Galápagos — North, Central, & South Islands aboard the Eden - 10 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What are the main highlights of the Galápagos tour?

  The tour highlights include seeing nesting frigatebirds and boobies in Darwin Bay, spotting waved albatross at Punta Suárez (between April and November), witnessing sea lions frolic in Gardner Bay, and discovering the green sand beach of Española.

• What type of accommodation is provided during the trip?

  You will stay in hotels for 2 nights in Quito and aboard the Eden yacht for 7 nights. Cabins on the Eden are available in twin-share (bunks, upper deck), twin-share (lower berths), or double configurations.

• Are meals included in the tour price?

  Yes, 9 breakfasts, 7 lunches, and 7 dinners are included. Meals aboard the yacht are plentiful, made from fresh local ingredients, and special dietary requirements can be accommodated with advance notice. Coffee, tea, and water are complimentary on board, while other beverages can be purchased at the bar.

• What is the typical group size for this tour?

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

• Are international and local flights included in the tour cost?

  International flights are generally not included. However, all local flights to and from the Galápagos Islands from Quito are included in the tour cost. You will need to provide your passport information at the time of booking for these tickets.

• What are the age requirements for this trip?

  Travelers must be 18 years old to travel unaccompanied. For minors traveling with a guardian over 21, the minimum age is 12.

• What is the physical rating of this tour, and are there any health considerations?

  This tour has a physical rating of 3. You should consult your travel doctor for up-to-date medical information and any required inoculations. Please be aware that Quito is at a high altitude (over 8,000 feet or 2,440 meters), and while most people adjust well, altitude sickness can affect anyone regardless of fitness. It is recommended to carry a first aid kit.

• Is travel insurance required for this trip?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory. You must have medical coverage with a minimum of USD 200,000 for repatriation and emergency rescue. Proof of insurance covering medical, accident, and death is mandatory for entry into Ecuador.

• How much spending money do I need, and what currency is used?

  Spending money requirements vary by traveler. The local currency in Ecuador, including the Galápagos, is the US Dollar. Onboard the vessels, only cash is accepted, and ATM machines in the islands are extremely limited and unreliable. It's important to withdraw sufficient cash for your trip duration and bring US Dollar banknotes in denominations smaller than 100, as larger bills can be difficult to exchange.

• Is tipping expected during the tour?

  Tipping is an expected, though not compulsory, part of the tour. 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 for outstanding service.

• What modes of transportation are used on the tour?

  Transportation includes planes for internal flights, a motorized yacht (the Eden), vans, pangas (small boats for shore excursions), and private buses.

• What safety and security information should I be aware of?

  We recommend using a neck wallet or money belt for valuables and leaving valuable jewelry at home. Many hotels offer safety deposit boxes. In Quito, be mindful of pickpockets. Your CEO has the authority to amend the itinerary for safety concerns, and water-based activities (like snorkeling) are at your own risk. Illegal drugs and exploitation of prostitutes are strictly prohibited, and violation can lead to expulsion from the group.

• What optional activities are available?

  Optional activities include the Quito City Tour & Equator Line, Teleférico (approx. 9 USD per person) in Quito, and a full-day Cotopaxi Volcano tour (approx. 56 USD per person).

• What are the visa and specific entry requirements for the Galápagos Islands?

  All countries require a valid passport with a minimum of 6 months validity. You must check with your local embassy or consulate for specific visa requirements. Additionally, the Ecuadorian government levies a Galápagos Islands Park entry fee of $200 USD per person (payable in CASH upon arrival) and a Transit Control Card fee of $20 USD per person (also payable in CASH at Quito airport before your flight to Galápagos). These fees are not included in the tour price.

• Can I do laundry during the trip?

  Laundry facilities are available at the start and end hotels in Quito for a charge. Full laundry facilities are not available onboard the yachts in the Galápagos. If you plan to do hand laundry, biodegradable soap is suggested.

• What is life like onboard the Eden yacht, and what is the climate in Galápagos?

  The daily schedule typically involves a shore excursion after breakfast, lunch aboard, an afternoon excursion, and an evening briefing by your naturalist guide. Landings from the yacht to shore are via panga (small boat) and can be 'wet' (wading ashore) or 'dry'. The Galápagos climate is tempered by the Humboldt Current. Warmer weather from December to June sees temperatures from 22-33°C (72-90°F) and water temperatures in the mid-20s°C (mid-70s°F). From July to November, temperatures are cooler, ranging from 18-24°C (60s-75°F), with average water temperature rarely exceeding 21°C (70°F). Electrical outlets on board are 110v with 2 flat prongs, so bring an adapter if needed.

• What are the luggage restrictions and important notes for Galápagos travel?

  Luggage on the boat is limited due to small cabin sizes; soft-sided duffel bags of 40-50 liters are recommended. Excess luggage can be stored at the joining hotel in Quito. As the Galápagos is a protected National Park, luggage will be checked for prohibited items like food or seeds. You should have good mobility to navigate uneven terrain, step on/off pangas, and use stairs on the yacht. No alcoholic beverages should be brought aboard as the boat has a bar. Cabin assignment on the yacht is first-come, first-serve, and specific cabins cannot be guaranteed; window sizes and noise levels may vary by location.

• What provisions are there for solo travelers?

  Our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travelers are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip.

• Who will be leading the group during the tour?

  In Quito, you will be met by a local tour operator representative. While in the Galápagos Islands, your group will be led by a CEO (Chief Experience Officer) who is a local naturalist guide certified by the Galápagos National Park Authority.