Galápagos — West & Central Islands aboard the Eden - 8 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What kind of wildlife can I expect to see on this tour?

  You can look forward to seeing an incredible array of animal species including giant land tortoises on Santa Cruz, Darwin's famed finches in Punta Moreno, and flightless cormorants on Fernandina. You'll also have opportunities to spot flamingos, sea turtles, penguins, marine iguanas, a variety of bird life, fish, and sea lions.

• What type of activities are included during the tour?

  The tour includes excursions to see giant tortoises in the wild, hiking to the rim of the Sierra Negra volcano, visiting a tortoise breeding centre, exploring lava formations, and observing diverse bird and marine life. Snorkelling is also included at various locations like Punta Espinoza, Puerto Egas, and North Seymour.

• What kind of vessel will I be cruising on in the Galápagos Islands?

  You will be cruising aboard the Eden, which is designed with your comfort in mind. The Eden is the latest addition to the G Adventures' Galápagos fleet. The cabins are comfortable and clean, all with private bathrooms, and are set up with bunk beds (upper deck), twin beds (lower deck), or a double bed (main deck).

• Are there any mandatory fees not included in the tour price?

  Yes, there is a Galápagos Islands National Park entry fee of $200 USD per person (or $100 USD for children under 12), payable in cash upon arrival at the park. Additionally, a Transit Control Card fee of $20 USD per person is required, purchased in cash at the Quito airport before your flight to the Galápagos.

• What are the dining arrangements and what types of meals are included?

  All meals aboard the Eden are included (7 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 5 dinners). The food is plentiful, made from fresh local ingredients, and dining is casual. A selection of different meals is always available, and vegetarian options are provided. Coffee, tea, and water are free of charge, while other alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages can be purchased at the bar.

• Can special dietary requirements be accommodated?

  Yes, special dietary requirements can be accommodated with advance notice. Please advise us at the time of confirmation so arrangements can be made.

• What currency should I bring for spending money on the tour?

  Due to the remoteness of the Galápagos Islands, only cash is accepted onboard the vessels as there are no credit card machines. It is important to withdraw enough cash for your trip. ATMs are extremely limited and unreliable in the islands. US dollar banknotes in denominations smaller than $100 are recommended, as larger bills can be difficult to exchange in Ecuador.

• What is the physical rating for this tour, and are there any mobility considerations?

  This tour has a physical rating of 3, requiring an average level of fitness and mobility. Travellers must be able to walk unaided, climb 3-4 flights of stairs, step on and off small boats (zodiacs/pangas) for 'wet' or 'dry' landings, and carry their own luggage. The yacht does not have an elevator, and some snorkeling activities involve ladders from the panga.

• What is the minimum and maximum age for participants on this tour?

  The minimum age for this tour is 12 years old, and the maximum age is 100 years old.

• Who will be leading the tour in the Galápagos Islands?

  You will be accompanied by a highly experienced shipboard staff and crew, including a Galápagos CEO who is a local naturalist guide certified by the Galápagos National Park. In Quito, you will be met by a local G Adventures representative.

• What is the group size for this tour?

  The tour is designed for small groups, with a minimum size of 1 and a maximum group size of 16 participants.

• Are international flights included in the tour price?

  No, international flights are not included. However, internal flights within Ecuador (e.g., to/from the Galápagos Islands) are included.