Galapagos Tours & Travel

Adventure Life
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1655 S 3rd St. W, Ste 1
Missoula MT, 59801 USA

Extensions

Extend your travel a few more days with an extension. Galapagos Tour Extensions » Peru Tour Extensions » Lima Hospitality Packages » Ecuador Tour Extensions » Quito Hospitality Packages » Guayaquil Hospitality Packages

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Galapagos FAQs

1. How do I decide what type of yacht to choose?
2. When is the best time to go?
3. How are the naturalist guides classified?
4. How do I choose a "good" itinerary?
5. Should I take a 7 or 10 day tour?
6. What are the typical demographics of other passengers onboard?
7. Are these trips suitable for kids?
8. Are these trips a good choice for solo travelers?
9. Do tour rates include international flights?
10. Do tour rates include internal flights and/or hotel before or after the cruise?
11. How do I get to the hotel from the airport when I arrive?
12. How much should I budget for tips?
13. Are there any discounts available?
14. How far in advance should I book?
15. Can I extend my stay?
16. What are the meals like onboard?
17. Is snorkeling available on every yacht? Is snorkeling equipment included?
18. Is diving available?
19. What are wet/dry landings?
20. What should I pack?
21. What immunizations are required?
22. Is the water safe to drink?
23. What is the local currency?
24. Should I bring cash or Traveler's checks? Are ATMs available? Can I use credit cards?
25. Can I use my cell phone?
26. Do I need a visa/passport?
27. What time zone are the Galapagos Islands?
28. Do I need a converter/ adaptor for the electricity?
29. Is travel insurance recommended?

Trip Planning

1. How do I decide what type of yacht to choose?

All of the Galapagos yachts that we use offer exceptional wildlife, a bilingual naturalist guide, an excellent itinerary, and the benefits of small group travel. They also all include your meals and offer double occupancy cabins with private baths. Please note that these are general descriptions -- your trip coordinator will have more specific details on the individual yachts.

Price Category 1 yachts are a great option for travelers on a budget. Most have central air conditioning, though they may or may not have controls in each of the rooms. Some do not offer hot water and the cabins on these yachts tend to be fairly simple. If tight quarters (in the rooms) and bunkbeds don't bother you, these yachts offer great value at a relatively affordable price!

Price Category 2 yachts Galapagos tours will be mid-range options for Galapagos travel. They have larger double occupancy cabins with private bath/shower, air conditioning, and excellent cuisine. These yachts are also called Deluxe or First Class yachts, Common rooms such as lounges, dining rooms, and sundecks are also more spacious. These yachts tend to travel to a combination of centrally located islands and more remote visitor sites.

Price Category 3 yachts are the nicest yachts in the Galapagos. They are even more spacious with top quality menus and a variety of bed arrangements available. All have the very best service, remote itineraries, and a class III naturalist. Some also have extra amenities such as a glass bottom boat, a doctor on board, complimentary wet suits, interconnecting suites, swimming pools, etc.

2. When is the best time to go?

The Galapagos Islands are located at the Equator so there is not a lot of seasonal variation. Air temperatures tend to run in the 70s-80s yearround, slightly warmer from January-April. The climate is relatively dry, though the majority of precipitation falls from January-April as well.

Water temperatures tend to vary significantly as the cold Humboldt current comes up from Antarctica from approximately May- November. Expect water temperatures in the 60s to low 70s during this season and in the 70s the rest of the year. Keep in mind that this also means that snorkeling is coldest during this season so the opposite months (December - April) are best for travelers snorkeling without a wet suit. The Humboldt current is strongest in September and October, so the water will be a little more choppy during these months. Here is a link to a chart with the average air and water temperatures in the Galapagos: Galapagos Temperature Table

In general, you can visit the Galapagos yearround and have a wonderful experience! TIP: Avoid the school holidays (especially August and Christmas) if you want to avoid the crowds and take advantage of special rates. Booking in advance is always highly recommended for the largest selection of available yachts.

3. How are the naturalist guides classified?

Historically, guides in the Galapagos were classified according to their experience, foreign language ability, and education into three categories: Class I, Class II, and Class III. Although the Galapagos National Park Service has been moving away from these classifications, you may still hear the terminology used so it helps to understand the basics of this outdated system.

Generally, Class I guides were considered to be the least experienced and did not speak fluent English. They are commonly found on economy or simple tourist yachts. We do not use any yachts that have Class I guides.

Class II guides tended to be the most common. They spoke fluent English, were knowledgeable and well trained.

Class III guides historically had completed the most university education. They typically had a degree in a related field and often spoke more than two languages.

Although many yachts continue to refer to their guides as Class I, II, or III, the objective requirements used to classify the guides have been all but discarded. The more expensive yachts still tend to have the most highly educated guides. They will usually call these guides Class III, but the guides may or may not have actually completed the historical certification process.

We have selected yachts in every price category that have quality guides who consistently receive positive reviews. Quality may change or guides may switch yachts so we update our yacht offerings regularly to reflect the latest reviews.

4. How do I choose a "good" itinerary?

All of the Galapagos yachts offer interesting itineraries that provide a diverse mix of wildlife and geologic phenomenon. On any itinerary, you are likely to see the most well known Galapagos wildlife such as sea lions, iguanas, tortoises, and blue-footed boobies. In fact, once a yacht reaches a particular island, you will likely have the very same experience on that island (guide excluded) whether you are on a tourist or a luxury vessel. The daily itinerary (two island visits, time for snorkeling, etc.) is also very similar on every boat.

However, the Price Category 1 yachts tend to travel only to the accessible central islands, while the Price Category 2 and 3 yachts are more likely to visit the remote islands to the far west or north in the island chain, in addition to these central islands. The remote islands tend to experience less impact from travelers so they are more pristine and they occasionally offer wildlife that is seldom found in the more central islands. For example, the islands of Fernandina and Isabela on the far west are known as the best areas for whale watching and for seeing large numbers of sea turtles. These are also the only islands on which the flightless cormorant can be found. The island of Genovesa (Tower), in the far north is one of the only islands where the red-footed booby is commonly sighted.

Travelers generally consider itineraries that include either Fernandina and/ or Genovesa to be especially good. All Category 3 and most Category 2 yachts will include at least one of these islands. Keep in mind that all island itineraries are subject to change so you should not choose a yacht solely because of the itinerary it offers.

5. Should I take a 7 or 10 day tour?

Both the 7 and 10 day tours provide a wonderful taste of Galapagos wildlife, geology, and natural history. The 10 day tour is generally recommended for travelers that want to make the Galapagos a focus of their trip and don't want to miss any of the highlights. This longer tour typically visits ~ twice as many islands (13-14 visits as opposed to 7-8 visits) as the shorter 7 day tour. Since each visitor site has something unique to offer, travelers with a special interest in biology, ecology, etc., may feel short-changed on the shorter tour. For instance, there are two different species of sea lions and three species of Galapagos boobies. On the shorter tour, travelers may only see a couple of these species, while travelers on the longer tour are likely to see nearly all of them. This longer tour is also more common so travelers will have a wider selection of yachts available to them if they opt for the 10 day tour.

Travelers that aren't worried about seeing everything and instead want to fit in other destinations such as the Amazon or the Highlands may prefer the 7 day tour. This option provides a great introduction to the magic of the Galapagos. It can be particularly nice for families with younger kids whose attention spans are likely to dwindle after five or six days on a small yacht or for anyone short on travel time.

6. What are the typical demographics of other passengers onboard?

Travelers come from around the world, though most speak English fluently. They range in age from children to seniors. Families, solo travelers, and honeymooners are all common. No one should feel out of place!

7. Are these trips suitable for kids?

Absolutely! The Galapagos Islands offer access to unique wildlife like almost no other place on earth. Activities such as snorkeling with sea lions, observing playful dolphins leaping in front of the boat, and nearly tripping over massive land iguanas straddled across the paths are sure to delight the senses of kids and adults alike.

Most yachts suggest a minimum age of 6-7 years old. Safety is a concern for younger children as deck handrails are not low enough to adequately protect young children. Entertainment onboard is also limited, especially on the smaller yachts.

Families may want to consider joining one of the larger vessels (50 passengers plus) as these are more likely to offer suite accommodations, onboard swimming pools, games rooms, and other facilities for children. Most do not have television or video games.

Our Family Travel Supplement has some helpful hints for making the most of your family vacation. We realize that you know your kids best so we will be happy to answer all of your questions and try to give you the most accurate impression of what to expect. However, please remember that these are adventure tours and flexibility is essential!

8. Are these trips a good choice for solo travelers?

Absolutely! Most yachts have special single rates or can arrange a shared room at no additional cost. The relatively small groups and shared interests in wildlife and nature allow travelers to easily meet others.

9. Do tour rates include international flights?

Tour rates do not include international flights. We find that it is usually less expensive for travelers to book these separately and this also allows you the flexibility to choose the schedule and routing that is most convenient for you. You can purchase international flights directly through our on-line flight engine. Alternatively, we can help you arrange these flights with an airfare consolidator.

10. Do tour rates include internal flights and/or hotel before or after the cruise?

No. Rates do not include flights to/ from the Galapagos, though we can certainly arrange these. Packages do include hotel in Quito or Guayaquil before and after the cruise. This hotel can be credited back to you if you don't need it.

11. How do I get to the hotel from the airport when I arrive?

We can arrange an airport transfer for you or you can take a local taxi. Taxis are usually less expensive, though some travelers prefer the convenience of having someone waiting for them at the airport when they arrive, especially after an exhausting flight. Please let us know your preference!

Transfers to/ from the airport for your Galapagos flights are included in your tour package. Your guide will meet you at the Galapagos airport and escort you to the boat.

12. How much should I budget for tips?

Tips are not required on the Galapagos cruises, but they are customary. Tipping amounts vary widely, but recommended tips generally run ~$10-15/ day per traveler. Some yachts will include envelopes for tipping the guide and crew, others have a box for each, and still others make no mention of tips at all (although they are still much appreciated!)

13. Are there any discounts available?

Absolutely! Many yachts offer last minute or low season discounts throughout the year. Check out our Galapagos Specials page for the latest offers. We also offer on-going discounts that can be found on our Specials page.

14. How far in advance should I book?

Although you can book your Galapagos cruise anytime, we generally recommend at least 3-4 months notice. Some yachts fill up well before that, especially high-end vessels. Christmas, Spring break, and summer departures are also likely to fill up 6 months in advance or more. Travelers that book early will have a range of yachts from which to select.

Last minute travelers can also be accommodated (sometimes even one week before departure) but may have limited options. For last minute bookings, it helps to be flexible and organized. Your first choice yacht may not be available for your selected dates, but your trip coordinator can probably recommend some other similar options that would be equally enjoyable. You may be asked to send your registration form and trip payment in right away to secure your spaces, as yachts will usually not place holds for last minute departures.

15. Can I extend my stay?

Absolutely! Travelers commonly add a visit to the Amazon, the Ecuadorian Highlands, or a multi-sport activity (biking, whitewater rafting, etc.) to their Galapagos tour. Check out our Ecuador Extensions for ideas. Extra days can also be arranged in the Galapagos at one of the hotels on the island of Santa Cruz (a nice option for divers in particular). Let us know how you would like to customize your trip and we will do our best to accommodate you.

Tour Details

16. What are the meals like onboard?

All of the Galapagos yachts offer Ecuadorian and international dishes onboard. Meals are a mix of buffet and table service. Price Category 1 yachts tend to have simpler menus while the Category 2 and 3 yachts offer a wider selection and fancier cuisine. Fresh seafood is served on all vessels. Vegetarian and other special dietary requests can also be accommodated with enough notice. Beverages such as coffee, tea, water, and juice are usually included with every meal. Alcohol and soft drinks available for purchase.

17. Is snorkeling available on every yacht? Is snorkeling equipment included?

Snorkeling is available on every yacht. Most itineraries have free time for snorkeling, swimming, or just relaxing on the beach nearly every day. Most vessels also have snorkeling equipment available for a small rental fee. Travelers are welcome to bring their own equipment if they prefer. Wet suits are not available on most yachts. We recommend that travelers visiting from May to October consider bringing a light wet suit, as water temperatures can dip into the low 60s during this season.

18. Is diving available?

Some yachts offer optional diving in the Galapagos on every departure, while other yachts have select dive only departures throughout the year. For more information, check out our Galapagos Dive Options page.

19. What are wet/dry landings?

The majority of islands in the Galapagos are uninhabited. They have no structures of any kind including docks for landings. Yachts will typically anchor offshore and then travelers will take smaller motorized zodiacs (pangas) to reach the islands.

On a dry landing, the panga will motor next to a cement or natural rock outcropping and travelers can step out of the panga directly onto the dry land. On a wet landing, the panga will approach a sandy beach and travelers will step out of the panga into ankle deep (or possibly knee deep) water and walk to shore. As all yachts will have both wet and dry landings in the course of an itinerary, it is important that travelers bring shoes/sandals that they don't mind getting wet. It's a good idea to bring a towel along for wet landings so that you can dry your feet and change into socks and hiking shoes.

Before You Go

20. What should I pack?

After you book your tour, you will receive a detailed packing list with your departure packet. Most yachts do not have a dress code so casual clothes are fine. Bring shorts, swimwear, sunscreen, and a sun hat for the days. A long sleeve fleece or sweater and long pants are advisable for the cool evenings on the water.

Bring comfortable walking shoes and Tevas, sandals, or other shoes that you don't mind getting wet. Make sure to bring plenty of film, batteries, and personal toiletries, as it's impossible to get these items on the uninhabited islands. Most itineraries will include a stop at the small town of Puerto Ayora on the 10 day tour where travelers can access an ATM, souvenir shops, etc.

Travelers may also want to bring their own snorkeling gear (if they have odd sizes, prescription masks, or prefer their own equipement, etc.) and a light wet suit for the colder water season.

21. What immunizations are required?

No immunizations are required for entry into the Galapagos. Hepatitis A and Typhoid are generally recommended for any travel into Ecuador. Talk to your doctor or visit the website for the Centers for Disease Control (CDC.org) for the latest information.

22. Is the water safe to drink?

Yes. Bottled water that has been boiled and/or filtered is available onboard all of the yachts.

23. What is the local currency?

Ecuador has adopted the US dollar as its national currency.

24. Should I bring cash or Traveler's checks? Are ATMs available? Can I use credit cards?

The Galapagos National Park Fee must be paid in cash at the Galapagos airport when you arrive. Most alcohol purchases, tips, and souvenirs must also be paid in cash, though a few shops on Santa Cruz accept credit cards. Although there are ATMs in Santa Cruz, it is best to withdraw money on the mainland before you go as island ATMs are not always working.

25. Can I use my cell phone?

Check with your cell phone provider. Each company is different and they can give you the most up-to-date information.

26. Do I need a visa/passport?

Travelers will all need a passport valid for at least 6 months after they depart. Most travelers do not need a visa for Ecuador. To date, visas are required only for travelers from the following countries: Costa Rica, Cuba, China, Bangladesh, Taiwan, North Korea, South Korea, Vietnam, and most middle-Eastern countries. Entry requirements change with surprising frequency. It is each traveler's responsibility to check with the consulate for the most up-to-date visa information.

27. What time zone are the Galapagos Islands?

The Galapagos are six hours behind GMT (same as CST). They do not observe daylight-savings time so during these months (April-October), they are on MST. The Galapagos Islands are one hour behind mainland Ecuador.

28. Do I need a converter/ adaptor for the electricity?

Each yacht has its own type of electrical outlets, depending upon the country where it was built. Most have the same electricity as Ecuador: 110 volt, 60 cycle electricity with the 2 pronged flat type plugs common in the US.

29. Is travel insurance recommended?

Absolutely!!! We work with a company called TravelGuard that provides reasonably priced insurance for trip cancellation, medical expenses, medical evacuation, lost bags, etc. They have two different types of insurance available, depending upon whether or not you will need the cancellation coverage. Check out our Once You're Booked page for more information.

Galapagos Articles & Information :
Galapagos Wildlife | Shark finning in Galapagos | Longline Fishing Threatens Galapagos Islands | Sierra Negra Erupts in the Galapagos | This Isn't Your Traditional Galapagos Tour | Family Travel in Ecuador | Dave & Val’s Ecuadorian Adventures, 2008 | ECUADOR: An Adventure with Diversity | South American Packing Essentials | Charles Darwin Research Center | Giant Tortoises | Land Iguanas | The Interpretation Center in Puerto Baquerizo Moreno- San Cristobal | Conservation Challenges in the Galapagos | The Galapagos Islands | Galapagos Travel Journal - Betty Wittels | The Galapagos Islands: Saving a World Heritage | Challenges Facing the Galapagos | Galapagos Travel: Tips on Choosing a Galapagos Yacht | Galapagos Dive Options