Galápagos Express Adventure: Wilderness & Wildlife - 7 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What is the minimum age to join this Galápagos Express Adventure tour?

  The minimum age to join this trip is 18 years.

• What is the maximum group size for this tour?

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

• What meals are included in the tour price?

  Six breakfasts are included in this trip. Generally, other meals are not included to provide flexibility in dining choices, though your leader can suggest local restaurants.

• What kind of accommodation is provided on this tour?

  Accommodation is in simple hotels for 6 nights, using twin-share rooms. Solo travelers may book a 'My Own Room' option for a single room.

• What level of physical fitness is required for this tour?

  This tour has a physical rating of 2 (average level of fitness and mobility). Travelers must be able to walk without assistance, climb 3-4 flights of stairs, step on and off small boats, and carry their own luggage.

• Is travel insurance compulsory for this trip?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory and must cover medical expenses including emergency evacuation and repatriation, with a minimum coverage of USD200,000. Proof of insurance covering medical, accident, and death is mandatory for entry into Ecuador.

• Is there an extra cost for solo travelers?

  No, solo travelers do not pay a single supplement for shared accommodation. They will be placed in twin-share rooms with someone of the same sex, or can book a 'My Own Room' for a single room throughout the trip.

• Are international flights included in the trip price?

  No, international flights are generally not included in the price of your tour.

• Is there an entry fee for the Galápagos National Park?

  Yes, there is a Galápagos Islands Park entry fee of $200 USD per person (children under 12 pay $100 USD), which is payable in cash at the airport upon arrival and is not included in the tour cost.

• Is a Transit Control Card required for the Galápagos Islands?

  Yes, a Transit Control Card (TCT) is required at a fee of $20 USD per person. It should be purchased online beforehand and presented at the CGREG counter, or purchased directly at the airport if issues arise.

• What currency and payment methods are accepted on the tour?

  The local currency is USD. Due to the remoteness of the Galápagos Islands, only cash is accepted on vessels. ATMs are extremely limited and unreliable outside of Puerto Ayora, so it's important to withdraw enough cash for the duration of your trip. Bring USD banknotes in denominations smaller than $100.

• Is an emergency fund recommended for this trip?

  Yes, it is recommended to have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an emergency fund for unforeseen circumstances.

• What are the main highlights of this Galápagos tour?

  The main highlights include snorkeling with sea lions, traveling by public speedboats around the Galápagos Islands, visiting the Charles Darwin Research Station, and hiking the Sierra Negra Volcano.

• What activities are included in the tour price?

  Included activities are the Interpretation Centre Visit on San Cristóbal Island, snorkeling equipment and activity at Tijeretas (San Cristóbal), Concha Perla snorkeling excursion, a hike to Sierra Negra Volcano (Isabela Island), and a visit to the Charles Darwin Research Station (Santa Cruz Island).

• What modes of transportation are used during the tour?

  Transportation includes speedboats, public buses, and private vehicles. Speedboat rides between islands can be rough, particularly from July to December, so sea sickness medication is recommended if you are prone to it.

• Who will be leading the tour?

  The tour will be led by a CEO (Chief Experience Officer), who also acts as a Naturalist Guide in the Galápagos Islands, certified by the Galápagos National Park Authority.

• What is the role of the tour leader?

  The tour leader, a certified Naturalist Guide, will provide information on the places visited, offer suggestions for activities and local dining, introduce you to local friends, and generally ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip, handling travel logistics.

• What optional activities are available during the tour?

  Optional activities include Wall of Tears Bike Visit, Los Tuneles Snorkeling, Islote Tintoreras Snorkeling, Giant Tortoise Breeding Centre Visit, Flamingo Lagoon Visit (all on Isabela Island), Surfing Lesson (Puerto Ayora), Puerto Chino Beach Visit (San Cristóbal Island), Snorkeling at Isla Lobos, La Lobería Beach Visit (Puerto Baquerizo Moreno), Playa Mann Visit, and Snorkeling at Kicker Rock.

• Are there any specific health considerations or medical advice for this trip?

  Inoculations may be required, so consult your travel doctor. It is recommended to carry a First Aid kit and personal medical requirements. Tour leaders are prohibited from administering drugs. You should assess your ability to cope with the tour's physical demands.

• Is laundry service available during the trip?

  Laundry availability depends on the location and time spent there. It is advisable to pack enough clothing or bring laundry soap for handwashing, as services may be limited.

• What are the passport and visa requirements for this trip?

  A valid passport with a minimum of 6 months validity is required. It is your responsibility to check with your local embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date visa requirements for Ecuador and to ensure you have all correct travel documentation.

• Is tipping customary on this tour?

  Yes, tipping is an expected, though not compulsory, part of the tour. A guideline for tipping your CEO is 5-10 USD per traveler, per day, as an expression of satisfaction.

• What safety and security advice is provided for travelers?

  It's recommended to check government travel advice, use a neck wallet or money belt for valuables, leave valuable jewelry at home, and use hotel safety deposit boxes. A lock for luggage is advised. The group leader can amend the itinerary for safety reasons. During free time, use good judgment, stay in small groups at night, and take taxis. Water-based activities should only be done with a guide, and swimming/snorkeling is at your own risk.

• Are there any specific rules or codes of conduct for participants?

  Illegal drugs will not be tolerated, as they contravene local laws and endanger the group. The exploitation of people in the sex trade is also unacceptable. Tour leaders have the right to expel any group member violating these rules.

• What is the minimum age to join this tour?

  The minimum age to join this tour is 18 years old. The travel style is suitable for 18-to-Thirtysomethings.

• What is the typical group size for this tour?

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

• What type of accommodation can I expect on this tour?

  You will be staying in simple hotels for 6 nights. Twin accommodations are standard, but you can request private accommodation through your travel agent. If you book the 'My Own Room' option, you will receive a single room for all night stops.

• Are international flights included in the tour price?

  No, international flights are generally not included in the price of your tour. You should contact your airline for specific check-in times and baggage allowances.

• What essential fees are required for entry to the Galápagos Islands?

  The Ecuadorian government levies a Galápagos Islands Park entry fee of $200 USD per person (payable in CASH upon arrival at the airport). Additionally, a Transit Control Card (TCT) is required at a fee of $20 USD per person, which can be purchased online or directly at the Galápagos Government Council counter at the airport (allow 2-3 hours before your flight if purchasing at the airport).

• What are the main activities and highlights of this Galápagos Express Adventure?

  The main highlights include snorkeling with sea lions, traveling by public speedboats around the Galápagos Islands, visiting the Charles Darwin Research Station on Santa Cruz Island, and hiking the Sierra Negra Volcano on Isabela Island. The tour focuses on active exploration and wildlife encounters with an expert Naturalist Guide.

• What kind of transportation is used between islands, and are there any considerations for motion sickness?

  Travel between islands is primarily by public and private speedboats. These rides can be quite rough, especially from July to December. It is highly recommended to bring sea sickness medication if you are prone to motion sickness.

• What meals are included in this trip?

  This tour includes 6 breakfasts.

• Is travel insurance compulsory for this trip?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory. You will not be permitted to join the group without evidence of insurance covering medical expenses, emergency evacuation, and repatriation, with a minimum coverage of USD200,000. It's also recommended to cover personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, and lost luggage.

• What health considerations should I be aware of before traveling?

  Inoculations may be required, so you should consult your travel doctor for up-to-date medical travel information well before departure. It's recommended to carry a First Aid kit and hand sanitizers. Please note that tour leaders are prohibited from administering any drugs. Travelers with pre-existing medical conditions may need to complete a medical questionnaire signed by their physician.

• How much spending money do I need, and what should I know about currency and credit cards?

  Spending money varies by traveler, but an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) is recommended as an emergency fund. Due to the remoteness of the Galápagos, cash is primarily accepted on vessels, and ATMs are extremely limited and unreliable outside of Puerto Ayora. A combination of US dollar cash (especially denominations smaller than $100) and cards for cash advances is best. Be aware that credit card purchases may incur a 5%-10% fee.

• Is there an extra cost for solo travelers, or can I expect shared accommodation?

  Our group trips are designed for shared accommodation without a single supplement. Solo travelers will be placed in twin-share accommodation with someone of the same sex, unless you book the 'My Own Room' option for a single room.

• Is tipping customary for the tour leader?

  Tipping is an expected, though not compulsory, expression of satisfaction. A guideline of 5-10 USD per traveler, per day for your Chief Experience Officer (CEO), is suggested.

• Who will be leading the group during the tour?

  All group trips are accompanied by a Chief Experience Officer (CEO). In the Galápagos Islands, your CEO will also be a Naturalist Guide, certified by the Galápagos National Park Authority.

• What are some of the optional activities available on this tour?

  Optional activities include a Wall of Tears Bike Visit (approx. $20 USD), Los Tuneles Snorkelling (approx. $140-150 USD), Islote Tintoreras Snorkelling (approx. $45-50 USD), Giant Tortoise Breeding Centre Visit, Flamingo Lagoon Visit, Surfing Lesson (approx. $120 USD) in Puerto Ayora, and Snorkelling at Kicker Rock (approx. $140-160 USD) or Isla Lobos (approx. $90-110 USD) from San Cristóbal Island.

• What should I know about safety and security on this trip?

  It is strongly recommended to use a neck wallet or money belt for valuables and leave expensive jewelry at home. Many hotels have safety deposit boxes, and a lock for luggage is advised. Your group leader can amend the itinerary for safety. Exercise good judgment during free time and optional activities, as they are not part of the itinerary, and water-based activities carry inherent risks. Always swim or snorkel at your own risk, and only participate in water activities accompanied by a guide.

• Are there rules regarding illegal drugs or involvement with sex workers?

  Illegal drugs will not be tolerated, as they contravene local laws and endanger the group. Similarly, the use of paid sex workers is against our travel philosophy. CEOs have the right to expel any group member found with drugs or utilizing such services without a refund.

• Can I do laundry during the trip?

  Laundry availability depends on the specific location and time spent there. It is advisable to pack enough clothing or bring laundry soap for handwashing if needed.

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

  The safety and well-being of all travelers, including those who identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community, are a priority. Specific resources and information regarding LGBTQ+ travel safety and considerations are available on the tour operator's website.

• Are there any restrictions on what I can bring into the Galápagos National Park?

  Yes, the Galápagos is a protected National Park. Your luggage will be checked upon arrival and departure. Do not bring any food, seeds, or other organic material that could affect the delicate ecosystem of the islands.