FAQs about Galapagos: What is the average cost of a Galapagos Trip?

Traveling to the Galapagos is considered more expensive than taking trips on Mainland; the cost of a trip depends of many factors like taking a cruise or a land-based program. A Cruise is more expensive but definitely a more complete experience in comparison with a land-based program.

Prices vary depending on cruise/tour category: Luxury, first, Midrange and Economy Class and the differences are mainly due to type of cabins (accommodations), level of service, social areas, amenities, cuisine and guide’s experience.

Also, take into consideration the additional expenses for your trip like: domestic flight tickets, Entrance Fees, personal expenses, tips, drinks, equipment rental, etc. Please contact us for guidance on how to choose the right type of trip to Galapagos based on your Budget.

Other related frequently asked questions

How can I pay for souvenirs?
On some luxury class cruises you can buy wonderful souvenirs and pay with your preferred Credit Card as major ones are accepted: MasterCard, Visa, Amex, among others; also you can pay for souvenirs at local shops in Puerto Ayora or San Cristobal with your Credit Card, but some of them will only accept cash payments. On board other category of cruises, payments must be done in cash (U.S. Dollars) for souvenirs and consumption.
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Will there be time for snorkeling?

During your cruise, you will have magnificent opportunities to enjoy snorkeling in the most fantastic underwater scenarios within the Galapagos National Park and Marine Reserve as well as other wonderful activities to complement your experience in the Archipelago.

On Luxury and First class cruises snorkeling equipment (snorkel, mask & fins) are included and on Midrange and Economy class cruises they are available for rent. Some Luxury class cruises also include Wet suits while on First, Midrange and Economy class, Wert suits are available for rent.

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What kind of weather can we find in the Galapagos Islands?

Although the Galapagos Islands are located in the Equator, but it has moderate, drier climate rather than typical tropical weather. This because of three confluent Ocean currents that determine the two yearly seasons in the Archipelago: cool/dry season from mid-June to early-December and the wet season from mid-December to early-June.

Average temperature range: 69°-84°F / 21°-30°C. Weather in Galapagos has variations on each season.

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Are all your prices in US dollars?
In Ecuador Mainland and the Galapagos Archipelago, U.S. Dollar has been established and used as main and only currency since the year 2000. When making payments for your trip, you may do so in your local currency at up-to-date conversion.
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How to get there?

First, you must get to Ecuador Mainland. Make sure you arrive to Quito or Guayaquil at least one day before your departure to the Galapagos; there are no direct connections with international flights and flights to Galapagos Islands depart from mainland Ecuador early in the morning from Quito and/or Guayaquil.

Visitors arrive by plane from Mainland (flight takes about 2 ½ hours) with three main Airlines: AVIANCA, LAN and TAME and arrive to Galapagos to one of its two Airports: One in Baltra Island and one in San Cristobal.

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How can I avoid being seasick?

Choosing the right cruise is critical if you are susceptible to seasickness; large vessels are the best choice as they’re very stable when sailing. If you do not like large vessels, then we recommend choosing a nice catamaran (twin-haul), which also offer smooth sailing for passengers’ comfort.

You can also ask your doctor to prescribe you medicine to help you contrast the effect of the motion when sailing; it is also important to be properly hydrated during your cruise as this also helps prevent the effects.

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