How to get to Galapagos?

Dreaming of exploring the breathtaking landscapes and unique wildlife of the Galapagos Islands? As a haven for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers, the Galapagos Islands promise an unparalleled experience. However, getting to the Galapagos Islands, a remote archipelago, isn’t as simple as hopping on a boat or driving across a bridge—despite what its proximity on a world map might suggest!

Whether you’re strategizing the best route for how to get to the Galapagos, hunting for the most cost-effective flights, or seeking essential travel tips, understanding how to get to the Galapagos is crucial for a smooth and enjoyable trip. Dive into this guide for all the information you’ll need on fees, flights, airports, and insider tips to make your Galapagos adventure seamless from start to finish!

How to get to Galapagos: Flight Options

For those eager to visit the incredibly unique Galapagos Islands, air travel is the only way to reach this remote destination. No boats, cargo ships, or cruises serve the Galapagos from Ecuador’s ports or anywhere else in the world.

Furthermore, if you’re wondering how far the Galapagos Islands are from Ecuador, keep the following in mind: a bridge would need to be double the width of Ecuador to reach the Galapagos—not exactly a Sunday afternoon drive! That’s right, this iconic archipelago sits 600 miles (1,000 km) west of Ecuador’s coastline in the Pacific Ocean!

Currently, only two airlines—LATAM and Avianca—offer flights to the Galapagos Islands. Their flights depart from Ecuador’s main airports in Quito and Guayaquil. Unfortunately, there are no direct international flights to the Galapagos, so travelers will first need to transit through one of these cities before getting there. That being said, if you have time to spare, a stay in Quito is an absolute must, given the treasure trove of cultural, historical, gastronomic, and scenic marvels it has!

Flying to Mainland Ecuador

Before embarking on your journey to the Galapagos Islands, you’ll first need to fly to mainland Ecuador, where your adventure begins. The two primary entry points are Quito’s Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO) and Guayaquil’s Jose Joaquin de Olmedo International Airport (GYE). Both airports offer a variety of direct international flights, making them accessible from major cities around the world.

Wondering how to get to Galapagos from NYC and many other major cities around the world? Here’s a handy table with a list of all direct international flights to Quito or Guayaquil—the first stops on any trip to the Galapagos.

Flights from Quito to the Galapagos

Traveling from Quito to the Galapagos is a straightforward journey, with flights being the only viable option. Flights to the Galapagos Islands depart from Quito’s Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO) and typically have a brief stopover in Guayaquil before continuing to either of the two Galapagos Islands airports: Seymour Airport (GPS) on Baltra Island or San Cristobal Airport (SCY) on San Cristobal Island. The flight duration from Quito to the Galapagos, including the stopover in Guayaquil, is 2.5 hours on average.

The primary airlines offering flights from Quito to the Galapagos are LATAM and Avianca. These airlines provide several flights daily, ensuring flexibility in planning your travel schedule. Departure times are usually in the early morning, typically taking off between 6:45 a.m. and 9:00 a.m. This is why spending a night (or more!) in Quito before your flight to the Galapagos is highly advisable. Quito’s UIO airport is approximately 1 hour away from the city center by car, but travel times may vary drastically depending on traffic. Taxi fares to the airport are around $25, depending on where you are in the city.

The average cost of a roundtrip ticket from Quito to the Galapagos is around $555, though prices can fluctuate based on seasonality and availability. For non-citizens and non-residents of Ecuador, an additional $150 supplement is typically already included in this fare.

Flights from Guayaquil to the Galapagos

When it comes to how to get to Galapagos from Ecuador, the other option after Quito is departing from Guayaquil. This is a convenient option for many travelers due to the marginally shorter flight time compared to departures from Quito. Flights from Guayaquil’s Jose Joaquin de Olmedo International Airport (GYE) to the Galapagos Islands are direct and typically take about 1 hour and 45 minutes.

Just like departures from Quito, the two main airports in the Galapagos that you can fly into from Guayaquil are Seymour Airport (GPS) on Baltra Island and San Cristobal Airport (SCY) on San Cristobal Island. Similarly, LATAM and Avianca are the primary airlines offering flights from Guayaquil to these destinations.

Flight departure times from Guayaquil are generally in the morning, with common times being between 8 a.m. and 11 a.m. This timing allows travelers to potentially arrive in Guayaquil on an early morning flight and catch a connecting flight to the Galapagos on the same day. However, it is often recommended to spend at least one night in Guayaquil to ensure a smooth and stress-free transition to your Galapagos flight. Guayaquil’s GYE airport is approximately 30 minutes away from the city center by car, but travel times may vary drastically depending on traffic. Taxi fares to the airport are around $5-10, depending on where you are in the city.

The average cost for a roundtrip ticket from Guayaquil to the Galapagos is around $450, though prices can fluctuate based on seasonality and availability. For non-citizens and non-residents of Ecuador, an additional $150 supplement is typically already included in this fare.

Important tips for flying to Galapagos

When it comes to how to get to the Galapagos, something to factor into your trip are the following essential tips to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey:

1. Book Early: Flights to the Galapagos can fill up quickly, especially during peak travel seasons. To secure the best fares and your preferred travel dates, it’s best to book your flights as early as possible.
2. Check for Deals: Keep an eye out for special promotions and discounts offered by airlines and tour operators. Occasionally, you can find excellent deals on flights, particularly if you book well in advance, during sales periods, and/or as part of a package deal with a Galapagos Expedition Cruise.
3. Consider the Perks of Travel Packages: Booking your flights as part of a travel package with a tour operator like Metrojourneys can provide additional benefits, such as airport transfers, assistance with required fees, and priority luggage handling.
4. Prepare for Fees (more on this further below): Upon departure from mainland Ecuador, you will need to pay a $20 Transit Control Card fee, and upon arrival in the Galapagos, a $100 National Park Entrance Fee. These fees must be paid in cash, so make sure to have enough cash on hand.
5. Pack Wisely: Check your airline’s baggage policy to ensure that your fare includes checked baggage. If not, you may need to pay additional fees for luggage. Packing lightly and efficiently can save you both time and money.
6. Plan for Early Flights: Flights to the Galapagos typically depart early in the morning. Consider arriving in your departure city (Quito or Guayaquil) at least one day in advance to avoid any last-minute stress and to enjoy some local sightseeing.
7. Stay Informed: Flight schedules and prices can change, so it’s important to stay updated on the latest information from your airline. Monitor your flight status regularly and stay in contact with your airline for any updates.
8. Health and Safety: Ensure you are up to date with any required vaccinations and carry any necessary medications with you. It’s also wise to have travel insurance that covers health emergencies.

Documentation required for entry into Galapagos

When traveling to the Galapagos Islands, it’s crucial to have the necessary documentation at hand when the authorities ask for it. Here’s a list of the essential documents and fees you’ll need to have on you:

1. Passport: A valid passport is required for all international travelers entering Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands. Ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date from Ecuador.
2. Health Insurance: Although not always strictly enforced, it is advisable to have health insurance that covers you for the duration of your stay in the Galapagos. Some travel packages may include insurance and select Expedition Cruises even offer an Onboard Medical Officer, so check with your provider and/or tour operator.
3. Return Ticket: Authorities may ask to see proof of your return or onward travel plans that show you’ll leave within 60 days of having arrived in Galapagos. Having a printed copy of your return ticket or confirmation can help expedite this process.
4. Tourist Visa: Most tourists can enter Ecuador without a visa for stays of up to 90 days. However, it’s essential to verify the visa requirements based on your nationality before traveling.

Important Additional Fees and Costs for Galapagos

1. Transit Control Card: Before departing from mainland Ecuador, you must obtain a Transit Control Card (TCT) issued by the Galapagos Government Council. This card costs $20 and is available at the airport in either Quito or Guayaquil. It must be paid in cash, so be sure to have the correct amount on hand.
2. National Park Entrance Fee: Upon arrival in the Galapagos Islands, you are required to pay a National Park Entrance Fee. This fee is $200 for foreign visitors. The fee helps fund conservation efforts—keep in mind the Galapagos are a UNESCO World Heritage Site—and local community support within the National Park. Like the Transit Control Card, this fee must be paid in cash at the airport upon arrival.
3. Supplement for Non-Residents: As we’ve mentioned previously, published airfares to the Galapagos often include a $150 supplement for non-residents and non-citizens of Ecuador. This supplement is typically included in the ticket price, but verifying this when booking your flight is essential.

Luggage Restrictions for Travel to Galapagos

• Checked Baggage: Many budget airlines do not include checked baggage in their base fares. When booking your flight, double-check whether your ticket includes checked baggage. If not, you may need to pay an additional fee.
• Carry-On Baggage: Airlines typically allow one carry-on bag and one personal item, such as a backpack or purse. Ensure your carry-on luggage meets the size and weight requirements set by the airline to avoid extra charges at the airport.
• Baggage Weight Limitations: There are strict weight limitations for luggage on flights to the Galapagos. Most airlines allow up to 50 pounds (23 kg) for checked baggage and up to 22 pounds (10 kg) for carry-on baggage, but be sure to confirm with the airline directly beforehand. Exceeding these weight limits can result in additional fees, so it’s best to pack light and weigh your luggage before heading to the airport.
• Luggage Tags: Metrojourneys and some other tour operators offer priority luggage handling through special tags. This ensures that your luggage arrives on the islands with you, minimizing the risk of delays or lost baggage, which can be particularly important for reaching remote destinations like the Galapagos.
• Restricted Items: Due to the fragile ecosystem of the Galapagos, there are restrictions on what can be brought into the islands. Items such as fresh fruits, vegetables, seeds, and certain animal products are prohibited. Ensure you check the latest guidelines to avoid bringing any restricted items.
• Packing Essentials: Given the adventure-focused activities in the Galapagos, pack essentials like comfortable walking shoes, swimwear, sun protection, and lightweight clothing. Remember to leave space for souvenirs and any gear you may need for specific tours or excursions.

Which airport is the best one to fly into when visiting the Galapagos Islands?

When it comes to how to fly to the Galapagos Islands, choosing the right airport for your arrival can significantly impact your travel experience. The Galapagos Islands have two main airports: Seymour Airport (GPS) on Baltra Island and San Cristobal Airport (SCY) on San Cristobal Island. Each airport offers unique advantages depending on your travel plans.

Seymour Airport (GPS) – Baltra Island

• Location: Baltra Island is located just north of Santa Cruz Island, the most populated and central island in the Galapagos.
• Connectivity: From Baltra, you can take a short ferry ride to Santa Cruz Island, followed by a bus or private transfer to Puerto Ayora, the main town of Santa Cruz. This makes it a convenient entry point if your accommodations or tours start from Santa Cruz.
• Tour Options: Many cruises and day tours depart from the island of Baltra as well as Santa Cruz, making this airport a strategic choice for those looking to hop off the plane and begin sailing throughout the archipelago.
• Flight Availability: Flights to Baltra are frequently available from both Quito and Guayaquil, offering flexibility in scheduling.

San Cristobal Airport (SCY) – San Cristobal Island

• Location: San Cristobal Island is located on the eastern side of the archipelago and is home to the provincial capital, Puerto Baquerizo Moreno.
• Direct Access: Flying into San Cristobal allows for direct access to this less-crowded island, known for its rich history, beautiful beaches, and diverse wildlife.
• Tour Options: If your primary activities and accommodations are on San Cristobal, flying directly here can save time and avoid additional transfers.
• Flight Availability: Like Baltra, San Cristobal is serviced by flights from both Quito and Guayaquil, though there may be fewer options compared to Baltra.

Ultimately, the best airport for your arrival depends on your itinerary and the islands you plan to visit. If your activities are centered around Santa Cruz and nearby islands, Baltra (GPS) is the optimal choice. For those focusing on San Cristobal and its attractions, flying directly to San Cristobal (SCY) is more convenient.

Consider your travel plans, the location of your accommodations, and the departure point of any tours or cruises when deciding which airport to fly into for your Galapagos adventure.

How do I get to the Galapagos Islands from anywhere in the world?

As mentioned earlier, this will be a 3-part process, as there are no direct international flights to the Galapagos Islands. Here’s a summarized guide on how to get there:

Step 1: Fly to Mainland Ecuador

• International Flights: Begin by booking a flight to either Quito (Mariscal Sucre International Airport – UIO) or Guayaquil (Jose Joaquin de Olmedo International Airport – GYE), the two main international gateways to Ecuador. Major airlines from various countries offer direct flights to these cities:
  1. From the USA: American Airlines, Delta, United, JetBlue, and LATAM offer flights from cities like New York (JFK), Miami (MIA), Atlanta (ATL), Houston (IAH), and Fort Lauderdale (FLL).
  2. From Europe: Iberia (LATAM) flies from Madrid (MAD) to both Quito and Guayaquil, and KLM offers flights from Amsterdam (AMS) to Quito.

Step 2: Anticipate Your Layover in Quito or Guayaquil

• Remember, we highly recommend adding a night or two before your Galapagos flight departure day to ensure you manage to get to it on time and have a smoother travel experience.
• That being said, why not take advantage of your layover to explore the rich cultural and natural attractions in Quito or Guayaquil? Quito, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers stunning colonial architecture and beautiful Andean landscapes, while Guayaquil provides a vibrant city experience and proximity to coastal attractions.

Step 3: Take Your Domestic Flight to the Galapagos

• Galapagos Flight: From Quito or Guayaquil, book a flight with LATAM or Avianca to either Baltra Island (GPS) or San Cristobal Island (SCY) in the Galapagos. The choice of airport will depend on your itinerary and starting point in the archipelago.

Leaving the Galapagos: Farewell Process, Returning Home

As your incredible adventure in the Galapagos Islands concludes, it’s worth getting familiarized with the departure procedures and logistics for added peace of mind.

Traveling to the Galapagos Airport:

• From Santa Cruz Island: If you’re departing from Seymour Airport on Baltra Island, you will need to:
  1. Take a taxi to the north end of Santa Cruz Island (taxis are available throughout Puerto Ayora, usually seen as white pickup trucks). These can take up to 4 passengers. The fare is typically $25, and the journey takes around 40 minutes.
  2. Once you reach the island’s northern end, you’ll take a short ferry ride from Santa Cruz Island to Baltra Island across the Itabaca Channel. This ride costs $1-2 per person.
  3. Once you disembark at Baltra Island, you’ll take a 10-minute shuttle bus to the airport. The ride costs $5 per person.
• From San Cristobal Island: This is the most convenient airport to get to, as it’s just a 5-minute taxi ride to the town center of Puerto Baquerizo Moreno. The fare is typically around $5.

NOTE: Most tour operators will include airport transfers to your departure airport as part of their tours and/or cruises.

At the Airport:

• Airport Check-in: You’ll want to arrive at the airport early to complete the check-in process and pass through security.
• Flight Times: Flights back to the mainland typically depart in the early morning, so plan accordingly to ensure you have ample time to get to the airport.

Documentation Tips:

• Transit Control Card: Keep your Galapagos Transit Control Card handy, as you may need to present it upon departure.

Customs:

• Native Items: Upon departing from Galapagos, your baggage will usually be checked to make sure you’re not taking anything with you that is native to the Galapagos. These can range from the obvious (wildlife, plants) to the not-so-obvious (small seashells, pebbles). Be sure to be respectful and make sure you’re not taking any of these in your luggage!

Return Flight to Mainland Ecuador:

• Flight Duration: The flight back to either Quito or Guayaquil will take approximately 1.5 to 2.5 hours.
• Layover Time: Once you arrive in mainland Ecuador, allow sufficient time for any layovers if you have an international connecting flight.

How to Fly to Galapagos: The Best Option

Ultimately, there isn’t a single “best option” for flying to the Galapagos because the best choice will depend on individual preferences and travel plans. However, here are some factors that can help determine the best option for you:

1. Departure City:
   • Quito: Best for travelers who want to explore Ecuador’s capital and its surrounding highlands. Flights from Quito often have a layover in Guayaquil.
   • Guayaquil: More direct flights and slightly shorter travel time. Ideal for those who prefer a more straightforward journey.
2. Arrival Airport:
   • Baltra Island (Seymour Airport – GPS): Convenient for accessing Santa Cruz Island. Many cruises and tours depart from here.
   • San Cristobal Island (San Cristobal Airport – SCY): Ideal for itineraries focused on San Cristobal Island. Direct access to this island and its attractions.