the Island Hopping option can fit the budget and schedule of travelers, as well as being 100% customized to their needs.
Which type of vessel is better? Big or small yachts?
Why do I have to leave so early from the boat when I´m departing from Puerto Ayora?
The airport that serve Santa Cruz Island, is in Baltra, which is a small island close to Santa Cruz. To be able to reach the airport, we have to cross the Itabaca Channel in a small boat that takes approximately 10 minutes. However, from the channel to Puerto Ayora is approximately 45 minutes by car. These hours may vary if the hour is close to the flights, so the traffic increase and the services may suffer delays. Thus, if the returning flight is at 10:00am, people should be at the airport at least at 8:30am, but to be able to be at that hour passenger should be leaving the boat at 6:00am approx.
Is there wifi available everywhere in Puerto Ayora and/or onboard the vessel?
What local food should I try in Galapagos Island?
Can I see endemic and rare animal species resting and walking everywhere in town?
Yes, you definitely can see them. To point out, one of the highlight of the Galapagos Islands and their biodiversity is that animal are not afraid of humans. They are the owner of the enchanted island, so it is very common to see a sea lion resting or sleeping in one of the bench at the harbor in Puerto Ayora, or a marine iguana crossing the harbor. If you are going to visit Puerto Ayora, don´t forget to visit the fish market, where you can see the pelicans trying to steal their dinner.