Galápagos — East, Central, & West Islands aboard the Eden - 10 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What kind of accommodation is provided during the tour?

  You'll spend 2 nights in hotels and 7 nights aboard the Eden yacht. Cabins on the Eden are available in twin-share (bunk beds on upper deck, lower berths) or double beds (main deck).

• Are meals included in the tour price?

  Yes, 9 breakfasts, 7 lunches, and 7 dinners are included. Meals aboard the Eden are plentiful, made from fresh local ingredients, and served buffet style. Coffee, tea, and water are complimentary.

• Can dietary restrictions be accommodated?

  Yes, special dietary requirements, including vegetarian options, can be accommodated with advance notice. Please advise us at the time of confirmation.

• Are local flights to and from the Galapagos Islands included in the tour?

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

• What is the maximum group size for this tour?

  The maximum group size is 16 travelers, with an average of 12.

• What is the minimum age to join this trip?

  You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied. Minors aged 12 and above can join when accompanied by a guardian over 21 years old.

• Is there an extra charge for solo travelers?

  No, our group trips are designed for shared accommodation, and single travelers are typically paired with someone of the same sex. If you prefer your own private room, the "My Own Room" option is available for an additional cost.

• What wildlife can I expect to see during the tour?

  You'll have incredible opportunities to see giant land tortoises, Darwin's finches, friendly sea lions, blue-footed boobies, iguanas, manta rays, whitetip reef sharks, flightless cormorants, penguins, and sea turtles.

• What kind of activities are included in the tour?

  Included activities involve guided walks to observe birds and wildlife, snorkelling at various locations like Puerto Egas and North Seymour, visits to islands such as Isla Lobos, Santa Fe, South Plaza, Isabela, Fernandina, and Rábida, and an excursion to the Charles Darwin Research Station.

• Are there any optional activities available?

  Yes, optional activities include a Quito City Tour & Equator Line, Teleférico (for a fee of 9 USD per person) in Quito, and a full-day Cotopaxi Volcano tour.

• What is the physical rating for this tour?

  The tour has a physical rating of 3. Travelers need an average level of fitness and mobility, including being able to walk unaided, climb 3-4 flights of stairs, step on and off small boats (pangas) for wet/dry landings, and carry their own luggage.

• What are the main modes of transportation during the tour?

  Transportation includes planes (for local flights), the motorized yacht 'Eden', vans, pangas (small boats for shore transfers), and private buses.

• Who will be my guide on the tour?

  In the Galápagos Islands, you will be led by a certified CEO (Chief Experience Officer)/Naturalist Guide from the Galápagos National Park Authority. A local representative will also assist in Quito.

• What currency is used and what should I know about money on the trip?

  The local currency is USD. It's important to carry enough cash as credit card machines are not available onboard the vessel due to the remoteness of the Galapagos. ATMs in the islands are limited and unreliable. Bring USD banknotes in denominations smaller than $100.

• Is tipping customary in the Galapagos?

  Yes, tipping is an expected component. As a guideline, a tip of 7-10 USD per day for your CEO and 10-15 USD per day for the crew is appreciated. Envelopes for tipping are provided on the last night.

• Are there any health considerations due to altitude?

  Quito is at a high altitude (over 8,000 feet/2,440 meters). While most people adapt with minimal effects, everyone reacts differently. Consult your physician for advice on preparing for high altitude travel.

• Is travel insurance required for this trip?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory. It must include medical coverage with a minimum of USD 200,000 for repatriation and emergency rescue. Proof of insurance must be shown to your CEO.

• What are the entry requirements for the Galapagos National Park?

  The Ecuadorian government levies a Galapagos Islands Park entry fee of $200 USD per person (cash only, $100 USD for children under 12), payable upon arrival in the park. A Transit Control Card fee of $20 USD per person (cash only) must also be purchased at the Quito airport before flying to Galapagos.

• What are the rules regarding luggage allowance on the boat?

  Luggage on the boat is limited due to small cabin sizes. Soft-sided duffel bags of 40-50 liters are recommended. You can store unnecessary luggage at the joining hotel in Quito. No alcoholic beverages should be brought aboard as the boat has a bar.

• What is the climate like in the Galapagos Islands?

  The Galapagos is on the Equator, but the Humboldt Current tempers the climate. December to June is warmer (22-33°C/72-90°F), with water temperatures in the mid-20s°C (mid-70s°F). July to November is cooler (18-24°C/60s-75°F), with water rarely reaching 21°C (70°F).

• What happens if the Eden yacht is not available?

  At times, when the Eden is being serviced, another boat of equivalent standard and size will be used.

• What is life like onboard the yacht?

  The daily schedule typically includes a shore excursion after breakfast, lunch aboard, and an afternoon shore excursion. In the evening, your naturalist guide will brief you on the next day's islands. You'll be ferried to shore via small boats called pangas, which may involve "wet" (wading) or "dry" landings. Your guide will accompany you during all excursions.