Upgraded Land Galapagos - 10 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What are the main highlights of the Upgraded Land Galapagos tour?

  This tour offers incredible encounters with marine iguanas and blue-footed boobies, snorkeling among volcanic formations at Kicker Rock, walks on the black-sand beaches of Floreana Island, dining at tour operator-supported community restaurants, visits to the Giant Tortoise Breeding Centre, and a relaxing dip into the Papallacta hot springs.

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

  You will be staying in upgraded hotels for all 9 nights of the tour. Please be aware that hot water shortages and power outages can be fairly common in Galapagos, and we appreciate your patience and understanding for these occurrences.

• What meals are included in this trip?

  The tour includes 9 breakfasts, 2 lunches, and 2 dinners. Generally, meals are not included when there are choices of eating options, allowing for flexibility, though groups often eat together.

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

  Transportation includes private speedboats for inter-island transfers, private vehicles, and domestic flights within Ecuador.

• What is the group size for this tour?

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

• Who will be leading the group?

  All group trips are accompanied by a Chief Experience Officer (CEO), who acts as a tour operator representative. While in the Galápagos Islands, our CEOs are naturalists certified by the Galapagos National Park Authority.

• Is travel insurance required for this trip?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory. You must have coverage for medical expenses, including emergency evacuation and repatriation, with a minimum coverage of USD200,000. It's also mandatory for every traveler to show proof of insurance to immigration authorities upon entering Ecuador.

• Are local flights included in the cost of the trip?

  Yes, all local flights are included in the cost of your tour unless otherwise noted. Please note that passport information is required at the time of booking to process these tickets.

• What is the baggage allowance for domestic flights to/from the Galapagos?

  The maximum baggage allowance is one piece of luggage per person weighing a maximum of 23 kilograms (50 pounds), plus one carry-on piece weighing a maximum of 10 kilograms (22 pounds).

• What should I know about currency and money exchange in Ecuador and the Galapagos?

  The local currency is the US dollar. Credit and debit cards (especially Visa) are useful for cash advances, though ATMs can be limited and unreliable, particularly in the Galapagos. It's best to bring a combination of USD cash (in denominations smaller than $100) and cards. Expect a 5-10% fee for credit card purchases. Onboard vessels in the Galapagos, only cash is accepted.

• Is there a Galapagos Islands Park entry fee and Transit Control Card fee?

  Yes, the Ecuadorian government levies a Galapagos Islands Park entry fee of $200 USD per person (or $100 USD for children under 12), payable in cash upon arrival. Additionally, a Transit Control Card fee of $20 USD per person is required, purchased in cash at the welcome meeting.

• What are the common health considerations for this trip?

  Inoculations may be required, so consult your travel doctor. Quito is at a high altitude (over 8,000 feet/2,440 meters), and while most people adjust, altitude sickness can occur. We recommend carrying a first aid kit and personal medical requirements. Leaders are prohibited from administering drugs.

• What are the rules regarding solo travelers and accommodation?

  Our group trips are designed for shared accommodation without a single supplement. Solo travelers are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex. If you book the 'My Own Room' option, you will receive your own single room for all night stops.

• What is the policy on tipping?

  Tipping is an expected, though not compulsory, expression of satisfaction. A guideline of 5-10 USD per day for your CEO is suggested, but the amount is entirely personal.

• Are there any specific notes about inter-island speedboat transfers?

  Private speedboats are used for transfers between islands and can be quite rough, especially from July to December. It is recommended to bring motion sickness medication if you are prone to seasickness.