Information About the Galapagos

Here we provide you with all the information about the Galapagos Islands that you need to explore this natural wonder.

LANGUAGE

Spanish is the official language in Ecuador and the Galapagos, although Quichua is still spoken by many indigenous people in the Andes. Nevertheless, most people working in tourism like hotel and cruise staff as well as most guides speak English.

TIME ZONE

Mainland Ecuador (Quito and Guayaquil) is GMT -5 hours. The Galapagos Islands are GMT -6 hours. The Galapagos is on Central Standard Time.

CURRENCY

Since the year 2000 U.S. dollar is the standard currency in Ecuador and Galapagos.

VACCINATIONS

For travels to Quito and the Galapagos Islands, there are no vaccinations required. However, if you intend to visit mainland Ecuador, especially the Amazon or coastal regions, we recommend you to consult with your trusted Physician. Please do this well ahead of time since some vaccinations need to be administered three months before your trip!

TRAVEL INSURANCE

We strongly recommend purchasing insurance for trip cancellation as well as travel and medical insurance to be protected in the event of any unforeseen situations. Please contact your local travel agent or flight dealer for the best offer.

ENTRY FEES

It is necessary to obtain a TCT (Tarjeta de Control de Transito) at the airport in Quito or Guayaquil before taking your flight to Galapagos. The TCT costs $20 per person (subject to change). Upon arrival in Galapagos, you must pay the entry fee for the Galapagos National Park: $200 per person for most visitors $100 per person for children under 12 years old For detailed information about the National Park entry fee and special rates for visitors from Andean Community countries, check the following link: Galapagos National Park entry fee.

LUGGAGE RESTRICTIONS

Usually the luggage for all national flights in Ecuador is restricted to one suitcase/bag/backpack of 20kg max, and one piece of hand luggage of 6 kg max. Please also note that international security rules that apply. For example, sharp items, explosive and flammable items and generally all dangerous items. If in doubt whether a certain item is allowed to bring and where to put it please check the following link as a reference.

Permitted and prohibited luggage items in Galapagos

VISAS

Ecuador, the country that the Galapagos Islands are part of, welcomes tourists and travelers from every country. Visitors from the US, Canada, Australia and most countries in Europe traveling to Ecuador for tourism, business or studies do not require a visa unless they expect to stay in Ecuador for more than 90 days in one "calendar" year ( 90 days adding every entry in one year, that is) or if they are drawing income from an Ecuadorian source. Visitors from these countries will receive a tourist visa of maximum 90 days at the entrance port.

Nevertheless please note that your passport must be valid for at least another 6 months from the entrance day.

Please find below a list of countries that do require a Visa before coming to Ecuador (subject to change):

LIST OF NATIONALITIES THAT REQUIRE A VISA TO ENTER ECUADOR

Updated in September 2024

If you have doubts about whether it is advisable to obtain a visa before traveling to Ecuador, it is best to contact the nearest Ecuadorian Embassy or Consulate. There, you can get information about the Galapagos Islands and resolve any related concerns. This will ensure that your trip goes smoothly.