Visitor Information

Visitor sites

At each visitors' site a marked trail provides excellent views of the wildlife, vegetation and landscape of Galapagos. Most trails are less than a mile long but a few can be fairly difficult underfoot, leading over rough lava or uneven boulders. There are also one or two longer hikes in the highlands. The different sites are amazingly varied in their scenery and vegetation, and the many good snorkelling spots offer the chance to see the varied underwater life of Galapagos. Certain animals are common at nearly every visitors' site. These include Galapagos sea lions, marine iguanas, lava lizards and a variety of coastal birds such as herons, tattlers, plovers, turnstones and whimbrels. The common land birds include yellow warblers, Galapagos doves, mocking-birds, flycatchers, and several species of Darwin's finch. However, most sites also have their own particular highlights.

Boats

A great variety of live-aboard vessels are available, ranging from simple, converted fishing boats to luxurious cruise ships and fast launches. All rely upon engine power although some also have sails. Which boat you choose depends on your budget but also upon the style of trip you prefer. The smaller vessels can provide a more exclusive and adventurous experience while the larger boats may have more facilities. The large, comfortable cruise ships offer private bathrooms, bars and sun-decks and carry up to 100 passengers. The smaller boats vary greatly from fairly simple 6 passenger vessels to comfortable, modern yachts and launches carrying 12 to 16 passengers. As standards vary, the smaller boats are now classified to indicate the facilities they offer. Most crew members are Ecuadorian, and meals are usually excellent and include plenty of fresh food. Please note, however, that tour boats are not permitted to fish in Galapagos as part of the management of the islands.

Guides

Each cruise or day trip is accompanied by a guide who is licensed by the GNPS, and no tourist is allowed on land in the park without one. There are several categories of guides who vary in their language skills and knowledge. A good guide who knows Galapagos well can make a big difference to your trip. The guide is responsible for ensuring that all tourists respect the National Park rules, which stipulate among others things that all visitors must stay on the set trails and that no animal may be touched.

Time of year

There is always something interesting happening in Galapagos, whatever the time of year, and there is no off-season. From about June to November is the 'garua' season when the weather is relatively cool and dry, considering the equatorial position, with sunny or overcast skies and occasional drizzle or garua. August is the coolest month with average daily temperatures ranging from a minimum of 19 to a maximum of 24 degrees centigrade. The sea is cool and can be rather rough. During this period most of the animals which rely upon the sea for their food will be breeding. These include sea and shore birds, marine iguanas, sea lions and fur seals. Between about January and April is the warm season, with higher temperatures and occasional heavy rains. The hottest month is March with an average maximum temperature of 30 degrees. The islands turn green as the arid lowlands bloom, and all the land birds and reptiles start to breed. The sea is also warmer and calmer. During El Nino years, these seasons can vary considerably and the animals' breeding seasons and behaviour are often affected greatly.

Organised tours

Most people book their tour directly from the UK as a complete package, which usually includes international flights, hotels and transfers on the mainland, flights out to Galapagos, and the complete cruise in the islands. Insurance, tips and the entrance fee to the Galapagos National Park are usually excluded. Many specialist operators now exist, often advertising their tours in the weekend press. Visit Tour Operators for a list of travel companies that organise tours to Galapagos. Your travel agent may also be able to advise you of the boats and itineraries available, or of the options for land-based trips. Most packages will fly you to Quito, the capital of Ecuador, and then on to either Baltra or San Cristobal airport in Galapagos where you embark immediately onto your boat.

It is also possible to make your own arrangements for a Galapagos holiday. You can buy your flights yourself and book a cruise directly with Ecuador through the many local operators. Again, your travel agent may be able to give you details. Alternatively, you can book your cruise once you have arrived in Ecuador. Local agencies have their offices in Quito or Guayaquil and most speak good English. Prices are often cheaper this way. However, many boats run on fixed departure dates and you may not find vacant places on a trip that suits you. This option is most suitable for those with plenty of time to spare.

Quarantine Inspections

The SICGAL inspectors will check your luggage at the airport in mainland Ecuador, before check in to Galapagos and upon your arrival to the islands, to ensure that the risk of introducing new pests and diseases is minimal. For further information on the quarantine inspection system and prohibited products, visit the Inspection and Quarantine System for Galapagos (SICGAL) website.