Galápagos — South & East Islands aboard the Eden - 8 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What are the main highlights of the tour?

  The main highlights include seeing giant tortoises in the highlands of Santa Cruz, spotting nocturnal barn owls, snorkeling in Corona del Diablo and Gardner Bay, visiting contrasting green and white sand beaches on Floreana Island, and observing napping reef sharks at the bottom of Gardner Bay.

• What kind of boat will we be traveling on in the Galápagos?

  You will be aboard the Eden, the latest addition to G Adventures' Galápagos fleet. At times, when the Eden is being serviced, another boat of equivalent standard and size will be used.

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

  You will stay in hotels for 2 nights and aboard the Eden for 5 nights. Cabins on the Eden are set up with bunk beds (upper deck), twin beds (lower deck), or a double bed (main deck).

• Are meals included in the tour?

  Yes, 7 breakfasts, 5 lunches, and 5 dinners are included. All meals served aboard the Eden are part of the tour.

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

  Yes, all local flights to and from the Galápagos are included in the cost of your tour. It's important to provide your passport information at the time of booking to process these tickets.

• What is the maximum group size for this tour?

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

• Is travel insurance required for this trip?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory to participate in any of our trips. It must include medical coverage with a minimum of USD 200,000 for repatriation and emergency rescue.

• Will I have my own room if I'm a solo traveler?

  For group trips, single travellers are typically paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex, and there is no single supplement. If you book the 'My Own Room' option, you will receive your own single room for all night stops.

• What are the physical demands of this tour?

  The tour has a physical rating of 3. Please note that the adventure travels to high altitude in Quito (over 8,000 feet or 2,440 meters), and everyone reacts to altitude differently. Consult your physician for advice on preparing for high altitude.

• What are the modes of transportation used during the trip?

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

• Are there any optional activities available on this trip?

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

• Is tipping expected on this trip?

  Yes, tipping is an expected component and an expression of satisfaction. 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.

• What is the climate like in the Galápagos?

  The Galápagos climate is tempered by the Humboldt Current, preventing extreme heat. From December to June, temperatures range from 22-33°C (72-90°F) with water temperatures in the mid-20s (mid 70°F). From July to November, temperatures are cooler, ranging from 18-24°C (60s-75°F), with average water temperature rarely reaching 21°C (70°F).

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

  The local currency is the US dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are useful for cash advances, but a combination of USD cash and cards is recommended. Bring USD banknotes in denominations smaller than 100, as larger or heavily marked bills can be difficult to exchange in Ecuador.

• What age restrictions are there for this tour?

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

• Who will be leading the group during the tour?

  The group will be led by a CEO (Chief Experience Officer)/Naturalist Guide who is certified by the Galápagos National Park Authority while in the Galápagos Islands, and a local G Adventures Representative in Quito.

• When can I do my laundry on this trip?

  Laundry facilities are available at the start and end hotels for a charge. Full laundry facilities are not available onboard our yachts in the Galápagos.

• Are there any health considerations I should know before traveling?

  Inoculations may be required, and it's your responsibility to consult with your travel doctor for up-to-date medical information. You should carry a first aid kit and be aware that the tour travels to high altitude in Quito. Our leaders are prohibited from administering any drugs.