Complete Galápagos - Eden - 17 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What kind of accommodation is provided during the tour?

  You will stay in hotels for 2 nights and aboard the Eden motorized yacht for 14 nights, in twin-share (bunks, upper deck), twin-share (lower berths), or double cabins.

• What meals are included in this trip?

  The tour includes 16 breakfasts, 14 lunches, and 14 dinners.

• What are the main highlights of this trip?

  Highlights include marveling at Bartolomé's dramatic volcanic features, watching sea lions gather on Santiago Island, spotting marine iguanas at Punta Cormorant, seeing giant tortoises in the highlands of Puerto Ayora, and getting up close to blue-footed boobies.

• What modes of transportation are used during the trip?

  Transportation includes planes, the motorized yacht Eden, vans, pangas (small boats), and private buses.

• Who will be leading the group during the tour?

  The group will be led by a CEO (Chief Experience Officer)/Naturalist Guide certified by the Galápagos National Park Authority while in the islands, and a local representative in Quito.

• What is the maximum number of travellers on this tour?

  The maximum number of travellers on this tour is 16.

• Is there an extra cost for travelling solo?

  No, our group trips are designed for shared accommodation without a single supplement. Single travellers are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex.

• What optional activities are available on this trip?

  Optional activities include a Cotopaxi Volcano Full Day tour, Quito City Tour & Equator Line, Teleférico in Quito, Tortuga Bay Kayaking, and a Tortuga Bay Hike on Santa Cruz Island.

• Are there any health considerations I should be aware of before travelling?

  Inoculations may be required, and you should consult with your travel doctor. The adventure travels to high altitude in Quito (over 2,440 meters or 8,000 feet), and everyone reacts differently to altitude.

• What are the mandatory travel insurance requirements for this trip?

  Travel insurance is compulsory and must include medical coverage with a minimum of USD 200,000 for repatriation and emergency rescue. We also strongly recommend coverage for personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, and lost luggage.

• What are the recommended tipping guidelines for the CEO and crew?

  Tipping is expected. As a guideline, a per traveller tip of 7-10 USD per day for your CEO and 10-15 USD per day for the crew is suggested.

• Are international flights included in this trip?

  No, international flights are generally not included in the price of your tour, unless specified for certain combo tours.

• Are local flights to and from the Galapagos included in the cost of the trip?

  Yes, all local flights to and from the Galapagos are included in the cost of your tour. Passport information is required at booking for these tickets.

• What is the baggage allowance for domestic flights to/from the Galapagos?

  You are allowed a maximum of one piece of luggage weighing 23 kilograms (50 pounds), plus one carry-on piece weighing 10 kilograms (22 pounds).

• Can I do laundry during the trip?

  Laundry facilities are available at the start and end hotels for a charge. Full laundry facilities are not available onboard the yacht, but you may bring non-polluting/biodegradable soap for handwashing.

• What is life like onboard the Eden yacht?

  The daily schedule includes a shore excursion after breakfast, lunch aboard, an afternoon shore excursion, and an evening briefing. You are ferried from the yacht to shore via small boats called pangas, with both 'dry' and 'wet' landings.

• What is the climate like in the Galapagos?

  Located on the Equator, the climate is tempered by the Humboldt Current. The warmest weather is December to June (22-33°C/72-90°F), and from July to November, temperatures are cooler (18-24°C/60s-75°F).

• What should I know about currency, credit cards, and exchanging money?

  The local currency is the US dollar. Credit and debit cards (especially Visa) are useful for cash advances, though ATMs may not accept all international cards. A combination of US dollar cash (denominations smaller than 100 USD) and cards is recommended. A 5-10% fee usually applies to credit card purchases.

• What emergency funds should I have access to on this trip?

  You should have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an 'emergency' fund for unforeseen circumstances.

• Are there any general safety tips or free-time guidelines I should follow?

  It is recommended to use a neck wallet or money belt for valuables. Leave valuable jewelry at home. Use hotel safety deposit boxes. Your CEO can amend the itinerary for safety concerns and will accompany included activities. For free time, use good judgment, stay in small groups at night, and take taxis. Be aware of protests and demonstrations, and avoid them. Water-based activities should ideally be accompanied by a guide.

• What should LGBTQ+ travellers know about safety and travel considerations?

  The tour operator prioritizes the safety and well-being of all travellers, including the LGBTQ+ community. They encourage visiting their LGBTQ+ page for useful resources and recommend the Equaldex tool for travel planning.