Galapagos Islands Travel Notes 1 – Planning Your Adventure

My trip to the Galapagos Islands, the inspiration behind Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution through natural selection, was one of the most unforgettable experiences of my life. This stunning archipelago, nestled in the heart of the ocean, captivated me just as it has countless other visitors. I couldn’t help but share my awe at the island’s remarkable wonders, from the unique marine iguanas and majestic giant tortoises to the fascinating underground caves and beyond.

With this series on the Galapagos Islands, I aim to share my experiences in detail and paint a vivid picture for those considering exploring this unique destination. Get ready to create unforgettable memories; you are about to embark on an adventure filled with sea turtles, sea lions, and countless natural wonders!

The Galapagos Islands are located approximately 1,000 km west of Ecuador and consist of 19 islands of various sizes. The largest of the islands is Isabela Island with a surface area of ​​4,640 km². Other popular islands include Santa Cruz, Santiago, Baltra, Fernandina, San Cristobal, Florena, and Santa Fe.

To go to the Galapagos Islands, you must first go to Ecuador. Since the islands are protected by special laws, there are strict practices regarding travel to the islands.

There are scheduled flights to the Galapagos Islands every day from the Ecuadorian cities of Quito and Guayaquil. There are two alternative destinations on these flights operated by Avianca and Latam Airlines: Baltra Island (Aeropuerto Ecológico Galapagos) and San Cristobal Island (Airport Isla San Cristobal).

Transportation between the islands is provided by boat trips at certain times. For these trips, you must purchase tickets at least one day in advance from the tourism agencies on the islands.

There is so much to do in the Galapagos Islands. Therefore, conducting thorough research before your trip and deciding which activities to participate in will greatly simplify your planning. I’ve seen travelers stay for both three days and a month in the Galapagos. The duration of your stay will depend on your budget and what you want to do on the islands. Based on my experiences, a five-night stay provides ample time to enjoy many activities.

You can also choose to stay on multiple islands during your trip, which allows for easier access to activities in different locations. However, keep in mind that travel between the islands takes approximately 2 to 3 hours, and one-way transportation costs around $30 to $40 on average.

The Galapagos Islands are not an inexpensive travel destination. When you factor in costs for transportation, accommodation, activities, and personal expenses, you may find that the overall expenses are relatively high. To help you gauge what to expect, I’m sharing the main cost components of a typical trip to the Galapagos Islands. While these expenses can vary from person to person, they should provide a good overview of what to budget for your journey.

• Round-Trip Airline Ticket: While prices vary based on dates and ticket preferences, you can expect an average ticket cost of about $350 per person for flights operated by Avianca and Latam Airlines.

• INGALA (Galapagos Transit Control Card) Fee: The INGALA card is required for entry into the Galapagos Islands. You can purchase this card at the airport for $20. You do not need to buy one for children under two years old. Be sure to complete the INGALA payment before your check-in.

• Galapagos Entry Fee: This is a mandatory entrance fee. As of August 2024, this fee is $200 (previously $100). For children under twelve, the fee is $100. There is no charge for children under two. You pay this fee at the airport in the Galapagos and cannot exit the airport without completing the payment.

• Accommodation: On the islands, you’ll find various lodging options such as hotels, hostels, and villas. The prices are starting at a minimum of $35 per night (for a hostel). When calculating your accommodation budget, don’t forget to include a 12% tax and any credit card processing fees that may apply. Always confirm these details with your chosen accommodation.

• Daily Tours: This is one of the most significant cost items. The cost will depend on the number and type of tours you wish to participate in, the boat used for the tour, and the travel agency from which you purchase the tour. You can expect average daily tour costs to range from $100 to $200. When inquiring about prices, remember to ask if the 12% tax is included!

• Food and Beverages: This varies greatly based on personal preferences. An average breakfast typically costs $10-$15 per person, while a lunch or dinner will generally be in the range of $20-$25. When reviewing restaurant menus, be mindful of the 12% tax and a 10% service charge.

I hope this overview provides useful insights into the average budget for your trip to the Galapagos Islands. In the upcoming articles, I will share the beautiful experiences I discovered during my trip to the Galapagos Islands.