FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

The Galapagos Islands have a pleasant climate year-round, with an average temperature of 76°F (24°C). There are two main seasons, and each offers a different experience.

From December to June, the weather is generally warmer, sunnier, and more humid, with greener landscapes and calmer seas. From July to November, conditions are cooler and drier, with mistier mornings and colder, nutrient-rich waters that attract abundant marine life.

The weather in Galapagos can change quickly, especially during seasonal transitions, but both seasons offer excellent opportunities to enjoy the islands and their extraordinary wildlife. 

What time zone is used in Galapagos?

Local time in the Galapagos is GMT -6 (one hour less than Ecuador’s mainland). In our vessels, we work with Ecuador’s mainland time.

Passengers are advised to arrive at the airport at least two hours prior to departure for their flight to the Galapagos Islands.

Prior to your trip, you must complete the Goods Declaration Form online (available up to 48 hours before your flight): https://siabg.abgalapagos.gob.ec/declaraciones/nueva

If your Transit Control Card (TCT) has not been prepaid, the next step is to obtain it at the Galapagos Government Council counter, located in the domestic departures terminal. Once issued, you may proceed with the rest of the check-in process. If your TCT has already been prepaid, you may skip this step.

All luggage traveling to Galapagos must then pass through the SICGAL biosecurity inspection, which ensures that restricted items such as plants, seeds, fruits, vegetables, animals, or other prohibited goods are not transported to the islands.

Finally, proceed to the AVIANCA check-in counter, where a GO Galapagos representative will assist you with your boarding pass, flight ticket, taxes, travel documents, and luggage check-in.

Upon arrival at Baltra (GPS) or San Cristobal (SCY) airport, passengers must first collect their luggage from the carousel.

After retrieving your bags, please hand them to GO Galapagos staff members, who will be properly identified.

As you exit the Arrivals area of the terminal, you will find one of our naturalist guides waiting outside, easily recognized by GO Galapagos signs and uniform. Please provide your name and show the cruise voucher that was given to you during check-in in Quito or Guayaquil.

Our team will then guide you through the next steps. The entire group will take a shared transfer to the pier, where passengers will board a dinghy that will take them to the vessel.

Traveling to Galapagos requires a few mandatory procedures established by the Galapagos Biosecurity Agency and the Government Council of Galapagos.

Passengers must complete the Goods Declaration Form before their trip:
https://siabg.abgalapagos.gob.ec/declaraciones/nueva

All luggage must pass through the SICGAL biosecurity inspection at the airport before boarding the flight to ensure no restricted items are introduced to the islands.

Passengers must also obtain a Transit Control Card (TCT) before traveling to Galapagos. In some cases, this card may be prepaid and issued by GO Galapagos. If it is not included in your package, it must be obtained directly at the airport prior to departure.

Upon arrival in Galapagos, passengers will also be required to pay the Galapagos National Park entrance fee, unless it has been prepaid as part of their travel program.

These procedures are essential to help protect the fragile ecosystems of the Galapagos Islands.

Upon arrival in Galapagos, you will be greeted by a GO Galapagos naturalist guide, easily identified with our uniform and signage.

Our guide will welcome you, verify your information, and accompany you from the airport until the group begins the transfer process toward the vessel. From that moment on, our team will be there to assist you and help ensure a smooth start to your expedition.

This is also your first point of contact in the islands should you need any guidance or assistance. 

Are there any luggage restrictions?

The airline that operates to Galapagos allows one piece of luggage per person of no more than 20 kg (about 44 lb) and a carry-on bag of 7 kg p/p.

We recommend you take a soft-sided bag as it will be easier to store in your cabin. Please lock your luggage during the flight.

What should I bring on my trip?

Comfortable, breathable clothes: shorts, T-shirts, swimsuits, and good hiking shoes are required to walk over the lava rock paths. Personal medication, a good camera and plenty of memory cards or film, sunblock, sunglasses, a wide-brim hat, and binoculars.

What can I pack for the excursions?

For shore excursions, comfortable clothing is a must, preferably shorts, bathing suits, head covering, walking and tennis shoes, windbreaker type jacket, binoculars, a camera and plenty of extra memory cards.

Sunrays are very strong in the Galapagos Islands. Don`t forget to bring enough high-grade sunblock and a wide-brim hat.  Also, put your cameras in self-sealing plastic bags to protect them from the water, especially during landings.

How can I pay my expenses on board?

Upon arrival, an account will be opened for you. If you wish to pay with your credit card, we ask you to come to reception to sign a voucher and to make copies of your passport and credit card. Authorizations take about 48 hours, so please do this on your first cruise day.

We accept all major credit cards: Diners, Visa, MasterCard, and American Express. Euros* and U.S. Dollars are also accepted.

* Please ask for the exchange rate.

What is the schedule for meals on board?

On board the M/V Galapagos Legend, breakfast is served from 7:00 to 8:00, lunch at 12:00 and dinner at 19:00. On your last day, breakfast will be at 6:30 so we can have enough time for our last excursion before going off to the airport.

On board the Corals, breakfast is served from 7:30 to 8:30 except on Sunday, when it is served at 6:00, and Wednesday at 7:00; lunch is at 12:30 and dinner at 19:30, except on Monday and Saturday, when it will be served at 18:30.

Meals are gourmet, healthy,and  low on fat, with vegetarian options; they also include traditional dishes of local cuisine.

What if I have allergies or require a special diet on board?

In both cruises, meals are varied depending on the food preferences of the guests, which are informed beforehand by your agency. Go Galapagos-KleinTours will do I very best to meet reasonable special dietary need keeping in mind Galapagos provision restrictions.

What would happen if I got seasick?

We have seasick medication on board all of our ships, but if you are particularly sensitive to it, you can bring your medication, and we recommend taking it at least 24 hours before the cruise starts.

Is the water safe to drink?

Yes, the water on board is purified. Ice used onboard is made with purified water as well. Reusable bottles made out of recycled aluminum are available at the cabins. You can refill your bottle during the cruise at our purifiers located at the main bar, pool bar restaurant, and disembarking area.  Bottles must always be returned to the ship after the activities on the islands, and then you can take them home as a souvenir.

Do you provide shampoo and soap on board?

Yes, we supply all travelers with biodegradable shampoo and soap as part of our conservation policy, but if you want to bring your own, please make sure they are biodegradable. Thank you!

Do we need to bring our towels?

No, you don’t. For your convenience, we provide bath and beach towels during your cruise.

Sample day in your Galapagos cruise:

• 06h45: Wake-up call

• 07h00: Breakfast

• 08h00: Visit the Island. Hiking, snorkeling, etc.

• 11h00: Back to the ship

• 12h00: Lunch

• 14h30: Special activity: leisure time, lecture, or deep-water snorkeling.

• 16h00: Visit the Island—hiking, dinghy ride, kayaking, etc.

• 18h00: Back on board

• 18h20: Ice cream festival or scheduled activities on board.

• 19h00: Dinner

• 20h30: Lecture

• 21h00: Karaoke, Neptune Party, Stargazing or scheduled night

Stay connected while exploring!

Satellite internet is now available on the Expedition Cruise Galapagos Legend and the mega yachts Coral I & Coral II.
*To purchase a plan or learn more, ask your sales agent or speak with a crew member on board.

Is there any physical requirement for the cruise?

We recommend passengers to be in reasonably good physical condition as some trails may be difficult. Therefore, elderly or disabled persons may find them too demanding and must notify Go Galapagos Ecuador about their physical condition in order to make the necessary arrangements. Go Galapagos Ecuador reserves the right to decline a passenger if anyone fails to inform of any physical disability, or who, under company´s discretion, constitutes a danger to themselves, other guests, crew members, or the operation of the vessel.

Does the guide accompany us on each island?

Yes. By law, all Galapagos cruises are guided by a National Park – certified guide. The night before the cruise the guide gives an informative lecture of the next day’s itinerary. During this meeting he/she will describe the flora, fauna, and type of terrain that passengers may observe on the island. Questions about biological, geological and human history are always welcome.

What is the electrical outlet and service?

110 / 220 volts. European and American outlets are available on our cruise fleet. In the M/Y Coral I and M/Y Coral II the frequency is 60 Hz and in the M/V Galapagos Legend Is 50 Hz.

What is the smoking policy on board the ship?

It is forbidden to smoke inside the cruises. Smoking is allowed ONLY on the sun decks.

Are there any language restrictions?

We can guarantee both English and Spanish tourist guides. If you require a guide in a language other than English, you should let us know in advance since an extra fee may apply in order to hire this service.

What kind of clothes should I wear for the Pacific Coast?

Ecuadorian beaches are “nature seeking” experiences and include long walks, swimming, and other physical activities. Therefore, we advise you to bring comfortable breathable clothes, sandals or similar, swimsuits, sunscreen, insect repellent, wide-brim hat, sunglasses, binoculars, eye drops. Evening gowns and accessories are not necessary. During the night, casual attire is advised.

What kind of clothes should I take to the Amazon rainforest?

For your Amazon or other rainforest explorations, you may prefer a long-sleeved shirt and long pants for protection against mosquitoes. Insect repellent, sunscreen, a hat and eye-drops must be part of your traveling equipment, especially if you are sensitive to the sun. A camera, binoculars and a flashlight are necessary for sightseeing, as well as a waterproof jacket, rubber shoes and swimwear.

What are the tipping suggestions?

Tipping is a very personal and optional matter. If you feel you have been given excellent service, you may express your gratitude by giving tips, as suggested below: Restaurants and coffee shops 10% of the bill Hotel / airport portage US$1 p/suitcase Guides on mainland Ecuador US$10 per day, p/p Driver on mainland Ecuador US$ 8 per day, p/p

What kind of clothes should I wear for the highlands?

For Quito and other highland cities, wear comfortable springtime clothing during the day and a sweater or coat in the evening. For the outlying highlands and high Andean moorlands (paramo), warm, winter clothing is essential. Dressing in layers is ideal. Afternoons might be rainy; therefore we suggest an umbrella.

Do I need a passport or visa to go to Ecuador?

Ecuador requires a passport with at least 6 months validity issued by the traveler’s country of residence. A visa is only required for visitors of the following countries: Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Kenya, Nepal, Nigeria, Pakistan, Senegal, Cuba and Somalia. The traveler must also hold proof of return, or onward journey. We recommend all passengers to check with the respective authorities in their country before departure.

When is the best time to go to Ecuador?

Since Ecuador is located on the Equator, there are not defined seasons. This means travelers can visit Ecuador any time of the year. Ecuadorians will often tell you that you should expect all four seasons of the year every single day. Although, there is a slightly wetter and dryer season, these variations are unpredictable and change depending on where you are in Ecuador.

What to expect there?

The Karanki project offers cultural interaction where you will share with an indigenous group in their daily life. You will be accommodated in one of the houses of the community, enjoy their food and learn about their culture, traditions, and lifestyle. The families have been trained in cooking & service, so this becomes a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

There are optional activities at an extra cost, such as: horseback riding, biking, trekking and more!

What kind of weather can I expect in Magdalena?

The average temperature is 57ºF (14ºC) during the morning and 47ºF (8ºC) at night. Winter goes from September to May and summer from June to August.

Do the people of the community speak English?

No, but the guide will be there to assist you. Also, there are radios in the houses to communicate with each other.

How can I pay for the extra services?

Preferably, extra activities should be booked beforehand with Go Galapagos Ecuador. Payments can also be made, cash only, directly with the host family and they will issue you an invoice.

Is there Internet and telephone available?

Internet is available in two houses: “Girasoles” and “Cipreses”.  Cellphones and cellphone signal are available in the community with an additional cost for its rent.

Is there a hospital or medical assistance nearby?

There are clinics and a hospital in Ibarra 9.94 mi (16 km) away (30 min) working 24 hours.

What should I do if my transaction did not finalize?

In the first instance, you should check if a payment confirmation email arrived in your email account (the one registered at the time of making the payment), if you have not received it, you should contact customerservice@gogalapagos.com.ec to confirm the status of the transaction. In the event that your transaction has declined, you must verify if the account information is valid, is enabled for non-face-to-face purchases and if you have space or available balance. If the decline continues after this, you should contact Go Galapagos Cruises. Ultimately, you can send your request to servicioposventa@placetopay.ec. 

What is Placetopay?

Placetopay is the electronic payment platform used by Go Galapagos Tours to process online transactions generated in the virtual store with the payment methods enabled for this purpose.

Can I change the payment method?

If you have not finished your payment yet, you can go back to the initial step and choose the payment method you prefer. Once the purchase is completed, it is not possible to change the payment method.

Can I make the payment any day and at any time?

Yes, at Go Galapagos Cruises you can make your purchases online 7 days a week, 24 hours a day just one click away.

What should I do if I did not receive proof of payment?

For each transaction approved through Placetopay, you will receive proof of payment with the purchase reference at the email address you indicated at checkout. If you do not receive it, you can contact the line (593) 2 - 2267000 / (593) 2 - 2267080 or the email customerservice@gogalapagos.com.ec, to request the forwarding of the voucher to the same email address registered to the time to pay. Ultimately, you can send your request to servicioposventa@placetopay.ec 

How can I pay?

In the Go Galapagos Tours virtual store you can make your payment with the means enabled for this purpose. You, according to the payment options chosen by the merchant, will be able to pay through Diners, Discover, Visa and MasterCard, from all banks with current and deferred payment, only the cards issued by Banco Pichincha, Diners, Loja , BGR and Manabí.

Is it safe to enter my bank details on this website?

To protect your data, Go Galapagos Tours delegates to Placetopay the capture of sensitive information. Our payment platform complies with the highest standards required by the international standard PCI DSS for security in credit card transactions. It also has an SSL security certificate issued by GeoTrust, a Verisign company, which guarantees secure communications by encrypting all data to and from the site; in this way, you can feel safe when entering your card information. During the payment process, the browser displays the name of the authenticated organization, the authority that certifies it, and the address bar turns green. These characteristics are immediately visible and give guarantee and confidence to complete the transaction on Placetopay. Placetopay also has the constant monitoring of McAfee Secure and the signing of electronic messages with Certicámara. Placetopay is a brand of the Colombian company EGM Ingeniería Sin Fronteras S.A.S.

Does paying electronically have any value to me as a buyer?

No, electronic payments made through Placetopay do not generate additional costs for the buyer.