Galapagos Trip Checklist

A complete guide for packing your luggage for a Galapagos trip. Click here for more information.

Preparing for your Galapagos Trip

After deciding what boat to choose and when to go to the Galapagos Islands, there are still a few things that need to be settled before your vacation.

• International flights are not included in quoted prices and must be purchased separately.

• Flights to and from the Galapagos: Flights from mainland Ecuador (Quito or Guayaquil) to the Galapagos can be arranged through us. Keep in mind that "Cruise only prices” do not include the cost of flights. Especially during the high season, is often difficult to find availability on cruises and flights to Galapagos. Therefore, we advise reserving as early as possible to guarantee availability.

• Health insurance. We strongly advise acquiring travel insurance that includes trip cancelations, baggage, and medical protection.

• Vaccinations. There is no vaccination requirement for traveling to the highlands, coastal and Galapagos regions of Ecuador. However, when traveling to the Amazon jungle, ask your doctor about vaccines like typhoid, hepatitis A, diphtheria, and yellow fever. Keep in mind that some vaccines, like diphtheria, need to be administered three months prior to your trip!

• Ecuadorian visa. Ecuador welcomes tourists and travelers from every country. Citizens of the United States, Canada and most European countries traveling to Ecuador for tourism, business or to study do not require a visa unless they expect to stay in Ecuador for more than 90 days in one calendar year (that is, 90 days adding every entry in one year) or if they are drawing income from an Ecuadorian source.

• What to pack? Since there is a weight restriction of 44 lbs. or 20 kg on flights to the Galapagos, we recommend bringing only what you strictly need to the islands. Check out our packing page to get an idea of what should finally land up in your suitcase.

If you have any questions, please take a look at our Frequently Asked Questions section or contact us.