Free advice on activities
If you want to see Blue-footed Boobies, swim with Sea Lions, enjoy picturesque landscapes, see Marine Iguanas, and spend long hours with the Giant Tortoises, this is the perfect place to visit.
The Galápagos Islands are the best preserved archipelago in the world. 95% of its flora and fauna are endemic. Animals are not afraid of humans since we have known how to respect their place and live in harmony.
Tips to travel
WEATHER
You will experience a range of different temperatures, which can be unpredictable.
In Quito, our temperature is usually in between 56 to 78 degrees and without humidity. Our Dry Season runs from the end of June through the end of September. The rest of the year is our Rainy Season. Please note that there’s not a big difference in temperature between the two seasons.
In the Galapagos, The islands are very misty from May through November, when there is constant moisture called, “garúa” It tends to be very warm and humid from November to April, so be sure to dress accordingly and don’t forget your sunglasses, sun block, hat, and a rain jacket if it’s garúa season!!
CLOTHING
In Quito, anything is fine. Just make sure to bring trousers, shorts, comfortable shoes, a rain jacket, sunglasses, and sun block.
In the Galapagos, you will have snorkeling opportunities, be sure to remember and bring your swim suit. We highly recommend bringing your own mask, especially if you need a prescription mask! Galapagos walks will include terrain covered in sand, lava, boulders, and compacted volcanic ash.
Island landings will include both wet (on beaches) and dry (on lava), so you will need a good pair of shoes. Since you will not be permitted to wear the same shoes on excursions and on the boat, a pair of flip flops or sandals are also suggested.
1. Footwear for wet landings (sandals, aqua shoes, Tevas)
2. Good shoes for dry landings and lava trails (tennis shoes or other closed shoes, closed Tevas)
CURRENCY
In Ecuador, the local currency is the same as in the USA (USD). On mainland Ecuador, credit cards are widely accepted, but in the Galapagos Islands none of the daily tour boats accept them. So be sure to bring enough cash for your onboard expenses and small change for items such as payphones, beverages or non-included tips, etc.
Small bill denominations are very important. Ecuadorians love two dollar bills, so they can be a fun option to bring along.
We also suggest that you contact your bank and your credit card issuing company and inform them about your travel plans and inquire them to any specific fees that might be associated with this.
You might also want to ask them the best local bank option for ATMs. (Sometimes ATM cards don’t work very well.)
Don´t forget to get your ATM pin number.
ELECTRICITY
The electricity in Ecuador is 110 volts.
MISCELLANEOUS
It is suggested that you have copies of your passport, airline tickets (if not electronic tickets), and of your Travel Insurance Plan.
Galápagos National Park fee 100 USD per person.
Binoculars are extremely useful for spotting birds and other wildlife.
Seasickness pills or patches might be useful in the Galápagos.
RECOMMENDED PACKING LIST
- Sea sickness medicine
- Mosquitos repellent
- Raincoat or light wind breaker
- Bathing suit
- Shorts
- Light trousers
- Long sleeves t-shirts
- T-shirts
- Flashlight or head lamp
- Sandals / tevas
- Tennis shoes
- Sunglasses
- Caps / hats
- Sun block
- After sun lotion
- Binoculars
- Fleece