Most travelers do not need a visa for stays under 90 days, but check based on your nationality.

Ecuadorians: ID card or valid passport.

Foreigners: valid passport (minimum 6 months validity) + Transit Control Card (TCT, USD 20).

*Rates may change according to updated Galápagos National Park regulations.

Flights from Quito or Guayaquil to Baltra (Santa Cruz) or San Cristóbal. Inter-island travel by ferry, small boats, local flights, or water taxis. Many attractions require a certified naturalist guide.

Complete your Transit Control Card (TCT) form online before your flight: TCT Form – CGREG . Show it at the CGREG counter in Quito or Guayaquil airport before boarding.

1. Go to the CGREG counter to pay your TCT (USD 20).

2. Take your luggage through inspection at the Galápagos Biosecurity Agency (ABG), which checks for prohibited products.

3. Only your checked luggage must be dropped off at your airline counter.

4. Your boarding pass and baggage ticket are printed at the self-service kiosks near the airline counters.

Official restricted products list: ABG – Product list

Limited internet and unstable mobile signal outside towns. ATMs available in Puerto Ayora, Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, and Puerto Villamil, but they may run out of cash.

Comfortable clothing, swimsuit, walking shoes, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, insect repellent, optional snorkel gear, and a light jacket.

Galápagos is safe, but carry some cash and protect your belongings. Respect the rules: no removing plants or wildlife, no feeding animals, avoid single-use plastics.

Santa Cruz Island

• Charles Darwin Research Station: 08:00–12:30 / 14:30–17:30; giant tortoises; guided visits (USD 10).
• Tortuga Bay: 45-min walk (2.5 km) or boat (USD 10); open 06:00–17:00; safest to swim at second beach.
• Las Grietas: Water taxi + short hike; snorkeling recommended; 2–3 h.
• Bay Tour: Lobería, Canal del Amor, Playa de los Perros, Las Grietas; 3–4 h.
• Los Gemelos: Visit on your own; 1–2 h; flora and fauna like finches, owls, ferns.
• Highland Ranches (Primicias/El Chato): Entry USD 10; El Chato has lava tunnels; giant tortoises.
• El Garrapatero Beach: Shade areas, kayak rental, safe for swimming.

San Cristóbal Island

• Interpretation Center (Gianni Arismendy): Free entry; Mon–Fri 08:00–12:00 / 14:30–17:00.
• Cerro Tijeretas Viewpoint: 30–45 min moderate hike; frigatebirds.
• Tijeretas Bay: Free, safe snorkeling/swimming.
• Carola Beach: Good for swimming and surfing; shaded spots.
• Mann Beach: Restaurants nearby, busy at peak times; kayak rental.
• San Cristóbal Pier: Shops, restaurants, perfect for sunsets.
• Half-day tour (Puerto Chino, Galapaguera, El Junco Lagoon): 1 h per site; bring food/water.
• La Lobería Beach: Marine life, safe swimming with caution; no services.
• 360 Tour: Full-day (8–10 h), covers major sites.
• Española Tour: Punta Suárez & Gardner Bay; snorkeling & wildlife; full day (8–10 h).

Isabela Island

• Los Túneles Tour: Lava formations, turtles, sharks, rays, tropical fish; snorkeling included.
• Concha de Perla: Free, excellent snorkeling; services nearby.
• Tintoreras Islet Tour: White-tip sharks, iguanas, penguins; 2–3 h; advance booking advised.
• Flamingo Lagoon: Best early morning or sunset; free; guides available.
• Wall of Tears Bike Route: Moderate; bike rental in Puerto Villamil; scenic stops.
• Sierra Negra Volcano Trek: 4–5 h; sturdy shoes and water needed; guide recommended.
• Isabela Tortoise Center: Giant tortoises in natural habitat; entry with guide USD 5.
• Main Beach: Popular, safe swimming, services nearby.

Floreana Island

• Full-day tours (Enderby Islet, Pirate Caves, Punta Cormorant / Post Office Bay / Devil’s Crown / Asilo de la Paz & Playa Negra): All last 8–10 h, include snorkeling, wildlife watching, and history; suitable for all ages.

Some areas allow independent visits, but many require a certified naturalist guide. Booking tours in advance is highly recommended.