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The True Cost of Traveling the Galapagos Islands: A Budget Breakdown

Julia October 5, 2021 Ecuador Leave a Comment

The Galapagos Islands in Ecuador get a bad reputation for being horrendously expensive, but don’t give up on them just because you don’t have a trust fund. It can actually be affordable to visit the Galapagos Islands, particularly if you skip a cruise and travel by land. Here is my break down of the cost of traveling the Galapagos Islands by land.

Disclosure:  Some of the links below may be affiliate links. At no additional cost to you, I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase.

Table of Contents

The Main Factors Impacting Your Budget for the Galapagos Islands

Planning a trip to the Galapagos Islands raises a lot of questions, not least of which is “How much does it cost to travel to the Galapagos Islands?” The cost of course varies quite a bit on how you decide to do your Galapagos Islands vacation. Fortunately, there are a lot of factors that you have a lot of control over to help influence whether you do a budget trip to the Galapagos Islands or a luxury trip.

Taking a Galapagos Islands Cruise vs. Traveling the Galapagos by Land

One of the biggest decisions you’ll face is if you want to explore the Galapagos Islands by sea or land. Traveling the Galapagos Islands by land is a much more affordable option and can offer a better experience for some. However, if you want to get to the furthest reaches of the Galapagos Islands a cruise may be the right option for you. Just make sure you budget appropriately!

DIY Tour of the Galapagos Islands vs. a Galapagos Islands Tour Package

Something else that will heavily impact your Galapagos Islands budget is if you choose to plan and book everything yourself or not. If you plan to simply jump on a tour of the Galapagos Islands, you will face a much higher cost but you won’t have to plan as much. There are definitely pros and cons to both approaches!

Accommodations: Budget Hotels in the Galapagos vs. Luxury Hotels in the Galapagos

The Galapagos Islands are on the more natural side, so you won’t find many all inclusive resorts in the Galapagos Islands…. Instead, you’ll find hostels, small guest houses, hotels, and some villas in the Galapagos.

For shared rooms in hostels in the Galapagos, you’ll find options as low as $10 – 15 per night and private rooms start at $20 – 25, but don’t expect a lot of luxury in these accommodations. For something a bit more upscale budget $50 – 150 per night. If you’re looking for the most luxurious hotels in the Galapagos Islands, expect to pay more.

Galapagos Islands Tours & Day Trips

If you choose to do a “do it yourself” tour of the Galapagos, you’ll still want to book day trips to neighboring islands. There are a lot of great choices, and you really can’t go wrong as the islands have such dramatic landscapes and memorable experiences.

To get the best prices, wait and book your Galapagos day trips once you land on the islands. You’ll want to visit more than one tour operator to compare what they tell you about each of the trips as well as the cost and availability. This will help you fine tune your itinerary and keep your Galapagos budget in line!

Find out why I ultimately chose to travel the Galapagos by land in Critical Things to Know Before Going to the Galapagos Islands .

DIY Galapagos Islands Trip Costs

The cost of a DIY tour of the Galapagos Islands will be the most affordable and is an awesome way to experience these pristine islands. This is the type of trip I ultimately decided on for my Galapagos Islands vacation (even though I originally planned to do a Galapagos Islands cruise).

Let’s take a look at the real cost of my 10 day trip to the Galapagos Island to help you create your own budget and know what to expect things to cost in the Galapagos.

Plane Tickets to the Galapagos Islands

The only way to get from Ecuador to the Galapagos Islands is by plane. I booked 2 one way tickets in and out of the Galapagos. This way I was able to fly from Guayaquil to Quito with a day long layover and then onward to Santa Cruz Island (Avianca for $227), and fly back direct from San Cristobal to Guayaquil (LATAM for $167). Whether you fly one way or round trip, the cost will be about the same.

Pro Tip: Make sure to book tourist rates on the airlines! Some of the flights from Ecuador to the Galapagos offer resident pricing for Ecuadorians. These prices are much lower than what the tourist rates, however if you book them as a tourist you may be denied boarding or stuck with a large bill at the airport.

Galapagos National Park Fee

To enter the Galapagos Islands, you have to pay the Galapagos National Park Fee at the airport of $100. There’s no way around it. Plan it into your budget.

Galapagos Islands Migration Card Fee

Similar to the Galapagos National Park Fee, you must pay a $20 fee for a Galapagos Migration Card at the airport. It’s your ticket to the Galapagos Islands.

Budget Hotels & Hostels in the Galapagos Islands

My accommodations varied from a hostel with a shared room with 2 – 3 people in Santa Cruz for $20/night to my own hotel rooms in Isabela and San Cristobal for $25/night. I did not book ahead, but I did negotiate. If you’re willing to find accommodations once you land, you are more likely to get great prices, but you won’t be able to read reviews prior to booking.

Cost: Average $20 – 25/night x 9 nights = $205 total

Food and Drink

Meal prices vary all over. I splurged sometimes on fresh tuna steaks (~$10) and other times I was super satisfied with an empanada or two ($1 – 2). Also, my accommodation in Santa Cruz provided a great breakfast and most day trips cover the lunch. As such, my food expenses were very reasonable. I did however go out for drinks a few times with new friends I met along the way so it averaged out to about $20/day. You can easily spend more or less in this category.

Cost: Average $20/day x 10 days = $200 total

Inter-Island Ferries in the Galapagos

Traveling by land means you’ll be taking the inter-island ferries. There are a number of companies that run them, but the prices are fixed so it does not matter where you buy your ferry tickets. I went from Santa Cruz to Isabela, Isabela to Santa Cruz, and Santa Cruz to San Cristobal. The cost of the ferry in the Galapagos is $30 each way.

Cost: $30 x 3 = $90

Galapagos Islands Day Trips and Excursions

This is a bucket that can have great variation by person. From booking ahead to booking in person, to choosing a flexible tour operator or getting discounts for booking multiple tours at once… Make sure to talk to more than one tour agency before booking your day trips in the Galapagos Islands.

Here are the day trips I took and their associated costs:

• Las Greitas (Santa Cruz): $1.60 – Just take a water taxi there and back
• Cabo Rosa Tunnels (Isabela Island): $120
• Sierra Negra Volcano Hike (Isabela Island): $40
• Tintorones (Isabela Island): $50
• Scuba Diving Gordon’s Rock + Punta Carrion (Off of Santa Cruz): $185
• Floreana Island Tour (From Santa Cruz): $140
• 360 Degree Tour (San Cristobal): $130

Total Cost for 10 Day Trip to the Galapagos Islands by Land

In adding all of these expenses together, you can understand why the cost of traveling the Galapagos Islands by land is so much more affordable than the cruises. To answer the age old questions of how much does a trip to the Galapagos Islands cost? $1,676 for 10 days. Not bad at all, and it’s an amazing bucket list trip!

• Plane Tickets: $394
• Galapagos National Park Fee: $100
• Migration Card: $20
• Accommodation: $205
• Food and drink: $200
• Ferries: $90
• Day Trips: $667

Total cost of Galapagos trip: $1,676 for 10 days

Cost per Day for a DIY Tour of the Galapagos Islands

Now, I realize not everyone is going to the Galapagos Islands for 10 days – some may be more, some may be less. So let’s break it down another way – the per day cost of travel in the Galapagos Islands.

Fixed Costs When Traveling to the Galapagos Islands

The fixed costs will not change no matter how many days you stay or how you travel around the Galapagos (unless of course you want to fly business class). In this scenario they would be:

• Plane Tickets to the Galapagos Islands: $394
• Galapagos Islands Migration Card: $20

Total fixed cost: $514

Daily Costs for the “Full of Adventure” Galapagos Trip

If we average out the remainder of the costs, assuming you also are planning some day trips and island hopping into your schedule to maximize your time in the Galapagos, we come up with:

Total cost per day: $1,162 for 10 days or $116/day

Daily Minimum Cost to Travel the Galapagos by Land

You can dramatically bring down the cost per day if you decide to just hang out for a while rather than exploring other islands and taking day trips. This would of course cause you to miss out on some of the things that make the Galapagos Islands great, but if you go this route you’ll still love your trip.

In this case, the only daily costs you HAVE to incur are:

• Accommodation: $205 for 9 nights
• Food and drink: $200 for 10 days

Minimum cost per day: $43/day

I’d consider $43/day to be very reasonable considering the exotic bucket list destination. Now, let’s take a look at one other type of expense, just to make you feel a little bit better about your cost and decision to travel the Galapagos by land.

The Cost of Galapagos Islands Tours

Another popular option for visiting the Galapagos Islands by land is to do a pre-planned tour of the islands or a Galapagos travel package. Most tours in the Galapagos Islands will run you far more than doing it yourself, but it does take the guess work out of the planning.

You’ll find most Galapagos tours start from $1000 and go up depending on how long they are, where they take you, and the type of accommodations included.

Sample Galapagos Islands Tour Costs

As noted above, make sure to factor in your fixed costs which include your plane tickets, National Park fee, and migration card fee. From there, to get an idea of what multi-day tours in the Galapagos Islands cost, check out these four sample tours.

• 7 Day Galapagos on a Budget Experience: Includes Santa Cruz Island, Isabela Island, Flamingo Lagoon, Los Tuneles, Kayaking Puerto Villamil, the Isabela Highlands, Tintoreras, the Wetlands, the Charles Darwin Research Station, and more!
• 6 Day Galapagos Island Hopping Budget: Includes Santa Cruz Island, Isabela Island, Flamingo Lagoon, Tintoreras, Los Tuneles, the Charles Darwin Research Station, Santa Fe Island, and more!
• 5 Day Galapagos on a Budget Experience: Includes Santa Cruz Island, Isabela Island, Flamingo Lagoon, Los Tuneles, Tintoreras, Charles Darwin Research Station, Twin Craters, and more!
• 4 Day Galapagos Budget Tour: Includes Santa Cruz Island, Isabela Island, Flamingo Lagoon, Los Tuneles, Charles Darwin Research Station, and more!

The Cost of a Galapagos Islands Cruise

If you were concerned about the cost of traveling the Galapagos Islands by land, l think it’s time to just consider that the Galapagos Islands might not be for you. But never fear – there is also “The Poor Mans Galapagos” or Isla de la Plata, which is just off the main land of Ecuador and avoids the $500+ fixed costs.

If you weren’t concerned about the cost and were thinking it sounds like a great deal – I’m with you! Visiting the Galapagos Islands is much more affordable than I was expecting it to be. The reason for this is so often people think you have to take a cruise to see the best of the Galapagos Islands. This was my original thought until I arrived and started talking to the locals.

Now, let’s take a look at the cruise costs and see if that’s the right trip for you. We’ll of course start with those fixed costs as they do not change whether by land or cruise, long trip or short trip – they will still be incurred.

The Average Cost of Cruising the Galapagos Islands

The average cost of a 5 day Galapagos cruise is about $3,500 per person. However, this can increase or decrease drastically depending on the category of boat and how many days you will be cruising for.

Part of the reason the cost of Galapagos cruises are so high is simply because of the supply and demand. Cruise ships in the Galapagos are limited to only 100 passengers and often have higher demand than the available slots.

If you’re on a strict budget or timeline, plan to book in advance. However, if you’re looking to find the best rates, wait to book until you land in the Galapagos Islands. Unfortunately, this does come with risks of missing the chance to cruise the Galapagos – particularly if you’re traveling with a group of people! But, you’ll be able to ask questions and learn more about the cruises to select the best Galapagos tour for you and at a price much lower than online or through a tour agency.

Sample Galapagos Islands Cruise Costs

As noted above, factor in your fixed costs of your plane ticket to the Galapagos Islands, Galapagos National Park Fee, and your Galapagos Islands Migration Card (~$500). These will not change whether you travel the Galapagos Islands by land or by cruise.

Here are some sample Galapagos cruises to get a sense of what a trip to the Galapagos costs and routes available:

• 7 Day Galapagos Islands Cruise – Eastern Islands Itinerary: Includes Mosquera Islet, San Cristobal Island, Santa Fe Island, Santa Cruz Island, Espanola Island, Eden Islet, North Seymour Island, and more!
• 5 Day Galapagos Islands Cruise – Western Itinerary: Includes Isabela Island, Santa Cruz Island, Floreana Island, and more!
• 5 Day Galapagos Islands Cruise – North Itinerary: Includes Santa Cruz Island, Santiago Island, Rabida Island, Bartolome Island, Genovesa Island, and more!

Other great Galapagos cruise websites include:

• LiveAboard.com for the scuba divers out there
• GalapagosIslands.com for a wide variety of cruises around the Galapagos Islands
• Galapatours.com which is a Galapagos cruise search engine

Plan Your Bucket List Adventure

Now that you have answered the burning question of how much a trip to the Galapagos Islands costs, you’re all set to start planning your bucket list adventure – particularly since the Galapagos trip costs can be surprisingly affordable!

Before I went, I didn’t know that you could travel the Galapagos on a budget, so you’re well ahead of the curve! The most important thing to keep in mind is that a land-based itinerary will take your Galapagos Islands trip cost down substantially. And, you’ll still have the trip of a lifetime!

Learn more about How to Travel to the Galapagos Islands on a Budget .

Interested in other bucket list adventures? Check out these posts!

• Epic 2 Week Patagonia Itinerary: Travel Guide to an Outdoor Paradise
• Day Trip to the Great Wall of China: The Essential Travel Guide
• Planning a Trip to Cinque Terre: The Complete Guide
• The Essential Guide for Planning Your Mount Everest Base Camp Trek
• How to Visit the Dead Sea: The Essential Guide for First Time Visitors

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Galapagos Islands Tours & Vacations

Step into an isolated world. See giant tortoises roaming and unforgettable landscapes unfurl before your very eyes. 

Inquisitive sea lions and spiky marine iguanas breach and bask between island and shore. Friendly hammerhead sharks patrol the depths and blue-footed boobies cut through the sky. Come with us on our Galapagos Islands tours & holidays and observe the local wildlife in the same, untouched way Charles Darwin did hundreds of years ago. Nowadays, these Ecuadorian islands host a steady stream of modern-day explorers from animal-seekers who long for face-to-face encounters to sun-chasers itching to relax on a pristine beach or two. Embark on your own adventure as you wander from isla to isla, soak in crystal-clear waters, traverse volcanic landscapes, and spot animals you've only ever seen pictures of . To be honest, there's simply no place on Earth quite like the Galapagos.  

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Transport in the galapagos islands.

Intrepid believes half the fun of experiencing a new country is getting there, and getting around once there! Where possible, Intrepid uses local transport options and traditional modes of transport - which usually carry less of an environmental impact, support small local operators and are heaps more fun.Depending on which trip you're on while in the Galapagos Islands, you may find yourself on:

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Galapagos Islands at a glance

Capital city.

Puerto Baquerizo Moreno

US dollar (USD)

(GMT-06:00) Galapagos

CALLING CODE

Electricity.

Type A (North American/Japanese 2-pin), Type B (American 3-pin)

Learn more about Galapagos Islands

Best time to visit.

Simply put, there’s no bad time to visit the Galapagos Islands. Good weather is mostly found year round, as are the animals. This being said, November through to June is the preferred time to visit, with clearer skies, calmer seas and decreased winds. Of these, March and April have less rain, while November and December are the warmest. July to November is the best time for divers as whale sharks can often be spotted at Wolf and Darwin islands.

Learn more about the best time to visit the Galapagos Islands

Culture and customs

Ever since Charles Darwin brought attention to the giant tortoises, sea lions, hammerhead sharks and other spectacular wildlife of the Galapagos Islands, people have been fascinated by this archipelago of volcanic islands. Originally a pirate hideout, people started migrating to the islands from Ecuador after it became part of the country in 1832. Of the 13 major islands and scores of smaller islands and islets that make up the Galapagos, only five of them are inhabited – about 26,000 residents spread over the islands of Isabela, Santa Cruz, Floreana, Baltra and San Cristobal. The wildlife rules the rest of the islands, which are carefully managed to help protect the precious environment.

Geography and environment

Located in the Pacific Ocean about 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador, the Galapagos Islands are a volcanic archipelago of 13 major islands, six smaller islands and more than 100 islets. Some are sparsely vegetated with largely mountainous interiors, whereas others are comparatively lush with white-sand beaches. Many of the islands are in a state of flux, as continual volcanic eruptions cause them to erode and expand.

The largest island, Isabela, makes up half the land area of the Galapagos and is characterized by three active volcanos, a blue lagoon, clear lakes filled with flamingos and beaches where iguanas and sea lions roam. Santa Cruz is the second largest island with giant tortoises, marine iguanas and Galapagos crabs residing in Tortuga Bay. The oldest and most remote island, Espanola (also called Hood), boasts boobies, albatrosses and many species of birds and lizards not found anywhere else in the world. 

Top wildlife to spot

1. Sea Lions

Whether you're loafing about on the beach or snorkeling offshore, you’ll be hard-pressed not to come face-to-face with these frolicsome critters at some stage. Playful, plentiful, and pretty much fearless, you’re supposed to keep a 2-meter distance from these guys at all times - though their insatiable curiosity can make this hard.

2. Marine Iguanas

The only lizards in the world that can live and forage in the ocean, the marine iguana is found solely in the Galapagos. Fierce and ferocious though these Godzilla-like reptiles may appear (Darwin called them ‘Imps of Darkness’), it’s all bluff – they only feed on algae. And with lung capacities permitting up to half an hour of underwater foraging, you’re just as likely find them gorging on the islands’ surrounding seabeds as scampering about the craggy rocks they inhabit.

3. Hammerhead Sharks

Boasting one of the animal kingdom’s most puzzling physiologies, hammerhead sharks are found in abundance off Wolf, Bartolome, Santa Cruz and Darwin islands. Unlike most sharks, they will often merge into schools of over 100 during the day - making for some incredible and surreal photo opportunities. And with no known human fatalities and a wealth of choice natural prey on offer, diving amongst them isn’t as scary or dangerous as one might think.

Darwin finches gave rise to one of the most game-changing theories of all time. By studying the differences between finches from different islands, Darwin hypothesized that the birds’ adaptations to their habitats resulted in their mutation into different species: his Theory of Evolution.

5. Giant Tortoises

No trip to the islands is complete without a visit to its most famous residents. Weighing up to 882 pounds, regularly living for more than 100 years, and able to go for up to 1 year without food, these gentle and slow-moving monsters are an intriguing and humbling spectacle to observe.

6. Sea Turtles

Snorkeling alongside these majestic creatures of the deep (or more accurately, the shallows) is one of those rare, life-affirming moments that makes a trip to the Galapagos immediately worthwhile. Keep your eyes peeled on the beaches for turtle nests too - the Galapagos is a hotbed of activity for these critters. 

7. Blue-Footed Boobies

Despite essentially looking like handsome seagulls with painted toenails, blue-footed boobies, when caught hunting, serve up one of the Galapagos' most thrilling spectacles. Diving from heights of up to 100ft, groups of boobies hit the water at speeds up around 60km per hour. They usually let out a shrill whistle before letting rip, which means you'll usually have warning enough to get your camera out too. How considerate.

8. Flightless Cormorants

Granted, a flightless cormorant spotted on land isn't one of the most invigorating sights you'll see during your time here. But wait until you don your snorkel gear and spot one weaving elegantly through the water - the flightless cormorant will likely become one of your favorite discoveries in the Galapagos Islands for this reason alone.

9. Frigatebird

With its striking wingspan and deeply-forked tail, the magnificent frigate bird is easily one of the most impressive birds in the skies of the Galapagos archipelago. But they don't have such a swell reputation amongst other birds. Whilst they hunt fish on the oceans surface, they also force their winged brethren to regurgitate their food, which then they eat - a process known as kleptoparasitism. Still, they look gorgeous – particularly the males, with their bright-red chin sac.

Healthy and safety

Intrepid takes the health and safety of its travelers seriously, and takes every measure to ensure that trips are safe, fun and enjoyable for everyone. We recommend that all travelers check with their government or national travel advisory organization for the latest information before departure:

From Australia?

Go to:  http://www.smartraveller.gov.au/

From New Zealand?

Go to:  http://www.safetravel.govt.nz/

From Canada?

Go to:  https://travel.gc.ca/

Go to:  http://travel.state.gov/

Go to:  http://www.fco.gov.uk/en/

The World Health Organisation

also provides useful health information:  Go to:  http://www.who.int/en/

Further reading

Similar destinations.

Thinking about a trip to the Galapagos Islands but still browsing other destinations? Check out our tours to neighboring countries:

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Galapagos or Madagascar? 

Galapagos Islands travel FAQs

Do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travelers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travelers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

Do I need a visa to travel to Galapagos Islands?

Visas are the responsibility of the individual traveler. Entry requirements can change at any time, so it's important that you check for the latest information.

Please visit the relevant consular website of the country or countries you’re visiting for detailed and up-to-date visa information specific to your nationality.

Check the Essential Trip Information section of the itinerary for more information.

Is tipping customary in the Galapagos Islands?

While tipping isn’t mandatory, tips are very much appreciated by service workers and guides.

Leaving a 10% tip is customary in restaurants.

Some automatically add a 10% service charge to your bill, in which case an extra tip isn’t required.

What is the weather like in the Galapagos Islands?

The Galapagos Islands enjoy almost perfect weather all year with two distinct seasons offering warmer, rainier months and cooler, drier months.

Temperatures rarely dip below 70°F or reach higher than 90°F. You can travel to the islands anytime throughout the year and experience fantastic weather.

Light rainfall is expected from January to May (along with high humidity levels), but it never lasts for long and doesn't often turn into heavier downpours.

What is the internet access like in the Galapagos Islands?

There are reliable internet cafes in Puerto Ayora (Santa Cruz Island) and Puerto Baquerizo (San Cristobal Island).

Some hotels and restaurants on other islands will have a Wi-Fi connection, but it is best not to rely on it.

Can I use my cell phone in the Galapagos Islands?

There's good cell phone reception on the larger islands, but don’t expect it when at sea. The best local telephone companies are Porta and Movistar.

Ensure you have global roaming activated before leaving home if you wish to use your cell phone.

What are the toilets like in the Galapagos Islands?

Most towns have Western-style flushable toilets, though you will likely encounter squat toilets as well. Regardless, it’s a good idea to carry your own toilet paper and hand sanitiser, as they are not always provided.

What will it cost for a...?

• Juice = USD 1
• Street food snack = USD 1.50
• Simple lunch at a local restaurant = USD 3-5 
• Sit-down dinner at a cafe or restaurant = USD 10–20

Can I drink the water in the Galapagos Islands?

Tap water isn’t considered safe to drink in the Galapagos Islands.

Avoid drinks with ice and make sure to peel fruit before eating it.

Help the environment and try to avoid buying bottled water. Instead, fill a reusable water bottle with filtered water. Your leader or hotel can tell you where to find filtered water.

Are credit cards accepted widely in the Galapagos Islands?

No, credit cards are not widely accepted.

There are a handful of shops on Santa Cruz that may accept major credit cards, but it’s preferable to pay in cash.

How many islands make up the Galapagos Islands?

The Galapagos Islands are made up of 13 larger islands and more than 60 smaller islands and islets. 5 islands are habitable to just over 30,000 people.

These 5 islands are Isla Baltra, Isla Floreana, Isla Isabela, Isla Santa Cruz, and Isla San Cristobal.

What is ATM access like in Galapagos Island?

The banks in Puerto Ayora and Puerto Baquerizo have ATMs.

The Banco del Pacifico in both towns is open from 8 am to 3:30 pm Monday to Friday and 9 am to 12.30 pm on Saturdays.

It's best to withdraw your money on the mainland in case these are out of order.

Check each bank's website for up-to-date opening hours.

What public holidays are celebrated in the Galapagos Islands?

• 1 Jan: New Year's Day
• 6 Jan: Epiphany
• 1 May: Labour Day
• 24 May: Battle of Pichincha
• 10 Aug: Independence Day
• 9 Oct: Guayaquil Independence Day
• 2 Nov: All Soul's Day
• 3 Nov: Cuenca Independence Day
• 25 Dec: Christmas
• 31 Dec: New Year's Eve

Please note, Galapagos Islands public holidays may vary.

Are the Galapagos Islands a safe destination for LGBTQIA+ travelers?

The Galapagos Islands are a relatively hassle-free destination for LGBTQIA+ travellers.

Same-sex marriage was legalised in Ecuador in 2008. The country hosts several fiestas where it’s acceptable for men to cross-dress as women.

However, homophobic attitudes do exist among the older generations. It is best to avoid public displays of affection where possible.

For more detailed advice, we recommend visiting   Equaldex   or   ILGA   before you travel.

What to drink in the Galapagos Islands

Quench your thirst after a glorious day spent exploring the Galapagos  by sipping on a glass of canelazo, horchata tea, or freshly made fruit juice.

During your cruise around the islands, it makes sense to try as many traditional Ecuadorian drinks as you can, especially since there are heaps to choose from.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before traveling?

Absolutely. All passengers traveling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

Are Intrepid trips accessible for travelers with disabilities?

We are committed to making travel widely  accessible , regardless of ability or disability. We do our best to help you see the world, regardless of physical or mental limitations. 

We are always happy to talk to travelers with disabilities and see if we can help guide them toward the most suitable itinerary for their needs and, where possible, make reasonable adjustments to our itineraries.

Does my trip support The Intrepid Foundation?

Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. Trips to this country directly support our global Intrepid Foundation partners, Eden Reforestation Projects and World Bicycle Relief. Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

Eden Reforestation Projects

Eden Reforestation Projects are helping to mitigate climate change by restoring forests worldwide; they also hire locally and create job opportunities within vulnerable communities. Donations from our trips support restoration across planting sites in 10 countries around the globe. Find out more or make a donation World Bicycle Relief

World Bicycle Relief provides people in low-income communities with bicycles to mobilize school kids, health workers, and farmers in far-out areas – giving them access to vital education, healthcare, and income. Donations help provide Buffalo Bicycles – specifically designed to withstand the rugged terrain and harsh environment of rural regions – to those who need them most. Find out more or make a donation

• Disclosures

Exploring Galapagos Islands on the Cheap: A How-To Guide

S oft, snow-white sand. Belching sea lions at your feet. Radiantly coloured fish swimming before you. These are the things that come to mind when one daydreams of a visit to the Galapagos Islands.

For many, that is all the Galapagos ever is – a mere daydream. It's often dismissed as unfeasible to visit due to its exorbitant costs.

But what if you could travel the Galapagos on a first class, all-inclusive cruise with a personal guide for up to a third of the retail cost? What if you could dine and sleep on <$60 a day in one of the world’s most sought-after holiday destinations? I’m happy to tell you that you that this is not a dream , but a feasible reality that we ourselves have done.

Intrigued? Here's our ultimate guide on how to see Galapagos on the cheap!

• 1 Galapagos 101: What you need to know
• 2 How much does a trip to Galapagos cost?
• 3 Why last minute cruises exist
• 4 How to book a last minute cruise in Galapagos
• 5 Where to book a last minute Galapagos cruise
• 6 Booking a last minute cruise: Must-know facts
• 7 Last minute cruise booking checklist
• 8 When to visit Galapagos
• 9 Getting there: Flights & inter-island transfers
• 10 Where to stay
• 11 What if you don't book a last-minute cruise?

Galapagos 101: What you need to know

First off, yes, you can visit the Galapagos Islands without a tour . This is the most important myth to dispel, as there are four islands that tourists can reside on without being on any sort of tour. These islands are Santa Cruz, San Cristobal (a.k.a. Chatham), Isabela, and Floreana (a.k.a. Charles or Santa Marta). The islands are serviced by ferries.

You can fly into the Galapagos yourself and stay on any of these islands. Santa Cruz and San Cristobal are the busiest, most populated islands and have the most to offer in terms of tours, restaurants, and accommodation. However, all of the islands have beaches, sights, and activities which can be explored for cheap or free on your own. For tips on that, read our post here !

How much does a trip to Galapagos cost?

This depends on how you want to explore the Galapagos, and the flexibility of your trip. If you want to do a pre-booked multi-night cruise, this is the most expensive option. A midpoint alternative would be booking a last minute cruise after arrival. The cheapest approach is to stay on an island and do day tours. In this post we'll compare all of these options!

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Land based, day tours only

Concept : Stay on an island (and/or island hop), do land or sea-based day tours and visit local sites Pros : Cheaper, flexible option & easy-going pace Cons : Cannot access many islands by day tour Average cost : $500-$800 USD  for 5-nights with activities & food (breakdown below) Example tours: – Puerto Ayora: Bartolome Island and Sulivan Bay Day-Trip – From Santa Cruz: Galapagos, Excursion to Tortuga & Tour – Cerro Mesa Reserve and Garrapatero Beach Tour Book through: GetYourGuide , Viator

Last minute cruise

Concept : Stay on an island & attempt to book a last minute discounted cruise Pros : Significant savings, able to visit more distant islands Cons : No guarantee of finding a cruise, requires flexibility Average cost : $800-$1800+ USD  for a 5+ night cruise (breakdown below)

Pre-booked cruise

Concept : Book a cruise in advance Pros : Security of knowing you have the cruise, route, and class you want Cons : Expensive! Average cost : $2500+ USD  for a 5+ night cruise (breakdown below) Example tours: – Galápagos Islands 5-Day Nature Tour – 6-Day Galápagos Adventure Tour on 4 Islands – San Cristobal: 4-Day Galapagos Island Tour Book through: GetYourGuide , Viator , Intrepid Travel , G Adventures

Land-based, day tours only: Cost breakdown

Basing yourself on an island and taking day tours is the most affordable way to see the Galapagos. Take note once more, there are only four islands in the Galapagos that tourists can stay over on without a tour : Santa Cruz, San Cristobal, Isabela, and Floreana.

Detailed cost breakdown:

• Accommodation : prices start at $25+ USD/night for single, budget private room. A basic budget double room is ~$40 USD/night on average.  HotelsCombined.com  is comprehensive for Galapagos and includes hostels.  AirBNB has comparable listings too.
• Food : $5-$15+ USD per meal out (cheaper to eat outside of tourist zone!)
• Tours and activities : $50-$200 USD per tour (land tours cheapest, diving tours most expensive)

GRAND TOTAL : $550-$800+ USD  for 5 nights (varies depending on accommodation, # of tours taken, and where you dine e.g. such as local or DIY meals vs tourist restaurants)

Booking a last minute cruise: Cost breakdown

This approach works for those who are flexible with their trip duration and  are okay with the possibility of not finding a last minute cruise. If you don't find a last minute cruise, you can simply do land-based day tours/island hopping.

Here is a cost breakdown of finding a last minute cruise:

• 5-night cruise : $800-$1700+ USD total (varies by cruise class, duration, route). This is inclusive of accommodation costs.
• Food : included
• Tours and activities : included (note: tipping and other items like wet suits could be extra)

GRAND TOTAL: $800-$1700+ USD

Note: Keep in mind you must also allocate extra costs for accommodation &/or activities before and after your cruise.

Pre-booked cruise: Cost breakdown

A pre-booked cruise is the most costly way to see the Galapagos. This is why people envision The Galapagos as an expensive place. Prices vary by company, class, and route, but you will pay a premium to have a secured spot on a particular ship in advance. There are endless company options, but  Viator , Intrepid Tours , and G Adventures  are popular and have accessible reviews.

• 5-night cruise : $2500-$5000+ USD (varies by class, ship, route, etc.). Accommodation costs included.
• Tours and activities : included (note: tipping and other items like wet suits for diving could be extra)

GRAND TOTAL : $2500+ USD

Note: Keep in mind you must also allocate extra costs for accommodation &/or activities before and after your cruise. Prices vary hugely by company, class, boat size, route, and more.

Why last minute cruises exist

Cruise ships charge outrageous prices in advance for their tickets, preying on holiday-goers who have a fixed annual vacation slot to fill. In reality, these seats do not always sell out and as a departure date approaches, remaining tickets are hugely slashed in price to fill the spots. In both the Galapagos and mainland Ecuador (Quito and Guayaquil), there are businesses that operate entirely on selling last minute cruise tickets.

Now, one can never guarantee a booking within a set timeframe, but there's usually at least some options within a few days window. The worst case scenario is that you don't book a multi-night cruise and do a land-based approach instead. This is arguably not a bad alternative, given the abundance of wildlife and world-class beaches that  can be seen for free or via day tours . We've done this on our second trip to Galapagos, and it worked out great.

At the bottom of this article is a map marked with important reference points. It includes where to book last minute tours and cheap/free activities. 

How to book a last minute cruise in Galapagos

As the name implies, “last minute” cruises must be booked on short notice – typically a few days before departure . Last minute cruises are booked in person, usually at tour shops that specialize in selling vacant cruise spots.

Where to book a last minute Galapagos cruise

Guayaquil, Quito, and the Galapagos Islands (Santa Cruz and San Cristobal specifically) all have shops that sell discounted tours. Below is a list of shops offering last minute tours.

Personally we've only booked on arrival to Galapagos (in Santa Cruz), which is usually the cheapest option. Mainland tourist shops find cruises the exact same way as Galapagos-based companies; that is, by making a phone call to contacts in the islands. However, cruises sold on the mainland often involve increased pressure to book and (false) claims that you definitely won't find cruises on arrival.

Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz

Moonrise tour agency.

About : This is a family run business that mainly specializes in last minute cruises. We used them in 2013 to book several day trips and were pleased with their service and the tours themselves. Address : Avenida Charles Darwin near the corner of Charles Binford (See map) Website :  www.galapagosmoonrise.com Phone : 05/2526-589

Joybe Tours

About : This is another family run business that sells day tours and last minute cruises. We used them in 2013 to book our multi-night last minute cruise and were hugely impressed with our first-class cruise! Address : See map Website : N/A Phone : N/A

Quito & Guayaquil

About : Based in Quito and Guayaquil, this company occasionally posts last minute deals on their website, otherwise visit in-person in Quito. Note: this recommendation comes from Frommer's (we haven't personally used them). Address : Quito – Almagro N31-80, Edificio Venecia. Guayaquil – in the Edificio Samborondon Business Center, Torre A Piso 3. Website : www.ecoventura.com Phone : Quito – 02/2907-396, Quayquil – 04/2839-390

Quasar Expeditions

About : One of the bigger cruise operators and also has an office in Puerto Ayora. Note: this recommendation comes from Frommer's (we haven't personally used them). Address : Quito – Almagro Plaza, Ponce Carrasco E8-06 y Av. Diego de Almagro, Oficinas 1101-1106 Website : www.quasarex.com Phone : USA – 1.866.481.7790, UK – 0.800.883.0827, Australia – 1.800.463.266

Zenith Ecuador Travel

About : Has access to ~100 boats and can reach contacts to try and find a last-minute deal. Simply provide your dates and requirements and ask to speak to eh owner, Marcos Endara (tell him you are a Frommer's reader). Note: this recommendation comes from Frommer's (we haven't personally used them). Address : Quito – Juan León Mera 453 and Roca Website : www.zenithecuador.com Phone : 02/2529-993

Booking a last minute cruise: Must-know facts

Choosing a route, boat, and company, routes & itineraries.

Whatever you do, don't book a last minute tour blindly. Research your preferences ahead of time, including which islands you want to see. Each island and cruise route offers unique wildlife and scenery. Some itineraries focus more on landscapes, while others feature diving or wildlife.

There are more “typical” cruise ship routes which include visiting islands that you can see independently on day tours (e.g. Floreana, Bartolome, etc.). These routes tend to be cheaper since they are closer to the main islands, whereas those going to more remote islands are more costly.

Companies & boat types

When choosing a boat and a company, try to look up reviews in advance. Where possible, find out who will be the naturist guide, as this is the wildlife narrator of your entire trip! Trip Advisor is a good place to get trip reports on companies, boats, and tour guides. It can also be a useful place for determining the going rate for full price and last-minute bargains for ships, routes, and classes.

As you research, make a shortlist of boats and routes that meet your approval (we've got a handy list below). It will be hard to remember this on the spot, so we really do advise making a “must have” list. You can then cross-check this against the last-minute options available. You may wish to print this out beforehand in case wifi is not accessible.

Allow buffer time & bring CASH

If your holiday time is fixed, you may want to book two weeks off if you want to do a 5-7 day cruise. Buffer room is essential. In our experience, we had 12 days which was plenty to book a 5-night cruise in two days time. It may take a couple days  of popping in and out of cruise shops to find a ship/route you like that works with your departure date.

Take note that most last minute tour offices only accept cash for tour bookings.  Be  sure to know your bank’s daily withdrawal limit, bring some cash ahead of time, determine your tour budget and ensure that you can withdraw that amount over a couple of days beforehand to pay for your cruise.

Know what's included in your tour

When booking, be sure to clarify what is included in the price (meals, diving equipment, tours, etc.) . Most often alcohol is not included, so if you want to drink, factor this into your on-board cash stash. Finally, tipping is expected. Be sure to bring cash for this too so you can tip crew members after your tour ends.

Be wary of bottom of rock bottom deals

Tread cautiously around extremely cheap cruises.  Reduced costs may be due to under-qualified guides with limited English, or boats that are crammed or unreliable. There's nothing like forking out a wad of cash for a disappointing trip. Know what you want, be prepared to ask questions, then show up and see what's on hand.

Last minute cruise booking checklist

Here is a checklist when booking!

Our experience booking a last minute tour

In 2013 we booked a 5-night, first class cruise for less than one third of the retail price. We did so within two days of arrival to Santa Cruz and booked at Joybe Tours. Our boat was The Odyssey , a 16-person yacht that included visited the Isabela, Fernandina, and Bartholomew Islands. We had a very knowledgeable and friendly guide, great food, and tours. It was the rainy season when we visited (December), which meant occasional drizzle, warmer ocean water for swimming, and less tourists.

In total, we paid $840 USD each for our all-inclusive first-class cruise . We splashed out on this once-in-a-lifetime experience, but there were cheaper alternatives available. The less pricey options were lower class boats that visited islands we could (and later did) access via day tour.

When to visit Galapagos

When is the best time of year to visit the Galapagos? The truth is, there are benefits to visiting in different months. Galapagos birds, fish, and animals have different breeding  seasons, so you can see surges of particular species at various times of the year.

• The warm, rainy season is from late   December to June . This means warmer waters for swimming, but the chance of cloud and showers (though these are often quick passing).
• The cool, dry season is from  late June to December.  “Cool” is a relative term here as the days are still warm but the water is cooler. As the temperatures are a bit more comfortable, this is the breeding season for sea lions, shore birds, fur seals, marine iguanas, which is exciting for wildlife viewing.
• Peak periods include Christmas/New Years (late December/early January), and June to September. Consider that you will have a harder time finding last minute cruises and accommodation during these periods. It may be wise to at least book accommodation ahead during peak times.

Getting there: Flights & inter-island transfers

The cheapest way to get to Galapagos from Ecuador is between  Quito, Ecuador and  Baltra Airport, Galapagos (GPS).  Baltra is the airport for Santa Cruz, even though it is physically located on a different island. After landing in Baltra, tourists are immediately transported to Puorto Ayora, Santa Cruz by bus and ferry. Be sure to have small cash for these transports (a few dollars will suffice). Alternatively, you can pre-book an airport arrival transfer direct to your hotel, which includes all ferry tickets and coach transfers, and the option to stop at the Charles Darwin Station. Departure transfers are also available.

If you wish, it is possible to plan an open-jaw trip by flying into one island and out of another. You can transfer between islands by ferry ( pre-book on Viator ), and fly in or out of San Cristobal (SCY) airport.

Flight costs

If you book in advance (~6+ weeks), a flight to Baltra should be around $200+ USD  one-way from Quito. You will find the best rates by searching  Skyscanner , and we recommend selecting “whole month” when searching to find the cheapest day.

If you're not planning to start or end in Quito, try searching from your preceding destination to the Baltra Airport anyway. There's a good chance Skyscanner will be able to find a cheap route between the two points, usually connecting via Quito or Guayaquil.

For more hacks on how to find cheap flights to Galapagos , check out our other posts:

• How to Book the Cheapest Flight Possible to Anywhere
• How to Fly Cheap in South America: A Guide to Budget Airlines and Air Passes
• How to Find Airline Mistake Fares (& Get Ridicuously Cheap Flights)

How to get between islands in Galapagos

A handful of islands in the Galapagos can be accessed by transfer ferries. You can book these yourself in person by showing up at the relevant dock. Transferring islands is essential if you wish to book an option-jaw flight (flying into one island and out of another).

Generally speaking, there is one early morning (e.g. 6AM) and one afternoon (e.g. 2PM) ferry between islands each day. These are general time estimates subject to change, and you must confirm this on arrival as it varies by island. It's recommended to buy ferry tickets the day prior so you know the timing in advance.

Prices range from around $20-$60USD one-way depending on the island. As of 2016 prices between San Cristobal and Santa Cruz were $30 USD one way.  This website provides a schedule, but we cannot take liability for errors in the schedule or price ( confirm in person and in advance of your travel plans). Alternatively, pre-book your island transfer with pickup direct from your hotel on Viator ( San Cristobal to Santa Cruz  and  Santa Cruz to San Cristobal ).

Where to stay

Before flying into the Galapagos Islands, you'll likely start your trip in Quito or Guayaquil. From there, you can fly to Baltra or San Cristobal and stay in one of four islands where tourists are allowed to stay. These include Santa Cruz, San Cristobal (a.k.a. Chatham), and Floreana (a.k.a. Charles or Santa Marta).

Quito, Ecuador

Hotel plaza internacional.

The Hotel Plaza Internacional is what I call a budget “boutique” hotel. This colonial-style accommodation will set you back $26 USD/night for a private double room with an ensuite.

My best friend and I stayed here in November 2015 on our “flashpacking” trip (i.e. you can get cheaper but this is good value for what it is). We loved the generous free breakfast (eggs are extra but worth it!), and the gorgeous city view. The hotel staff were very helpful and were always be happy to flag a taxi on our behalf to ensure a fair price.

Guayaquil, Ecuador

Villa garza inn.

The Villa Garza Inn  ( read reviews ) is another mid-range budget option that is clean, spacious, and with a friendly staff on board. Most attractively this hotel includes FREE transport to and from the airport. The price per night is $44/USD, but factoring in the inclusion of transport, free wifi, and a private ensuite room – this is a pretty good option. Ask the owners for food recommendations nearby, we had phenomenal asado (BBQ meat) up the street!

Santa Cruz Island, Galapagos

Santa Cruz is the busiest of the four tourist islands. Its capital, Puerto Ayora, is filled with tourist shops, tour booking agencies, bars, and even a small grocery store. There are several land-based activities accessible here, including lava tunnels, a tortoise sanctuary, and a lagoon (check our post here for ideas).

Santa Cruz has the most booking agencies for day trips and last minute tours, so this is arguably your best starting point if you're trying to snag a discounted cruise.

Hotel España

We stayed at Hotel España  ( read reviews ) in 2013 and once again in November 2015. This is a clean, centrally-located budget option that starts at ~$29USD/night for a single private room with an ensuite. It's definitely a great “flashpacker” style option, especially if you get a room in the newer half of the building. Free functional wifi and a TV are included. The main lobby has hammocks that are perfect for swinging in with a beer at the end of a jam-packed day!

San Cristobal Island, Galapagos

San Cristobal is the second busiest of the islands that tourists can stay on. It is noticeably less buzzing and built up, but is still freckled with tourist shops and restaurants. The peace and quiet can certainly be a welcome reprieve from the busyness of Santa Cruz, and it does offer some stunning hikes and snorkel sights accessible on foot.

Hostal Laura de Casa

This cute little hostel is clean, fairly close to the main strip, and is colourfully outfitted. During our visit in November 2015 the wifi was strong and so too was the hot water. The owners have created an adorable garden here where guests can lounge. Single rooms start at $25 USD/night.

Floreana Island, Galapagos

Floreana is the quietest inhabited island, with a population of just 150. Unfortunately (or fortunately!), the tranquility means far less options for accommodation and dining. Most commonly tourists stay on Santa Cruz and/or San Cristobal, but if your budget allows it, there are definitely more off-the-beaten track vibes to be had here.

Isabela Island

One of the most volcanically active places on earth, this is the largest island in the Galapagos. On offer here is plenty of volcanic landscapes, the second largest volcanic crater on earth, and colourful wildlife including flamingos and sea turtles. We haven't stayed overnight at this island but made a day visit to it during our multi-night cruise in 2013 and it was incredible! Transfers from Santa Cruz to Isabela Island can be pre-booked on Viator .

Book in advance or on arrival?

Accommodation in Galapagos is a bit pricier to book ahead online, but can be essential during peak travel periods such as Christmas and New Years. We've visited twice (in November and February) and booked accommodation on arrival during these visits. While not booking ahead is a gamble no matter what, you can usually determine how busy it is based on remaining availability on sites like Booking.com .

Keep in mind that in South America, many accommodation options are not listed online. Countless times while backpacking we would panic upon discovering no accommodation vacancies online, only to find that there were many (unlisted) places available when we arrived.  If you're hesitant to book on arrival , you can always book your first night or two and then explore your options when you get there.

For more tricks and websites to help get the best hotel rates when you travel, check out “ How to Book the Cheapest Hotel Possible “!

What if you don't book a last-minute cruise?

Put simply, being land-based is not a bad way to explore the Galapagos. If you aren't looking to visit remote islands or particular diving/spots sights, then you probably won't be disappointed with this option!

If you want to see the main highlights of Galapagos – sea lions, volcanic craters, tortoises, marine iguanas, glimmering beaches and the like – you can do all of this being land-based . Remember, you can also island hop to San Cristobal, Santa Cruz, Isabela, and Floreana without a tour, offering your own DIY island exploration.

Day tours are highly recommended (do at least a couple!). This will allow you to see islands that you can't access without a tour (which is the majority of them). Prices range from $70-$200+ USD and most include a meal (diving/snorkel trips are priciest). Bartolomé Island is an excellent tour for stunning scenery. South Plaza Island (Isla Plazas) showcases yellow land iguanas and gorgeous contrasts of red and green flora from cacti and shrubbery.

Besides booking tours, you can also visit beaches, lagoons, lava tubes, tortoise reserves entirely on your own. Keen to snorkel or kayak? You can even rent that gear yourself. For detailed ideas on how to explore the islands yourself, check out our article on cheap & free Galapagos activities .

Eating cheap & local

Get off the tourist strip.

If you wander a bit, you'll find Mom and Pop restaurants lining the backstreets, just North of the tourist strip. Prices are around the $5 mark per meal. Take note these are true hole in the wall places (to keep well, check our health tips here to avoid food poisoning!).

When in doubt or lost in translation, just ask for the platos del dia or almuerzo (plate of the day) which is usually a tasty, filling combination of soup, salad, rice, and a meat (often fried fish or chicken). Yum!

Make or bring your own food & snacks

Making your own meals helps stretch the funds here. San Cristobal actually has a small grocery store where you can stockpile items like tuna, bread, and produce for a DIY picnic anywhere. Prices are still shockingly higher than the mainland, but these DIY meals are much cheaper than a meal on the tourist strip.

Keep in mind that you cannot bring any produce (e.g. fruit, veg) out of protection for the flora here. Even some packaged goods like nuts may be sacked by airport security.

The Thrifty Gist

• Consider a land-based approach to seeing Galapagos via day tours or free/cheap activities on your own
• Avoid booking ahead for a multi-night cruise if you can
• If booking a last minute cruise, be sure to bring cash and/or know your bank's daily withdrawal limit
• Consider basic accommodation, pack some of your own meals, and/or check out local dining spots to cut costs. Save your budget for tours and exploring!

Related Posts

• 10 Ways to Explore the Galapagos on a Budget
• How to Plan Your Own Trip (& Save Big Travel Bucks)

Have you travelled the Galapagos on a shoestring? How did you cut costs? Have a general question or comment on how to do the islands cheaply? Share below!

Thrifty Nomads has partnered with CardRatings for our coverage of credit card products. Thrifty Nomads and CardRatings may receive a commission from card issuers. Opinions expressed here are author's alone. Responses are not provided or commissioned by the bank advertiser. Responses have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by the bank advertiser. It is not the bank advertiser's responsibility to ensure all posts and/or questions are answered.

Thanks for the info Jen. I have a couple of questions – do you have any advice/comments on a single woman travelling alone? and since day trips don’t go to some islands, would it be a good idea to check for day trips first and then maybe book a multi-day cruise to islands that don’t have day trips? thanks, Maggie

I was wondering how you would book a last minute cruise yet still be able to have nice accommodations in case you don’t find one.

Thanks, Mary

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• Travel Planning Guide

How much does a trip to Galapagos Islands Cost?

How much money should you budget for your trip to Galapagos Islands?

How much does a weekend trip to galapagos islands cost.

• How much does a five-day trip to Galapagos Islands cost?
• How much does a one-week trip to Galapagos Islands cost?
• Hostel Prices
• Hotel Prices

The Cost of a Trip to Galapagos Islands

Typically, the daily expenses for a trip to Galapagos Islands for one person fall between $57 and $328, while for two people, it can range from $113 to $657. These price ranges are based on the average daily cost of $138 which is calculated from the expenses of previous travelers. These numbers include expenses for food, accommodation, sightseeing, and local transportation. Keep in mind that prices can vary depending on your overall travel style, level of luxury, and the activities you choose. If you book standard hotels, eat at typical restaurants, and take in the main attractions, your budget should stay close to this average cost. Below, we provide a breakdown of travel expenses by category, as well as a general price range for accommodation and activities for your visit. Please bear in mind that individual attractions and hotels may vary in price, although they generally adhere to the price ranges discussed in this article.

For budget travelers in Galapagos Islands, planning for around $57 per day should cover essentials such as accommodations in hostels and budget hotels, affordable meal options, local transportation, and engaging in various activities. If you're a mid-range traveler, setting aside around $138 per day would allow for more comfortable stays in typical hotels, dining at regular restaurants, and exploring a diverse range of popular attractions. Luxury travelers, on the other hand, should consider a daily budget of approximately $328 to accommodate higher-end hotel stays, dining at nicer restaurants, and indulging in more exclusive private tour options. It's important to note that these price ranges are derived from our extensive travel cost data for Galapagos Islands, which is based on valuable insights from other travelers as well as hotel and tour data provided by travel companies. For a more detailed breakdown of travel costs, you can refer to our comprehensive travel cost data for Galapagos Islands .

On average, travelers spend around $415 per person during a three-day trip to Galapagos Islands. This average includes expenses for sightseeing, hotels, food, and local transportation. To align with this average price range, consider opting for mid-range hotels and dining at mid-level restaurants, while also allocating funds for entry tickets to popular attractions. For those seeking a more budget-friendly approach, it is possible to find lower-cost accommodations, dine at less expensive restaurants, and explore free activities. Also, many visitors choose to spend a higher travel budget, as Galapagos Islands offers a range of high-end hotels and restaurants for those seeking a more luxurious experience.

How much does a five day trip to Galapagos Islands cost?

With five days in Galapagos Islands, you can expect to spend about $691 total, not including transportation to and from the city. It's possible to stay close to this daily average by booking mid-range hotels, eating at normal restaurants, and paying for some entry tickets to popular attractions. It's possible to find lower-cost accommodations, eat at less expenive restaurants, and find more free activities if you want to spent less money.

How much does a one week trip to Galapagos Islands cost?

Most visitors spend between $397 and $2,298 for a one week trip to Galapagos Islands, with the average being $967 . This includes sightseeing, local transportation, food, and hotels. One week is enough time to have a more in-depth experience in Galapagos Islands. Also, one week allows you to be more flexible with your time and money, so you can potentially save money on some aspects of your trip while spending more on others.

Hotel Prices in Galapagos Islands

Based on our calculations from available hotels in the Galapagos Islands, the average price for a hotel room is $0 per night. To save money, or if you're planning a more luxurious trip, it's important to look at hotel prices based on the overall star-rating as well as guest reviews. Also, prices can vary by amenities and location. Check out more details from our analysis of hotel prices in Galapagos Islands here , and below is a breakdown of hotel prices by star-rating.

Should you do a tour in Galapagos Islands?

Many visitors enjoy the convenience of booking tours and activities while they visit, and Galapagos Islands has a wide array of things to do. These activities often include knowledgable guides and unique experiences. Tours range in price from [ACTIVITY_CHEAP_PRICE] for the [ACTIVITY_CHEAP] to [ACTIVITY_EXPENSIVE_PRICE] for the [ACTIVITY_EXPENSIVE] .

• Private Tour Sighting Giant Tortoises and Lava Tunnels Viator $ 36
• Private Tour Sighting Giant Tortoises and Lava Tunnels: $36
• Private BiciTour Giant Tortoises and Lava Tunnel in Galapagos: $90
• Full day Snorkeling Tour Santa Fe Island and Playa Escondida: $185
• Isabela Island Tour in Galapagos with Kayak and Snorkeling: $64
• Daily diving tour in Gordon Rocks: $280
• Half Day Tour in Sierra Negra Volcano & Lava Fields: $90
• Lonesome George Adventure: $120
• Kayaking Experience in Franklin Bay: $95

More for Galapagos Islands

If you're planning a trip to Galapagos Islands, Ecuador, check out these other informative travel guides.

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First-timer's guide to the Galápagos Islands

Mar 1, 2020 • 5 min read

Planning is paramount before a booking a trip to the Galapagos Islands © Jesse Kraft / Getty Images

Wildlife is sure to wow visitors to the Galápagos Islands , but the archipelago has so much more to offer. Before a journey to this bucket-list destination, proper planning is paramount. Here’s what to know before you go.

From the adrenaline rush of snorkeling nose-to-nose with white-tipped reef sharks to the wonder of watching up-close as blue-footed boobies perform mating dances on the sand, visitors can experience firsthand how locals coexist in harmony with the creatures of the Galápagos Islands – home to the rarest and most diverse species found in the world, and the inspiration behind Darwin’s Theory of Evolution. 

There, time stands still, animals rule, and people delight in close encounters with wildlife, as there are no natural predators for the animals to fear. And beyond the one-of-a-kind wildlife viewings , there’s so much more to explore. In order to fully embrace a journey to the Galápagos Islands, it’s important to go properly prepared. 

What to pack 

From the jagged, jet-black lava fields of Santiago Island, to the powdery-soft beaches of Mosquera Islet, the landscape varies greatly throughout the Galápagos Islands, so proper footwear is fundamental. Sturdy, waterproof sandals will be required for wet landings, and lightweight runners or hiking boots will provide the proper support and protection from the rocky, uneven surfaces encountered during dry land hikes.

Weather waxes and wanes throughout the day, so prepare for both warm and wet environments. While the temperatures aren’t typically tropical, high-SPF sunscreens, protective sunglasses and neck-shading sun hats are essential, as the proximity to the equator means it can be easy to burn – even on cloudy days. 

For long days on the water, manage motion sickness with a patch or over-the-counter pills and pack a small first-aid kit filled with essential medications that you may need while out at sea. Bug repellent isn’t mandatory, but it might help to prevent bites during longer inland explorations.

Shorts and t-shirts will suffice on most days, however, a light raincoat and sweater will provide comfort on wetter days and cooler mornings. Avoid slipping on soggy swimsuits by packing a few, as the night air can be humid and swimming and snorkeling are sure to occur several times throughout the day.

Most importantly, bring a fully-charged camera with back-up batteries to capture the stunning scenery and fantastic flora and fauna found throughout the islands – many of which are unique only to this part of the world.

How to get to the Gal á pagos Islands

 There are two stopover cities to choose from when traveling through Ecuador ’s mainland en route to the Galápagos Islands: Quito or Guayaquil . While both are stunning cities, Guayaquil is Ecuador’s largest city, has more frequent direct flights to the islands, and is closer in proximity. 

Hotel del Parque – the first luxury boutique hotel to open in Guayaquil, is situated in the suburb of Samborondon, is a short 10-minute drive from the airport. Transportation can be arranged through the hotel. Situated on a tropical oasis, the restored 19th-century property offers authentic Ecuadorian cuisine and a peaceful setting to catch up on sleep before embarking on the remainder of the journey to the Galápagos.

There are two major airports on the Galápagos Islands: Seymour Airport (serving the island of Baltra), and San Cristobal (found on the island of Cristobal). The arrival and departure airport will depend on the location of the cruise departure or land accommodation site.

Before entering the area, a mandatory park fee must be paid by most visitors coming from overseas. In an effort to reduce over-tourism, each visiting adult traveler must pay USD$100. This rate is set to double by the end of 2020.

You might also like: Ultimate Ecuador: plan your perfect adventure  

Where to stay 

Water-loving wanderers often opt for a stay aboard a cruise ship or on one of the eco-friendly yachts, but there are land-based accommodations available as well.

While cruising tends to be the more common choice, a land-based stay offers a well-rounded option, providing visitors with opportunities to connect with the local people and culture, experience close encounters with the land-bound wildlife more frequently, and enjoy a restful sleep – ideal for those prone to seasickness, or guests looking for breaks to settle their sea legs. 

For a more affordable land-based option, Puerto Ayora provides hostel-style accommodations, however day trips and excursions to attractions found throughout the islands will need to be booked separately.

Pikaia Lodge , a luxury eco-lodge found on Santa Cruz , sits in the heart of a private tortoise reserve, perched on the edge of an extinct volcanic crater, and overlooks acres of endemic Scalesia trees. 

Darwin delights in every corner of the luxury lodge, which nods to the connection to the Theory of Evolution that emerged from Darwin’s visit to the Galápagos Islands, and the five-star cuisine, private 100ft luxury yacht, on-site spa and infinity pool provide the perfect setting for restful downtime in between days of adventure throughout the Galápagos Islands.

What to see and do 

For island visits, the guidance of a certified tour guide is mandatory. This can be arranged through cruise excursions or as a part of a hotel package. Wildlife viewing is a must, but the islands also offer adventure spots beyond the ocean’s edge. 

Observe giant Galápagos tortoises in the wild and learn about the history of the significant species at El Chato Tortoise Reserve , found on Santa Rosa. Afterward, explore the underground world of the islands by creeping through the on-site lava tube caves. 

Head to Academy Bay and mingle with locals at the waterfront fish market and then stroll through the artisanal shops and purchase cacao treats, lava-laced jewelry and locally-grown coffee beans during a visit to town.

Then, hike along stunning stone pathways to Tortuga Bay and watch as black marine iguanas run along the white sandy beach. Head past the unswimmable Playa Brava and kayak with sea turtles and sharks at the hidden bay of Playa Mansa, found just beyond a mass of mangroves that line the shore. 

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Home » South America » Ecuador » How to visit the Galapagos on a Budget – Your practical Galapagos Trip Cost Guide

How to visit the Galapagos on a Budget – Your practical Galapagos Trip Cost Guide

Our trip to the Galapagos Islands was a little dream that finally came true. Even though the Pacific islands are not precisely cheap, we have realized that your Galapagos Trip cost doesn’t necessarily have to force you into bankruptcy. On the contrary, a trip to the Galapagos on a budget is totally doable.

Therefore, in this article, we have listed all our Galapagos islands trip costs cent by cent so that you get an idea of the Galapagos prices on-site and what the Galapagos cost. Besides that, you will find a lot of helpful savings tips that will help you travel to the Galapágos Islands without breaking the bank.

What to find out in this post

• 1.1 Average Galapagos Vacation Cost per day
• 1.2 Our total trip to Galápagos Islands Cost
• 1.3 Our Average Galápagos Travel Cost by day
• 2 Galapagos Prices – What costs what
• 3 How to visit the Galapagos on a Budget
• 4.1 Getting to Galapagos Islands
• 4.2 It’s cheaper in a group
• 4.3 Rent a bike instead of going by taxi
• 4.4 Walk as much as you can
• 5.1 Book your accommodation in advance
• 5.2 Or check your accommodation just on-site
• 5.3 Travel outside of the high season
• 5.4 Use Airbnb
• 5.5 Or how about staying in Galápagos for free while hanging out with locals?
• 6.1 Avoid Tourist Restaurants & Compare Prices
• 6.2 Menu del Día
• 6.3 Eat out for lunch instead of dinner
• 6.4 Shop groceries in supermarkets
• 6.5 Bring food from the mainland
• 6.6 Have breakfast in your accommodation
• 6.7 Cook yourself
• 6.8 Refill your bottle
• 6.9 Make use of the Happy Hour
• 7.1 It doesn’t always have to be a tour
• 7.2 Bargain
• 7.3 Bring a snorkel and an underwater camera
• 7.4 Bring sunscreen from home/from the mainland
• 8.1 About the AuthorVicki

Galapagos Trip Cost

In the following section, we’ll check the approximate Galapagos travel costs that you can expect on an average day in the islands. Of course, how much you’ll really end up spending all depends on your personal travel style.

Author’s note: The following travel expenses for Galápagos reflect the approximate prices for a trip on-site. They do not include cost information for a Galápagos Cruise .

Average Galapagos Vacation Cost per day

The Galapagos prices can differ greatly depending on the travel style and planned activities. Those who only do activities on their own instead of joining tours, and cook for themselves can even stay just under € 47.77/ $ 53.88 per day. If you only visit one or two islands, it can get even cheaper.

However, we recommend you not to be too stingy, because, believe me, the tours are the real highlight of a Galapagos trip – because there are a lot of exciting and unique sea creatures to discover.

If you follow our 10-day Galapagos Itinerary and eat out on average once a day, you will end up with around € 82.33/ $ 92.86 per day, which is a total of € 822.30/ $ 927.51 for the ten days.

Author’s note: The daily prices listed do not include the outward and return flight.

Our total trip to Galápagos Islands Cost

For 10 days in the Galápagos, we, therefore, spent € 1,125.26/ $ 1,269.23 per person (including the flights).

Our Average Galápagos Travel Cost by day

Food: 11.30 €/ $ 12,74 (Of which are: Breakfast: 1.98 €/ $ 2.23, Lunch: 3.18 €/ $ 3.58, Dinner: 6.14 €/$ 6.92)

Accommodation: 13.26 €/ $ 14.95

Activities:   46.17 €/ $ 52.07

Transport:   9.17 €/ $ 10.34 (+ 302.96 €/ $ 341.72 Flights to/from Guayaquil)

Other Expenses:   2.33 €/ $ 2.62

Author’s note: The expenditures were, of course, made in the national currency, US dollars, and are only listed here in euros for better understanding. The exchange rate corresponds to that at the time of our trip (1 euro = 1.127 USD). Any discrepancies are caused by rounding.

We have tracked our costs with the Trexpense Pro * app. A great way to keep track of your spending while traveling.

* Disclaimer: The pro version of the app was made available to us free of charge for testing.

Galapagos Prices – What costs what

• Budget accommodation (private double room for 2) from € 20 per night (depending on the island and season)
• Private double room Airbnb (for 2): from € 20 per night (depending on the island and season)
• Budget accommodation – bed in a hostel: from 10 – 15 € per night (depending on the island and season)
• Lunch in an inexpensive restaurant (menu): from about $ 4-5 (about 3.5 – 4.50 €)
• Dinner in a cheap restaurant: about $ 8-10 (about 7-9 €)
• Dinner for 2 in a good restaurant: approx. $ 20 (approx. € 17.50)
• 1 liter of water in the supermarket: approx. $ 2.5 (approx. € 2.20)
• A boat trip between the islands: $ 25 (about 22 €)

How to visit the Galapagos on a Budget

Now that you’ve got a small overview of what costs how much in Galapagos in this section, we will now tell you how you can save a lot of money during your Galapagos trip with a few ridiculously simple tricks.

Galapagos Transport on a Budget

In the following section, you will find a lot of helpful Galapagos travel tips, with which you can save a lot of money for the transport to and between the Galapagos Islands.

Getting to Galapagos Islands

Even before you even step foot on the Galápagos Islands, you can already save some money – because the journey is often one of the most expensive factors of a trip. The more flexible you are in terms of time and departure airport, you can really save some bucks. Compare prices between the two airports on the island (Seymour Airport and Airport San Cristóbal) and the two departure airports in Guayaquil and Quito.

When you ultimately choose a flight, it is essential to book your flight well in advance and compare prices. I prefer to use flight comparison sites like Skyscanner .

It’s cheaper in a group

If you arrive at Seymour Airport (Balta Island – near Santa Cruz), you either have to take a bus or a taxi to get to Puerto Ayora. Since the price of the taxi is calculated per car and not per person, you can save money by teaming up with other travelers.

But also in general, the prices are often lower if you are traveling with several people. Whether taxi rides, accommodation (cheaper from 2 people), or even tours. If you are traveling in a group, many tourism agencies are happy to give a discount if you’ll choose their tour.

Rent a bike instead of going by taxi

Another great way to save some money in the Galápagos Islands is to take a bike instead of a taxi. Of course, this doesn’t apply to the journey from the airport, but if you want to move around the islands, e.g., the El Muro de las Lágrimas tour.

A bike is particularly worthwhile if you’re going to make several stops during your trip.

Walk as much as you can

Of course, it is even cheaper than by bike or taxi if you simply walk all the way. Destinations that are not too far away, such as Tortuga Bay on Santa Cruz or the port on Isla Isabela, can also be easily reached on foot.

An app like Google Maps or Maps.me can be helpful to find your way around the Galápagos Islands.

Gálapagos Accommodation on a Budget

Accommodation is probably one of the most expensive aspects of any trip. However, your Gálapagos accommodation doesn’t even have to be that expensive. In this paragraph, you will learn how you can save a few extra dollars for your accommodation here and there without ending up in the last descent.

Book your accommodation in advance

If you start looking for accommodation early enough, you not only have more places to choose from, but you may even find a bargain or two. I use Booking.com to find the best accommodation. At Booking, you can find accommodations of all price ranges with numerous helpful reviews from other independent travelers worldwide.

Check Galápagos Accommodation on Booking.com

Or check your accommodation just on-site

Some backpackers swear by this tip: Always find your accommodation personally on-site. Often you can negotiate a better price face-to-face at the accommodation, especially if you stay for several days or if you are in a group or as a couple.

Of course, this trick only works if there are still enough rooms in the accommodation available, and you are good at negotiating. However, some property owners might not go down in price, i.e., there is no guarantee that you can really get a good discount. Thus, if you have little time, you should book your accommodation in advance anyway.

Travel outside of the high season

Even if the difference in Gálapagos between high and low season is not really big, you can still save a few bucks if you arrive in the low season (September – November). At this point, fewer visitors come to the island so that you can get a few discounts not only on accommodation but also on tours.

We love Airbnb. This platform not only a great way to find a bargain or two but also gives you the opportunity to get to know the life of the locals up close. Here you will find many locals that rent their guest rooms to travelers. Especially if you are traveling as a couple, with Airbnb, you can often find a lot of interesting places for a small price.

What’s even better is that Airbnb gives you an absolutely unique insight into the culture of a country, since you’re at home with the locals. Moreover, your hosts are able to provide you with the best insider tips and answer many of your questions.

Important: To support the locals, please only rent rooms in a local’s private flat and not an entire apartment. Renting the apartments to tourists increases the rental prices in the tourist regions for everyone and expels the locals from the area. Because they can no longer afford their own apartments due to increased rent. But if you stay in the guest room of locals, you will help them pay their rent and benefit from tourism in their city.

Check available rooms on Galápagos on Airbnb

Or how about staying in Galápagos for free while hanging out with locals?

There is another cheap option, or even free of charge, to stay in the Galapagos Islands. This option is called Couchsurfing. Eduardo and I absolutely love Couchsurfing and have already used it in various countries on three continents and only had great experiences. (We actually met while using Couchsurfing, but that’s another story)

However, note that you should only couch surfing if you plan to spend a little time with your host and offer him something in return (e.g., you can help him learn your language, cook something delicious, etc.). Please do not use Couchsurfing just as a free overnight stay but as an opportunity to immerse yourself in the culture of the country and get to know the locals.

Check Couchsurfing Hosts on Galápagos

Gálapagos Food on a Budget

Avoid tourist restaurants & compare prices.

Just have a look around where the locals eat and compare prices. Instead of eating directly in the tourist center, try the side streets – the prices often look very different.

Extra tip: If you want to try fresh seafood, this is your perfect chance. Even if you might up spending $ 15 on a lobster, just think about how much you would pay for it back home. 

Menu del Día

Especially those who are out for lunch can make a great deal by ordering a menu. Depending on the restaurant, the menus contain 1-2 courses, dessert, and a drink (often a fresh juice). Prices vary, but with a little bit of luck, you can find them for as few as $ 4.

Our recommendation: The cheese soup (Sopa de Queso) is a popular dish in Ecuador and is included in many menus as a first course. Definitely try it!

Eat out for lunch instead of dinner

As already mentioned above, there are many restaurants on the islands that offer a menu at lunchtime. In the evening, most of these restaurants are closed or only offer à la carte dishes.

Therefore, it can be far cheaper if you go out for lunch and instead, only prepare something in your accommodation in the evening.

Shop groceries in supermarkets

If you want to save money on food, you should eat and shop where the locals do. Of course, the residents of Ecuador don’t go out to eat every day, but shop in supermarkets and then eat at home. Also, the various bakeries on the island also offer bread and pastries at relatively low prices. Just have a look around.

Author’s note: Not every supermarket offers cheap prices and some products can be surprisingly expensive in spite of everything. This is because the products first have to be delivered from the mainland, which causes high transport costs.

Bring food from the mainland

Another great tip to save money is to bring as many products as you can from mainland Ecuador. In Quito and Guayaquil, you will usually find much lower prices than on the Galapagos Islands.

Important: However, note that you can only bring processed foods to the Galápagos Islands. Fruit, vegetables, or food from which plants could develop are prohibited.

Have breakfast in your accommodation

Some accommodations offer their guests breakfast. The breakfast is often already included in the room price; some offer it with an additional charge. It is often worth taking such an offer instead of having breakfast outside.

Breakfast was not included in our accommodations, but there was a refrigerator in which we could store food. So we had the opportunity to make our own breakfast every morning instead of eating outside. Even if the yogurt in Galápagos is rather expensive at first glance, it is still worth buying instead of eating out. Add a bit oatmeal (which you can buy here to pretty affordable prices) and fruit, and you have a fast, delicious, healthy, and, above all, inexpensive breakfast.

Cook yourself

One last way to really save money on food in Galápagos is to cook yourself. Book an accommodation where you have access to a kitchen (e.g., at Airbnb or hostels with a shared kitchen). So you can prepare something warm instead of eating in an expensive restaurant. You can find everything you need in the supermarket or at a market (well almost everything, but for a couple of days, it’s definitely going to be enough)

It gets even cheaper if you bring the packaged food (e.g., pasta, rice, and ready-made sauces, etc.) from mainland Ecuador.

Refill your bottle

In almost every accommodation in the Galápagos, there are water dispensers where you can refill your water bottle for free. With this method, you not only save money, but you also help the environment by avoiding plastic waste .

It is advisable to add a refillable bottle to your packing list instead of using plastic bottles.

Make use of the Happy Hour

Alcohol and drinks in Galápagos can often not precisely be described as cheap. It helps to make use of the Happy hour. Many of the bars on the islands offer a happy hour at which you can save up to 50% of the actual price (e.g. with 2 for 1 offers).

Happy hour times differ from bar to bar.

Galápagos Tours and Activities on a Budget

The tours in the Galapagos Islands are probably the most expensive of the entire trip. It can be challenging to find half-day tours for under $ 100. Of course, that is quite a bit of money.

It helps to think in advance about which tours you want to take during your Galapagos trip. On TripAdvisor and similar portals, you can find many helpful reviews and tips from other travelers about the offers and tours of each island. We decided to take a tour on each island and were thrilled by every single one of them. We can, therefore, highly recommend the following tours (if you like snorkeling and are interested in the marine life of the Galapagos Islands):

• Pinzón (Santa Cruz)
• Los Tuneles (Isla Isabela)
• Kayak rental/Tintoreras tour (Isla Isabela)
• León Dormido/Kicker Rock (San Cristóbal)

It doesn’t always have to be a tour

On each of the tourist islands, tours are offered for seeing almost every attraction. What many visitors are not so aware of is that it doesn’t always have to be a tour. You can discover many of the attractions of the islands on your own. Looking at how much the tours usually cost on the islands, you can save quite an amount of money by doing things on your own.

Some of the attractions can be reached on foot, for others, you have to rent a bike or take a taxi. In the following, you can find a few examples of activities and sights that you can discover without a tour.

• Los Gemelos
• Rancho Primicias
• Tortuga Bay
• Las Grietas
• Playa de Los Alemanes
• Columpio Mágico
• Darwin Research Station

Isla Isabela

• Tintoras (with rented Kayak)
• Playa de la Concha
• Posado de Flamengos
• Pozas Salinas
• El Muro de las Lágrimas
• Arnaldo Turpiza Breeding Station

San Cristóbal

• San Cristóbal Interpretation Center
• Playa de Oro
• Cerro Tijeras
• Loberia Beach
• Puerto Chino Beach
• La Galapaguera Tortoise Habitat

Those who have been traveling in South America for a longer time may even be used to it already: negotiate, negotiate, negotiate. Although negotiating in the Galápagos Islands is not as extreme as you might know from Southeast Asia or Morocco, you can ask for a few bucks off anyway – they worse that can happen is that they say no, am I right? 😉

Especially if you are interested in more than one tour or you book it together with several people, you can usually get a few dollars off your tour.

Bring a snorkel and an underwater camera

Another practical way to save money on Galápagos is to bring a snorkel and an underwater camera with you. Bringing it saves you money on every snorkeling trip because you don’t have to borrow snorkeling equipment. The same applies to an underwater camera. You certainly want to have photos of your adventure, don’t you?

Author’s note: If you go on snorkeling tours, the equipment is usually provided free of charge. This tip is rather for if you want to go snorkeling on your own.

An underwater camera usually costs you around 25$ rent for every day.

Bring sunscreen from home/from the mainland

We were shocked to see that you sometimes have to pay $ 20 for a tube of sunscreen. Generally, sunscreens are not cheap in South America – but less so in the Galápagos. That’s why it’s worth buying it on the mainland, or even better at home.

Galápagos tip: No matter how tanned you are: Good sun protection is incredibly important. As the sun so close to the equator is clearly not walk in the park. If you are prone to sunburn quickly, we recommend a sunblock with sun protection factor 90 or 100. Surprisingly, in South America, these are usually far cheaper than a sunscreen with SPF 30 or 50.

Were you able to find some helpful Galápagos savings tips that you would like to try out on your trip? How much did you spend on your trip? Or maybe you have some great savings tips for us yourself? Let us know in the comments below!

More Galapagos

Perhaps one of our other Galápagos articles can help you plan your trip as well

• Our Ultimate Galápagos Itinerary
• Our Ultimate Guide to Puerto Ayora & Santa Cruz Island

Interested in Galápagos?

About the Author Vicki

Hi, we are Vicki & Eduardo, an international travel couple on a mission to help you save money for priceless travel experience. Follow us through the miracles of this world and you will be rewarded with a bunch of practical travel tips.

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• May 28, 2020
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Galápagos Islands Backpacker’s Budget [Daily & Weekly Costs]

Are the galápagos islands expensive.

Yes, the Galápagos Islands are an expensive place to visit, whether on holiday or as a backpacker. In comparison to mainland Ecuador expect to pay more for food, accommodation, and tours.

• Average cost of a day tour – $100-150
• Average minimum cost of accommodation – $25 per night
• Average cost of a meal – $10-15 (at a standard restaurant)

The added expense of return flights, entrance fees add up to make it an expensive trip.

Can You Visit the Galápagos Islands On A Budget?

Yes, you can easily visit Galápagos island on a budget.

You can avoid booking tours as there are loads of great free activities to do on each of the islands. Each island has a couple of hostels and cheap hotels where you can find rooms from $20-25 a night , and like the rest of South America, you can find cheap restaurants serving ‘menus of the day’ for $5-6.

We’ve detailed all of this and more great tips for visiting the islands on a budget here:

• 13 Tips For Visiting The Galápagos Islands On a Budget

How Much Does A Weeklong Trip To The Galápagos Islands Cost?

A weeklong trip to the Galápagos Islands costs less than $1,000 if you avoid the expensive cruises and tours and follow a DIY itinerary.

Firstly, there are non-avoidable costs, and then you need to factor in a daily budget. Here are the costs:

• $440 of non-avoidable expenses for flights and entrance fees.
• $40-50 a day budget for food, accommodation, and transport.

For perspective, if you wanted to book a cruise, the cheapest liveaboard cruise ship tours start at $2,000 for 5 days and will increase in price for better cabins, vessels, and more days. And this doesn’t include the flights or entry fee costs.

Non-Avoidable Costs When Visiting The Galápagos Islands

Certain costs can’t be avoided if you want to travel to the Galápagos Islands and these will make up a sizeable chunk of your total expense. These are the costs that often put people off, but some go toward the conservation efforts on the islands, which makes it palatable.

• Return flights from Guayaquil –  approx. $320* (flying from Guayaquil is cheaper than Quito)
• Transit Control Card – $20
• Eco payment on arrival – $100
• Total – $440

*Our flights cost us $320, you may find cheaper ones. If you remain flexible on dates, there will be better deals.

Try not to worry too much about these costs though, you won’t regret a trip to the Galápagos Islands:

• 15 Reasons Why The Galápagos Are Worth Visiting

Daily Backpacking Budget On The Galápagos Islands

Your daily backpacking budget for the Galápagos islands should be $40 maximum per day.

This is just for food and accommodation. Taking advantage of all the free activities on the islands means you can save a lot of money and still stick to a budget.

Average Cost Of Accommodation On The Galápagos Islands

There are only one or two hostels or cheap hotels on each island , but this is all you need. The average daily cost for a multi-bed dorm is around $8-10 in Ecuador. It’s more than double that on the Galápagos Islands and will vary depending on the high or the low season.

Budget between $18-25 a day for accommodation . This price will afford you a comfortable room with breakfast.

Here are the cheapest places we found on each island: 

San Cristobal

• Hostal Terito – from $20
• Hostel Gosen – from $20
• Galapagos Dreams  – from $23
• Galapagos Best Hostel – from $20
• Hostel La Gran Tortuga – from $30
• Hostal Galapagos – from $25
• Hotel Espana – from $25

Average Cost Of Food On The Galápagos Islands

If you really want to stick to a budget, you need to search for the local restaurants advertising a set menu of the day.

When checking out a restaurant just ask for  ‘almuerzo’  (pronounced ‘al-moo-air-zo’), for lunch and ‘cena‘ (pronounced ‘sen-ah’), for dinner. Or you can simply ask for the ‘menu del dia’.

Depending on which restaurant you go to, the price ranges from $5-7  and will include a soup, a main dish (usually meat or fish, rice, and salad) and a drink (juice).

• Average cost of meal at mid-range restaurant – $10-20
• Average cost of meal at a fancy restaurant – $15-25

Most days we stuck to eating at local places to save money, but it gets boring after a while. We treated ourselves on our last day to a nice meal. The seafood on the island is incredible. Make sure you budget in extra for a nice dinner or two while on the islands.

Cheap Eats On San Cristobal

• Rancho Manabita – soup, rice and fish main and a drink for $6
• Cri’s Burgers – amazing burgers ranging from $8-$15, great if you are sick of the standard rice and beans!

Cheap Eats On Santa Cruz

• Fusion Grill – pumpkin soup followed by choice of Tuna, Grilled Beef or Grilled Shrimp and a drink for $7

Cost Of Transport On The Galápagos Islands

Ferries between the islands cost $20-30 depending on the trip.

If you stick to the shortest itinerary possible (5 days), you will only need to take two – one leaving the first island you land on to your next destination, and then a returning one. You could even fly out of a different island you land on to save on this cost.

Check out our land-based DIY itinerary here:

• Galápagos Land-Based DIY Itinerary: 5 Days, 7 Days or 10 Days

Taxis are expensive, but you will hardly need them as most things are within walking distance of the main towns.

If you can, fly into San Cristobal as the airport is only a 5-minute drive from the airport. If you fly to Santa Cruz first, then it’s a 45-minute drive by taxi which will cost more (or take the bus to save money).

On each island, taxis will offer ‘tours’ of the islands for a set price.

For example, on San Cristobal, a taxi tour will take you to the far side of the island to see Puerto Chino beach, El Junco Lagoon, and the Giant Tortoise Sanctuary. This costs $60 and can be split between passengers.

This is expensive for basically an extended taxi ride so if you want to save money, rent bikes instead. Riding a bicycle will be a lot more strenuous and will take around an hour, but you will save a lot of money and have more freedom.

We have a list of free activities along with renting bikes here to help you keep costs low on the Galápagos Islands:

• The Best Free Activities On The Galápagos Islands

Weekly Backpacking Budget For The Galápagos Islands

Here’s what your budget should look like for a week on the Galápagos Islands:

Avoiding tours and doing free activities is the best way to stick to a budget like this. There are so many free activities on the islands that we only booked one day tour.

We reckon factoring in $100-150 for one tour is worth it . There are some incredible one-day tours on each of the islands, so it would be a shame to miss out having come this far.

When it comes to food though, this would be a very frugal trip, and that’s entirely fine if you have strong will power. We couldn’t eat rice and meat dishes twice a day for a whole week. Therefore, we’ve added on another $100 as extras. This will include a nice meal and the odd snack, beer, or ice cream.

So to be on the safe side, round up your total budget to $1,000 , and you’ll be comfortable when you’re there. Alternatively, if this is too much money for one week you can see two islands and stay for five days to save more. 

Visiting the Galápagos Island without a tour or cruise is simple if you know what you are doing. Head to the post below for a step-by-step guide:

• How To Visit The Galápagos Islands Without A Tour 

5-Day Backpacking Budget For The Galápagos Islands

Five days is the minimum amount of time needed to visit the Galápagos Islands. Any less than that and it’s not worth paying the money for flights and entrance fees.

This budget based on our 5-day itinerary we linked to previously (2 days San Cristobal, 3 Days Santa Cruz).

Again, this budget assumes you book the hostels mentioned above and only eat set menus in restaurants.

You will only need to get two ferries with this itinerary so you save money there, and you can take a little less for extras as you don’t have as many days.  

On the 5-day itinerary, there’s no need to book a paid tour as you can fill your days with free activities.

Round it up to $800-850 to be on the safe side and you have a reasonable low-end budget for 5 days on the Galápagos Islands.

Our Actual Spend

Budgets are great for planning but sticking to them is another thing. We kept a good record of what we spent on our trip to the Galápagos islands to include in this article. Here’s our actual spend below so you can see we aren’t making it up.

We spent three days on San Cristobal island and four on Santa Cruz island during the low season (October 2019).

Every cost noted here is for a single person:

San Cristobal Total Spend

Santa cruz Total Spend

*we cooked our own breakfast, ** eggs, coffee and bread, *** water, chocolate and fruit

As mentioned, most days were spent doing free activities, but we paid for a Pinzon Island full-day tour on Santa Cruz costing $100 per person . We thought it was well worth it as we got to swim with baby sharks and turtles and food was included. But as you can see, it increased your daily budget by a fair bit.

So, in total:

Total 7-Day Galápagos Islands Spend

Even with flights included (which account for half the cost) our total cost for a week came to $908 which we don’t think is too bad – remember this is the Galápagos Islands, one of the most sought-after travel destinations in the world.

We paid for one full day tour and a half-day taxi tour ate at a mid-priced restaurant a couple of times and bought the odd snack here and there. We aren’t great budget travellers, so if we can stick to $900 for a week, then the savvy travellers out there can easily spend around $800 mark.

We hope that our own budget breakdown gives you an idea of what to plan for and show you it’s possible to stick to a reasonable budget on the Galápagos Islands. However, we understand that everyone travels differently. This isn’t an exact breakdown and guide to be followed religiously, it’s more to show you what’s possible with real pricing.

If $900 is too much for you, then simply drop down to 5 days and skip the tours and fancy restaurants and you should be able to see the Galápagos Islands for even less.

If you avoid spending money on tours, eating at fancy restaurants all while choosing the cheapest accommodation and the Galápagos Islands are well within a backpacker budget.

How Much Should I Budget For A Month In Ecuador?

Travelling around Ecuador before or after your trip to the Galápagos Islands?

Mainland Ecuador is significantly cheaper than the Galápagos Islands. With everything included, hostels, food and activities, you should budget for between $30-40 day whilst backpacking through Ecuador.

If you decide to do an entire month, then you can manage it on $900 at the low end, but we would suggest taking $1,200 to be on the safe side.

Check out our full backpacking Ecuador budget:

• Ecuador Backpacking Budget: Daily & Monthly Breakdown

Check out our backpacking itineraries and routes for Ecuador to help you start planning:

• Ecuador 1 Month Backpacking Itinerary
• Galapagos Islands And Machu Picchu Two Week Itinerary

Or our 1-month South America Itinerary if you want to include some other countries:

• 4 Epic 1 month South America Backpacking Itineraries
• Author Profile
• Posts by the Author
• Is Santa Marta Worth Visiting? 12 Great Reasons to Go
• Is Bariloche Worth Visiting? 12 Must Do’s In North Patagonia
• How Many Days In Arequipa? [3 Itineraries w. Colca Canyon]
• How Many Days In Bariloche? [3, 5 & 7-Day Itineraries]
• 22 Free Activities On The Galápagos Islands [+4 Affordable Tours]
• Galapagos Islands On A Budget – 15 Shoestring Tips To Save!

Joe Bayfield

Hi I'm Joe Bayfield, Bayf for short. I love South America and want people to visit this incredible continent. I’ve travelled through Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, Chile and Argentina and also lived in Lima, Medellin and Buenos Aires. I write detailed South America itineraries to help you plan your next adventure!

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Home » South America » Ecuador » Galapagos

Backpacking Galapagos Travel Guide

“ A man who dares to waste an hour of time has not discovered the value of life ”- Charles Darwin.

Follow in Darwin’s footsteps and embark on an adventure unlike any other to a place with untouched islands and undisturbed eco-systems… I’ve always wanted to explore the Galapagos Islands; there is something truly incredible about this rarely visited place and, in the future, I very much hope to head on out there.

This week, I chatted to Galapagos veteran Lisa Swenson and she filled me in on everything I needed to know to explore Galapagos on a backpacker budget…

I had always wanted to explore the Galapagos, with its confusing and utterly fascinating creatures – a land where a Godzilla like creature is a harmless vegetarian and tortoises grow to the size of a fully grown man; what’s not to be curious about? My husband and I decided to not get bogged down by the daunting tour prices and instead try and do Galapagos on a budget. And a pretty tight one at that. Here is a great travel guide to backpacking Galapagos on a budget…

Exploring Galapagos on a budget

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We  flew into Quito and bought our Park Pass for Galapagos, an essential, at the airport which cost us about $100 per person. Once we reached Baltra we had to taxi across the dry desert island to get to a water taxi that would then take us to Santa Cruz. Our ‘real’ journey to Galapagos had begun, and it did not seem like an easy one.  

The bus was cramped and people were squished together like canned sardines. The air was humid and stuffy and there wasn’t any air-conditioning – this certainly wasn’t any luxury tour but we didn’t care; we were heading somewhere amazing and would be seeing Galapagos on a budget. We were so thankful when we saw the ferry. But of course, we were once again jammed in with as many people as they could fit on the $2 water taxi. Finally, we could begin the last leg of our first journey and head on over to Santa Cruz.

Backpacking Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz was a destination in itself. We could have spent an entire week here seeing all that it had to offer – sandy beaches, colourful villas and ever smiling locals. Once we got to Puerto Ayora we realised it had everything we needed – restaurants, cheap places to stay, shops and even a couple of bars. The small island town was always busy with the locals walking or riding their bikes from home to work.

The town was directly on the blue sapphire water with access to piers, beaches, and water taxis and this made it to the perfect place to arrange Galapagos day trip . The day trips ranged from $45 – $95 dollars for an all-day snorkelling and land excursion to Isla Daphne including lunch. There are a lot tourist excursion kiosks so make sure you shop around and bring your haggling A-game to get the best price.

Backpacking Isla Daphne

The boat ride out to the island was beautiful; the water was calm and crystal blue. Birds soared through the salty blue sky squawking overhead as we skirted over the water. The island jetted out of the waterm full of life. We spotted a ton of birds: frigates, boobies, and some stunning tropic birds…

While snorkelling we saw sea lions, a few eagle rays, sea turtles, and a white tipped shark. Although the cost of this excursion isn’t crazy cheap, it is well worth doing and is one of the better value trips whilst exploring Galapagos on a budget.

Spotting Tortoises

After the trip we ventured out on our own to the El Chato Tortoise Reserve to see some unique species of birds. We then cabbed to Rancho Primicias where the Galapagos tortoises grazed about throughout the free range property. We walked along the lush green trails weaving in and around ponds and trees and constantly spotting many giant tortoises. They were massive- much larger than the ones at the Darwin Center and El Chato.

Backpacking through the Lava Tunnel

The Lava Tunnels were very similar to many caves I had previously explored in the US but with one major difference; the tunnels are surrounded by hardened lava rock. We paid the taxi driver extra so we could see these tunnels and crawl through the narrow openings. The tunnels had a string of dim lights that helped us see our way.

The driver picked us up on the other side of the tunnels where a bucket of water awaited us to wash ourselves off after clambering through the admittedly mucky tunnel. We then went to see Los Gemelos – two huge sinkholes that look like gorges. We went on a short walk and guess what we saw…

Giant iguanas and flamboyant flamingos in the lagoons near the Darwin Station. Our first tryst with these super fascinating beings. What an incredible experience! It was at this point that we really felt that our budget Galapagos adventure was off to an amazing start… We were seeing the highlights of the islands, on the cheap, without the need for an expensive tour.

It was almost sunset by now. We were absolutely exhausted but so overwhelmed and happy at what we had seen today. Not bad for the first day of a budget trip yeah?

Backpacking Isabela

The following day we returned to the same kiosk we had gotten the day trip deal from. The salesman gave us a map of Isabela, marked out locations for us and told us that we could see much of the island on our own. We went ahead and bought the ferry ticket, loaded our backpacks in and left on a 2 hour journey to Isabela. Our search for accommodation took way longer than we anticipated. We found a nice private room with a private bath for $50 – expensive I know! You can find hostels in the area for as cheap as $8.

Backpacking Los Tunneles

We embarked on a day trip to the beautiful Los Tunneles, early next morning. There were lava bridges over the sapphire blue waters and tunnels under the water. In the shallow snorkelling area, the snorkelling guide pointed out a sea horse for us all to come over and see! This was my first sea horse sighting and I was so happy to see one in the wild. We saw shoals of parrot fish darting in and around prettily through the lava formations.  I even spotted a squid, spotted eagle ray, sting rays, and a couple of sharks. This area is so fascinating to explore. The snorkelling experience was truly one of a kind because of the beautiful formations.

Backpacking Punta Tortuga

After returning to the island we had a few hours to kill before taking the long water taxi back to Santa Cruz so we explore the small mangrove cove close to the pier called, Punta Tortuga. We saw some colourful fish and a couple of rays but we weren’t very impressed so we ventured to the beach area on the other side of the docks. Best decision ever! We left our backpacks on the shore with the sunning sea lions standing guard, and dove right in. We swam off shore with the friendly sea lions and a ton of little penguins.

I was constantly tapping, poking, and grabbing my husband to show him the little torpedo of penguins diving through the mangroves chasing the shimmering fish. While swimming I felt what I thought was my husband grabbing my toes to point out some more sea life and turned around to look, I saw two wee little penguins nibbling at my toes! Such an endearing experience.

Backpacking the Other Islands

Galapagos has many other islands to see that offer more wildlife viewing on the land as well as in the ocean surrounding them. Many of the Islands are only accessible by long cruises. Wolf Island is one of those due to its distance from Santa Cruz. Many islands also only allow scuba divers so make sure you do a bit of research before venturing out & bring your hammock with you if you want to camp!

Galapagos is famous for its splendid wildlife. Most adventurers come here to get their fill of spotting beautiful creatures that aren’t found anywhere else. The most famous animal of all would be the giant land tortoise. The islands where they can be spotted are Santa Cruz, Isabella, and San Cristobal. Another famous reptile is the Galapagos Land Iguana which can be found on Isabella, Santa Cruz, Fernandina, Baltra, and North Seymour. Another rare beauty is the Marine Iguana, which can be spotted on all the islands as they travel through the ocean all over Galapagos.

In the ocean waters you might happen across a Manta Ray or as the locals called them the Diablo Ray or Devil Ray. We spotted two doing somersaults as we cruised on the deep blue sea. Some mantas were doing flips while eating so we caught sight of their white bellies. These rays are found in deep channels and in the Canal Bolivar. Hammerhead sharks and white tip sharks can also be spotted all over Galapagos. The famous and ultra vibrant Sally Lightfoot Crab is also easy to spot. We saw many of these rock hopping along the shoreline.

Galapagos is the most famous for the Darwin’s Finch, which can be spotted on Santa Cruz and Espanola. The Galapagos is also home to the Galapagos Flamingo which is one of the largest flamingos. They can be found in shallow lagoons in Isabella and Floreana. The Blue-footed booby  is a popular favourite and is found all over the Islands, you can’t miss their bright blue feet! My favourite of bird by far were the inquisitive wee little penguins that swam all around the islands and dove in and out of the mangroves. A land so rich in wildlife, you will end up spotting most of these animals while backpacking Galapagos on a budget.

The main cost of going to Galapagos is the air fare. First you have to get to Quito (flights from the states are around $500 for a roundtrip) and then you have to make your way to Baltra, a $200 return flight from Quito. Of course, if you’re already in South America, you can travel overland from Colombia or Peru and enter Ecuador that way. Once you’ve made it to Baltra, you must pay a park entrance fee of $100 per adult and $50 per child. The rest of the trip was pretty budget friendly.

The food in general was amazing and there was always plenty of yummy beer to go with it. Meals ranged from $3 a person to $15 a person. If you eat where the locals eat you can get a good wholesome dinner for just $5 a meal. If you plan to eat where the tourists do, you’ll end up spending around $10-$15. Our most expensive dinner was $15 for the two of us to share a pizza and drink cokes at a tourist restaurant. So, yeah a word of advice; eat local if you aim to backpack Galapagos on a budget.

You can find plenty of hostels with private rooms and shared rooms. They charge per person for rooms – starting from $8 for shared, going to about $15 a night for a private room.

Couchsurfing is another viable option in the Galapagos. CS is a great platform for backpackers who want to crash on a couch for free. I would advise you to do a thorough check on the host though. 

There are plenty of budget hostels in The Galapagos , but if you are still wondering  which is the best part of the Galapagos to stay in?  Well, let me give you a few suggestions.

In terms of tourism, Santa Cruz is the most popular island in the entire archipelago! The main airport is actually on a separate island – Baltra – however, Santa Cruz is the closest inhabited island, and is only a short ferry ride away.

San Cristóbal

San Cristóbal is the most populous island in the Galapagos, and is home to the administrative capital – Puerto Baquerizo Moreno.

Isabela Island

The largest island in the archipelago, Isabela is nevertheless quite small population-wise – making it a great pick if you want an easy going and relaxed beach holiday!

Floreana is easily the most unique of all the islands in terms of culture! By far the least populated, and smallest in size of the inhabited islands.

We did not have any service while we were in the Galapagos and we were fine with it. But if you absolutely must have reception, grab a local SIM card for about $5 and activate 3G on it. You can also use free WiFi that most hostels offer. Also, make sure you have a good Virtual Private Network for your cell; which basically prevents others from stealing your info while you’re using public Internet.

Volunteering abroad is an amazing way to experience a culture whilst giving something back. There are loads of different volunteer projects in Galapagos ranging from teaching, to animal care, to agriculture to pretty much everything!

Despite high levels of tourism, poverty is common throughout the Galapagos and there are plenty of opportunities for backpackers to volunteer. Most gigs you’ll find are helping with permaculture, and sustainability projects, helping the landscape recover from the damaging effects of mass tourism. It’s also possible to find opportunities in English teaching and housekeeping. If you plan to volunteer in Galapagos for more than three months, then you’ll need to apply for a volunteer visa.  

Worldpackers

Our go-to platform for finding volunteering gigs is Worldpackers who connect travellers with host projects. Have a look at the Worldpackers site and see if they have any exciting opportunities in Galapagos before signing up.

Volunteer programs run through reputable work exchange programs like Worldpackers and platforms like Workaway are usually very well-managed and reputable. However, whenever you are volunteering do stay vigilant, especially when working with animals or children.

Worldpackers: connecting travellers with  meaningful travel experiences.

Alternatively, Workaway is another excellent common platform used by travellers searching for volunteering opportunities. Workaway is pretty massive, with over 40,000 hosts registered (that’s 40,000 opportunities) and over 350,000 reviews on the site. With a database base that big, odds are you’ll be able to find something that strikes your fancy. You can read our review of Workaway for more info on using this terrific platform.

Volunteer programs run through reputable work exchange programs like Worldpackers and platforms like Workaway are usually very well-managed. However, whenever you are volunteering do stay vigilant, especially when working with animals or children.

Global Work and Travel

Last, but certainly not least, Global Work and Travel is another viable option for finding volunteer opportunities in Galapagos. What sets Global Work and Travel apart from other volunteering platforms is the amount of assistance they give, from a 24/7 global help-line, help with VISA processing to airport transfers and continued support once you are in Galapagos. It may be a smaller platform, but the projects you’ll find are high quality and immaculately organised. There are new programs and opportunities listed constantly as Global Work and Travel continues to grow its reach.

For those interested in volunteer work in Galapagos, Global Work and Travel offer a fantastic project one where you’ll get to choose between community conservation or assistant teaching . There are options to stay anywhere from 2 to 10 weeks with weekends off. As with all volunteer abroad programs, there’s a cost, but you’ll be able to pay it off in interest-free instalments. Don’t forget to bring your camera and make sure you are between the ages of 18-85 to qualify!

If you’re en route to Galapagos and you want to check out what’s available in terms of a last-minute Galapagos cruise, you should check out  Galapatours. This is an online portal of all the cruise operators in Galapagos, and it’s updated daily. This means you can check out any last minute offers before you arrive and grab a place on a boat with a great island itinerary that will get you to the islands and wildlife you most want to see.

Feeling crushed by the extravagant pricing of cruises – from $6500 all the way to $14,000 for a ten day cruise, I was pleasantly surprised by how inexpensive they could be if you just rocked up and looked around a bit.

A great tip for those wanting to backpack Galapagos on a budget – go for a last minute trip. Once you get to the island you can find specials and deals being offered everywhere for last minute trips.

Day trips range from $40-$95 depending on where you want to go. Tour costs very much depend on what you want to do and see. For a week of adventuring, I would estimate spending between $400-$800 dollars on cruises to see all of the islands.

That’s a total steal compared to the prices quoted online… If you want to see the Galapagos on a budget; just go and figure it out once you have arrived.

All of that said, sometimes it makes sense to book a tour in advance, especially if you are picky and limited on time, looking for an eco-tour, etc. You’ll find our guide to the best Galapagos tours hire .

On every adventure, there are six things I never go traveling without:

Travel Security Belt

This is a regular looking belt with a concealed pocket on the inside – you can hide up to twenty notes inside and wear it through airport scanners without it setting them off.

Microfiber Towel

Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.

Petzl Actik Core Headlamp

A decent head torch could save your life. If you want to explore caves, unlit temples, or simply find your way to the bathroom during a blackout, a headtorch is a must.

‘Monopoly Deal’

Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.

Hanging Laundry Bag

Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.

For plenty more inspiration on what to pack, check out my full  backpacking packing list.

To keep your spending to an absolute minimum whilst traveling in South America in general I recommend sticking to these basic rules of budget adventuring….

• Camp: With plenty of gorgeous natural places to camp, the Galapagos is an excellent place to take a tent, though camping is highly restricted. There are still a few opportunities, however. Check out this post for a breakdown of the best tents to take backpacking.
• Cook your own food: I took a small gas cooker with me to the Galapagos and cooked a few of my own meals as I could and saved some cash – check out this post for info on the best backpacking stoves.
• Haggle: Haggle as much as you can. You can always get a better price for things especially while in local markets, though you might find that the locals won’t budge much on certain things.
• Pack a travel water bottle : save money (and the planet) every day! Stop buying bottled water! I may be repeating myself, but having your own water bottle is that important!

Why You Should Travel to Galapagos Islands with a Water Bottle

Plastic washes up on even the most pristine beaches… so do your part and keep the Big Blue beautiful

You aren’t going to save the world overnight, but you might as well be part of the solution and not the problem. When you travel to some of the world’s most remote places, you come to realise the full extent of the plastic problem. And I hope you become more inspired to continue being a responsible traveller .

Plus, now you won’t be buying overpriced bottles of water from the supermarkets either! Travel with a filtered water bottle instead and never waste a cent nor a turtle’s life again.

Drink water from ANYWHERE. The Grayl Geopress is the worlds leading filtered water bottle protecting you from all manner of waterborne nasties.

Single-use plastic bottles are a MASSIVE threat to marine life. Be a part of the solution and travel with a filter water bottle. Save money and the environment!

We’ve tested the Geopress  rigorously  from the icy heights of Pakistan to the tropical jungles of Bali, and can confirm: it’s the best water bottle you’ll ever buy!

• Lonely Planet Ecuador & the Galapagos Islands  –  This book is your passport to the most relevant, up-to-date advice on what to see and skip, and what hidden discoveries await you. Spot an iguana, swim with penguins, get out there and discover the heart of Galapagos islands.
• Galapagos: Islands Born of Fire  –  This book offers an unforgettable photographic tour of the Galapagos. Explore with the author the incredible diversity of wildlife and habitats of the most fascinating and exotically beautiful places in the world.
• Huasipungo: The Villagers: a Novel  – “The Villagers” is a story of the ruthless exploitation and extermination of an Indian village of Ecuador by its greedy landlord. An interesting read.
• The Queen of Water  – Virginia’s story will speak to anyone who has ever struggled to find his or her place in the world. It will make you laugh and cry, and ultimately, it will fill you with hope.
• Galapagos Regained  – The book centres on the fictional Chloe Bathurst, an unemployed Victorian actress who finds work on Charles Darwin’s estate, nurturing the strange birds, exotic lizards, and giant tortoises he brought back from his trip around the world. An interesting take on the theory of evolution.
• Galápagos  – A story of the character Kilgore Trout who watches and broods over his no-longer-human descendants who have made natural selection a matter of debased survivalism.
• Beyond the Islands  – A hilarious and troubling take that recreates the Galápagos Islands as the famous cradle of evolutionary theory and as an earthly paradise.

Galapagos Islands Offline Map Travel Guide

You will end up exploring the islands mostly on foot or by boat. Because of the lack of connectivity you will need something that will go off-grid with you. The Galapagos Islands Offline Map Travel Guide app is your best bet. It is detailed and will help you save all the info offline. Perfect if you’re backpacking Galapagos on a budget and want to save money on transport.

Are you a native English speaker looking to earn cash whilst traveling the world? Teaching English online is a great way to earn a consistent income—from anywhere in the world with a good internet connection. Depending on your qualifications (or your motivation to obtain qualifications like a TEFL certificate) you can teach English remotely from your laptop, save some cash for your next adventure, and make a positive impact on the world by improving another person’s language skills! It’s a win-win! Check out this detailed article for everything you need to know to  start teaching English online .

In addition to giving you the qualifications to teach English online,  TEFL courses  open up a huge range of opportunities and you can find teaching work all over the world. To find out more about TEFL courses and how you can teach English around the world, read my in-depth report on  teaching English abroad .

Broke Backpacker readers get a 50% discount on TEFL courses with  MyTEFL  (simply enter the code PACK50), to find out more, please read my in-depth report on teaching English abroad.

Whether you are keen to teach English online or looking to take your teaching game a step further by finding a job teaching English in a foreign country, getting your TEFL certificate is absolutely a step in the right direction.

The waters surrounding the Galapagos Islands make up some of the best scuba diving opportunities to be had in all of South America. The marine life is so abundant due to the heavy ecological protections placed upon the island by the Ecuadorian government years ago.

Joining a Liveaboard trip in the Galapagos is a great way to experience both the islands and the underwater marvels of the sea surrounding them.

Going to the Galapagos is an expensive affair generally. Plus it can be difficult to move around the islands.

Liveaboard trips go to remote dive sites and parts of the islands otherwise inaccessible to foreigners (and other divers). Eat, sleep, and go diving, all from the comforts of an awesome boat…

Sounds pretty awesome right?

For more information,  check out Liveaboard scuba diving trips in the Galapagos here.

Check out our  Ecuadorian safety guide  for tips and advice for visiting. Otherwise, you can read our  Backpacker Safety 101  for some more general information on staying saf while backpacking.

Pick yourself up a  backpacker security belt  to keep your cash safe on the road.

Check out this post for plenty of ideas on ingenious ways to  hide your money when travelling.

I strongly recommend travelling with a headlamp whilst in Galapagos (or anywhere really – every backpacker should have a good headtorch!) – check out my post for a breakdown of the  best value headlamps to take backpacking.

Travel Insurance for Galapagos

Traveling without insurance would be risky so do consider getting good backpacker insurance sorted before you head off on an adventure.

I have been using World Nomads for some time now and made a few claims over the years. They’re easy to use, professional and relatively affordable. They may also let you buy or extend a policy once you’ve started your trip and are already abroad which is super handy.

If there’s one insurance company I trust, it’s World Nomads.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Being a Responsible Backpacker in the Galapagos Islands

Reduce your plastic footprint:  Perhaps the best thing you can do for our planet is to make sure you do NOT add to the plastic problem all over the world. Don’t buy one-use water bottles, the plastic ends up in landfill or in the ocean. Instead, pack a  tough travel water bottle .

Go and watch A Plastic Ocean on Netflix – it’ll change how you view the plastic problem in the world; you need to understand what we are up against. If you think it doesn’t matter, get off my fucking site.

Don’t pick up single use plastic bags, you’re a backpacker – take your daypack if you need to go to the shop or run errands.

Bear in mind, that many animal products in countries you travel through will not be ethically farmed and won’t be of the highest quality. I’m a carnivore but when I’m on the road, I only eat chicken. Mass-farming of cows etc leads to the rainforest being cut down – which is obviously a huge problem.

Need more guidance? – Check out our post on  how to be a responsible backpacker.

Backpacking South America and the Galapagos Islands can be one hell of a party at times. Take it from me, it can be easy to get carried away. It is important to keep in mind that you are an ambassador for your country, which is awesome. We can make a positive impact on people when we travel and get rid of any ugly stereotypes that may be associated with your country.

If you visit indigenous villages or small communities always ask before taking photos. The people who live in these villages are not exhibits in a museum. They are normal folks just living their lives.  Always show them the complete respect that they deserve.

When buying a local craft, do not haggle so low that the price is unfair to the person who spent countless hours crafting it. Pay people what they are worth and contribute to the local economies as much as possible.

Avoid eating at fancy gringo-owned restaurants. I don’t care how badly you want that lasagne and red wine.  You make a choice with every dollar you spend. Try to spend your money in places where the experience is mutually rewarding.

I know it can be hard, but do your best to use the  least amount of plastic water bottles  that you can. Refill the ones that you do buy!  Use a Grayl Geopress . Refill at your hostel! There are plenty of ways to reduce plastic!!!

Backpacking South America or any region for that matter often illuminates some of the great socio-economic inequalities of the world. Never take it for granted that you are healthy and financially able to go traveling. Show the world around you some gratitude and help to make a positive impact on it. Most of all have the time of your life and spread the love!

Hope this budget travel guide has inspired you to stop freaking out about expensive tours and get out there and explore Galapagos on a budget!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

About the Author:  Lisa Swenson

Lisa Swenson is a third grade teacher at a local Arts Integration and Dual Emersion School in Georgia. Lisa enjoys adventuring outdoors with her family; Nathan, Stephanie, and Rebekah. She enjoys traveling to new places and exploring outdoors by hiking, kayaking, biking, camping, and photoghoraphing.

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Is Galapagos Island Expensive? What to Expect When Planning Your Trip

Many travelers wonder if the Galapagos Islands are expensive. These islands are famous for their incredible wildlife , untouched landscapes, and strong conservation measures, but they are also known for being a bit costly.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into the factors that contribute to the cost of a Galapagos trip, what you can expect in terms of expenses, and how to plan your budget wisely to make the most of this once-in-a-lifetime adventure.

Let’s begin!

The Cormorant II is a luxury catamaran equipped with spacious cabins and a sophisticated design to provide smooth sailing in the Galapagos seas.

The Elite catamaran is one of the newest boats offering cruises in the enchanted islands, it ranks amongst the top 5 luxury cruises exploring the Galapagos.

The Galapagos Seaman Journey allows you to enjoy several tours in the Galapagos with different cruise itineraries.

Is Galapagos island expensive?

Flights and entry fees, accommodation options, transportation within the islands, guided tours and activities, food and dining, conservation and park fees, souvenirs and local artisan goods, tips for budget travelers, frequently asked questions, is it true that visiting the galapagos islands is exceptionally expensive, what are the main expenses to consider when planning a trip to the galapagos islands, are there any tips for saving money while visiting the galapagos islands, how do conservation fees contribute to the overall cost of visiting the galapagos islands, can i find affordable souvenirs and mementos in the galapagos islands.

The Galapagos Islands' allure lies in its extraordinary biodiversity and unparalleled natural beauty. However, this remote location comes with logistical challenges and strict conservation regulations that affect the overall cost of visiting.

When considering whether the Galapagos is expensive, it's essential to recognize what makes this destination so exceptional and why it requires a certain level of investment.

One of the primary expenses when planning a trip to the Galapagos is the cost of flights to the islands. The Galapagos are situated approximately 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador , making air travel a necessity. Flights from mainland Ecuador to the Galapagos can be relatively expensive due to the limited number of carriers and high demand.

Additionally, all visitors are required to pay entry fees to the Galapagos National Park and INGALA (Immigration Control). These fees contribute to the conservation efforts and infrastructure maintenance on the islands.

Accommodation costs in the Galapagos vary widely, from budget-friendly hostels to luxury resorts. The type of experience you desire and your budget will determine your choice. Staying in eco-friendly lodges or onboard a cruise ship is a popular option for an immersive and comfortable experience.

Keep in mind that accommodation prices can be higher during peak tourist seasons.

Navigating between the Galapagos Islands often involves the use of inter-island flights or boat transfers. These transportation costs can add up, particularly if you plan to explore multiple islands during your visit.

While these costs are necessary for island-hopping , they are also an opportunity to witness more of the Galapagos' stunning landscapes.

The Galapagos Islands offer a multitude of guided tours and activities , including snorkeling , diving, hiking , and wildlife-watching excursions. While these experiences are enriching, they do come with additional costs. It's advisable to budget for some of these activities to fully appreciate the islands' wonders.

The presence of knowledgeable naturalist guides adds depth to your exploration but may also contribute to tour costs.

Dining options in the Galapagos range from local eateries to upscale restaurants. While it's possible to find affordable meals, dining costs can be higher compared to mainland Ecuador due to the islands' remote location and the need to import many goods.

To manage dining expenses, consider mixing local cuisine with self-catering or dining at moderately priced establishments.

In an effort to protect the Galapagos' fragile ecosystems, the national park enforces conservation fees. These fees contribute to the preservation of the islands' unique biodiversity and ecosystems.

While it's a mandatory expense, visitors can take pride in knowing that their contributions support the ongoing conservation efforts that make the Galapagos so special.

Many visitors wish to bring back mementos from their Galapagos adventure . Local markets and artisan shops offer a variety of handmade crafts and souvenirs.

Budget for some souvenir shopping if you'd like to take a piece of the Galapagos home with you. Your purchases also support local artisans and their communities.

While the Galapagos Islands can be expensive, there are ways to make your trip more budget-friendly:

• Consider staying in hostels or guesthouses.
• Opt for day tours instead of multi-day cruises.
• Explore local cuisine and street food options.
• Prioritize the activities and excursions that matter most to you.

Yes, the Galapagos Islands are known for being relatively expensive due to factors like remote location, limited infrastructure, and conservation efforts. However, budget-conscious travelers can find ways to manage costs.

Key expenses include flights to the islands , park entry fees, accommodation, transportation between islands, guided tours, dining, and activities such as snorkeling and diving .

To make your trip more budget-friendly, consider staying in budget accommodations , choosing day tours over multi-day cruises, eating at local eateries, and prioritizing the activities that matter most to you.

Conservation fees are mandatory and help support the preservation of the islands' unique ecosystems and wildlife. These fees are essential for maintaining the Galapagos' pristine natural environment .

Yes, you can find reasonably priced souvenirs in local markets and artisan shops. Purchasing these items not only allows you to take home a piece of the Galapagos but also supports local artisans and their communities.

In answering the question, "Is Galapagos Island expensive?" it's important to acknowledge that the cost reflects the unique experience this destination offers. The Galapagos Islands are a place of unparalleled natural wonder and a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and conservationists.

While planning your trip, it's crucial to strike a balance between your budget and the experiences you wish to have, ensuring that your visit to the Galapagos is not only memorable but also respectful of the delicate ecosystems that make these islands a global treasure.

Whether you choose a budget-conscious approach or indulge in luxury, the Galapagos promises a journey that will leave a lasting impact on your heart and soul.

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The Ultimate Galápagos Islands Travel Guide

Discover the islands that inspired Charles Darwin.

The Galápagos Islands, located roughly 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador, remained a closely guarded natural secret for millions of years. Over that time, the archipelago evolved into a home for an all-star cast of plants and animals. Sometime in the 1800s, some swashbuckling pirates and intrepid explorers started arriving in the Galápagos Islands. The most famous early visitor was Charles Darwin, a young naturalist who spent 19 days studying the islands' flora and fauna in 1835. In 1859, Darwin published On the Origin of Species , which introduced his theory of evolution — and the Galápagos Islands — to the world.

Since then, word of these islands and their magnificent beauty has steadily grown. In 1959, the Galápagos became Ecuador's first national park, and in 1978, it was named a UNESCO World Heritage site . Today, more than 275,000 people visit the Galápagos every year to see those incredible animals and landscapes for themselves.

As amazing as you think the Galápagos Islands will be, they routinely exceed expectations. It's a place where lizards swim, birds walk, and humans — for once — don't take center stage.

Reasons to Visit

Biodiversity brings over 100,000 visitors each year to these remote islands that were totally unknown to the world until 1535. Without the influence of a human presence, the island's flora and fauna, and the surrounding marine life, thrived for thousands of years by evolving into unique species you won't find anywhere else in the world, such as the charismatic giant tortoises and blue-footed boobies. Beyond seeing the main stars of the island, many visitors also enjoy the beautiful beaches and choose the Galápagos Islands as their honeymoon destination .

This is also one of the world's top scuba diving destinations, so spending time on or in the water is a must, whether that means you're ready to jump in with your snorkel for a sea lion swim or are happy to enjoy the views from the deck of your adventure cruise . Brimming with natural beauty, the Galápagos is for many a once-in-a-lifetime destination where the marvels of the natural world are waiting to astound you.

Best Time to Visit

There's no bad time to visit the Galápagos Islands. No matter what time of year you go, the adventure is sure to be unique and wonderful. June through December are the cooler and drier months. Even though this is the dry season, a garúa (or light, misty rain) is still possible, particularly in December, and skies can be cloudy and gray.

January through May are the warmer and wetter months, but the rain creates brilliantly clear blue skies between showers — great for photography. March and April tend to be the hottest and wettest months, while August tends to be the coolest time.

Water temperatures vary throughout the year because of the powerful ocean currents in the archipelago. Between June and December, the colder currents dominate and the water temperature dips low. A wet suit (likely provided by your boat or hotel) may be required while snorkeling during these months. However, the upside is that the cold current brings in huge quantities of plankton, which attract hungry marine life.

If you're set on seeing a particular species in the Galápagos, talk to the tour operator and pick the month and itinerary that will give you the best chance for a sighting. Some species are seasonal, and many exist only on specific islands. For example, the waved albatross, also called the Galápagos albatross, is not a full-time resident. These birds just show up for mating in the spring and summer.

How to Get There

Getty Images/Mauricio Handler

Flights to the Galápagos Islands depart multiple times each day from Quito or Guayaquil on mainland Ecuador. Flights from the U.S. are plentiful to both cities. Hotel options are better in Quito and, in general, this city is more compelling with a stunning colonial center, which was made a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1978. It's also home to ample museums, shopping, and restaurants to easily fill a few days. However, Quito is over 9,000 feet above sea level, so altitude can be a problem for travelers arriving from lower elevations. Steamy Guayaquil, Ecuador's largest city, is at sea level, so altitude is not an issue. However, the hotel and restaurant selection is much more limited in Guayaquil.

If you're booking your own flights from mainland Ecuador to the Galápagos Islands, remember that there are two airports on two different islands in the archipelago. San Cristóbal Airport is on the island of the same name. Seymour Airport, which runs entirely on sun and wind power, can be found on tiny Baltra Island, which is separated from Santa Cruz Island by a narrow channel. Be sure to book your flights to the same island you'll be based on, or where your boat departs and returns.

By Land or By Sea

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The first decision you have to make when visiting the Galápagos Islands is also the most difficult. Do you want to stay in a hotel on one of the three inhabited islands, exploring other islands and areas via day-trip boat rides? Or do you want to be based on a live-aboard boat, which provides accommodations and transportation from island to island? There are three main factors to consider when choosing between land and sea: cost, time management, and access.

A trip to the Galápagos Islands can be pricey. However, it's easier to craft a less expensive experience if you choose to be land based. These days, there are hotels and restaurants at many price points on San Cristóbal Island, Santa Cruz Island, and, to a much lesser extent, Isabela and Floreana Islands. Live-aboard boats come in a range of price points, too. However, all but the most bare-bones boats still add up to more than a land-based vacation.

If you choose a land-based vacation, expect to spend a lot of time getting from your hotel onto a boat, out to the day's destination, then back to your property. On the other hand, live-aboard boats do most of their navigating during the night when travelers are asleep in cabins on board. This means passengers wake up in a new destination ready for a full day of exploration. Because land-based explorations are limited to the five islands that can be reached in one day, travelers won't be able to visit the more distant islands that boat-based itineraries include.

Unless you're terrified of sailing, suffer from seasickness , or hate the idea of being on a boat for a week, book a cruise. You'll waste less time running back and forth, plus you'll see as many distinct areas of the Galápagos Islands as possible.

Most live-aboard boats offer five- to eight-day itineraries, with set departure dates and routes. Routes are dictated by Galápagos National Park officials to mitigate crowding and environmental stress. Your boat will provide a northern or southern itinerary (sometimes called eastern and western itineraries), alternating weekly. Both include wonderful land excursions, plenty of time in the water, and ample opportunities to see the famous flora and fauna of the Galápagos.

Boats in the Galápagos Islands are limited to a maximum of 100 passengers, but most carry fewer than that. The benefit of traveling on a smaller-capacity vessel is a more intimate onboard experience and faster transfer times between your main vessel and the rubber dinghies. Smaller boats also tend to have more character and history. And if you're traveling with a big group, don't worry, as larger-capacity boats tend to have more onboard services, like guest lectures and medical facilities.

Ecoventura , which has several vessels that allow for up to 20 passengers at a time, is another excellent operator. In addition, two naturalists take guests onshore and explain every animal and plant in great detail.

Scuba divers who want to focus on underwater adventures have a few options in the Galápagos Islands as well. The Galapagos Sky , Galapagos Aggressor III , and Galapagos Master are live-aboard boats that were designed specifically for scuba divers. They ply the waters all the way to the little-visited northernmost islands in the archipelago, where deep, cold, current-filled diving yields time with manta rays, whale sharks, sunfish, and hammerhead sharks. Note that these are for experienced divers only.

Best Hotels and Resorts

A wide range of hotels can be found on Santa Cruz Island and San Cristóbal Island, and several boats operate out of harbors on those islands as well. Be sure to book a hotel that's located near the harbor (not in the highlands), so you can be close to the boat's boarding spot for day trips.

For example, the 19-room Golden Bay Galapagos is situated right on the harbor of San Cristóbal Island. You can watch sea lions cavort on a small beach directly in front of the property, and day-trip boats leave from a dock that's no more than a three-minute stroll away. Book the corner suite, which features a living-room bathtub and glass walls that slide open to eliminate all barriers between you and the nature outside. Meanwhile, the Angermeyer Waterfront Inn is right on Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz Island. The hotel's newest room has been cleverly fashioned inside a beached wooden boat.

Or, book a hotel that owns and operates its own boats to ensure a seamless standard of service and the most practical and convenient itineraries. For example, the unparalleled Pikaia Lodge , located in the highlands of Santa Cruz Island, has its own boat that is used exclusively for guests on packages that include land and sea adventures.

The Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel , set in Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz Island, also has its own yacht, dubbed the Sea Lion . This vessel can hold up to 20 passengers plus two guides (many other day-trip boats carry 16 passengers and have just one guide). Sea Lion itineraries also encompass all five islands that day-trip boats are allowed to visit.

Last-minute deals are sometimes available for travelers who can afford to spend a few days searching for sales after arriving. However, the Galápagos Islands are a major tourist destination, so it's advisable to book well in advance. Dive boats, in particular, tend to fill up fast because there are so few of them.

If you are spending the night in Quito or Guayaquil, there are a few nice hotels that we also recommend checking out. In Quito, Casa Gangotena , on Plaza San Francisco in the heart of the capital's colonial center, is the best hotel in Ecuador, combining history, style, and service. Another top option is Illa Experience Hotel , a 10-room boutique hotel in the city's central San Marcos neighborhood. The property sits in a renovated mansion, and each floor presents different decor, including colonial, republic, and contemporary styles. In Guayaquil, Hotel del Parque , located in the city's leafy Parque Histórico, is a sophisticated boutique property with 44 rooms. The restored building dates back to 1891, and houses a spa where you can book a massage in a repurposed church bell tower.

Best Restaurants

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As you can imagine, the seafood in the Galápagos Islands is extremely fresh and the islands have many fine dining establishments to cater to hungry visitors. You'll find a range of dining options across all the islands' main hubs, many of which are associated with hotels, such as the Finch Bay Restaurant in Santa Cruz, which blends local Ecuadorian cuisine with international style. Another popular restaurant is the FraFre GastroBar , where the fish is served with a regional flair that's popular among locals and tourists. You'll also find more casual eateries like the humorously named Booby Trap that serves up fish tacos and pizza on Isabela Island alongside wonderful oceanfront views.

If you are looking for a memorable meal in Quito, Zazu is the only Relais & Châteaux restaurant in Ecuador. For a more casual experience, head to sibling restaurant Zfood , where a Hamptons-style fish-shack vibe is replicated perfectly and seafood reigns supreme. At Urko , chef/owner Daniel Maldonado stays focused on showcasing Ecuadorian ingredients and flavors. Go for the tasting menu to get a full sense of what he calls cocina local .

Things to Do

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Aside from observing the fabulous animals above and below the water, you can incorporate many other striking landscapes into your adventures. If you want to island-hop, you can coordinate visits to these sites yourself, but if you're on a cruise you may have to follow the pre-planned itinerary.

Throughout the islands you can enjoy the white sands of beaches like Tortuga Bay and Puerto Villamil, or take the adventurous route for a hike to the top of the Sierra Negra Volcano, an active shield volcano that last erupted in 2018, providing a dazzling show for offshore boaters. For something more tame, you can pay your respects at the Charles Darwin Research Station in Puerto Ayora, which has been used as a scientific base since 1964. Visitors can access the exhibition hall, gardens, and public library.

Best Islands to Visit

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There are 127 islands that make up this tropical archipelago, but only about 20 are frequently visited by tourists, and only four have major populations. Isabela Island is the largest of these, but despite its size, it has fewer people than Santa Cruz, which is the most populated island with approximately 12,000 inhabitants between the towns of Puerto Ayora and Santa Rosa. When you fly into the Galápagos, you will most likely arrive through Baltra Island, which is separated from Santa Cruz by a short ferry ride. Meanwhile, the province's capital is located on San Cristobal Island.

Booking a live-aboard boat trip will give you more opportunities to see the many different islands that make up these enchanted isles. However, if a particular attraction or animal captures your attention, you may want to seek out specific sites like Bartolomé Island, known for its volcanic rock formations like Pinnacle Rock, and Española Island, where you'll find the nesting sites of the waved albatross at Punta Suarez. If you're interested in the history of human discovery, Floreana Island was the first to be visited by people. Here, you can hear the stories of the many seamen who rolled into these waters and learn about the fascinating postal system they set up using a simple wooden barrel. Bird-watchers are especially fond of Genovesa Island, where frigatebirds and red-footed boobies are frequently spotted. For Galápagos penguins and flightless cormorants, the sparsely vegetated Fernandina Island is another popular spot.

Packing Tips

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A trip to the Galápagos is a big adventure, so you should come prepared with the right clothes and tools to face the elements. It may be tough to find what you need once you arrive on the islands — especially if you are spending most of your time at sea — so we've broken it down into essential categories and created a packing list to get you started.

Basic supplies are available at small shops on both San Cristóbal and Santa Cruz islands, but prices are high and the selection is limited. It's best to have the essentials with you. These include sturdy closed-toe walking shoes with durable soles. Although land excursions are generally short and trails tame, you may be walking over jagged volcanic rock and other obstacles from time to time. However, you will also want sandals or flip-flops to wear in towns and on boats. Leave the heels at home, especially if you've booked a boat-based itinerary. Even the most luxurious boats have narrow, steep stairways that are nearly impossible to navigate safely (or gracefully) in heels.

You'll also be glad to have rain gear and good weather protection for your camera. You will be traveling on boats and in dinghies, and rain showers can occur at any time. If you're exploring an island when wet weather rolls in, there will be no place to shelter out of the rain.

Health and Comfort

Stock up on lots of insect repellant and water-resistant, high-SPF sunscreen. As you might have guessed Ecuador is on the equator, which magnifies the strength of the rays, and most Galápagos excursions are completely exposed to the sun. We also recommend purchasing reef-safe sunscreen to help protect the coral, animals, and waters around the islands. A hat with a brim for sun protection during land excursions is also recommended. If you're planning to participate in kayaking and snorkeling excursions, a rash guard is also useful for sun protection. When water temperatures are colder, a wet suit will be provided. If you have fins, a mask, and a snorkel that you love, bring them with you. Snorkeling gear is provided, but the quality and cleanliness vary.

Seas are generally calm, and boat captains take great care in choosing protected anchoring spots. However, if you're prone to motion sickness, bring some Dramamine with you. Prescription preventions like scopolamine patches work well, too. Note that scopolamine is generally not available for sale in Latin America. Bring a reusable water bottle , so you can fill it up for day-long excursions and reduce your plastic waste.

There are ATMs on Santa Cruz and San Cristóbal islands, but they can run out of cash, so bring some with you to cover tips. Credit cards are also often accepted at shops and restaurants. The official currency of Ecuador is the U.S. dollar.

What Not to Bring

The introduction of non-native plant species is considered a top environmental threat to the Galápagos Islands, so do not bring any fruits, vegetables, or plants of any kind with you. Anything that might have seeds or spores clinging to it, such as the soles of your shoes and any outdoor gear or camping equipment, should be washed and inspected thoroughly before being brought to the islands. The threat of invasive plant species is so great that visitors arriving in the Galápagos have to sign an affidavit swearing that they're not bringing in any food, animals, seeds, or dirty camping gear.

In 2012, Ecuador's then-president Rafael Correa abolished fees at national parks and reserves in the country. However, Galápagos National Park was not part of that exemption and still requires a $100 entrance fee per person, which is payable only in cash upon arrival at either airport in the Galápagos Islands. In addition, each visitor must buy a $20 transit card, which is also payable only in cash at the airport. The transit card is a measure of immigration control, so all visitors must purchase one at the airport when they arrive and return it when they leave. If you are booked on a tour, your tour operator might take care of this for you, but it's better to ask ahead of time.

Before Visiting the Galápagos Islands

With the anticipation building for your trip, you may be looking for books and movies to get into the spirit of an adventuring naturalist. Here are some of our recommendations of what to read and watch to prepare for your trip.

• My Father's Island by Johanna Angermeyer: Published in 1998, this book provides an account of the author's German ancestors, who were among the first to settle on Santa Cruz Island. Their challenges and triumphs are humbling, offering valuable perspectives on the Galápagos. Members of the Angermeyer family still live on Santa Cruz Island, where they run the Angermeyer Waterfront Inn.
• The Galapagos Affair: Satan Came to Eden: Released in 2013, this documentary cleverly splices video footage, letters, and other archival material to recount a real-life murder mystery involving a self-proclaimed baroness, her lovers, and other settlers on Floreana Island in the 1930s. Cate Blanchett narrates one of the main characters.
• On the Origin of Species by Charles Darwin: This classic and its author will be referenced repeatedly during your time in the Galápagos. Read up on Darwin's seminal theory of evolution, which was inspired, in part, by observations he made in the archipelago.

Galapagos Islands   Travel Guide

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Why Go To Galapagos Islands

With its untamed terrain and notoriously fearless creatures – from sea lions to seagoing lizards – the isolated isles of the Galápagos lure those looking for exhilarating encounters in the wild. After all, where else can you observe giant tortoises grazing on tall blades of grass, short-feathered penguins waddling along the equator or blue-footed boobies conducting their unique mating ritual, all unbothered by the presence of onlookers? More than 100 years after Charles Darwin visited during his legendary voyage aboard the HMS Beagle, adventurers continue to use his footsteps as a guide for their own extraordinary journeys.

The Galápagos archipelago sits approximately 600 miles west of mainland Ecuador and comprises 234 isolated islands, islets, and rocks, warranting plenty of exploration. But with so much to see and do across this remote string of islands, you'll have to be selective about which islands you choose to discover. To get acquainted with the Galápagos' famous dome-shaped tortoises, head to El Chato Tortoise Reserve or Rancho Primicias on Santa Cruz Island. If you're keen to delve into the history of giant tortoises, witness conservation initiatives, and grasp the captive breeding endeavors for endangered turtle species, consider visiting the Tortoise Trail in the Galápagos National Park in Santa Cruz. Additionally, don't miss the chance to see the iconic Lonesome George, whose preserved body is a poignant reminder of the importance of preventing species extinction. Afterward, trek east to the Charles Darwin Research Station to learn more about Darwin's work. If you would prefer a rendezvous with sea lions, head to San Cristóbal Island, where the cheery mammals engage in barking conversations along chalky white sands . And for a more serious adrenaline rush, head to Isabela Island to hike the active and imposing Sierra Negra volcano. Wherever your Galápagos adventure takes you, don't forget to bring your camera.

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• # 3 in La Lobería (San Cristóbal Island)

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Galapagos Islands Travel Tips

Best months to visit.

The best time to explore the Galápagos Islands is from December to May. While the islands are excellent year-round, these months offer temperatures ranging from the low 70s to mid-80s, making pleasant conditions for hiking and wildlife-spotting. And though this season experiences frequent (but short) showers, the sun shines brightly on most days. Between June and November, the Humboldt Current, a current that runs northwest along South America's west coast, ushers in cooler temperatures and nutrient-rich water that attracts rare fish and birds. Albatrosses are exclusively found on Española Island in the Galápagos, and they can be observed there only between April and December. In August, Galápagos Penguins begin their migration from Isabela and Fernandina islands to central islands such as Bartholomew. Additionally, during these months, the region experiences longer rain showers and stronger winds, resulting in rougher seas.

To minimize the ecological impact on this fragile ecosystem, strict regulations are in place, including guidelines for site visits, allowable activity lengths and maximum passenger limits. You'll need to book several months in advance to secure a spot, regardless of your preferred travel dates.

Weather in Galapagos Islands

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

What You Need to Know

Dive into shoulder seasons The "warm phase" (December to May) offers sun-soaked days and inviting ocean temps, while the "dry phase" (June to November) brings vibrant wildlife interactions, from bustling sea mammals to seabird chicks. For nature lovers, the "dry phase" is unbeatable.

You need a TCT The Galápagos government requires all tourists to purchase a Transit Control Card, which helps monitor tourist time on the islands. You can fill out your information online in advance or do so at the airports in Quito, Guayaquil and Cuenca. The fee is $20, payable in cash at the airport. Keep the card safe during your trip; you'll need to present it upon departure.

You have to pay to play In order to tour Galápagos National Park (which occupies nearly the entire archipelago), foreign tourists not residing in Ecuador must pay an entrance fee. Individuals 12 years and older pay $100, while those younger than 12 pay $50. This entrance fee bolsters sustainable human development and vital conservation efforts in the region.

Prepare for sun The sun scorches the Galápagos Islands, and shade is hard to come by. Protect yourself with sunglasses, a hat and lots of sunscreen. A sun shirt wouldn't hurt, either.

Respect the Galápagos Code The islands aren't just a breathtaking destination but a national park and a World Heritage Site. As a visitor, you're entrusted with their care. The Galápagos National Park Directorate has set forth 14 crucial rules to ensure we all help preserve this natural wonder. Before your adventure, familiarize yourself with the guidelines .

Embrace the digital detox With its pristine beauty, the Galápagos is also a testament to life off the beaten digital path. Be prepared for limited internet access and unstable cellphone coverage. Embrace this opportunity to disconnect and immerse yourself in the wonders of nature.

How to Save Money in Galapagos Islands

Visit in the offseason If you plan a trip in October, November or between February and May, you'll find significantly lower costs. You'll still want to book a few months in advance to ensure availability (this is true of no matter the time of year you book).

Plan daytrips Though cruises are a remarkable way to experience the Galápagos Islands, they often come attached to exorbitant price tags. You'll find a handful of affordable expedition options available in Puerto Ayora , Puerto Villamil and Puerto Baquerizo Moreno. Plus, you can pick and choose tours based on your interests.

Get your fill of free attractions Though an entry fee applies to visit Galápagos  National Park, many of San Cristóbal Island and Santa Cruz Island's top attractions, including the Giant Tortoise Breeding Centers overseen by the Galápagos National Park Directorate and the Charles Darwin Research Center do not charge an additional entrance fee.

Maximize your first moments There's a wealth of activities in San Cristóbal and Baltra, the two places where you're likely to fly into. Visit Los Gemelos (the Lava Tunnels) or ranches hosting giant tortoises prior to visiting another location.

Culture & Customs

Ever since Panamanian bishop Tomás de Berlanga accidentally stumbled upon this isolated archipelago in 1535, the Galápagos Islands have entertained a bevy of visitors, from pirates and whalers to scientists and tourists. But the most iconic Galápagos visitor of all was British scientist Charles Darwin, who developed his ground-breaking theory of evolution after his stay in 1835, three years after the islands were claimed by Ecuador.

In 1959, organized tourism spiked significantly with the establishment of Galápagos National Park. This designation covered nearly 97% of the total land, solidifying its status as one of the most protected and biodiverse natural reserves on the planet. Today, the Galápagos Islands welcome more than 200,000 visitors every year.

While this tourism boom benefits Ecuador's economy, the eclectic array of species found here – and nowhere else – continue to be threatened. In fact, the remote region became so popular among tourists that the park was declared a World Heritage Site in Danger in 2007. Widespread preservation efforts have reduced imposing threats to the archipelago. It is no longer considered to be "in danger," yet conservationists continue to monitor tourist activity to reduce the damage caused by an ever-expanding human footprint. Travelers can minimize their impact by abiding by park rules and walking along the marked trails. 

According to the last government census conducted in 2015, the Galápagos Islands were home to roughly 25,000 inhabitants. However, the population has likely grown since then, with estimates suggesting that more than 30,000 people now reside on the islands. Of this population, a significant majority, nearly 20,000 individuals, call Santa Cruz Island their home, making it the most densely populated of the Galápagos Islands. This increase in population presents unique challenges and opportunities for the region, particularly in terms of sustainable development and conservation efforts in this ecologically sensitive and globally significant archipelago.

The dress code in Galápagos is generally casual: T-shirts, shorts or light trousers are your best choices. Evening dress code is generally quite casual, but it's a good idea to bring along a change of clothes. Given the archipelago's unique equatorial location, it's important for visitors to be mindful of the weather. Packing light layers and wearing ample sunscreen is essential to protect yourself from the strong UV rays. Additionally, comfortable walking shoes are a must if you plan to explore hiking trails. If you're inclined toward underwater adventures like snorkeling or scuba diving, including a wet suit in your luggage is advisable, as are multiple swimsuits. Keep in mind that evenings and higher elevations in the Galápagos Islands can get cooler. Be sure to pack a light jacket or sweater to keep you warm during breezy nights or while exploring the captivating highlands.

The U.S. dollar is the official currency of the Galápagos. While the island vibe embraces cash for most of its dealings (from boutique hotels to local diners), some establishments welcome Visa and MasterCard. Just a heads up, though – American Express isn't a local favorite. Should your wallet run thin, Banco del Pacífico and Banco Pichincha have your back with ATMs, normally open 24 hours a day.

The region's most widely spoken language is Spanish, but a growing tourism market has brought English to major isles like Santa Cruz, Isabela and San Cristóbal. Additionally, hotels and local tour companies can connect you with English-speaking nature guides. But if you plan on visiting more remote regions, you may want to learn a few key Spanish words and phrases – such as "hola" (hello), "adios" (goodbye), "por favor" (please) and "gracias" (thank you) – to use during your vacation.

What to Eat

Dining takes on a unique and flavorful character on the islands. Galápagos cuisine echoes the simplicity and rich flavors of mainland Ecuador, featuring staples like potatoes, yucca, plantains and rice. These ingredients come together to create dishes that are light yet incredibly satisfying. Additionally, there's a strong emphasis on locally sourced, fresh seafood, particularly in the handful of restaurants situated in Puerto Ayora , Puerto Villamil and Puerto Baquerizo Moreno .

One can't-miss item is the Galápagos lobster, a delicacy best enjoyed between September and December when the fishing ban is temporarily lifted. Additionally, indulge in the canchalagua , a mollusk unique to the region, as well as albacore or yellowfin tuna, which grace the menus with their exquisite tastes . Fish enthusiasts can relish dishes featuring camotillo , also known as the white-spotted sand bass; pez brujo , the Pacific spotted scorpionfish; and bacalao rey , the Galápagos golden grouper. If seafood isn't your preference, you'll find dishes with chicken, beef and pork on offer.

As for breakfast, the day commonly starts with bolones (fried plantains stuffed with cheese and meat) and coffee or freshly squeezed juices like guanabana (or soursop, an acidic yet sweet fruit believed to help fight cancer), tree tomato (a tomato-like fruit known outside South America as tamarillo ) and passionfruit. During other mealtimes, expect to see ceviche and fish-based soups like biche (which has a creamy peanut base with a piece of white fish and chopped vegetables) and encebollado (made with tuna, yucca, cilantro, tomatoes and pickled onions) on restaurant menus.

It's also common for locals and tourists to enjoy typical local dishes on Sundays in the highlands of Santa Cruz and San Cristóbal, particularly in the Bellavista and El Progreso parishes. These dishes often feature hearty stews like secos and aguado , prepared with free-range chicken.

Many of the Galápagos' islands are home to wild animals, so you should take precautions when exploring the region. You must not touch or feed any animal you see. When snorkeling or diving near sea lions, stay a safe distance from bulls – the larger, more aggressive and very territorial males. Also, do not provoke sharks. When diving, remember to practice safe diving practices like equalizing your ears as you descend and knowing where your scuba buddy and guide are at all times.

The archipelago is spread across the equator, so you'll need to protect yourself from the sun while visiting. Wearing a hat and lathering on sunscreen (even on areas covered by clothing) is strongly recommended. 

Packing any essential medications and medical equipment is a must due to the region's limited medical services. While 911 services and local hospitals are available in the islands (and can handle first aid and common medical needs), it's important to note that the region may lack specialist doctors for certain medical conditions. Before your trip, speak with your doctor about any medications and vaccinations needed for diseases present in the area, such as malaria, Zika, dengue and yellow fever. Travelers should consider purchasing comprehensive travel insurance to cover potential medical emergencies or evacuations during their visit.

Galápagos is generally a safe destination, and thefts aboard tourist boats are extremely rare. The local community values and safeguards visitors, making the archipelago a secure place to explore. However, taking standard precautions to protect your belongings while traveling is always advisable.

If you will be flying into Quito, Guayaquil or Cuenca before continuing to the Galápagos, keep an eye on your belongings at all times at these airports and in these cities. If you choose to spend a day or two in these cities, it's advisable to stay vigilant (especially on hiking trails and public transportation), as robberies have occurred. Additionally, it's best to avoid hailing taxis on the street and traveling alone, as there have been reports of express kidnappings (sometimes involving taxis) and incidents of harassment, even in tourist areas.

Before visiting Ecuador, the U.S. State Department strongly advises all Americans sign up for the free Smart Traveler Enrollment Program , which ensures the nearest embassy or consulate is aware of your travels. Additional information about security concerns and how to stay safe in Ecuador is provided on the U.S. State Department's website .

Getting Around Galapagos Islands

The best way to get around the Galápagos Islands is by boat. The key islands for island-hopping are Santa Cruz, San Cristóbal and Isabela. You can stay overnight on any of these islands or all three, using them as your starting points for daily excursions. Island-hopping packages usually include both sea and land transportation. You'll want to arrange an organized multiday cruise or boat tour several months in advance; that said, sea journeys aboard luxury liners are often attached to a lofty price tag, especially during the high season (December to May). If you wish to steer clear of the water altogether, you can fly from Baltra (a small island north of Santa Cruz Island) to San Cristóbal Island or Isabela Island.

You can fly to the Galápagos from Guayaquil's José Joaquín de Olmedo International Airport (GYE), located in mainland Ecuador. If you would prefer to fly to the Galápagos from Quito's Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO), plan to stopover in Guayaquil and tack an additional hour onto your flight time. You can also fly from General Eloy Alfaro International Airport (MEC, located in Manta, Ecuador). Airlines EQUAIR, LATAM and Avianca offer flights to Seymour Airport (GPS) and San Cristóbal Airport (SCY). Most cruise operators will arrange to meet you at either airport and transport you to your ship. If you're planning on visiting the islands without a tour guide, it's easy to navigate your way from Baltra to Santa Cruz Island. To reach Puerto Ayora, take the bus or taxi.

Puerto Baquerizo Moreno (on San Cristobal) and Puerto Villamil (on Isabela) are both within a short drive of San Cristóbal Airport (SCY) and General Villamil Airport (IBB), respectively. However, it's important to note that General Villamil Airport primarily serves small inter-island aircraft and does not have commercial flights.

Entry & Exit Requirements

Americans will need to present a valid passport before entering Ecuador. U.S. travelers can stay in Ecuador for up to 90 days without obtaining a visa, though the Ecuadorian government requires that you carry proof of identification and a photocopy of your passport at all times. Upon entry into the Galápagos, you'll also need to pay a fee. Adults and children 12 years and older are charged $100, while those younger than 12 pay $50. This fee grants access to Galápagos National Park (which comprises roughly 97% of the archipelago) for the duration of your stay. Sometimes, the cost of your tour or cruise will cover the fee; if that's not the case, you must be prepared to pay in cash upon arrival in the Galápagos. You'll also need to pick up a Transit Control Card, available from the Galápagos Government Council offices at Quito, Guayaquil and Cuenca's airports. Some tour companies will take care of card registration for you, but if you are traveling independently, allot extra time for purchasing a card. Each card costs $20 and must be bought with cash. You'll need to present your passport and Transit Control Card again when you leave. To learn more, visit the U.S. State Department's  website .

Galapagos sea lions love lounging on San Cristóbal and Rábida islands' beaches.

Explore More of Galapagos Islands

Things To Do

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Galapagos solo travel: How much does it cost?

By: Author Jaclynn Seah

Posted on Published: July 5, 2017  - Last updated: March 8, 2020

Categories Ecuador , Travel Planning

Last Updated on 8 March, 2020

The Galapagos Islands off the coast of Ecuador are an absolutely beautiful place for nature and animal lovers, but its remote location and the need to limit tourism from exploding means that getting to the Galapagos Islands is both a bit of a journey and kinda expensive. I spent 2 weeks trip there in February 2017 of my Career Break – here’s a look at my itinerary and budget for solo travel in the Galapagos Islands.

Is it expensive to visit the Galapagos Islands solo?

How to fly to galapagos, galapagos transport – how to get around the islands, galapagos islands cruise for solo travellers, things to do: santa cruz / puerto ayora, things to do: isabela / puerto vilamil, things to do: san cristobal / puerto baquerizo moreno, budget for solo travel in galapagos.

Galapagos has been a dream destination of mine for a long time, and I thought the experience of up-close encounters with such unique animals and pristine island paradise scenery was unparalleled, so while I spent a lot more than I usually do, I was prepared to and found it completely worthwhile – I’d do it again in a heartbeat!

It’s also why the general age range of people visiting the Galapagos tends to be older with a bit more spending power and less budget-backpackery types because there is a pretty big sunk cost you can’t avoid no matter how you scrimp.

That said, you can do the Galapagos for cheaper if you are smart about it. There’s no need to splash out on luxury everything, just be prepared that it’s unavoidably more expensive than Ecuador as a whole. Here’s a rough estimate of costs to get to Galapagos and around the major islands as a solo traveller. All prices in USD (that’s the currency used in Ecuador) and accurate as of Feb 2017 based on my own experience travelling there for 2 weeks as a solo indie traveller.

I’m only recommending you places and things that I did experience for myself – none of this was sponsored. There are some booking.com affiliate links in this post, an app which I use very frequently myself – making a booking through these links doesn’t cost you any extra, but it helps me earn a small % which is great in helping me keep this site going.

Budget: estimate $600 for flights, $120 for entrance fees

There is an opportunity to save here if you land a good flight deal but beware of hidden costs and time needed in taxi fare and land transfers depending on the airport you fly or land in.

Return Flight needed

You will need to give the return date when you get your tourist card (more below) – I don’t know how strict exactly they are about it, because they just asked me for my return date verbally and didn’t ask for me to show them my ticket for confirmation, but better to play it safe

Airlines that fly to Galapagos

I got my Guayaquil-Baltra flight from TAME at US$405. In general, the flight prices range around $600, though promo prices can drop to $200-$300 if you are lucky. Here’s a list of airlines that fly to Galapagos:

Land in Baltra (GPS) or San Cristobal (SCY)

Most flights land in Baltra (Also sometimes just called Galapagos), with the closest city being Puerto Ayora on the island of Santa Cruz about an hour’s drive south

However you could fly into the eastern island of San Cristobal which is much closer to the main town of Puerto Bacquerizo as compared to Baltra and Puerto Ayora, but note that flights direct to San Cristobal only go on certain days (I remember it as Tuesday, Friday and Sunday, but do double-check to be sure)

Transit through Guayaquil

All flights will transit through Guayaquil – it takes about 1hr 40mins to fly from Guayaquil to Baltra. Even if you fly from Quito, you will stopover in Guayaquil though you probably won’t even have to get off the plane, it’s mostly to pick up the passengers flying from Guayaquil.

Guayaquil is the biggest city in Ecuador in the southwestern end, but honestly, not the most exciting place – 1-2 days is more than enough time to see the main tourist sights here.

What’s notable is that downtown Guayaquil is very close to the airport (15 mins by taxi) and the airport is quite modern and swanky, which may make it a more convenient jumpoff point if you intend to hit the Ecuadorian coast in the west or are in the central/southern bits. The airport in Quito is quite a distance from the downtown area and definitely not as convenient

You Can Make Flight Changes

There’s a chance you might need to change your flights if you are doing a lasy-minute cruise and need to accommodate the dates. Mine cost $49 to shift back a few days – I made the changes at the TAME office in Puerto Ayora, but the change cost really depends on your flight details

Mandatory Entrance Fees for Tourists

These mandatory costs are one-off and the same regardless of how long you spend in the Galapagos, so logically it makes more financial sense to spend more time in the Galapagos!

• Tourist card: you get this from the Galapagos counter at the Quito/Guayaquil airport before you check-in. It’s a piece of paper with a big QR code and costs $20 – this paper is scanned on entry and exit
• Entrance fee: Foreigners need to pay $100 per person to enter Galapagos. This you pay at Galapagos immigration when you land.

Budget: estimate $32 per trip for ferries, $170 per flight

If you are not doing a cruise, you will probably be spending time on the 3 main islands: Santa Cruz, San Cristobal and Isabela , and will need to move between the islands as they each offer different flora and fauna. You can fly little domestic planes as well which is quicker, but I mostly travelled by public ferry which was much cheaper.

Santa Cruz: Main Hub

There are only 2 ferry routes available – between Santa Cruz and San Cristobal to the east, and Santa Cruz and Isabela to the west. You can’t go from San Cristobal to Isabela directly by public ferry. There are also fixed times to catch the ferries as below – make sure to arrive 30minutes before your ferry leaves to allow for security checks (which they take quite seriously) and so you don’t get left behind!

• From Santa Cruz: 7am and 2pm to both Isabela and San Cristobal
• From Isabela: 6am and 3pm to Santa Cruz
• From San Cristobal: 7am and 2pm to Santa Cruz

One Flat Fee for Public Ferries

Any water transfer you take between the main islands (Santa Cruz-San Cristobal and Santa Cruz-Isabela) costs $30 by the public ferry, which is really a largish speedboat that can sit around 30+ passengers without any fixed seating. It’s a flat fee I’ve heard sometimes you can bargain down to $25 but it really depends on your agency, but $30 is pretty standard

Get your ticket from a Tour Agency

Get your ferry ticket from any tour agency – they’ll take your name and contact details and give it to the boat operator, and then tell you what time you need to report.

At the pier you’ll need to be there half an hour early to get your luggage inspected. Look out for people wandering around with clipboards – these are the people manning the boats and they’ll need to tick your name off a list to check that you made the trip. Some companies are a lot more organized about and will give you a pass to identify you, or call your name, but in general, they just need to know that you’re there to catch your boat

Additional Costs – Small boat transfers from land to ferry

Sometimes you will need to transfer from the pier to the ferry via a smaller speedboat which usually costs 50 cents to $1 depending on where you are (more in individual island breakdown). I suggest to budget in another $2 to your 1-way island ferry cost and not be too surprised when the boatman asks you for money.

Prepare yourself for inclement weather

The comfort of the ferry ride really depends on luck, weather and where you sit. Remember it’s a speedboat and not very large – ferry is a bit of a misnomer honestly. Santa Cruz-Isabela was really bumpy and not comfortable at all and I was just hoping it would be over quickly.

But the San Cristobal-Santa Cruz one was surprisingly smooth and I read most of the way back without a headache though I was stuck in direct sunlight because there were no more seats in the sheltered cabin area. Arm yourself with sunblock, sunglasses and a scarf just in case!

Flying between islands

You can also fly between islands instead of taking the ferry. The flights generally take 30-45 minutes compared to 2 hours by boat but accordingly more pricey. Not much advice I can give here since I didn’t fly between islands at all!

Budget: estimate $1,000/5-days or $1,700/8-days for last-minute bookings. Double that at least if you book in advance

A popular way to see the Galapagos is to do a cruise around the various islands – it costs more than just staying on the islands, but it gives you the opportunity to visit more far-flung islands where you cannot take a day trip to.

Types of Cruises

Most of the cruises are naturalist cruises – that means every day you visit an island for nature walks and some swimming and snorkelling with a certified guide to point out the flora and fauna for you. I asked about scuba diving, but you need to do a dedicated Live on Board dive cruise which very few companies offer, and you are looking at a cost of around $4,000-$5,000.

Last-Minute cruises are the Cheapest

Last-minute cruise options are the cheapest you can get. The good news is that prices are usually at least half of the rack rate, sometimes even more. The tours are being sold by different tour agencies who may give you different prices even for the same boat, so spend a little time shopping around a bit asking about prices, itinerary and what exactly is included if you want a good deal. It can be pretty mind-boggling and overwhelming just because of the sheer number of options though!

• A decent 5-day cruise is really only about 3.5-4 days worth of activity and usually goes around $900-$1000
• I was on an 8-day cruise with the Aida Maria boat which cost me $1600 last minute. We started from Santa Cruz, visited Genovesa, saw Bartolome and Santiago, back to Santa Cruz to drop off the 5-dayers, then to Floreana and Espanola, and finished in San Cristobal. My cruise cost was $1,600

• Online prices usually start from $2,000+ (5 day) or $3,000+ (8 day) and up. While you definitely save money doing the last minute option, you will have to settle for what’s available that fits your schedule
• You can knock more dollars off if you opt out of some of the itinerary – our itinerary included Santa Cruz which some of the people had already explored previously, so they opted to have their own free time on these days and knocked some $$ off the price. You will need to settle this when you book and pay for the tour with your agency as the boat will just follow the instructions given to them and are quite rigid about this

Additional Cruise Costs

Room and all meals are usually included in your tour price, along with rental of snorkelling masks and fins. But there are other little costs that you need to fork out for, so make sure to set aside some budget for this

• Tips for the Crew to share – my boat said the customary was $12/day for the crew, but I don’t think there’s a real standard rate, you should just give what you can afford
• Tips for the Guide – my boat said the customary was $8/day
• Drinks and additional snacks onboard usually aren’t included in the full board, so bring your own or check first!

What you need for Last-Minute Galapagos Cruise Bookings

Here’s what you need to be able to score a last-minute cruise

• Flexibility in timing: You usually need a return ticket for Galapagos so make sure you give yourself some buffer time if you want to do book a cruise last minute. Be prepared to possibly shift your return date – I shifted mine back to accommodate my cruise dates
• A bit of research beforehand helps: know what islands can only be reached by an organised cruise and not on your own, and whether there are particular things you want to see or do. It’ll help you see if the cruise is value for money and narrow down your choices because the amount of options can be boggling
• A lot of patience: and expect disappointment as previously available cruises get booked up quickly
• 1 or 2 pax max: This is probably the best number to fill spots last minute – you might have to share a room as a solo person or you could luck out and get a bunk for your own.

Budget: estimate $50/day for accommodation and food only

How to get to Santa Cruz: Transfer from Baltra Airport

Most flights from Quito and Guayaquil will fly into Baltra Island and you will then head to Puerto Ayora in the south of Santa Cruz Island. Baltra and Santa Cruz are separated by a small canal/channel which boats pass through. This airport is not the most convenient though as it takes about an hour in total to drive from the airport to downtown area. Estimate $25/round trip to be safe, though I managed to pay just $9 in total!

• Baltra Airport – Canal Station: from the airport, there is a short bus ride to the ferry terminal at the canal – that’s free!
• Baltra Canal Station – Santa Cruz Canal Station: There’s a channel between Baltra Island and Santa Cruz where you have to take a boat transfer that costs $1. It’s a large ferry where your luggage is put on the roof of the boat and you wait for the boat to fill up before it crosses. You can’t avoid this cost unless you’re being picked up directly from the airport and it is already factored into your transfer fee
• Santa Cruz Canal Station – Puerto Ayora: From the canal in the north, you either take a bus for $2 or a taxi for $20 across the island to get to the main town of Puerto Ayora in the south. Unless you have a big group or a lot of luggage, take the bus. Oddly enough there doesn’t seem to be a way to catch a bus back to the Baltra airport, so rather than fork out the money for a cab on my own, I ended up hitching a ride with a couple who were also headed to the airport already from the main port area. They had already prepaid their transfer but I managed to bargain the taxi driver to charge me just $5 for hitching the ride!

Where to stay in Puerto Ayora

Hostels/guesthouses are not cheap relative to the rest of Ecuador, but probably your cheapest option here in the Galapagos. I’d estimate about $25-30/night to be safe if you are travelling on your own and want somewhere nicer. Many of the hostels/hotels don’t have online booking, so if you are feeling lucky, consider just walking around when you reach because you might be able to score cheaper rooms. Don’t risk it during high season though

• The cheapest hostel accommodation prices I saw in February were around $17/night for a dorm in El Descanso de Petrel which was really central in the main downtown strip, but you had to climb 3 storeys to the dorm on the top floor
• I stayed in a private room at Hostel Morning Glory on Puerto Ayora for $30/night. I highly recommend this place – a little bit off the main stretch so it’s quieter but still walking distance to everything else. It was really clean, had air conditioning, ensuite bathroom and a pretty stellar breakfast too along with FREE LAUNDRY (long term traveller jackpot ding!ding!). They have a lovely shop upfront that does custom hand-painted T-shirts, not cheap, but definitely unique.

What to eat

If you are eating out mostly like me, you can get lunch and dinner set meals here for about $6-$7, which usually includes a soup, main dish and a drink. A la carte options in restaurants tend to cost more though, around $10-$20 at least. One place I liked was the open-air food street in Puerto Ayora where I shared a decently sized grilled fresh fish, beer and some ice cream with a friend for about $10 each in total.

Free / Cheap Things to Do in Puerto Ayora

Not everything will cost you! Here’s what you can do for free, or relatively cheap

Charles Darwin Research Station

This little spot is about 20 minutes walk east from downtown Puerto Ayora, or you could cycle here too. The parts you can visit in the research station include a tortoise breeding centre where you can see how they protect and breed the various species of tortoise found only on the Galapagos Islands. It was undergoing some revamp when I was there so I missed out on the museum display which includes an impressive whale skeleton, but look out for the new museum exhibit featuring the famous Solitary George! [open everyday 0800-1230, 1430-1730]

Playa de la Estacion / Station Beach

This little beach is right next to the Charles Darwin Research Station and apparently quite popular with locals and for snorkelling, especially in the late afternoon. It was pretty hot at midday when we were there for a breather, our only company a couple of sunbathing marine iguanas.

Puerto Ayora Fish Market

This is en route from the downtown area to the Charles Darwin Station, and it’s really just a small open-air area where you can buy fresh seafood, but the best part is the sheer number of pelicans and sealions all around the stalls – that’s how you know the fish is really that fresh because the animals are all trying to get a piece of the action!

Alemane Beach + Las Grietas

Just a short 3-minute water taxi ride across the Puerto Ayora port is a little beach and some snorkelling points at Alemane aka the German beach. This beach is surrounded by mangrove trees and is a marine iguana nesting area, so expect to see them all over the beach and even swimming past you in the water! The beach is free to visit, but the water taxi costs 80 cents/1-way and you need to rent some snorkelling gear too. I didn’t manage to walk further on to Las Grietas which is a picturesque little swimming grotto, the perfect finish to a short but sweaty walk.

For those who don’t mind even more walking, head to Tortuga Bay , another beach along this peninsular that’s also free but a bit more of a hike away!

El Chato Reserve

This patch of land up in the hills is about 30 minutes from downtown Puerto Ayora by taxi and surprise, has giant land tortoises on it, and you are provided boots so you can walk around the property freely to discover these animals in their sanctuary! Also, check out the craters and lava tubes – narrow caves of sorts made out of really old volcanic lava. It’s just $3 for entry, though it will cost you around $30-50 on average to take a taxi here and back again – best to find some other like-minded people to split the costs with you.

Paid activities in Santa Cruz

aka paid tours you need to arrange that tend to cost a bit more

Black Turtle Cov e

You need to arrange to go on a tour to get to Black Turtle Cove as it is only accessible by rubber dinghy, but it is definitely well worth the trip. This shallow mangrove has extremely clear water and is a bit of a nursery, so we saw a ton of baby sharks (even baby hammerheads!) in the water swimming by, as well as lots of turtles and stingrays swimming past our boat. Also, blue footed boobies dive-bombing the water galore!

Scuba Diving

The Gordon Rocks are one of the most popular dive sites where there are opportunities to see hammerhead sharks among other creatures, and North Seymour as well. I missed the chance to dive here but I saw some pretty amazing footage from my friends! Definitely do this if you have your license and have the resources for it.

Entrance Fee

Isabela is the largest island of the Galapagos and also the only one you need to pay for to enter – for foreigners it costs $10 which you pay as you disembark from the ferry. From the port, you could walk to downtown if your bags aren’t too heavy as it’s not too far, about 20mins or so. If not hop onto the shuttle bus for $1 and just tell the driver where to drop you.

Where to stay

I shared a twin room with a friend at Casa Rosada aka Caleta Iguana for $28/pax/night including tax. It’s got a great location right on the beach but the room we had was really hot (with shitty fan and no aircon) and cleanliness is pretty basic. Be warned as well that it’s called Caleta Iguana for good reason – there are a TON of iguanas all over the hotel’s premises, so watch your step when you are walking around as the iguanas tend to like suntanning on the balcony and staircase.

If you are eating out mostly like me, you can get lunch and dinner set meals here for about $7-$9, which usually includes a soup, main dish and a drink. A la carte options in restaurants tend to cost more though, around $10-$20 at least. It’s a little more pricey than Santa Cruz and San Cristobal. Most of the time I was eating in the downtown area – there’s practically just one main road with lots of little restaurants lined up together.

Isabela is also where I discovered a local ice cream called Los Coquieros which is sold at a number of convenience stores – it’s not particularly cheap at $2.45 per popsicle, but it’s really flavourful and I love the chocolate flavour omg.

Free / Cheap Things to Do on Isabela

Concha perla.

This is a little jetty right next to the ferry port where you can do some snorkelling and you might find a sealion or two here – ours was taking a nap underneath the bench, unconcerned with the gawking tourists. Bring a dry bag or stuff you don’t mind getting wet – there are one or two benches and poles to hang your things on but not much space, and it can get crowded!

We rented snorkelling gear for $3 from a hotel along the main road. Close by is a beach which sees many sea lions – we caught some napping and jumping into the water.

Centro de Crianza de Tortugas Gigantes

The tortoise breeding centre here is also quite large, and see all the land tortoises as well as teeny tiny baby ones here! It’s a short but manageable hike here from the downtown area where you’ll pass by the flamingo lagoon along the way. A little further down the path from the breeding centre is a lovely lake where you might spot some birds too.

Wall of Tears

This is a pretty long 5km walk – I’d highly suggest cycling instead of walking as there’s not much shade and most of it is relatively flat so you cover ground a lot faster. What’s cool is that you might run into large land tortoises wandering around. The wall itself I feel is a bit anti-climatic , but it is a memorial of a time when the Galapagos was a rather corrupt prison – building the wall was a pointless menial task meant to torture prisoners rather than serve any purpose.

There is a nearby viewpoint which offers some excellent views of the surroundings, and there are some beaches along the trail worth checking out too.

Iguana Viewpoint

This viewpoint near the Malecon is right in the middle of an iguana breeding area. Look closely at the black rocks and you will realise just how overrun the place is with iguanas! Tread carefully when you are here!

Paid activities on Isabela

Los tuneles tour.

Explore lava formations and snorkel in the tunnels – this is apparently pretty cool but I didn’t get a chance to do it

Volcano Tour

Isabela is the biggest island and it is actually made up of 6 different volcanoes. I would have loved to spend a day checking out Sierra Negra, one of the largest volcano calderas and apparently still very active. From what I’ve read you may be able to do this on your own, but definitely check first.

Where to stay on San Cristobal

I had a double-bed room for myself at Hostal Terito for $27/night including tax with a shared toilet. There were some other people around the house but I mostly had the level to myself. It’s a lovely family-run guesthouse with a really friendly family running it (mostly Spanish speaking though), and it’s a short but walkable distance from the main strip in Puerto Baquerizo, I’d recommend staying there!

If you are eating out mostly like me, you can get lunch and dinner set meals here (known as Meriendas) for about $4-$6, which usually includes a soup, main dish and a drink. A la carte options in restaurants tend to cost more though, around $10-$20 at least. This is probably the cheapest meal you can get in the Galapagos!

Free / Cheap Things to Do on San Cristobal

Sea lion beach es.

You haven’t seen sea lions until you’ve seen those on San Cristobal – the beaches in the downtown area are home to huge colonies of sea lions beaches – you can hear (and smell) them in the evenings when they flop down on the beach to rest. Quite a sight to behold, and absolutely free! When I was there in February there were tons of babies as well flopping around and bleating – just be sure never to get between a baby and its territorial mother!

This is the beach closest to the downtown area, about 15 minutes walk from the main port. Not particularly spectacular, but it’s convenient and en route to the Interpretation Centre.

Centro de Interpretacions

If you want a complete history about the Galapagos, this little museum is very well presented and gives you a great overview of Galapagos’ past, present and possible future. It’s a nice little walk up here en route to Tijeretas.

Hike to Tijeretas Lookout

The outdoor area of the interpretation centre is like a beautiful manicured garden with paved boardwalks that lead you towards the coast where there’s a lovely lookout point on top of the cliffs – it takes some stair climbing to get to, but the view of the bay and surroundings is worth the effort! There are several viewpoints along the coast you can go to – one of them has a giant Charles Darwin statue for your photo opps.

Chill at Punta Carola

This beach is on the Tijeretas trek and definitely worth spending some time at. Bring along some shade or be prepared to get lots of sun as there isn’t very much overhanging brush – you’ll have to compete with the marine iguanas for the shady shrubbery… Spotted a sea lion family playing in the water, and there’s a great bay view here.

Paid Activities on San Cristobal

Scuba diving at kicker rock.

The must-see site here is Kicker Rock or Leon Dormido on the western side of the island. This is hands down one of the best dives I’ve ever done! I saw a small school of hammerhead sharks in the wild, Galapagos sharks, a big ball of fish, and even spotted 2 Minky whales and breaching manta rays on the boat ride back.

It cost me $160/day (2 dives) with Wreck Bay Diving Centre (very professional, great company) including lunch, gear, transport and a side trip to the nearby beach Cerro Brujo where I got to play with a friendly sea lion. I also dived the day before nearby in Tijeretas but honestly if you’re short on time and money, just spend on a day at Kicker Rock. Punta Pitt in the north is supposed to be a pretty nice dive spot and good for bird spotting too.

  HAMMERHEADS at Kicker Rock #mylifeiscomplete – thanks to my dive pal Joe who let me steal his @gopro footage so I can show you guys this incredible experience. Imagine not just 1 or 2 but 4 (or is it 5??) hammerhead sharks looming from the murky waters and coming towards you. And these are pretty sizeable! We saw hammers in both our dives here at Kicker Rock #jactotinecuador #ecuador #galapagos A post shared by Jaclynn Seah (@jac_theocctrav) on Feb 21, 2017 at 10:32pm PST

a breakdown of my own expenses for your reference

So I thought I’d give you a rough breakdown of my own expenditure for comparison if you are planning to do your own budgeting for this trip:

I spent about $3,000 for 14 days in Galapagos, which works out to around $215/day (Note costs are in USD not SGD) which is frighteningly high for a backpacker. Even if you omit the flights for a more even comparison, it’s still about $175/day. A closer look at costs:

• ~$1,700 for 8-day cruise + tips
• ~$570 for flight + tourist entrance fees from Guayaquil
• ~$240 for scuba diving x 4 dives
• ~$170 for accommodation in private rooms x 6 nights
• ~$140 for food and drinks on the Islands x 6 days
• ~$90 for transport on and between islands by ferry x 3 trips
• ~$75 for souvenirs (I bought 2 rashguards as souvenirs which took up the bulk of this cost, the rest of the stuff were trinkets)

As a comparison, my expenditure in the rest of Ecuador was about $45/day – Ecuador as a whole is pretty cheap, it’s just Galapagos that is much more expensive. Looking at the cost breakdown now, I don’t regret doing any of these things though I kinda wish I had more time to explore Isabela especially. It might have been expensive on paper but this trip was totally worth every cent to me!

Some money-saving tips

• Bring enough supplies like sunblock and mosquito repellent because it is really expensive on the islands – all these items have to be imported from the mainland. One little tube of sunblock was going for $18! If you are stopping over in Guayaquil for a night, stock up there so you don’t have to splurge in Galapagos. I highly recommend Detar as an insect repellent
• Bring your own snorkelling or wetsuit gear – you can rent it pretty cheaply, but if you are going to do a lot of snorkelling in your time there, it might be more worthwhile to just buy a fairly cheap mask and snorkel of your own so you don’t have to rent every time you need one… it adds up!
• Go in early for: Flights – look out for promos
• Book last minute for: Cruises, tours, accommodation

Here’s a map plotting out everything in this article:

If you have tips on travelling the Galapagos Islands, do drop them in the comments below. If Galapagos has always been a dream for you to visit but you are concerned about costs, I hope this guide helps you out a little in terms of figuring out the costs and nitty-gritty. Do share this little guide with anyone you know who’s heading there!

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Saturday 3rd of November 2018

thank you very much Jaclynn.

Friday 1st of December 2017

Excellent! Yes, I have always wanted to go to the galapagos...but not knowing the cost kept me from pursuing it. Thank you mucho for your detailed and thoughtful account.

I will have to look around your blog for other trips in Ecuador.

Wednesday 1st of November 2017

Hi Jaclynn, thank you a great report. I like to add a tour which I have made/booked when I was on Isabela. "Las Tintoreras Day Tour". Las Tintoreras is covered in lava and you can see many sharks and iguanas.

Jaclynn Seah

ooh that sounds pretty awesome! I have to go back again >_<

Saturday 26th of August 2017

Great article! My husband and I have been on the fence about visiting when we are down in Peru next Spring...you have definitely motivated me to look more into it!

Sunday 27th of August 2017

My rec is to definitely do it if you can afford it and love nature! Galapagos is quite the experience :)

Wednesday 5th of July 2017

Woot~ Thanks for putting up the informative post! All the cost stated are in USD? Generally, is booking a 2 weeks trip enough to offers enough flexibility for last minute bookings there?

yup everything in USD! for the last minute cruises I think it gives you enough time to have a few more options - the thing is there are boats coming and going on different days so if you do the standard 5/8 days and settle your booking on the 1st day in, you have a bit of room to shuffle around your itinerary. So what I ended up doing was 1 night in Santa Cruz, 2 nights in Isabela, 7 nights cruise, 2 nights in San Cristobal, mostly planned around the dates and departure/arrival ports of my cruise.

worst case is having to fork out a little bit more to extend your trip :p

Galapagos Vacation & Tour Options

For your next vacation, galapagos travel center offers you a great variety of tour options to the galapagos islands as well as on the mainland of ecuador. just choose whatever suits you best.

If you want to see as many islands as possible in a self-chosen amount of time, you can opt for one of our cruises . If you prefer sleeping on firm ground, you can also choose one of our hotel-based tours on the Galapagos islands or the mainland . Are you fascinated by the marine life in the archipelago? Then go for our diving tours . For adding some more sports, you can opt for our adventure tours .

Cruises are the most popular choice to tour the Galapagos Islands. Galapagos tour cruises range from luxury class to economy class boats.

Taking a land based tour in the Galapagos Islands provides the chance to explore the islands in their entirety through a number of tours and activities.

See whale sharks and large schools of hammerheads in a live-aboard or hotel-based diving tour. Take a land + dive combined nature tour for the full nature vacation experience.

Adventure travel vacation packages include activities such as kayaking, mountain biking, horse riding and snorkeling. These adventure tours are perfect for active travelers.

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Which kind of Galapagos tour is best for me?

Discovering the Galapagos and enjoying the vacation of a lifetime, has never been easier than with the help of our Galapagos experts . Thanks to our years of expertise, we have combined the best land tours , and offer the best cruises in the Galapagos.

But wait… what is the difference between a land-based tour and a cruise?

There is not a lot of difference between a Galapagos land-based tour and a cruise . Considering that the visitor sites will be almost the same as long as they can be reached within a couple hours from your hotel, wildlife will be the same and the experience will be the best of your life.

Nevertheless, and considering the questions that this may arise, we have prepared these FAQs about the difference between these kinds of tours.

Which is the cheapest way to visit the Galapagos?

All of the cruises are all-inclusive, which means that inside the rate everything will be covered, from the meals, drinks (save for alcoholic beverages), to the guided-excursions, night accommodation, and inter-island transfers.

On the other hand, land-based tours not always have everything included in the rate, meaning that most dinners will have to be covered by you, apart from the per person expense of the daily tour and transfers, which does not necessarily means that hotel-based will be more expensive.

In the chart below, you will see referral prices of the average cost per day of land-based tours vs. cruises (in US Dollars):

Will I see the same visitor sites?

Most of the visitor sites seen in both tours will be the same. However, due to cruising time, boats are able to reach some islands that cannot be seen on a land-based tour. This happens because most of the traveling while onboard a cruise occurs at night. Therefore, while you sleep the vessel can reach longer distances.

Is a cruise as comfortable as a hotel?

This is a tricky question. When choosing a good vessel, like the ones suggested by our Travel Experts, you will be comfortable while cruising, anyhow, sea roughness has to be always considered. On the other hand, and indisputably sleeping on land will always be stable and comfortable.

Where does the tricky part come? Transferring between islands occurs aboard speedboats, which can be a really bumpy ride, that can last from 2 to 3 hours.

Above all, these are the most important things to consider when booking a tour to the Galapagos Islands. In order to customize your Galapagos trip, so it can fit your budget and your time, it is highly recommended to receive free-online assistance from one of our Ecuador & Galapagos experts.

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Responsible Travel

Based in the United Kingdom, the Galapagos Conservation Trust (GCT) is a non-profit organization dedicated to raising funds for the protection and conservation of the Galapagos Islands. Established in 1995, the GCT has supported a wide variety of conservation and awareness programs.

GalapagosIslands.com and Galapagos Travel Center have supported GTC in conservation efforts in the Galapagos Islands.

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Traveled to Islands Secrets Land Based Tour Hi Daniela, I'm back in Quito, and off on the birding trip tomorrow. I want to thank you personally for all the organisation and support. David Betram June 2018

Traveled to Galapagos Dream Land Based Tour Thank you so much for all the planning you did for us to make this an unforgettable vacation. We will definitely recommend to friends and family should they ever wish to visit Galapagos or Ecuador. We also hope to return sometime in the future. Terry Bucholtz April 2019

Traveled on the Majestic + Land Ecuador + Amazon + Peru Thank you, thank you, thank you. We had an amazing trip. You could not have planned this any better nor had the staff more attentive, guides were friendly and very knowledgeable and the hotels were very nice. Carol & Craig Bennett May 2018

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Southern Explorations

Experience the Galapagos Islands with our well-traveled team of experts. Southern Explorations offers two types of trips to the Galapagos Islands: Cruises and Land Tours . Looking to customize your travel? It's easy! Give us a call today at 206-784-8111. Southern Explorations' Galapagos Island Land Tours allow you to explore four islands on foot, by mountain bike and kayak with plenty of time for snorkeling, plus diving at certain locations if you wish! Looking to plan the cruise of a lifetime to the Galapagos Islands ? You can explore the 13 major and 7 minor islands from a number of styles, including  luxury cruises ,  catamarans ,  yachts ,  sailboats  and even  dive boats - the Islands are beyond a doubt one of the most fascinating destinations on the face of our planet, and there are myriad ways you can cruise them.  

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Galapagos Islands | Travel Blog By ChokoTrip

Christian Echeverria

The Galapagos Islands; As an Ecuadorian blogger, I wrote this guide to traveling cheap (Low cost) with first-hand and updated information to explore it on your own, know what tours you can take on each Island and create a budget according to what you want to know.

Every year, I travel to the Galapagos Islands (Ecuador) and everything you are going to read in the ChokoTrip and ChokoTours blog, is own and updated content. Above all, it is very objective so that your experience touring the islands is satisfactory. I know most of the islands in Galapagos, I have traveled on cruises and day tours .

Chokotrip unlike Viator and other websites

Reserves your tour directly with the boat operators when you send your first payment. This is why our prices are not inflated and why when you reserve with us you recieve, the name and information of your tour operator so you can follow up directly with the tour operator and have the security of knowing that the tour is confirmed the moment you pay for it.

This low cost guide to Galapagos , you will find information that will help you plan your trip on your own, and below is the menu of the Galapagos travel guide.    

What are the requirements to travel to the Galapagos?

How to get to the galapagos.

• How much does it cost to travel?

SANTA CRUZ ISLAND

Isabela island, san cristobal island, what is the best season to go to the galapagos, what to take to the galapagos.

• How to travel between the islands?
• Galápagos Time zone
• Galapagos Cruise
• Travel safe through the Galapagos

ES: Islas Galapagos

POLITICAS DE USO

• Al reservar hospedaje en cada isla, obtendras 10 dolares por isla, es decir si reservas en las 3 islas hospedajes obtendrias 30 dolares de descuento por persona al contratar tours diarios en las 3 islas.
• Al usar el descuento en los tours contratados con ChokoTrip, las reservas de hospedajes no podran ser canceladas ni se aplicaria ninguna politica de cancelacion ni cambio de fecha de los hoteles.
• Para acceder al descuento, la compra de los tours debe ser realizar por la misma persona que reservó en el siguiente formulario de la pagina de ChokoTrip
• Solo para reservas del 2024

GALAPAGOS ISLANDS VIDEO – PLAYLIST

There are a few requirements to enter the Galapagos Islands . Regardless of whether you’re Ecuadorian or a foreigner, you must carry the below documents, pay migration fees and park entrance fees:

» Coronavirus protocol :

» documents :.

• Carry your passport if you’re a foreigners (it should be the one stamped upon entering the country) or national ID, if you’re Ecuadorian or part of Mercosur.
• Return tickets to and from the Galapagos.
• USD 20: Pay for the transit control card (TCT) in the Guayaquil or Quito airport
• USD 100 (Foreigner), USD 50 (Mercosur) or USD 6 (Ecuadorian or resident) Entry tax for the Galapagos National Park

*You should also know what the process is to enter with online pre-registration of the TCT and what you have to do at the Guayaquil or Quito airport to avoid delays.

First, the Galapagos Islands is a province of Ecuador, the island region of the country. It is located approximately 1,000 km off the west coast of the continent.

» Galapagos airports

There are two airports in the Galapagos. One is on San Cristóbal Island (airport code SCY) and the other is on Baltra Island (airport code GPS) , located near Santa Cruz Island.

» Galapagos Flights

For flights to the Galapagos , it’s better if your entry flight is to the island of Baltra and your departure airport is from San Cristobal Island. This is especially true if you have an itinerary of 7 or more days, total .

» Tickets to the Galapagos

Flights to the Galapagos can be purchased directly online on airline websites like Latam and Avianca, which offer national flights from Guayaquil or Quito and fly to the Galapagos airports .

Flight prices to the Galapagos, vary depending on nationality:

• The price of domestic flights for nationals or residents of Ecuador: USD 200 to USD 350
• The price of domestic flights for foreigners: USD 300 to USD 500

*Keep in mind that all airlines may confront delays and cancelations, which can complicate your trip/itinerary or cruise dates. Review your rights here: problems with your flight in Ecuador

Galapagos penguins in Bartolome

Galapagos penguins

How to get to the Galapagos Islands from Guayaquil by boat?

Those of you that seek to travel by boat to the Galapagos Islands from Guayaquil should know that the trip takes 3 days and departs from a commercial port, located in the neighborhood called Pradera 3, next to the Store Ocean dock. However, transporting people that don’t work for a given vessel is prohibited.

How to travel between the islands of Santa Cruz, Isabela and San Cristobal?

The inter-island modes of transport you can use to travel between Santa Cruz, Isabela and San Cristobal are: inter-island boats in the Galapagos y inter-island flights in the Galapagos.

» Inter-island boats

Inter-island boats are also known as Ferries or speedboats.

Schedule for inter-island boats in the Galapagos:

⁃ Santa Cruz – Isabela: 07h00 and return 15h00 ⁃ Isabela – Santa Cruz: 06h00 and return 15h00 ⁃ Santa Cruz – San Cristóbal: 07h00 and return 15h00 ⁃ San Cristóbal – Santa Cruz: 07h00 and return 15h00 Price for inter-island boats in the Galapagos: USD 40 one way and USD 1.50 cost for marine taxis. Travel time on any of these routes is 2 hours

Recommendations before traveling on inter-islands boats: › You can’t travel by boat from San Cristobal Island to Isabela Island or vice versa. You must pass through Santa Cruz and then take another boat. › You should arrive 45 minutes before departure times at any given dock/port to check in your luggage and identify the boat you must board. › Take sea sickness or motion sickness pills and try to sit in the back of the vessel, or above. Remember that these are called speedboats and when there are swells, it can be nauseating.

» Inter-island flights

Currently, there are 2 airlines that offer local, or inter-island, flights between Isabela, Santa Cruz and San Cristobal islands. These are: Fly Galápagos and Emetebe .

Flights can save you time on your trip through the Galapagos. If you want to travel from San Cristobal to Isabela or vice versa, I recommend you fly. However, if there isn’t enough fuel, your flight will be cancelled and you’ll have to travel on inter-island boats. This is also why I recommend reading the fine print regarding cancellation policies for both local airlines.

How much does it cost to travel to the Galapagos?

The budget to travel to the Galapagos Islands depends on the number of days in your trip, the islands you want to see and where you will be staying overnight.

» Budget to visit the Galapagos

Here are the average expenses, so you can calculate how much money you need to travel through the Galapagos Islands. I also have a budget + itinerary for the following islands: Santa Cruz Island , Isabela Island e San Cristobal Island .   USD 20 : TCT Migration Card. You must pay this at the Guayaquil or Quito airport before checking in with your airline. USD 6 : Ecuadorian entrance fee to Galapagos National Park. This payment is made as soon as you get off the plane at either Baltra or San Cristobal airport. USD 50 : Entrance fee to Galapagos National Park for members of Mercosur or the Andean community. This is paid as soon as you get off the plane as well. USD 100 : Entrance fee to Galapagos National Park for foreign tourists. Similarly, you pay this as soon as you get off the plane at the airport. *Minors from 0 to 2 don’t pay and from 2 to 12 pay half the National Park entrance fee. USD 5 : Entry tax for Ecuadorians if traveling to Isabela USD 10 : Entry tax for foreigners if traveling to Isabela USD 5 : Bus from Baltra airport to dock. “Lobitos” buses can be found outside the airport. As soon as these are filled, they depart to the port where you can cross over to Santa Cruz. USD 1 : Barge. It will take you from the dock on Baltra to Santa Cruz. Try to board last so that you are the first to get off. USD 5 : Bus from the dock in Santa Cruz to Puerto Ayora. The bus ride takes about 45 minutes and, on the way back, you need to take it from the bus station (terminal terrestre), located near the town of Puerto Ayora. Buses depart at 07h00, 07h40, 08h00 and 08h40. USD 25 : Taxi from Itabaca dock in Santa CRuz to your hotel in Puerto Ayora. You can share this taxi with up to 4 people. USD 2 : Taxi from the airport in San Cristobal to your hotel in Puerto Baquerizo Moreno. USD 25 : Total cost of food per day in the Galapagos. Breakfast USD 5 – Lunch USD 5 – Dinner USD 15 *Oftentimes you won’t need to pay for lunch as this is included in the tours and is enough to go on until dinner. USD 4 : One bottle of Pilsner beer in the Galapagos. You can also try artesanal beer made in the Galapagos. USD 30 : Accommodation – always ask for the simplest set up, if you’re on a budget. Even a room with AC increases the price. *You may need a room with AC during the months between December and May when the heat can get unbearable.  

» Financial advice about your trip to the Galapagos

Currency and exchange rate Take 20, 10, 5, 1 dollar bills. The majority of businesses and establishments won’t accept 100 and 50 dollar bills. Ecuador uses the dollars and all ATMs will provide dollars.

ATMs It’s better to take cash because many touristic establishments don’t accept credit card payments . On Santa Cruz Island and San Cristobal Island you’ll find ATMs belonging to the following banks: Banco del Pacífico, Bolivariano and Banco Pichincha. On Isabela Island there’s another ATM belonging to Banco del Pacífico, but it is often out of service.

Credit cards If you still want to take your credit card, you should ask your hotel if they offer a safe/security box where you can store your credit cards and cash . Unfortunately, there have been cases of credit card fraud on the Galapagos, as well as petty theft of cards, that are still being investigated. This doesn’t mean it’s unsafe on the Islands, in fact the Galapagos Islands are Ecuador’s safest destinations.

What to do in Santa Cruz Island?

Santa Cruz Island in the Galapagos has the most touristic activity because the majority of tours and cruises depart from this island.

I recommend staying for 5 days in Santa Cruz so that you have enough time to visit a number of islands on day tours, like: Pinzón Island, Santa Fe Island, North Seymour, Floreana Island, South Plazas Island, Bartolome Island; and also visit other destinations on your own, such as: tour through the high region of the island , el garrapatero beach , tour of the bay , tortuga bay beach , Alemanes beach and las Grietas .  

» Touristic destinations in Santa Cruz Island

Tortuga Bay mansa beach on Santa Cruz Island

Road to Tortuga Bay, in Playa Brava

    Tour through the high region of the island The tour through the high region of Santa Cruz can be done in a taxi pickup truck. Most taxi drivers already know the stops and sights along this route. In summary, visit: Los Gemelos, lava tunnels and las Primicias ranch or al Chato , where you’ll find gigantic tortoises.

The entire tour takes about 2 hours and if you’re traveling with a few others, you can split the cost of the taxi, which is USD 50, total. Entry to el Chato or las Primicias ranches is USD 5 per person.

*I strongly suggest hiring a local naturalist guide for this tour and, since you’ve hired them for the entire day, they may also take you to other spots.

El Garrapatero Beach This is one of the few beaches where camping is permitted in the Galapagos. To reach Garrapatero you need to take a taxi for USD 40 or rent a bicycle, which costs USD 20, per day. The beach is located about 25 km from Puerto Ayora. There’s a space for BBQs available to visitors, just make sure you leave everything as clean as you found it. *There are a lot of annoying horseflies here and they’re worse after you’ve gone for a swim!

Bay tour The tour around Santa Cruz bay is a short 3 hour boat trip. To summarize it, you visit spots around Puerto Ayora like: dog beach (playa de los perros), the love crevice (la grieta del amor), you can snorkel in the crevices (las Grietas) , where the water isn’t as cold as in other areas of the island.

Tortuga Bay Beach Tortuga Bay beach or Tortuga Bay is considered one of the best beaches across the Galapagos Islands, according to most travelers. To get to Tortuga Bay, you can hike along a trail for 45 minutes. First, find a white sand beach where people are surfing, then take a right and walk along the beach for 10 minutes. You’ll find a little trail in the mangroves and then see a beach, which is Tortuga Bay. It has calm, shallow and transparent waters – ideal for children. It closes at 5pm.

Los Alemanes Beach Your visit to los Alemanes beach can (and should) be combined with a visit to las Grietas (below). First, take an aquatic taxi in Puerto Ayora (cost of $0.50) which will cross you to the dock at los Alemanes Beach. When you arrive, first head to las Grietas and try to make it back to los Alemanes beach when it’s low tide for the best snorkeling.

Las Grietas Visit las Grietas before or after your visit to los Alemanes Beach. These deep, water filled crevices were formed as a result of a volcanic fracture. The trail to las Grietas is rocky, like most trails in the Galapagos, and passes through residential areas , where the first colonizers to Santa Cruz settled. They run along the salt mines where salt was once extracted using traditional methods.

» Day tours from Santa Cruz Island

I can help you find availability on the following day tours in Santa Cruz Galapagos and reserve your spot in advance: Bartolome Island tour , Santa Fe Island Tour , North Seymour Island Tour , Pinzon Island Tour , South Plaza Island Tour , Floreana Island Tour y Chinese Hat Island Tour  

BARTOLOME ISLAND

Bartolome Island viewpoint in Galapagos

The most spectacular view of the Galapagos

This is considered to be one of the most beautiful islands in the Galapagos by most travelers. You’re required to visit the island on a day tour. There are incredible, other worldly landscapes. Read more about Bartolome Island and book a tour in advance.  

SANTA FE ISLAND

There are two different day tours to Santa Fe. One lands on the island and the other doesn’t, but offers a fishing experience. The tour that doesn’t make a landing in Santa Fe Island offers snorkeling in one of the island’s bays and then lands on Playa Escondida, which is in Santa Cruz Island. The tour with landing in Santa Fe provides the opportunity to observe some of the Galapagos Islands’ most famous land iguanas. Read more about Santa Fe Island and Book a tour in advance.  

NORTH SEYMOUR ISLAND

This tour includes a hike through North Seymour along a trail with many blue-footed boobies, frigates, land iguanas and sea lions. This is ideal for travelers who only have a few days on the Islands but want to prioritize wildlife sightings on one island. Read more about North Seymour Island and Book a tour in advance.  

PINZON ISLAND

You’ll snorkel among sea lions, reef sharks known as Tintorera sharks, manta rays and, occasionally, Galapagos penguins. I think this is one of the best snorkeling spots in the Galapagos. Read more about Pinzon Island and Book a tour in advance.  

SOUTH PLAZA ISLAND

You’ll hike and observe birdlife, sea lions and land iguanas. You can snorkel in the turquoise waters of Punta Carrión and, if you’re lucky, you’ll see sharks and tropical fish. Read more about South Plaza Island and Book a tour in advance.  

FLOREANA ISLAND

This island has the most history in the Galapagos. It’s also one of only two islands with its own fresh water spring. It has a “galapaguera” where you can observe the giant tortoises up close. You’ll snorkel and, with a bit of luck, you’ll see penguins, manta rays and sea lions frolicking nearby. Read more about Floreana Island and Book a tour in advance.  

CHINESE HAT ISLAND

It’s geological formation gives it a unique landscape, not to mention the contrast of colors between the black lava stones, white sand beach and blue ocean. You’ll see various marine iguanas and sea lions and will snorkel in Sullivan Bay, where you might see penguins, sharks and tropical fish. Read more about Chinese Hat Island and Book a tour in advance.

What to do on Isabela Galapagos?

Isabela Island in the Galapagos is one of the largest of all the islands and is known globally due to its immense crater, one of the largest in the world following Yellowstone’s.

I recommend staying on Isabela for 3 days so that you have time to visit a few islands on day tours, like: Cabo Rosa, Sierra Negra Volcano and Tintoreras; and visit other touristic destinations on your own, like: bicycle route to the wall of tears , concha perla , breeding center and flamingo pond and its beaches .  

» Touristic destinations on Isabela Island

Concha Perla natural pool in Isbela

Sunset on Isabela Island

    Bicycle route to the wall of tears The cycling route to the wall of tears is, by far, the most famous one across the Islands. You can rent a bicycle for USD 20 per day. Start in the morning and travel through: La playita (little beach), playa del amor (love beach), the look out Cerro Orchilla and finally, the wall of tears.

Breeding Center and flamingo pond Make the most of your bicycle route and, on the way back, stop by the tortoise breeding center which is open until 5pm and is only meters from the flamingo pool.

Concha Perla A spot on Isabela where you can snorkel among many fish species and sea lions. The water is clear and make sure to take your own snorkel gear or rent it beforehand.

» Tours from Isabela Island

I can help you find availability on the following day tours in Isabela Galapagos and reserve your spot in advance: Cabo Rosa Tunnels , Sierra Negra Volcano and Tintoreras .  

CABO ROSA TUNNELS

Blue Footed Booby in Cabo Rosa Tunnels

PBoobies in Isabela

The tour is awesome – first you’ll visit a rock called Union Rock where you’ll see blue-footed boobies. Then you’ll go to the tunnels for a tour where you’ll see more boobies and experience some top-notch snorkleing. If you’re lucky, you might even end up swimming among tintorera sharks! Read more about Cabo Rosa Tunnels and Book a tour in advance.  

SIERRA NEGRA VOLCANO

This is one of the few treks that you can do in the Galapagos Islands. It’s a trek that lasts 5 hours to reach one of the largest volcano craters in the world , and part of the route passes by Chico Volcano – an otherworldly place. Read more about Sierra Negra Volcano and Book a tour in advance.  

This tour lasts a couple of hours. It begins on an Islet where you’ll see marine iguanas, sea lions and Tintorera sharks. Afterwards, you go snorkeling.

What to do in San Cristobal Island?

San Cristobal Island in the Galapagos is the capital island of the Galapagos. An advantage of this island is that the majority of its beaches are close to the port and you’ll see many sea lions everywhere.

I recommend staying in San Cristobal for about 4 days so that you have enough time to visit a few islands and places on day tours, like: Española Island, Lobos Island, Punta Pitt, Kicker Rock / Leon dormido; and other touristic destinations you can get to on your own, like: Laguna del junco , Galapaguera , Puerto Chino Beach , Interpretation Center , Las Tijeretas , Punta Carola Beach and La Lobería .

» Touristic destinations in San Cristobal Island

Playa Punta Carola en Isla San Cristobal

Lobos marinos en San Cristobal

    Interpretation center, las Tijeretas hill and Punta Carola Beach The tour along this trail begins once you traverse the Interpretation Center (a place to learn about the history and formation of the Islands). Along this route, heading toward Tijeretas Hill (Cerro Tijeretas), you’ll visit Mann Beach and Punta Carola Beach.

La Loberia Beach You should take a taxi that costs USD 3 and talk to your taxi driver so that they come and pick you up as well. If you do this, only pay after the ride is completed, which would cost you around USD 10. You can also return on foot, but it’s a 45 minute hike without any shade.

Tour around high region of San Cristobal This is a half day tour during which you can explore the high region of the island on your own. You can visit: Ceibo house (la casa del Ceibo), El Juncolagoon, La Galapaguera and Puerto Chino beach *I strongly recommend hiring a naturalist guide for this tour. Since they’re hired for the full day, they may also take you to additional spots.

» Day tours from San Cristobal Island

I can help you find availability on the following day tours in San Cristobal Galapagos and reserve your spot in advance: Espanola Island , Kicker Rock / Leon dormido , Pitt Point , Lobos Island and 360 Tour .    

ESPANOLA ISLAND

Albatross mating on Espanola Island

“Albatross on Española Island

Española Island is where the majority of the world’s 12,000 albatross couples reproduce. Due to its arid climate and lack of fresh water, this is paradise for sea birds. Read more about Espanola Island and Book a tour in advance.  

Punta Pitt or Pitt Point is located in the north corner of the Island. It’s a group of conical Está ubicada en el extremo norte de la Isla. It is a group of eroded volcanic cones sparsely populated by vegetation that is endemic to the Islands. This is an ideal place to observe where a variety of sea birds nest, such as the blue-footed boobies, masked boobies, red-footed boobies and frigates. Read more about Pitt Point and Book a tour in advance.  

KICKER ROCK

Kicker Rock, known in Spanish as “Leon Dormido”, is an uninhabited islet located 30 minutes from Puerto Baquerizo Moreno. It’s a refuge for many sea birds like the blue-footed boobies, as well as sea lions. The tour combines with a landing at one of the following beaches: Manglecito, Tortuga, Cerro brujo (Witch Hill) or Puerto grande Roca. Read more about Kicker Rock and Book a tour in advance.  

360 TOUR SAN CRISTOBAL

This tour involves a complete loop around San Cristobal Island. It begins with a landing on Rosa Blanca where you visit the Rosa Blanca lagoon, then you’ll fish on Punta Pitt/ After lunch there’s a landing in Sardina Bay here you can photograph Witch Hill (Cerro Brujo) and the tour ends with some snorkeling in the canal at Kicker Rock. Read more about 360 Tour and Book a tour in advance.  

LOBOS ISLAND

Every island has its bay tour and this island has a lot to offer. It’s an ideal place to experience, close up, the animals in their natural habitat after only 25 minutes of sea travel. At Isla Lobos you’ll have a dry landing and a 1km walk where you can observe blue-footed boobies nesting and two types of frigates (common and royal). Read more about Lobos Island and Book a tour in advance.

High season in the Galapagos : The months of June, July, August and from December 20th until January 5th are considered high season in the Galapagos. If you’re planning to go on those dates, I would recommend reserving day tours and accommodation 4 months in advance.

Low season : September is the only month considered low season since the weather and ocean currents aren’t ideal. However, it’s one of the best months to spot wildlife.

Climatic seasons : There are two seasons in the Galapagos Islands, cold (known as “garúa” season due to the constant light drizzle) and warm.  

Consider the possibility of taking long hikes through wet and dry terrain, as well as other physical activities. This is what I would pack:

  SIM CARD – Pre-paid chip

  Quick dry towel

  Cap or hat

  USB stick

Reusable bottles to stay hydrated

  Sunglasses

  Snorkel mask Anti Fog

  Bathing suit

  Close-toed shoes with good grip

  Comfortable clothes

  Sea sickness/motion sickness pills (Anautin or Mareol)

  Dry Bag Waterproof Backpack: water, camera, personal items

  Sweater/jacket for the cold months between September and November

Camara with a zoom lens (75-300) to capture animal sigtings

What can’t you take to the Galapagos?

Tourists cannot take pets, seeds, or drones to any of the islands. If you want to see a complete list of things you can and cannot take to the Galapagos, download images 1 – 2    

Galapagos Time zone

It’s important to know the time difference between your country of origin and the Galapagos Islands (GMT-6) so that you reprogram your watch and cellphone while traveling.

DON’T MISS OUT ON A GALAPAGOS CRUISE!

If you’re searching for a cruise on the Galapagos, I can help you by finding availability for the dates you’re planning to travel on the following ships: Angelito, Aqua, Archipel I, Archipel II, Camila, Fragata, Golondrina, Seaman Journey, Solaris and Treasure of Galapagos.

• CHECK AVAILABILITY

*We work directly with boat owners and tour operators in the Galapagos, thereby avoiding additional costs, unlike travel operators like Viator, Get Your Guide and Civitatis which rely on third-party local operators.

TRAVEL SAFE THROUGH THE GALAPAGOS

After a lot of research, I found a travel assistance service that really works and helps in difficult moments. Good travel insurance that covers flight cancellations is key and, in purchasing this, travelers that visit my blog also get a 5% discount.

• GO FOR YOUR INSURANCE 🎯

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My name is Christian but you came call me Choko. Together with my wife we have created this blog to help all travelers going to Galapagos. I am from Ecuador, born in Guayaquil. Passionate about traveling and everything related to social media. In my free time I travel the americas. I have given conferences and workshops revolving around my work and tourism 2.0 // WRITE ME USING WHATSAPP: +593978990910 - BLOG EN ESPAÑOL ChokoTrip

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I've been to 54 countries and have lived in 10. These 5 underrated places are worth the trip.

• Kate Boardman has visited 54 countries around the world and lived in 10, including the US.
• She's enjoyed spots like France and Bali but says people should visit underrated places like Oman.
• In Ecuador, she climbed an active volcano, and in Guatemala, she swam with hammerhead sharks.

This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with Kate Boardman , a 36-year-old former teacher and current content creator from Massachusetts who has lived and traveled all over the world. The following has been edited for length and clarity.

I first lived abroad when I was 15, when I participated in an exchange program in Germany. I lived there for a year, attending school and staying with a host family.

That was my first exposure to living overseas and truly immersing myself in other cultures. From there, the travel bug hit me hard. It inspired me to study international business in France while I was at university, and future trips after that.

I've been to 54 countries and lived in 10, including the US. The sense of freedom and self-growth that comes from traveling is unbeatable. I also love being able to see the world in a different way.

The most popular destinations are popular for a reason.

Everyone talks about Paris, London , Bali — all travel destinations that are super popular, in part thanks to social media.

I lived in Bali in early 2012 and saw it expand firsthand. There was a lot of construction — with many beach clubs being built — and it became overcrowded by foreigners. It's led to locals being priced out of their homes.

I also think spots like Cancun are super overrated; there are way cooler places to visit in Mexico. Many tourists spend a week in an all-inclusive resort and think that's fun — but that couldn't be more unattractive to me.

Obviously, there's still beauty in places that are oversaturated and famous. But I think that there's an excitement that comes from experiencing places that are off the beaten track.

It's often in those places that you can have the most surprising experiences.

I was treated like family in Iran

I would say my favorite country that I have visited is Iran. I went in 2018 and was there for 10 days.

Normally, when I'm traveling, I backpack alone and stay in hostels as a solo traveler. However, in Iran, if you're American, Canadian, or from the UK, in order to get permission to enter the country, you need a set itinerary and a licensed travel guide.

It was a very coordinated trip and a bit more challenging to visit, but it was so rewarding because I was welcomed with the warmest hospitality.

One of the unique aspects of this trip was how close my guide and I became. He went above and beyond, inviting me over to his family's house for dinner, where I got to meet and hang out with his friends and family. It was truly special.

Because I had a guide, everything was kind of set for me in Iran. He arranged different accommodations, including a road trip through the country, where we stayed in various cities at different guesthouses.

It only cost me around $1,000.

The nature and landscape of Iran are absolutely beautiful and amazing. The sights, attractions, and history are mind-blowing. You've got these gorgeous mosaics everywhere. All of the architecture had my jaw dropping in awe while walking around.

The food is also delicious, and the markets are incredible, each filled with gorgeous textiles, jewelry, turquoise, and rugs.

I would totally visit there again. I hope the political situation changes because that would definitely be one of my group trip destinations. I think it's just incredible.

Georgia took me by surprise

Georgia is just one of those countries that's not on a lot of people's radar. And then they go there and they're like, 'Whoa, that's awesome. Why didn't I know about this before?'

I knew very little about Georgia before I visited in 2018. I spent only five days in the country, but I was completely blown away.

I stayed in Tbilisi, which is the capital city. It's a really beautiful, trendy, and artsy kind of city. It has amazing wine and incredible food.

Probably one of my favorite things about the trip is that I stayed in this hostel called Fabrika . It was an old Soviet Union sewing factory that they turned into a super cool, industrial, hipster hostel.

In Tbilisi, I also went on a pub crawl throughout the Old Town, which featured a bunch of underground cellars and bunkers that have been turned into trendy nightclubs and bars.

During my time in the country, I took a trip out to the countryside to an area called Kazbegi, which is absolutely stunning. There were gorgeous and breathtaking mountains, hills, and massive churches.

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In the city, I also had a Turkish bath, which is a big thing in Georgia. I got a full scrub down.

Guatemala has something for everyone

When most people from the US think about going to Central America, they're focused on Mexico or Costa Rica. Guatemala seems to be a place that kind of gets overlooked.

But life is great in Guatemala.

You've got beautiful weather all year round, the jungle, rainforests, and the Caribbean's white sand beaches, while the Pacific side has its black sand beaches. It's got a little bit of everything.

I first lived in Guatemala in 2021, where I worked as a teacher at an international school. They provided housing in Guatemala City. However, after I finished working for them, I moved to a beach town on the Pacific coast and lived there for about six months.

I've traveled there on other occasions too, staying for periods of four or five months.

The typical salary for a Guatemalan is about $500 a month, with a good salary being $1,000. I would say that $2,000 a month is more than enough to live there extremely comfortably.

There are a lot of digital nomads moving there, especially to Antigua — an old colonial town with a lot of charm, cobblestone streets, and painted buildings.

There's just so much to do in Guatemala; it's so magical.

The biggest must do is hiking the active volcano called Acatenango . Sometimes, you can see it erupting right from its base camp. There's not many places in the world where you can experience that.

Another good place to visit is El Paredon, a super up-and-coming hippie surf town. The surfing is great, and you've got these black volcanic sand beaches. It's just a really laid-back place.

Lake Atitlan is also an incredible spot. It's surrounded by volcanoes and several Mayan villages, each with its own personality and vibe.

Oman's deserts are magical

Oman is in the Middle East, bordering the United Arab Emirates and Yemen. I've been there three times between 2016 and 2018.

The country is culturally rich, and the capital city, Muscat, is really beautiful. It has old traditional marketplaces and gorgeous architecture — the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is definitely worth checking out.

The deserts there are incredible, so doing a desert trip is a must. I camped out in the desert with the locals, rode camels, and drove Jeeps over the sand dunes.

Having tea and watching the sunset in the desert was magical too.

Oman also has wadis, which are basically big canyons in the middle of the desert with swimming holes. There, you'll find bright turquoise water contrasting with the orange rock.

The country's islands are also beautiful and incredible for snorkeling. They look like you'd be in the Caribbean, but you're in the Middle East.

The Galapagos Islands are truly like nowhere else in the world

I visited Ecuador last year for about six weeks. I was leading a gap year program with a group of high school students. We split our time between the Galapagos Islands and the mainland, which consisted of cities and the Amazon.

Because Ecuador has incredibly unique biodiversity that doesn't exist anywhere else in the world, The Galapagos Islands are an absolute must. I've never seen such incredible wildlife in my life; so many species exist only on those islands.

While visiting The Galapagos, my group went snorkeling with 50 to 100 hammerhead and Blacktip sharks. We also swam with sea lions and saw giant tortoises.

Another amazing aspect of Ecuador is learning about the Aztec or Inca culture. My group did a homestay and lived with a family for about 10 days and learned about their way of life.

We experienced how connected they are with Mother Earth, whom they refer to as Pachamama, and learned about their traditional medicine: They grow their own food and seek out plant medicine when they're sick, rather than relying on processed foods.

Learning about and sharing their way of life was truly special.

I want to show people how to travel the world

There are many beliefs people have about different countries and cultures, sometimes considering them too dangerous, expensive, or unattainable.

I want to inspire more people to explore, step out of their comfort zones, and experience more of the world. In the future, I plan on hosting group trips with the goal of bringing people to these countries and showing them why they are so life-changing.

Watch: The true cost of Mexico's Maya Train

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