FAQs

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Explore the Galapagos like never before with our carefully curated tours. Our expert guides will take you on a journey through the islands’ unique ecosystems, from the volcanic landscapes to the diverse marine life. Choose from a range of tours, including snorkeling, hiking, wildlife spotting, and more. Each tour is designed to showcase the best of the Galapagos, with personalized attention and expert guidance.

Why i-Galapagos?

When booking any type of service with us you are reaching out to a direct operator from the Galapagos islands. We are a team of two (brother and sister) who were born and raised in the beautiful town of Puerto Baquerizo Moreno. Because of our direct involvement with the islands and as locals of the Galapagos we offer the best possible products and services available at the best possible price. We don’t have any overheads from agencies in Europe or the US, that way our prices are very competitive.

We deeply care about the environment and conservation in the islands is a priority, along our mission and vision we make sure most of the funds from the business stay in the island. This helps the local economy of other islanders and prevents illegal activities (such as illegal fishing and specie trafficking) from happening.

-Seb & Cindy

How far in advance should I book?

Well, that is totally up to you! Whether it is a package trip or a day excursion, the recommended time to book one or the other depends on what kind of tour it is. It is possible to get a ‘last minute’ daily excursion (day tour) with one day in advance of booking (if availability allows) but we recommend booking at least 3 days before the excursion. On the other hand, ‘Package Tours’ are often required to book at least several weeks (8 to 12 weeks) in advance previous the start date, but you might try to book last minute tours and contact us at any time!

What if I get sick on the trip?

While the COVID-19 pandemic has not fully ended, we recommend taking all necessary precautions before traveling into the country. Being in shape and ready for travel is always good advise, but be prepared for the common seasickness or traveler’s diarrhea.

Furthermore, we will always carry an emergency kit on every expedition, and our personnel is trained in the event of a casualty.

Do I need to be in shape for the trip?

Travelers do not need to be pro athletes to join our excursions, but good health is always recommended. If you are joining our day tours, then the staff will take the necessary precautions to make sure all of the travelers are well taken care of and comfortable during the excursion. When joining our Package Tours, make sure you communicate food and health restrictions you may have before the start date to one of our staff members.

What if I've never snorkeled or I don’t know how to swim?

Do not worry, we will make sure you get the necessary assistance to learn how to use a mask and snorkel before every excursion. While knowing how to swim is recommended before joining any excursion in the Galapagos, it is not necessary to join any of our tours due that we have swimming life vests available for every excursion, just let us know in advance!

What if I join a trip and I don’t like/participate in a particular activity?

Don’t worry about that! We will make sure that all of our travelers are happy and comfortable.

When joining a day tour and you don’t want to participate in a specific activity (such as snorkeling or swimming) then we will make sure you are safe and happy on the boat. But remember, you can rejoin any activity if you feel comfortable later on the excursion.

If you join a Package Tour and you decide not to participate in a specific activity then you don’t want to be stranded on a boat, you can use your free time to explore the island, go tanning at the local beach, or simply relax in your room!

What if I cannot make it or I have to cancel my trip?

Please make sure you let us now as soon as possible. Also know that the date of the email received by i-Galapagos will determine the cancellation charges applicable.

Please consider the following when you cancel:

If you cancel with more than 60 days before the start date of the tour: penalty of $500 (USD) or the total amount of the security deposit.
If you cancel within the 60 day mark (59 to 41 days before the start date of the tour): penalty of 50% of total tour price.
If you cancel within 40 days or fewer before departure: penalty of 100% of tour price.

*Please know that we don’t want to encourage people from taking this step, but sometimes emergencies happen and cancellation seems sometimes unavoidable. Just keep in mind that we have limited capacity and tours can fill up pretty quickly, so when booking a tour please try to think ahead and plan your vacation accordingly. We also advise you to take “cancellation insurance” when you book with us!

What is the currency in the Galapagos Islands?

Here on the islands the currency used is the US dollar.

What documents do I need to travel to the Galapagos?

Make sure you have a passport with at least 6 months before the expiration date. Most countries are exempt from a visa to enter Ecuadorian territory. You don’t need a visa to enter the Galapagos islands if you are staying less than 60 days.

The Ecuadorian government eliminated its COVID-19 entry requirements for the Galapagos Islands effective October 20, 2022. International travelers are no longer required to present COVID-19 vaccination cards or proof of a negative COVID-19 test prior to entering the Galapagos Islands.

However, travelers are still required to present a “transit control card” (TCT) issued by the Government of Galapagos.  Guidance on registering for a “transit control card” is available here: https://www.gobiernogalapagos.gob.ec/step-by-step-tct-online/. If you booked one of our package tours, you DO NOT need to get your own TCT card, we will manage all of your paperwork for the excursion.

Is there a fee to enter the Galapagos National Park?

When you enter the islands, you would have to pay a $100 cash to the regional government of the Galapagos Island in order to enter the park.

The only ones exempt from this important fee are the residents of the islands, residents of Ecuador, or those in the pacto-Andino (and they still have to pay $20 to $50 depending on the country of origin). A 50% reduction in the national park fee is available to children under 12.

The entrance fee helps fund the maintenance of the parks and other national projects. The park entrance fee is distributed as follows: 40% Galapagos National Park; 20% Galapagos Municipalities; 10% Galapagos Province Government; 10% Galapagos National Institute (INGALA); 5% Galapagos Marine Reserve; 5% Galapagos Province Inspection and Quarantine System; 5% INEFAN (National Park Service); 5% National Army. In total, these fees assist in the protection and preservation of the Islands.

Can I take my pet with me?

The answer is NO. All animals and most plant species are prohibited to enter the Galapagos National Park. Previously you check in at the airport, all of your bags will be inspected and tagged to prevent any harmful species to the islands. Many visitors in the past have innocently introduced species that have caused ecological damage to the Galapagos Islands. But don’t worry, we have local produce that you can access at the local market in every island.

Can I drink tap water in the Galapagos?

Although we have running water in all of the accommodations with our package tours, we do NOT advise you to drink the water. But don’t worry, we will provide purified water or bottled water in all of our stays or excursions.

Is there a hospital on the islands?

Yes, we have a hospital on every island. Depending on the issue or the emergency travelers will get treated on the islands or directed to a clinic or hospital in the mainland of Ecuador. We strongly advise you to check with your insurance providers or book travel insurance when booking with your tour.

Is there an ATM machine on the islands?

Yes, we have several ATM machines on the islands. So if you find yourself trying to get some last minute shopping before leaving the island, you can access quick cash from a local bank. Also you can purchase a lot of goods simply using your credit card in some of the local shops.

Is there a laundry I can use in town?

Yes, often hotels and hostels will have laundry service, but you can also get laundry service at a local launderette nearby.

What type of electricity does the Galapagos use?

For Ecuador there are two associated plug types, types A and B. Plug type A is the plug which has two flat parallel pins and plug type B is the plug which has two flat parallel pins and a grounding pin. Ecuador operates on a 120V supply voltage and 60Hz. So if you come from the US and most countries in Latin America, you shouldn’t have any issues with this, but it will be different if you come from Europe. But don’t worry, just make sure to bring an adaptor and you’ll be all set!

What is the best time to go to the Galapagos?

Any time is a good time to visit the Islands. Different animals breed at different times throughout the year and there is always something to see. During the warmer months from January to June, the water is warmer and generally calmer meaning more comfortable boat crossings and snorkeling. However, the cooler waters and nutrient rich currents from July to December bring food and a flourish of activity to the underwater world of Galapagos. During this period most of the animals, which rely upon the sea for their food, will be breeding. Nevertheless, this is the wild, there is no off-season, expect to see anything, anywhere, anytime.