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A Foolproof Galapagos Packing List

by Julie | Aug 23, 2023 | Ecuador , Travel

Planning a trip to the Galapagos, but you’re not sure what to pack?

In this packing list guide, I’m going to share with you EXACTLY what you need to pack for the Galapagos for all seasons. This includes BOTH land-based AND cruise-based itineraries . I did both types while on the islands. I did a 12-day cruise with Anahi and I spent a few days before and after my boat tour in Santa Cruz and San Cristobal.

My packing philosophy is to keep it simple ! Don’t overpack. Keep your wardrobe casual . The Galapagos is a very laid-back place. You’ll be spending most of your time doing outdoorsy kinds of things like hiking and snorkeling, You generally don’t need to worry about dressing up to impress your neighbors or fellow passengers.

So let’s check out my packing list for the Galapagos Islands!

Disclosure:  This post may contain affiliate links.  As an Amazon Associate and a Bookshop.org Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.  Please see this website’s  Disclosure  for more info.

In This Post, You’ll Find…

This Galapagos packing list guide is divided into 13 sections. Just jump to the one that interests you the most:

• Snorkeling and Swimming
• First-Aid Kit
• Camera Gear
• Miscellaneous

Galapagos Packing List – Luggage

The first thing to consider when packing for your Galapagos trip is what kind of luggage to bring. To decide this, you’re faced with two questions:

• Backpack or suitcase?

Backpack v. Suitcase: What’s Better for the Galapagos?

The first question—backpack vs suitcase— depends on what kind of tour you’re doing: a cruise or land-based. And your preference.

Cruising Around the Galapagos

If you’re doing a cruise around the Galapagos islands , you can get by easily with either a backpack or a suitcase. You won’t have to worry about carrying your luggage around yourself anyway. The boat crew will transport your bags on and off the boat.

If you’re visiting other destinations in Ecuador independently, then a backpack is more suitable than a suitcase. It’ll be easier to carry on and off buses and up and down stairs.

Land-Based Itinerary

I would choose a backpack over a suitcase for an independent land-based itinerary. Most hotels in the Galapagos don’t have elevators, so you’ll have to carry your bags up and down stairs . It’s easier to do that with a backpack than a suitcase. But that’s the ONLY reason you’d need a backpack.

Whichever one you go with, you won’t be carrying your luggage around much. There are 4 islands to base yourself on and on each island there’s only one major town to stay in . The only times you’ll move your luggage is when you’re going from island to island.

How big of a suitcase or backpack?

The airlines that fly to the Galapagos, LATAM and Avianca , have strict requirements for checked and carry-on luggage. You’re allowed to check one bag no more than 50 pounds (23 kilos) and bring one carry-on no more than 22 pounds (10 kilos) and one personal item like a purse.

You also don’t need to bring that much stuff to the Galapagos. It’s a casual place, so you don’t need fancy dress clothes, and it’s hot so you don’t need heavy pants and tops. I’ll talk more about what clothing to pack in the Clothing section below. But if you choose lightweight simple clothes, you can limit the size of your backpack to 40L and your suitcase to 20-inches along with a day pack and/or dry bag .

Travel Backpack

One of the most popular backpacks is the  Osprey Fairview 40L . Osprey has a bigger version at  55L , but if you pack no more than 7 days’ worth of clothes and 1 extra pair of shoes, then you don’t need anything bigger than 40L.

The male version of the Fairview is the  Osprey Fairpoint 40L .

I used a Kelty Redwing 40L when I was in the Galapagos. I like this backpack. Sadly, Kelty no longer makes that size. They now just have a  36L  and  50L .

Either of these bags is great for visiting other places in Ecuador .

If you want to do a suitcase, make sure it’s not heavy. Airlines to the Galapagos have strict weight restrictions. Checked luggage is 50 pounds (23 kilos) and carry-on is 22 pounds (10 kilos) .

Get this highly-rated Samsonite Hardsided luggage . It’s lightweight and durable with good wheels and zippers. You’ll need good wheels as Galapagos and Ecuador in general don’t have the best streets or sidewalks.

If you use compression cubes and don’t bring so many shoes, you can probably get by with a 20-inch one . For a suitcase a bit bigger, there’s also a 24-inch and 28-inch Samsonite .

Backpack Rain Cover

It might rain while you’re in the Galapagos, so you’ll want to pack two rain covers for your (1) big backpack and (2) small daypack .

Ideally, get rain covers that have their own little pouch that you can store them in. It’s also good to get ones with reflective strips in case you’re walking along the road at night (there are VERY few sidewalks in the Galapagos, so you’ll be walking on the street). You’re thus more visible to driver s.

Compression Packing Cubes

To save space in your backpack or suitcase, get compression packing c ubes. I personally hate regular packing cubes, but I love compression cubes. They compress your clothes, thus, saving you lots of space.

I’ve been using these cubes from Tripped for the past 2 years of full-time continuous travel , and they are still in good condition. No rips or tears . After 2 years, the zippers on one cube fall off sometimes when I’m trying to close it and I’ve got a lot of stuff in it, but I can easily reattach it in a second.

You get a set of 4 cubes: 2 large and 2 small. The cubes are narrow, which is the perfect shape for backpacks . They also come with a bag for shoes and a laundry bag .

Along with your larger backpack or suitcase, bring a small backpack (daypack) no bigger than 20L as your carry-on. This will come in handy when you’re out and about during the day like on a hiking excursion. You can use it to carry your water bottle, phone, sunscreen, insect repellent, a pack of tissues, a small first-aid kit that contains bandaids, antiseptic spray, antibiotic ointment, and wallet . If you want to bring your laptop to the Galapagos, you’ll most likely need a backpack to carry it in.

For those not carrying around heavy camera gear, I’d go with something from Osprey . They have one that I’ve used in the past and that I felt was quite comfortable — Osprey Daylite and the Osprey Daylite Plus Daypack . The straps give you good support and the back panel has good ventilation .

The Daylite Plus is 20L and has got 2 side pockets for water bottles and an inside pocket for a 15” laptop . Ratings on Amazon are high— 4.7/5 (over 1,000 reviews) —can’t beat that! For those on a land-based tour , I’d go with the Plus.

The Daylite is 13L and is just as highly rated as the Plus version at 4.7/5 with over 1,000 reviews . It fits a 13” laptop and has side pockets for a water bottle. I bought this one but couldn’t use it because the body of the backpack is too narrow for holding a camera case. The 13L is good enough for those on a Galapagos cruise.

Fanny (Crossbody) Pack

Remember fanny packs (bum packs as the Brits call them)? They used to be so out-of-fashion.

But NOW they’re back. In the past year, I’ve seen lots of European travelers using fanny packs. But they aren’t wearing them around their waists Instead, they wear them across their body . The packs look so much more fashionable and they’re more secure when they’re worn this way.

An alternative or an addition to an Osprey daypack is a crossbody fanny pack . This is useful for storing your phone, money, cards, wallet, and passport.

 I like this fanny pack from Entchin . It’s got 4 pockets including an interior one that goes against your body. Good for storing a passport and money . It’s also water resistant. You can wear it over your shoulder, around your waist, or across your body.

More Travel Posts on Ecuador:

• The Ultimate Ecuador Travel Guide
• Top 15 Places to Visit in Ecuador
• 25 Books on Ecuador to Read Before You Go!

Galapagos Packing List – Water Sports

You’re going to most likely be doing a lot of swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving in the Galapagos, so you’ll want to make sure you’ve packed the right stuff.

Based on my 2 weeks in the Galapagos, here are the things I think are ESSENTIAL:

One of the best things to do in the Galapagos is to go snorkeling . My ship, the Anahi, had us snorkeling twice a day: once in the morning and once in the afternoon! So, of course, you’re going to want to pack a swimsuit for the Galapagos for not just snorkeling but also swimming and spending time at the beach. The islands have some amazing beaches!

I just brought one swimsuit to the Galapagos and one was enough for me. After snorkeling in the morning, I’d hang it outside to dry. By the time we went out again in the afternoon, it was already dry .

 However, if you plan to snorkel a lot and you don’t have the luxury of having someplace to dry your suit outside in the wind, I recommend packing two swimsuits . The Galapagos can be humid and thus, it takes a while for things to dry.

Which swimsuit do I recommend?

It’s a personal choice. I don’t have a beach body, so I like to wear a tankini . I like the one from Yonique because the straps aren’t going to slip off your shoulders and the top doesn’t billow when you’re in the water. The built-in bra part could be better though. Another kind of swimwear I prefer is swim shorts over bikini bottoms.

Along with a swimsuit , a rash guard is another essential item for your Galapagos packing list. Everyone on my cruise who snorkeled without a wet suit or rash guard got severely sunburned .

Rash guards are short-sleeved or more commonly long-sleeved shirts that give you an added layer of protection against harmful rays of the sun when surfing, snorkeling, and swimming. They are thin and lightweight , and the material (spandex, polyester, or nylon) is perfect for getting wet as they dry quickly . You can wear them over your swimsuit or in place of it.

Some rash guards come with a built-in bra . Those you wear in place of your swimsuit. The problems are that the built-in bra doesn’t always fit as well as the swimsuit one AND that when you’re back on the boat and you’re hot, you can’t take off your rash guard to change into a short-sleeved shirt. For these reasons, I recommend getting ones without a built-in bra so you can wear it over your swimsuit.

Rash guards have other benefits: They give you protection against jellyfish (I didn’t see any in the Galapagos, though) and give you an added layer of warmth in cold water .

Here are the different kinds of rash guards you can get:

• Rash guards with zippers – women
• Rash guards without zippers – women
• Rash guards with built-in bra
• Rash guards for men

If you don’t have a rash guard, you can also often rent a wet suit . A wet suit is not necessary from January to May, but it is from June to December when the water gets cold. On my boat, the Anahi , you could rent a wet suit for $40 a week . I did that because I didn’t have a rash guard. I regret not having a rash guard.

Water Shoes

Whenever I go to the beach or on a boat trip, I pack water shoes , and this was no different when I was in the Galapagos. They can protect your feet from stepping on sharp and painful rocks on the beach and in the water.

When you do excursions or day trips, you’ll often do wet landings . This means the boat doesn’t land at a dock. Instead, you need to hop off the dinghy into the water and walk through the water to the beach. Sometimes the rocks can be really rough and painful. Water shoes protect your feet.

Water shoes are also good for protecting your feet from parasites and hookworms on the beach.

Instead of water shoes, wear Tevas or Chacos sandals for wet landings. You can get them wet and continue hiking with them on. I used to always pack a pair of Tevas, but I found that packing both the sandals and walking shoes took up too much space in my luggage and were just too heavy , so I no longer bring them on trips.

• Tevas for Women
• Tevas for Men
• Chacos for Women
• Chacos for Men

Snorkel and Mask Set

You can rent a snorkel and mask in the Galapagos, but if you want to ensure that yours fits perfectly , you might want to consider packing your own.

I’ve been on tons of boat tours throughout Asia and South America, and about half the time I have to return the first snorkel and mask set for a new one because the first leaked . The last time I went on a snorkeling trip (Isla de la Plata in Ecuador), I was told I had to use the first one they gave me or not use any.

If you’re doing a cruise, you can usually rent them for free. When I was on the Anahi, I used the boat’s snorkel and fin set and I always used the same one every time I went out snorkeling. It fit perfectly for me, but ideally, it would have been nice to have my own.

If you want to pack your own snorkel set for the Galapagos, the New York Times Wirecutter product reviewers recommend this Cressi Palau Snorkel set . They test out products before choosing the best one. According to Wirecutter, the mask doesn’t leak and water doesn’t get into the breathing tube. You can get a set with short fins . Ideal for travel. There’s a set with longer fins as well.

If you’re new to snorkeling , I recommend getting a full face mask . I used this type of mask when I first started snorkeling. It was easier to control my breathing , which made snorkeling more relaxing and fun.

One of the most important things to pack for the Galapagos Islands is sunscreen. The equator runs through the islands. That means the sun is going to be extra strong and those UV rays are powerful.

Lots of bloggers recommend getting reef-safe sunscreen . That’s great. However, according to Consumer Reports , the science is contradictory and unclear about what sunscreen ingredients are actually safe for reefs. Save the Reef also says that you can’t really trust brands that say they’re reef safe as there’s no regulation over what constitutes “reef safe.”

Consumer Reports writes that the only two ingredients that are conclusively shown to be harmful to reefs are oxybenzone or octinoxate , so look for sunscreen that doesn’t contain those two chemicals.

However, you also need to be careful that you’re not sacrificing protection from the sun for saving the ocean reefs. Ideally, you want to do both.

According to Consumer Reports , these are the sunscreens that give you BOTH sun protection AND don’t contain oxybenzone or octinoxate.

• Alba Botanica Hawaiian Sunscreen (spray)
• Alba Botanica Hawaiian Sunscreen (lotion)
• La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-In Milk Lotion SPF 60 Sunscreen

Microfiber Towel

For those of you doing an independent tour , you’ll want to pack your own towel. However, towels can take up a lot of room. That’s why I recommend getting a microfiber towel. They not only save you packing space but they also dry quickly . Plus, sand doesn’t stick to them as much as traditional towels.

I like the Rainleaf microfiber towels . They come in a variety of colors and sizes. I have a small one for my face and a large one for the beach. They’re also compact so they don’t take up much space in your luggage.

Plus, you get a pouch with a handle to store your towel in—great for keeping the wet towel away from your dry clothes in your luggage and for keeping dirt away from the towel.

If you’re on a cruise , your boat will most likely provide towels for you. I don’t believe I ever used my microfiber towel once during my Anahi cruise .

Anti-Fog Spray

One of the most irritating things that can happen to you when snorkeling is that your mask gets fogged up . My cruise always helped us by putting shampoo on our masks to prevent fogging. However, not all tours are going to be that helpful or responsible. And sometimes it’s just better to take care of things yourself, so it’s a good idea, especially for those on independent tours, to pack your own anti-fog spray .

You’ll want a bag to keep your things dry when you go out on snorkeling excursions. Expect the bottom of the boat to get wet and anything you lay on the floor is going to also get wet. On my Anahi Galapagos cruise, we went on two snorkeling trips a day! Every day! The best way to keep our things dry was with a dry bag .

I also used my dry bag when we went on excursions where there were wet landings and I wanted to keep my camera dry. Sometimes when I got out of the boat, the water would go up to my waist.

Make sure to get a dry bag with backpack straps. Earthpak dry bags are VERY highly-rated with a 4.8/5 rating on Amazon (27,000 reviews)!

Waterproof Phone Case

If you don’t have a GoPro or other type of underwater camera, a waterproof phone case is a must. It will allow you to take underwater photos with your phone .

However, not all cases are made equally good. You have to be careful which one you buy! Some leak and others make it hard to press the buttons on the phone through the case. The latter is what happened to a friend of mine—she kept on missing the shot because she couldn’t press the button through her phone case.

The phone cases from Pelican have a good record of not leaking and pressing the buttons through the case is fairly easy. It takes decent photos as well. The other reason I like it so much is that it floats ! Imagine your phone falling into the ocean. With the Pelican case , it won’t sink .

Galapagos Packing List – Clothing

There are 5 rules you should follow for what clothes to pack for the Galapagos:

• Pack casual clothes
• Pack lightweight and fast-drying clothes
• Pack up to 7-8 days worth of clothing
• Pack pants, capris, and shorts with lots of pockets and at least one pocket with a zipper .
• Pack for hot weather

The Galapagos is a casual place . You’ll be spending most of your time doing outdoorsy things like hiking and snorkeling. You don’t need high heels or clothes for clubbing.

It’s hot and humid in the Galapagos and you’ll be sweating a lot. Leave your jeans at home . Pack lightweight hiking pants and/or shorts and shirts made of synthetic fibers so they’ll dry quickly, won’t soak up too much sweat, and will keep you cooler.

To prevent yourself from taking too much, pack no more for 7-8 days of travel . If you’re on a boat longer than 8 days, wash your clothes in the sink or shower and hang them outside. They’ll dry in 3 – 4 hours. For those staying in the Galapagos for 5 days or less, pack 5 days’ worth of clothes.

If you’re doing a land-based tour, you can wash your clothes at a lavanderi a (laundromat) in the major towns. You can get a load of laundry washed and dried for around US$4 – $5 . If you do it through your hotel, expect to pay US$8 – $10 . Not sure where a lavanderia is? Just search on Google Maps for “lavanderia” and one will appear on your map.

Basically, it doesn’t matter what season it is when you visit the Galapagos. It’s still going to be hot—just maybe degrees of heat and humidity is what is different—and you’re still going to go around in shorts and a short-sleeved shirt.

This is a packing list of clothes for a trip of at least 7-8 days in the Galapagos . If you’re staying for fewer days, pack less. The packing list is suitable for both land-based and cruise-based itineraries. In some situations, one piece of clothing is more suitable for land tours than cruises, but I’ll tell you when.

• Up to 7 shirts (mostly short-sleeved but you can also pack at least 1 long-sleeved UV sun protection shirt – good for hiking or cool night or air-conditioned cabins.
• Up to 7 pairs of shorts, capris, and/or pants (combination depends on the season)
• 1 sleepwear
• 1-2 swimsuit(s)
• 1-2 rash guard(s) for snorkeling
• 10 pairs of underwear
• 5 pairs of socks
• 1 rip skirt or sarong
• 1 lightweight jacket

Here’s some more information about some of the key items from the above list:

Pack 7 thin lightweight shirts that can dry quickly. If you’re in the Galapagos for only 5 days, then pack 5 shirts.

Get shirts whose material has good moisture-wicking qualities . This means that the shirt will dry fast and won’t get saturated with your sweat. In the end, you won’t feel so hot . Ideally, you want synthetic fabrics like polyester . Avoid cotton shirts. These Under Armour shirts are good ones for hiking.

Some people on my cruise wore long-sleeved UV Sun protection shirts when they were out hiking. On my cruise, we were in the water when the sun was at its brightest and out hiking only in the early morning from 8:00 to 10:00 and late afternoon from 4:00 to 6:00.

If you’re going to the Galapagos from June to December , still expect it to be hot enough to walk around in a short-sleeved shirt. It’ll be cooler at night and that is when you might want to wear a long-sleeved shirt.

Shorts, Capris and Pants (Trousers)

Pack up to 5 – 7 pairs of shorts, capris, leggings , and pants (trousers). If you’re going to be in the Galapagos for less time than 7 days, pack less.

Whatever combination you pack, make sure they come with pockets , especially at least one pocket with a zipper . It’s a great place to stash your phone when you’re out on a hike. You can easily grab it to snap a photo but a zipper will make sure your phone doesn’t fall out of your pocket.

You’ll want to pack at least one pair of pants for the plane ride to and from Quito and the Galapagos, and if you’re spending any time in Quito or other places in Ecuador.

For hiking, bring a pair of pants or capris in case you’ll be hiking on narrow trails where your legs might come in contact with tall grass and brush.

These North Face Aphrodite Capris are my absolute favorite trousers to wear. I’ve had them for 10 years and they’re still in really good condition. They’ve got an elastic waistband with a drawstring. The material wicks away moisture so they dry quickly and don’t soak up sweat, keeping you cool. They have two pockets with no zipper and one pocket with a zipper.

Libin Women’s Cargo Hiking Pants are my second favorite pair. They’re lightweight, slightly elastic, quick dry, breathable, and comfortable. There are 4 zippered pockets !

One of the BEST items I took with me to the Galapagos was my RipSkirt . Made by a company from Hawaii, RipSkirts are simply wrap skirts .

However, they’re very versatile . You can wear them BOTH to the beach as well as out to dinner. They’re lightweight , quick-drying , and comfortable . The skirts take up very little space in your luggage and they don’t wrinkle ! I also love that they come in a variety of colors, stylish patterns, and four different lengths:

• length 1 – really short (maybe too short for Guatemala)
• length 2 – just above the knees
• length 3 – just below the knees
• length 4 – ankles

You’ll be at the equator , so another must-have piece of clothing to bring to the Galapagos is a hat. It doesn’t matter what kind of hat: a safari hat or baseball cap . Just something to protect your scalp against the sun.

It doesn’t really get so cold in the Galapagos that you need to pack a fleece. I think I wore it once when the air-conditioning was too cold on the boat.

However, I always travel with a fleece jacket no matter where I’m going. This is even if the destination is hot and humid.

A fleece is also perfect for on a plane, in an air-conditioned bus , in the mountains , or on a chilly night . It’s an ideal clothing item to pack in case you get sick and you’ve got the chills and you need to warm up.

However, if you don’t have room in your luggage, keep the fleece at home .

Some people spend loads of money on a fleece, but you really just need an inexpensive Columbia fleece . It’ll keep you warm in the Galapagos.

A lightweight rain jacket is an optional item to pack. I packed one for the Galapagos but I didn’t wear it . In April and May , it was just too hot and humid even when raining. When it rained, which it did three times during my trip, I used an umbrella that I had bought for us$1 in Quito or rented a poncho when I visited El Chaco Ranch.

If you’re going from June to December , there’s usually no rain but it will be windier and cooler , so a lightweight jacket and layering will still come in handy. This Columbia Switchback III Jacket over a fleece is a good combination.

You Might Be Interested in These Posts:

• Papallacta Hot Springs Travel Guide
• Best Food Tour in Quito You’ve Gotta Experience
• Top Dishes You’ve Gotta Try in Ecuador

Galapagos Packing List – Footwear

You’re going to want to include some good footwear on your Galapagos packing list as you’ll most likely be doing lots of walking and hiking on uneven terrain .

In addition to a shoe for hiking, you’ll want to also pack something to wear on the beach and in your hotel room .

However, shoes take up lots of space and tend to be heavy, so pack shoes that are versatile.

Plus, the Galapagos is a casual place. You’re NOT going to need to pack high-heeled shoes.

I have been traveling for over 2 years and so I pack really light. For the Galapagos, I had the following footwear:

• Brook’s Adrenaline GTS22 sneakers or Sports Sandals like Tevas or Chacos
• Flip Flops – for beach and hotel room
• Swim shoes – please see the section for Swimming and Snorkeling

Was that enough for the Galapagos? Definitely. I didn’t need to pack any more than these shoes. If you’re not a fashionista, you don’t either.

Walking Shoes

You don’t need to pack hiking boots. Instead, just get a good pair of sneakers with good support and grip that you can wear on the hiking trail, in town, and on the plane.

I always wear Brook’s Adrenaline GTS shoes because I have bad feet and knees and they give me lots of support. Plus, they come in wide and extra-wide sizes and as someone with bunions, the shoe’s material doesn’t rub against them. You can read more about why I like them so much in my article on the best travel shoes for bunions and plantar fasciitis.

• Brooks Adrenaline GTS22 (2022) – women
• Brooks Adrenaline GTS23 (2023) – women
• Brooks Adrenaline GTS22 (2022) – men
• Brooks Adrenaline GTS23 (2023) – men

Sport Sandals

Two alternatives to sneakers are Teva or Chaco sandals . You can wear them on the hiking trail, around town, and to the beach . You can do wet landings with them on as well. After you get to shore, you don’t need to worry about changing into your sneakers.

I used to pack both Tevas and sneakers when I traveled. Now I don’t. I found that bringing both took up too much space and added too much weight to my luggage.

If you do go with sandals over walking shoes , here are the ones I recommend:

If you’re on an independent tour, you’ll want to pack a pair of flip-flops to wear around your hotel room and to the beach . They’re lightweight and thin.

However, on my cruise with Anahi , I never wore my flip-flops because we weren’t allowed to wear shoes on the boat .

Galapagos Packing List – Toiletries

For those of you doing a land-based tour, you’ll probably be able to find toothpaste and mouthwash in the towns of the Galapagos. But due to the high cost of shipping goods to the isolated islands, toiletries are more expensive than on the mainland of Ecuador. Bring your own.

Now if you’re on a cruise, it’s going to be nearly impossible to buy toothpaste or dental floss .

On my Anahi cruise, the ship provided shampoo, conditioner, and shower gel.

However, here’s a typical list of toiletry items :

• Dental Floss
• Soap for face
• Soap for body
• Conditioner
• Styling gel or cream
• Brush / Comb

Toiletry Bag

You’ll of course need to pack a toiletry bag for the Galapagos. Get one that comes with a hook that will allow you to hang the bag up from something like a towel rack in the bathroom. Also, get a bag with zippered compartments to keep out bugs, especially if you’re staying in one of the towns on the islands.

I have had good luck with the brand Tripped with other travel gear. They have a toiletry kit that comes with 3 bags:

• Hanging toiletry bag with multiple pockets
• Transparent bag for liquids – great for getting past TSA
• Pouch organizer for cosmetics

Soap Container

I love this Japanese-brand soap box . Sadly, I left mine in Costa Rica and I have to make do with a cheap one that leaks.

The Kiasona Soap Box has a sponge that soaks up the extra water , which keeps the soap dry and helps it last longer. The container also has a band that goes around it, preventing it from opening up in our toiletry bag and spilling all the contents out.

Washcloth Towel

These exfoliating washcloth towels for the shower are another one of my favorite packing items. They’re quick-drying and lightweight , and they lather up nicely! Plus, they don’t take up much space in my backpack.

They come in a package of three, but you only really need to pack one for the Galapagos.

Toothbrush Protector

Another must-have packing item for the Galapagos is something to hold your toothbrush . But which kind do you get? One that just covers the brush part or one for the brush and handle.

After trying many toothbrush holders over the years of international travel, I’ve settled on these steripod clip-on holders that just cover the brush part of my toothbrush. The ones from Steripod also use this ingredient in mouthwash that releases vapors to keep my brush smelling clean and fresh . They also don’t get filled gunk and if gunk gets on them, I can still clean them easily.

Just remember to throw yours out after 3 months of use.

Galapagos Packing List – First-Aid

You’ll want to bring along a small first-aid kit for the Galapagos. A few rules to keep in mind when packing your kit.

• Bring enough of an item like sunscreen that it will last you through your whole cruise
• Check the expiration dates before packing . I can’t tell you how many times I didn’t check before packing only to find in the middle of the trip that my anti-biotic ointment had expired months ago
• Check expiration dates in the store before buying a first-aid item. For example, if you’re shopping for anti-diarrhea pills, you’ll find that the box that’s about to expire has been shelved at the front while the pills that are expiring in two years have been shelved at the back. Who uses more than one or two anti-diarrhea pills a year?
• If you don’t do much international travel, you might want to visit a travel clinic before your trip to make sure your vaccines are up to snuff and for any other advice. Before going to Myanmar, the doctor at the travel clinic gave me a round of antibiotics to take in case I got sick. It was a lifesaver!
• If you’re on a cruise, you won’t have access to a pharmacy . You’ll be in the middle of nowhere days away from any pharmacy. Bring a good first-aid kit.

If you happen to forget to bring something, you can usually find it at the pharmacy in the big towns on the islands. However, if you’re on a cruise, you’ll often be too far away from a pharmacy to buy anything.

Based on my experience traveling full-time for over 2 years, this is what I pack in my first-aid kit. All of the following fits into one of these clear plastic toiletry bags . Some people may find my kit excessive, but I’ve needed every item on this list at one time during my travels. and when you’re sick or injured and you travel alone, it’s not easy always wandering around a new city looking for a pharmacy.

• Seasickness pills – Most important item on this list especially if you’re traveling between islands by public ferry. I took Dramamine before going to bed when the captain told us the sea would be rough. Never got seasick.
• Lip Balm – My lips got very dry and chapped when I was in the Galapagos, so bring a tube of lip balm
• Insect repellent – I didn’t experience many mosquitoes in the Galapagos, but just in case, bring some insect repellant with you.
• Sunscreen – See the section on Swimming and Snorkeling packing list items
• Aloe vera gel – Aloe vera gel is great for soothing your skin in case you get sunburned
• Anti-itch cream – Hydrocortisone cream is great to use to stop insect bites from itching, sunburn, or a rash
• Vitamins – Traveling can lower the immune system at times and sometimes it’s difficult to eat well, so I always pack multi-vitamins.
• Zicam – Zicam tastes awful, but it’s great for shortening colds and you do NOT want a cold to ruin your Galapagos trip.
• Pain-relief medicine like Advil, Aleve, and Tylenol – You can find local brands for paracetamol and ibuprofen or naproxen
• Anti-diarrhea medicine – I always have a stash of Imodium with me in case I get sick and I need to take a long boat or bus ride.
• Cold-relief medicine – Just in case you get a cold or the flu on your trip. It’s impossible to find cold-relief medicine in Ecuador. But I will say that this is probably the least useful item on this list.
• Throat lozenges (cough drops) – I always pack throat lozenges in case I get a cough or sore throat. You won’t be able to find these in the Galapagos.
• Band-aids – These are good to have just in case.
• Neosporin antibiotic cream – Make sure your tube of antibiotic cream hasn’t expired like mine was once!
• Antiseptic first-aid spray – Get a small spray bottle of antiseptic spray or wipes to clean wounds.
• Eye drops – Visine is good to have for dry eyes and other eye issues, especially after swimming
• Debrox ear cleaning solution – 99% of you won’t need ear cleaning solution , but I ended up without hearing in the Philippines after trying a local brand and going to a doctor who flushed my ears out with unsanitary water, so I always carry my favorite brand for my narrow ear canals
• Thermometer –After getting a very high fever in the Philippines, I never travel anywhere without a thermometer . It doesn’t take up much room either.
• Oxygen reader – I know you’re probably thinking it’s crazy to pack an oxygen reader , but I had low oxygen when I first got COVID so I carry one in case. They’re super lightweight and small.
• Cotton swabs (Q-Tips) – Always good to have with you.
• Cotton balls – Good for putting alcohol on to clean wounds.
• Extra pair of glasses – If you wear glasses, bring an extra pair in case yours break
• Glass cleaner and microfiber cloth – It’s good to bring a small cloth and spray bottle of lens cleaner for your glasses; if you run out, stop by an optometrist store to buy more
• Nail clippers – You don’t think you won’t need nail clippers until you do.
• Tweezers – Always good to have a tweezer in case!
• Tiny scissors – My SECRET packing item; a pair of tiny scissors are very useful—opening packages to cutting bandages
• Hand sanitizer – Good to have a small bottle of hand sanitizer with you when you can’t wash your hands or there’s no soap
• Contact solution – If you have contacts, don’t forget to bring a bottle of contact solution

Galapagos Packing List – Tech Gear

Besides your smartphone, what other tech gear do you need in the Galapagos?

Here are my recommendations on what tech gear to pack:

For those doing a land-based independent tour , packing a power bank is a must. You’re out on an excursion and your phone battery dies. No problem! You can recharge it with your power bank.

For those doing a cruise , a power bank is NOT essential . Excursions usually last 2 hours and then you’re back on the boat where you can recharge your phone. However, if you’re taking lots of videos with your phone , it might run out of batteries. Then a portable power bank will come in handy .

If your phone uses USB-A ports, you’ve got to get a power bank that does both input and output for USB-A . The Mophie power bank was the only one I could find in 2023 that does that.

Power Plug Adapter

Power plug adapters allow you to plug in your electronics that use a different type of outlet from what you have in your home country.

If you’re from North or South America , you probably don’t need a power plug adapter because Ecuador uses the same type of outlet for electronics that Canada, the United States, and the rest of the Americas use.

For people from Europe, Asia, and the rest of the world , you’ll probably need a power plug adapter so that your electronic gadgets plug fits into Ecuador outlets.

The one reason North and South Americans might also need a plug adapter is for tech gear using 3-prongs . I usually just saw 2-prong outlets in Ecuador.

I’ve been in Ecuador for over four months and I have yet to use my power plug adapter.

Item Tracker

The best tech gear for travel that’s come out recently has been item trackers. Most people call them Air Tags , but those are just the trackers used for Apple products . If you use Android gear like a Samsung phone, you’ll need to get a Tile Mate or a Tile Slim .

Tile trackers will give you peace of mind when you’re flying to Ecuador and then to the Galapagos. Just attach them to your checked luggage and you’ll be able to track your bags , so you’ll know if they don’t make it with you to your next destination.

Another time your bags might be out of sight is for those on cruises when the crew is bringing your bags on and off the ship . It’ll give you peace of mind knowing that they’re following you to the airport. When I was on my Anahi cruise, there was some confusion about which pile of bags was going to the airport and which one was for people staying in the Galapagos.

I also like to put a Tile Mate in my purse and daypack when I travel. However, the Galapagos is pretty safe and I don’t think you need to worry about crime, especially theft in the islands.

Kindle or Kindle Fire

Pack a Kindle Paperwhite or Kindle Fire to read a book during your free time, on the plane, or on a ferry between islands. If you’re on a cruise, you’re going to have a few hours of downtime during your day . We had a 2.5-hour siesta from 12:00 to 2:30 pm every day and then we had our evenings after 6:00 pm free.

I would get a Kindle Fire so that you can read the Galapagos wildlife guides in color and you can watch your favorite movies and TV shows .

Galapagos Packing List – Camera

The Galapagos is one of those places where you want to have a really good camera . The Galapagos is one of the top places to visit in Ecuador if not the world so you’ll want a really good camera . A smartphone just won’t capture the Blue Footed Boobies or the giant tortoises fully. You’ll also want to get a GoPro or some kind of underwater camera for taking shots of unforgettable marine life.

But don’t get just any camera and don’t bring ONLY the camera. You’ll need a few extra gadgets for your photos to turn out perfect.

You can read this COMPLETE guide to what camera and camera gear to get for the Galapagos .

Here is a brief list of some camera gear that I recommend:

If you can afford it, get a good camera for the Galapagos. However, BEFORE you arrive take a class on how to use it. You will thank me afterward.

You want a camera that has good autofocus —meaning it’s good at focusing on moving or suddenly appearing objects like birds. The BEST camera for that is the Sony a7 III . This was the one most people on my tour had, and it really does take the BEST photos— sharp images in low light . 

I actually don’t use a Sony . Instead, I have the Fuji XT-4 . The colors are nice but the autofocus isn’t as good as the Sony.

Camera Lenses

What c amera lenses do you need for the Galapagos?

• Telephoto Lens – Essential for shots of animals
• Wide-angel Lens – Essential for shots of landscapes
• Average focal length lens – Not essential

Most people take photos of animals. To do that, you’ll need a telephoto lens . That’s what I used most of the time when I was in the Galapagos. Get a lens that can shoot at least 300 mm.

The other lens you’ll need is one for landscapes . For that, you’ll want a wide-angle lens (10-18 mm or 10-24 mm). I don’t have one, so I was unable to get the whole landscape into one photo and had to use my phone instead.

If you want to add a third lens to your Galapagos trip, bring an average focal length one —this is usually the kit lens that you get when you buy your camera. Focal length is usually 24-70 mm or 16-80 mm. But you could easily leave this lens at home or back in your hotel room and not miss it .

Before going out on an excursion, ask your guide which lens to take: wide (landscape) or wildlife (telephoto).

2 Memory Cards

Another packing list essential for the Galapagos is at least 2 memory cards . Most cameras have two memory card slots, so you can use 2 memory cards at the same time. In case one card fails, you have a backup . And yes, cards fail.

Get cards with at least 128 GB of memory . I like the SanDisk brand and the Extreme Pro memory cards .

Camera Strap

If you need a camera strap for your trip to the Galapagos, I cannot recommend this Peak Design one enough. I love it!

It’s supposed to work with any camera brand, so it’s quite versatile . I have found the strap easy to adjust, durable, and comfortable .

Just watch several videos first on how to attach it to your camera before attempting to do it yourself. It’s a little different for each camera. And some videos teach you a way that’s more complicated than it needs to be.

Lens Cleaning Kit

Don’t go to the Galapagos with your nice camera and lenses but NO lens cleaning kit . Dust, dirt, and water drops can easily get on your lenses or your sensor and ruin your photos of Blue Footed Boobies and Frigate Birds.

Bring a good kit with you that has a spray bottle, a brush, a microfiber cloth, sensor cleaning cloths and brushes, and most important of all a lens pen .

Don’t use your shirt to wipe your lens clean no matter how dirty your lens gets.

Silicone Gel Packs

Humidity can destroy a camera and lenses. It can get really humid in the Galapagos from January to May. So, bring some silicone gel packets with you to keep the moisture out of your camera and lenses.

I destroyed my camera and a lens while traveling through Central America because the moisture from the humidity got into my lens and camera.

Laptop & External Hard Drive

You’ll want to store your photos somewhere while traveling around the Galapagos. Pack your laptop and/or an external hard drive. I recommend downloading your photos at the end of every day onto your laptop. Then erase all the photos on your memory card by reformatting it so that the next day you start with an empty memory card.

Make sure your laptop or hard drive has plenty of storage space, preferably 3 – 4 TB . You won’t need that much for only the Galapagos, but you probably will in the future.

The external hard drive has also got to be durable enough so that if you drop it , it doesn’t break . You’ll also want one that transfers photos quickly . The Transcend Hard Drive is what I’ve used for many years. The other one that many travelers use is the LaCie brand rugged hard drive .

The PERFECT camera bag is the Wandrd Prvke Lite . It’s 11L that can expand to 16L . The bag has got four compartments as well as smaller internal ones. It’s sturdy, durable , and comfortable to wear on your back. There’s a laptop sleeve . I also like that the camera compartment opens from the back instead of the front. Plus, the bag is water resistant .

GoPro Camera

If you’re doing a lot of snorkeling and/or diving, you’ll want to be able to take photos of what you see underwater . A good GoPro camera is perfect for that. Get a GoPro Hero 11 .

GoPro Underwater Case

You’ll also need a Go Pro Waterproof Case for when you use the camera underwater . Make sure the one you get is well-built so that water doesn’t leak into it and ruin the camera.

GoPro Hand Grip

If you’re using your GoPro underwater, you’ll want to use a ha n d grip . This hand grip has a strap and it floats . It’s also lightweight and comfortable to hold onto. Great for snorkeling with your GoPro.

Galapagos Packing List – Miscellaneous

Don’t let the vaguely named category fool you! The things in this part of this Galapagos Packing List are just as important as all the other categories. They in fact have some of my most useful hard-to-travel-without items.

Laundry Bag

Let’s start out this section with my favorite packing item : a laundry bag .

You will thank me for bringing this!

 I used to just use a plastic bag to store my dirty clothes. Then the bag would get holes or rip, and I’d have to search for another one but I could never find a big enough replacement. Eventually, my dirty clothes would just get mixed up with my clean clothes , and my whole backpack would start to smell.

Then I got a laundry bag. Problem solved!

It also helps to keep your laundry bag with your dirty clothes in your compression cubes .

The compression cubes that I use come with a laundry bag that’s the perfect size for 3 kg of clothes (one week’s worth of clothes).

Moleskin Journal

I ALWAYS recommend that people keep a journal when they travel . You think you’ll never forget your experiences. But trust me! You will! And worse you’ll get things mixed up and months or years later you’re not sure whether you saw something or not. You’ll look at your photos but you won’t know what you’re looking at because you simply forgot.

I love these Moleskin Journals . They’re lightweight , thin , and durable . I’ve never had one fall apart on me on a trip. And the smoothness of the paper gives you a nice writing experience. They are perfect for the Galapagos!

Hiking Poles

The other thing I would NOT visit the Galapagos without packing is a pair of hiking poles . You’ll be hiking on a lot of unstable volcanic rock . It’s easy to slip and fall . This happened to one person on my Anahi cruise . He slipped, fell, and hit his head on the rocks. Hiking poles are also useful when climbing out of boats onto a rocky shore.

If you’re on a cruise, the boat might provide you with poles. However, the ones my cruise had weren’t that good. I also found that our guide and captain would often forget to provide poles for us and when we got to shore, some of us would be struggling to walk over the unstable ground.

Make sure the poles are collapsible so you can pack them inside your bag!

It gets hot and humid in the Galapagos, so you don’t really want to put a jacket on when it rains. I found an umbrella to be more useful than my rain jacket. I bought one for US$1 in Quito and I used it twice in the Galapagos when I was staying in Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz Island.

However, don’t buy a fancy, big, and expensive umbrella. Keep it small, collapsible, and inexpensive . Something that will fit into your daypack. If you lose it, you won’t be too sad.

Document Folder Case

If you like to have printed copies of things when you travel like your passport, cruise voucher, airline and hotel reservations, or tour bookings, you’ll need something to store them in.

Pack a document holder that you can store your papers in. Make sure it has some way to close like a zipper or a snap button to prevent papers from falling out.

Water Bottle

To avoid contributing to the trash on the islands, It’s essential to bring your own water bottle to the islands. It’s not safe to drink the water from the tap in the Galapagos, but most hotels and boats will have filtered water for you to fill up your water bottle .

I like this bottle from Opard —it’s tall and skinny so it easily fits in the side pocket of your backpack . It’s got a handy strap to carry it. My favorite part is that there are measurements on the outside so you can see how much you’ve drunk that day.

Sunglasses make it onto every Galapagos packing list that I’ve read. I don’t wear them because I now wear glasses. However, I do think they’re a good thing to take with you to the Galapagos as the sun is pretty harsh. The equator does run through the islands.

Get sunglasses with polarized lenses and UV protection.

Bring a flashlight or a headlamp with you to the Galapagos. On a couple of our hikes , it was getting dark and it was hard to see the trail and the rocks we had to climb on. It would have been nice to have a better flashlight than my phone’s. We also went down a dark tunnel on our first day and it would have been nice to have a good flashlight to see things better.

Make sure the light is strong but the flashlight is not big. A headlamp will allow your hand to be free so might be a better option for you.

One of the passengers on my cruise had a really strong flashlight. He would point it at the ocean at night and the sea lions and fish would come to the light. We could watch the sea lions trying to catch the fish.

Ziploc Bags

Another item I can’t travel without is a set of plastic Ziploc baggies . Get two to three different sizes and bring as many as your luggage will take.

They will come in sooooo handy . You can use them for storing wet clothes, shampoo bottles (because they always leak at least once on a trip), camera and camera lenses to protect against humidity, passport (keep from getting wet), money, and snacks.

Once when I was in Thailand, I got caught in a downpour and my passport got wet . The ink from my country stamps ran and you could no longer read them. Don’t let that happen to you! After that, I never traveled anywhere without storing my passport in a Ziploc bag .

By the way, I have been able to find good quality plastic bags like the Ziploc brand in Ecuador.

Reading Material for the Galapagos

For the most memorable experience in the Galapagos, bring some reading material with you–some good books on Ecuador that introduce the wildlife on the islands or that help you relax. The internet is pretty bad to nonexistent on the islands and you’ll want some kind of entertainment when you’re not hiking or snorkeling.

To save space, get them in ebook format.

This is what I would bring with me to the Galapagos:

Travel and Wildlife Guides to the Galapagos

If you’re doing a land-based tour , definitely bring a good travel and wildlife guide to the Galapagos. There are so many places to see and excursions to go on that it can be overwhelming to choose which one. A good guide will help you sort it out all out so you’ll make the best decision for you.

A good guide will also help you identify what mammals, reptiles, fish, and birds you’re looking at.

Here are some guides that I recommend:

• Traveler’s Guide to the Galapagos – My cruise had a copy of this book and the section on animals was so useful. Too bad there’s no Kindle version.
• Wildlife of the Galapagos – This is an amazing wildlife AND travel guide to the Galapagos. ESSENTIAL for independent travelers. Lots of practical information on where to go, what animals to see there, what activities to do, and how to get there.
• Reef Fish Identification Guide for the Galapagos – I spent a lot of my free time on my cruise with my nose in this book looking up the fish I had seen while snorkeling.

Novels Set in the Galapagos

Another way to immerse yourself completely in the archipelago is to take a couple of novels set in Ecuador and the Galapagos. Here are my favorites:

• Wish You Were Here – Jodi Picoult – A FUN book set on Isla Isabela. Reading it while traveling in the Galapagos was a hoot! She visits some of the SAME places that I went to!
• Galapágos – Kurt Vonnegut – Another FUN book to read while in the Galapagos. It gives you some good background to the islands.
• Enchanted Islands – Allison Amend – Interesting book but be forewarned that the story doesn’t get to the Galapagos until halfway through the book.

Non-Fiction Books Set in the Galapagos

If non-fiction is your thing, then there are some great ones about the environment and history of the Galapagos.

• Galapagos: A Natural History – Henry Nicholls – An interesting and well-written book on the history, wildlife, geology, and geography of the islands
• Galapagos: Islands That Changed the World – A beautiful book with great photos BUT also lots of useful information.

Galapagos Packing List – Documents

Here’s a list of what documents to bring to the Galapagos. They can all be stored on your phone. You don’t actually need a paper copy of them except your passport of course.

Of course, you need to pack your passport with you when you visit Ecuador and you need it also for the Galapagos.

Most people do not need a visa to enter Ecuador. Instead, you’ll get an entry stamp for 90 days in your passport. When you enter the Galapagos, make sure those 90 days haven’t expired. Galapagos officials will check to make sure you’re in the country legally. You can actually get an extension on those 90 days in Ecuador for a fee.

Digital copy of your passport

I recommend scanning or taking a photo of your passport and emailing it to yourself, downloading it to your phone, and uploading it to the Cloud . When you’re asked to show your passport, sometimes you’re able to get away with a digital copy in Ecuador.

The other more important reason is if your passport is lost or stolen, you have a copy of it even if it’s digital.

Voucher for your cruise

Bring your voucher for your cruise in case you need to show at immigration.

Contact information for your tour or cruise

Make sure to have the WhatsApp number of your tour company representative or the cruise company or travel agency that you booked your tour with. You’ll have to download the app onto your phone and get a WhatsApp #, which can be the same number as your cell phone. WhatsApp is the way many people outside of the U.S. communicate with each other.

Proof of Your Flight out of the Galapagos

You need to show Galapagos officials at the airport in Quito or Guayaquil that you have a flight to and out of the Galapagos. They’ll put arrival and departure dates on a card that you need to keep with you and show when you leave the islands.

Travel Insurance

Make sure you bring proof of travel insurance . If you need to see a doctor, you might need to pay out of pocket while in the Galapagos and then get reimbursed when you return to your home country.

Galapagos Packing List – Money

You might be tempted to skip this part. Don’t! You must know what bills to bring to the Galapagos or else you might end up trying to pay a bill with the wrong dollar bills and be out of luck.

Cash is king in the Galapagos. Even if a business takes a credit or debit card, they’ll probably charge you a transaction fee from 3% to 13% .

Ecuador’s currency is the U.S. dollar. They use the same bills as the United States but some of their coins are different. You can still use coins from the U.S. but you cannot use the coins that Panama or El Salvador makes even though those countries also use the U.S. dollar as their currencies.

There’s one more VERY important piece of information you need to know about concerning cash in Ecuador: They don’t like to accept any bills larger than a US$20 bill . Don’t bring $50 and $100 bills to Ecuador.

Let me repeat that: Bring US$1, $5, $10 and $20 bills but NO $50 and $100 bills.

Many businesses will simply NOT accept $50 and $100 bills.

Debit Cards

Even though cash is king, you’ll need to get the cash out of an ATM. I recommend bringing two with you from 2 separate banks or accounts . One of the cards should reimburse you for international transaction fees like the Charles Schwab card . On average it’ll cost you $10 a withdrawal from an ATM in fees.

The reason you should have 2 cards is that (1) many ATMs in Ecuador just won’t accept your ATM card, so it’s good to have a backup. I tried 4 ATMs in Puerto Aroya and only 1 ATM worked . (2) if your card or even card number is stolen and your card canceled, at least you have a backup. Getting a card sent to you in the Galapagos will cost you at least $90 in express mailing fees and will take at least 5 to 14 days.

In addition, be careful when using ATMs. I didn’t receive any money from one ATM, BUT my bank said I did and charged me $200 for money I never received.

Credit Cards

Bring at least 2 credit cards from 2 different banks as well. Let’s say you want to buy tickets or a tour online, it’s very common for banks to reject the transaction even if you’ve put a travel notice on your account. This has happened to me many times. Banks are suspicious of overseas transactions done online. In those situations, you can try another card and maybe that will work.

Galapagos Packing List – Phone Apps

Here’s a list of important apps to have on your phone.

Americans may be the only people on the planet that have never heard of WhatsApp. This is crazy since it’s such a useful app to have and it’s used all over the world.

It’s an app that allows you to call or text anyone anywhere in the world for FREE . Yes! For free! So, instead of having your daughter back in the U.S. call you on your Verizon phone number, she can call you via WhatsApp.

My WhatsApp # is the same as my old AT&T phone number. When you want to call or text someone, you need to add +(country code) before the rest of the number.

Google Translate

Lots of people who work in the tourism industry in the Galapagos speak English. However, not everyone and you shouldn’t always expect everyone to speak it. So in case you’re having trouble communicating in English, you at least have Google Translate on your phone.

Make sure to download Google Maps for the Galapagos on your phone so that you don’t need to use data from your phone. Google Maps is good for cities but it’s not so good for hiking trails.

Maps.Me is a better app to use for hiking trails. However, they now charge you after using 10 maps. You need to download the map to your phone.

What Not to Pack for the Galapagos?

There are a few things you’re NOT allowed to bring to the Galapagos:

• When I entered the Galapagos, I had to declare that I wasn’t bringing any camping equipment like a tent, sleeping bag and even hiking shoes onto the islands. I have not seen this stated anywhere else.
• Agricultural or plant products processed that NOT processed – You can bring packaged processed food to the Galapagos like chocolate bars or a bag of chips. There are plenty of restaurants on the islands and lots of good seafood. It’ll also give you a chance to try Ecuadorian cuisine while in the archipelago—the ceviche is REALLY good!

Your bags will be inspected before you leave the mainland of Ecuador and when you arrive in the Galapagos.

Final Thoughts

I hope you have found this Galapagos packing list useful. Let me know if you have any questions in the comment section below or have anything to add to the list.

Check out this post for more ideas on the best camera for the Galapagos and what camera gear to pack for the Galapagos.

If I had to choose 5 things that are a must to bring to the Galapagos , I would choose seasickness pills, a rash guard, sunscreen, good walking shoes, and a good camera with a telephoto lens.

If you’re interested in any other destinations in Ecuador, you can visit my Ecuador Travel Guide . You’ll find loads of other information and useful tips about traveling in Ecuador— Ecuador visa extensions , info on the food in Ecuador , tours in Quito , a list of the best destinations in Ecuador , and much more.

Plus! I have a DETAILED review of the cruise I took with Anahi – it includes all the DRAMA that happened on board! You can also check out my Anahi cruise to the Eastern Islands that had less drama.

More Posts on Ecuador:

• Top 40 Foods You’ve Gotta Try in Ecuador
• How to Get to Papallacta Hot Springs
• How to Extend Your Visa in Ecuador
• The Ultimate Food Tour in Quito
• Galapagos Packing List
• Best Camera & Camera Gear for the Galapagos
• Anahi Galapagos Cruise Review: Western Islands Tour B1
• Anahi Galapagos Cruise Review: Eastern Islands Tour A2
• 25 Books to Read on Ecuador
• 15 BEST Places to Visit in Ecuador
• 25 BEST Places to Stay in Quito
• 20 BEST Quito Tours
• 15 BEST Day Trips from Quito
• Quito Itinerary for Culture, Food & History Lovers

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A Complete Galapagos Packing List: Essential items, info, and tips

The Galapagos Islands is a bucket list destination for most adventurous travelers.  When the time finally arises to walk among animals in a place where time stands still, you want to be ready – this includes have all of the right gear for your Galapagos Packing List.

Having the right gear to stay dry, warm, and comfy through all of the water-based adventures, and additional gear to capture the memories will add up to the perfect Galapagos experience.

Read on for the ultimate Galapagos packing list.  Whether you’re backpacking solo or taking a liveaboard cruise, this list will give you everything you need for all of the mind-blowing adventures without weighing you down.

Note: This article may include affiliate links

Contents of this Complete Galapagos Packing List

• Experiences
• Weather to prepare for

Preparing for land-based backpacking vs. cruises

General planning and galapagos packing list tips, snorkeling, swimming, and excursions.

• Day Clothes
• Hiking and Exploring

Medications and Hygiene

Backpacks and daypacks.

• Other Essentials
• What to Rent

Travel Insurance: Do you need it

• Packing Tips

The Full Galapagos Packing List

Galapagos faq, other great galapagos resources, what to expect in the galapagos islands, snorkeling and excursions experiences.

Many of the most amazing experiences you’ll have in Galapagos and with the animals will be while snorkeling. 

Close to the islands’ shores, penguins, sharks, iguanas, fish, seals and countless other marine animals cluster, feeding, breeding, and living.  Though you might expect (as I did) that SCUBA diving offers the best chance to interact with all of this marine life, in most cases that isn’t right. On many of my snorkeling excursions, SCUBA divers came along on the same boat.  After we had both spent time in the water we compared notes, and every single time I and the other snorkeler experienced more than the SCUBA divers – from dancing with sea lions to hovering above hammerheads.  Snorkeling on day trips is absolutely the way to explore the Galapagos Islands.

What to Expect on Snorkeling Excursions

Snorkeling excursions are best booked on the island to get the best prices and there is always room to negotiate.  Beware that you do get what you pay for – and a cheaper excursion may mean a smaller, less luxurious boat or a meal that isn’t as good.

Snorkel, mask, and wetsuit will be provided.  Test the snorkel and mask the night before to ensure a good fit and functioning gear.  The default wetsuit for snorkelers will be a “shortie” wetsuit, which goes just above the knee with short sleeves.  I highly recommend paying a little extra to get a full length, thicker SCUBA diving wetsuit.  As warm as the Pacific is supposed to be, a couple of hours in the water swimming slowly in a shorty wetsuit will leave you freezing, beuncomfortable, and will dampen an otherwise awesome experience.

For about half of the snorkeling tours there will be a short “hiking” component, wherein you walk for a few hundred meters on rocky, uncomfortable terrain to see things like lizards, tortoises, and other cool critters – so don’t forget to bring water friendly footwear on snorkeling excursions.

Hiking in the Galapagos Islands

There are a handful of land-based activities and hikes on Galapagos that are cheap, educational, and all around fun.  From hiking through the lava tunnels (Los Tuneles) on Santa Cruz Island to hiking around the Sierra Negra volcano crater, to wandering out to the wall of tears (remnants of a penal colony) and the Tortuga ranch, there are plenty of opportunities to explore and experience on foot.

For hikes, especially in the middle of the island, plan on the sun to shine bright and hot, but also be ready for rain.  Additionally, bring sturdy, comfortable footwear, as the sharp rocks of volcano rocks will easily cut up and rip through your flip flops.  A lightweight, collapsible daypack will do wonders and a reusable water bottle is absolutely necessary as it can get super hot.

If you don’t feel like hiking everywhere, bikes are easily available for rent.

Beautiful Beaches for Lounging and Self-Guided Snorkeling:

The Galapagos Islands are…islands, and islands have beaches.  The plus of the Galapagos islands is #1 how many animals there are and #2 how few people there are.  This means that you can have a long stretch of white sandy beach with that Pacific blue water all to yourself. Whereas many people show up, do their excursions, and leave, if you’re a fan of the beach I highly recommend planning some downtime to just lay on the beach and relax.

Additionally, there are plenty of beaches that are great for a nice picnic but also have great things to explore just offshore.  For instance, San Cristobal island’s “La Loberia” beach, home to a colony of sea lions, is beautiful for just showing p and lounging on a Sarong – but – if you rent a wetsuit, fins, snorkel, and mask, you can simply walk into the water and swim with sea lions and turtles between lounging.

In these situations, plan to bring the right stuff to lounge, like a Sarong, a book, some wine, etc., but also bring the gear for your own free, impromptu excursion.

Cool Beautiful Evenings by the Water in Galapagos

In each of the three islands, Isabella, Santa Cruz, and San Cristobal, the evenings are beautiful.  You don’t need much of anything to enjoy these – other than being in the moment.

On Isabella, its beach shack lifestyle, so before sunset just put on a clean swimsuit, bring a Sarong and either buy beers and take to the beach, or hit El Bar de Beto (next to Casa Rosada) for a chill beach bar experience that will make you rethink going home.

On Isla Santa Cruz at night, just head over to the port in your regular clothes, nothing special.  If you’re on a budget, grab a beer and enjoy it by the port, gazing at the sea lions laying on the benches and the sharks and rays swimming around the port in the crystal clear water.

On Isla San Cristobal, if you want to class up, this is the place to do it.  The bars here are more upscale and they’ll be able to make that Moscow Mule you’ve been wanting.  So, if you want to dress nice, this is the place to do it. If you’re like me and don’t really care, board shorts or a swimsuit with a Sarong are accepted everywhere too.

Weather to prepare for in the Galapagos Islands

The only “season” you really need to be aware of is that it rains more often between July and November.  Beyond this, packing and preparing are pretty simple.

Always plan on rain but remember that your waterproof jacket is a great layer for staying warm and dry while on those snorkeling excursions.

Be ready for breezy nights on the water .  Regardless of the season, those beautiful starry nights on the shore can feel a

Plan on the sun to always be hot .  With Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands being at the equator when the sun shines it really shines.  Think of this not only for staying cool but also for protecting your skin

Plan on the water to be cold.   Yes, it is the Pacific.  Yes, Ecuador is supposed to be warm.  However, the currents flowing through the Galapagos Islands will make that water you’re snorkeling in much colder than you can stand comfortably for hours at a time.  Because of this, consider bringing a rash guard, for a little extra warmth, and renting that full length “scuba diving” wetsuit.

The currents do flow differently with the different seasons and (according to locals) making the water warmer or cooler during different times of the year but I’ve visited twice at opposite ends of the year and both times when I tried snorkeling with a short wetsuit I nearly froze.  So, plan accordingly.

What differences can you expect in traveling around the islands on your own vs. a liveaboard cruise?

• Expect to save a lot more money by traveling on your own
• Expect a wider variety of adventures in the same period (snorkeling, swimming with animals, volcanoes, grottos, and sanctuaries, etc.)
• You’ll require the same gear whether traveling independently or on a liveaboard cruise as cruises occasionally stop off on islands for hikes, beaches, and coming into port, so this Galapagos packing list is perfect whether you’re sleeping on a boat or on an island
• Go lightweight
• Get quick drying and moisture wicking clothing
• Use your drybag to wash your clothes Learn how to here
• Plan to be without internet
• Bring a GoPro waterproof camera (like the Olympus TG-5 Tough Camera)

1. Go, Lightweight

Try to leave the heavy, cotton jeans at home.  The islands are an adventurous place and everyone dresses accordingly, so don’t feel like you need to overpack, planning to look good for too many different occasions

2. Bring quick drying and moisture wicking clothing

Whether it’s in the water from snorkeling or sweat from hiking, you’re going to get wet.  Make sure the gear you take handles moisture well & dries quickly.  Avoid cotton overall.

3. Use your drybag to wash your clothes

You’ll learn quickly that the nutrient-rich & life filled water around the Galapagos Islands will leave your swimsuit smelling like a sea lion.  Though there are laundry facilities all around that service by the kilogram, this isn’t quite practical. Instead use the dry bag to wash your clothes quickly to have your swimsuit fresh for the next day.

4. Plan to be without internet

First, bring a book or a kindle to stay entertained in the quiet moments while riding a boat to/from an excursion or in the quieter times of the evening

Second, download all of your travel documents (itineraries, reservations, insurance documentation) for offline access.

5. Bring a GoPro waterproof camera (like the Olympus TG-5 Tough Camera)

The Gopro used with the collapsible handled and tripod works wonders for capturing moments in Galapagos.

If GoPro isn’t your style, absolutely bring a waterproof camera , such as the Olympus TG-5 tough which I’ve been using.

The Galapagos Packing List by Activity

When it comes to planning for the Galapagos, you should pack by activity, just to ensure you have everything you need for the activities you have planned.  Read on for an overview of what to bring based on each activity and finally a full Galapagos packing list.

• Flip Flops , boat worthy shoes, or adventure travel sandals (like the Xero Trails )
• Rash guard (for a little extra warmth)
• Rain jacket (to stay dry while the boat is moving)
• Dry bag (to keep the phone and valuables dry)
• Waterproof Cameras , such as a GoPro or Olympus TG-5 Tough Camera
• Quick drying towel, camp towel
• Portable charger – to recharge camera on the boat
• Waterproof phone case – such as a Lifeproof case
• Sarong (in case you hit the beach or need to change)
• Renting: Request a full wetsuit, rent snorkel, and mask

Day Clothes for Hiking and Exploring

• Trekking or travel pants : Quick drying and moisture wicking
• Base Layer Shirt : Quick drying and moisture wicking, long sleeve if you burn easily
• Rain jacket (just in case)
• Sturdy walking shoes: Good enough to walk on sharp volcano rocks with
• Adventure travel sandals (like the Xero Trails ) for beach days
• Collapsible daypack
• Midweight wool socks, for hiking and adventuring on land
• Mid-weight fleece or compressible “puffy”
• Comfortable yet sturdy walking shoes, such as hiking boots or durable trainers
• Water worthy footwear, such as flip flips or Xero Trails
• Anti-diarrheal
• Seasickness medication
• Personal Medication
• Reef safe sunblock – 50+ SPF
• Hand sanitizer for keeping things clean and cleaning up scrapes
• Good, carryon travel backpack – to make traveling between islands easier
• Compressible daypack – for use on daily excursions
• Waistpack – for traveling light and prioritizing valuables
• GoPro with a collabsible tripod handle or a good waterproof camera
• Waterproof phone case , such as the Lifeproof case
• Highly recommend for this adventure. I use and recommend World Nomads.
• Read this article for info on whether or not you actually need travel insurance

What to Rent (Instead of Bringing or Buying)

• Long Wetsuit: No matter what tour providers tell you, get the longer wetsuit.  Thank me later.
• Snorkel and Mask: Test for fit and proper function the day prior.  Take them home with you if possible.  Ask about keeping them after the tour to explore the beaches on your own
• Good fins: Ensure fins are included in the excursion and try them on for fit the night before
• Rain Jacket
• Mid-weight fleece or compressible down jacket
• 3-4 x Baselayer T-shirts , ideally wool, sweat-wicking, and quick drying – one short sleeve and one long sleeve
• **Optional** Regular t-shirts, using the base layer t-shirts for adventuring and t-shirts for lounging
• Travel or hiking pants – Breathable, quick drying
• Adventure Sandals , such as Xero Trails , Lunas, or Chocos
• **Optional** Flip flops instead of adventure sandals
• Sturdy walking shoes such as hiking boots or trainers
• 3-5 Pairs Mid-weight wool socks
• 3-5 Pairs Travel underwear – anti-fuck, breathable, quick drying
• 2 x Swimsuits
• Waterproof watch
• Sun Block – 50+ SPF and reef safe
• Carry on Travel Backpack
• Compressible Daypack
• Smart Phone
• Waterproof phone case
• GoPro or Waterproof Camera
• Headlamp / Flashlight
• Reusable Water Bottle (Such as Kleen Kanteen or Nalgene)
• Travel Towel (Lightweight, Quick Drying)
• Seasickness Medication (Dramamine)
• Anti-Diarrheal Medication (Immodium)
• Copy of Passport (Digital and Physical Copy)
• Cash and ATM Cards

What is the cheapest way to get to the Galapagos Islands?|

• The cheapest way to get to the Galapagos Islands is to fly from Guayaquil to Isla Santa Cruz.  This is much cheaper than flying from Quito, much cheaper than flying into San Cristobal, and much cheaper than a cruise.

How do I get around on each Island?

• Walking, biking, and taxi.  For most beaches, private snorkeling, and exploring you can walk between the sites, such as the Grottos, a handful of beaches, and the Wall of Tears.  For everything else, you can either rent a bike or hire a taxi driver for the day.  If you need a driver for the day, ask your host the day before if they can arrange one for you.

How do I get between the islands?

• The common, cheaper option is via ferry.  To book a ferry, stop by any travel agent or tour provider the day before you want to depart (as early as possible) to book.  The quicker, more expensive option is via a flight.  Flights, in low season, from Isla Isabella to Isla San Cristobal rn ~$100 -$150 USD one way and take ~45 minutes

When should I visit the Galapagos Islands?

• Any time of year is a fantastic time to come to Galapagos.  Though rains are more likely during July and November, they will not dampen your experience much.  The best option for choosing when to come to Galapagos is to pick your favorite animal, research its migration patterns, and find out which island its most likely to be on and when

Are there ATMs on the Island?

• Yes, on Isla Santa Cruz and Isla San Cristobal. On Isla Isabella there is a single ATM that breaks down and runs out of money at times, so bring plenty of cash if traveling to Isla Isabella
• The Galapagos islands are extremely safe and there is little risk of petty crime.  Your biggest risk is badgering an animal that otherwise doesn’t want to be bothered
• Lonely Planet’s Guide to Galapagos is a  great guide to travel, history, and the magic of the island
• Things to do in the Galapagos Islands
• Guide to San Cristobal Island, Galapagos
• Guide to Santa Cruz Island, Galapagos
• Guide to Isabella Island, Galapagos

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Carlos is a nomad, slow traveler, and writer dedicated to helping others live abroad and travel better by using his 7+ years of experience living abroad and background as a management consultant and financial advisor to help other nomad and expats plot better paths for an international lifestyle. Click here to learn more about Carlos's story.

First-timer's guide to the Galápagos Islands

Mar 1, 2020 • 5 min read

Planning is paramount before a booking a trip to the Galapagos Islands © Jesse Kraft / Getty Images

Wildlife is sure to wow visitors to the Galápagos Islands , but the archipelago has so much more to offer. Before a journey to this bucket-list destination, proper planning is paramount. Here’s what to know before you go.

From the adrenaline rush of snorkeling nose-to-nose with white-tipped reef sharks to the wonder of watching up-close as blue-footed boobies perform mating dances on the sand, visitors can experience firsthand how locals coexist in harmony with the creatures of the Galápagos Islands – home to the rarest and most diverse species found in the world, and the inspiration behind Darwin’s Theory of Evolution. 

There, time stands still, animals rule, and people delight in close encounters with wildlife, as there are no natural predators for the animals to fear. And beyond the one-of-a-kind wildlife viewings , there’s so much more to explore. In order to fully embrace a journey to the Galápagos Islands, it’s important to go properly prepared. 

What to pack 

From the jagged, jet-black lava fields of Santiago Island, to the powdery-soft beaches of Mosquera Islet, the landscape varies greatly throughout the Galápagos Islands, so proper footwear is fundamental. Sturdy, waterproof sandals will be required for wet landings, and lightweight runners or hiking boots will provide the proper support and protection from the rocky, uneven surfaces encountered during dry land hikes.

Weather waxes and wanes throughout the day, so prepare for both warm and wet environments. While the temperatures aren’t typically tropical, high-SPF sunscreens, protective sunglasses and neck-shading sun hats are essential, as the proximity to the equator means it can be easy to burn – even on cloudy days. 

For long days on the water, manage motion sickness with a patch or over-the-counter pills and pack a small first-aid kit filled with essential medications that you may need while out at sea. Bug repellent isn’t mandatory, but it might help to prevent bites during longer inland explorations.

Shorts and t-shirts will suffice on most days, however, a light raincoat and sweater will provide comfort on wetter days and cooler mornings. Avoid slipping on soggy swimsuits by packing a few, as the night air can be humid and swimming and snorkeling are sure to occur several times throughout the day.

Most importantly, bring a fully-charged camera with back-up batteries to capture the stunning scenery and fantastic flora and fauna found throughout the islands – many of which are unique only to this part of the world.

How to get to the Gal á pagos Islands

 There are two stopover cities to choose from when traveling through Ecuador ’s mainland en route to the Galápagos Islands: Quito or Guayaquil . While both are stunning cities, Guayaquil is Ecuador’s largest city, has more frequent direct flights to the islands, and is closer in proximity. 

Hotel del Parque – the first luxury boutique hotel to open in Guayaquil, is situated in the suburb of Samborondon, is a short 10-minute drive from the airport. Transportation can be arranged through the hotel. Situated on a tropical oasis, the restored 19th-century property offers authentic Ecuadorian cuisine and a peaceful setting to catch up on sleep before embarking on the remainder of the journey to the Galápagos.

There are two major airports on the Galápagos Islands: Seymour Airport (serving the island of Baltra), and San Cristobal (found on the island of Cristobal). The arrival and departure airport will depend on the location of the cruise departure or land accommodation site.

Before entering the area, a mandatory park fee must be paid by most visitors coming from overseas. In an effort to reduce over-tourism, each visiting adult traveler must pay USD$100. This rate is set to double by the end of 2020.

You might also like: Ultimate Ecuador: plan your perfect adventure  

Where to stay 

Water-loving wanderers often opt for a stay aboard a cruise ship or on one of the eco-friendly yachts, but there are land-based accommodations available as well.

While cruising tends to be the more common choice, a land-based stay offers a well-rounded option, providing visitors with opportunities to connect with the local people and culture, experience close encounters with the land-bound wildlife more frequently, and enjoy a restful sleep – ideal for those prone to seasickness, or guests looking for breaks to settle their sea legs. 

For a more affordable land-based option, Puerto Ayora provides hostel-style accommodations, however day trips and excursions to attractions found throughout the islands will need to be booked separately.

Pikaia Lodge , a luxury eco-lodge found on Santa Cruz , sits in the heart of a private tortoise reserve, perched on the edge of an extinct volcanic crater, and overlooks acres of endemic Scalesia trees. 

Darwin delights in every corner of the luxury lodge, which nods to the connection to the Theory of Evolution that emerged from Darwin’s visit to the Galápagos Islands, and the five-star cuisine, private 100ft luxury yacht, on-site spa and infinity pool provide the perfect setting for restful downtime in between days of adventure throughout the Galápagos Islands.

What to see and do 

For island visits, the guidance of a certified tour guide is mandatory. This can be arranged through cruise excursions or as a part of a hotel package. Wildlife viewing is a must, but the islands also offer adventure spots beyond the ocean’s edge. 

Observe giant Galápagos tortoises in the wild and learn about the history of the significant species at El Chato Tortoise Reserve , found on Santa Rosa. Afterward, explore the underground world of the islands by creeping through the on-site lava tube caves. 

Head to Academy Bay and mingle with locals at the waterfront fish market and then stroll through the artisanal shops and purchase cacao treats, lava-laced jewelry and locally-grown coffee beans during a visit to town.

Then, hike along stunning stone pathways to Tortuga Bay and watch as black marine iguanas run along the white sandy beach. Head past the unswimmable Playa Brava and kayak with sea turtles and sharks at the hidden bay of Playa Mansa, found just beyond a mass of mangroves that line the shore. 

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The Ultimate Galápagos Islands Travel Guide

Discover the islands that inspired Charles Darwin.

The Galápagos Islands, located roughly 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador, remained a closely guarded natural secret for millions of years. Over that time, the archipelago evolved into a home for an all-star cast of plants and animals. Sometime in the 1800s, some swashbuckling pirates and intrepid explorers started arriving in the Galápagos Islands. The most famous early visitor was Charles Darwin, a young naturalist who spent 19 days studying the islands' flora and fauna in 1835. In 1859, Darwin published On the Origin of Species , which introduced his theory of evolution — and the Galápagos Islands — to the world.

Since then, word of these islands and their magnificent beauty has steadily grown. In 1959, the Galápagos became Ecuador's first national park, and in 1978, it was named a UNESCO World Heritage site . Today, more than 275,000 people visit the Galápagos every year to see those incredible animals and landscapes for themselves.

As amazing as you think the Galápagos Islands will be, they routinely exceed expectations. It's a place where lizards swim, birds walk, and humans — for once — don't take center stage.

Reasons to Visit

Biodiversity brings over 100,000 visitors each year to these remote islands that were totally unknown to the world until 1535. Without the influence of a human presence, the island's flora and fauna, and the surrounding marine life, thrived for thousands of years by evolving into unique species you won't find anywhere else in the world, such as the charismatic giant tortoises and blue-footed boobies. Beyond seeing the main stars of the island, many visitors also enjoy the beautiful beaches and choose the Galápagos Islands as their honeymoon destination .

This is also one of the world's top scuba diving destinations, so spending time on or in the water is a must, whether that means you're ready to jump in with your snorkel for a sea lion swim or are happy to enjoy the views from the deck of your adventure cruise . Brimming with natural beauty, the Galápagos is for many a once-in-a-lifetime destination where the marvels of the natural world are waiting to astound you.

Best Time to Visit

There's no bad time to visit the Galápagos Islands. No matter what time of year you go, the adventure is sure to be unique and wonderful. June through December are the cooler and drier months. Even though this is the dry season, a garúa (or light, misty rain) is still possible, particularly in December, and skies can be cloudy and gray.

January through May are the warmer and wetter months, but the rain creates brilliantly clear blue skies between showers — great for photography. March and April tend to be the hottest and wettest months, while August tends to be the coolest time.

Water temperatures vary throughout the year because of the powerful ocean currents in the archipelago. Between June and December, the colder currents dominate and the water temperature dips low. A wet suit (likely provided by your boat or hotel) may be required while snorkeling during these months. However, the upside is that the cold current brings in huge quantities of plankton, which attract hungry marine life.

If you're set on seeing a particular species in the Galápagos, talk to the tour operator and pick the month and itinerary that will give you the best chance for a sighting. Some species are seasonal, and many exist only on specific islands. For example, the waved albatross, also called the Galápagos albatross, is not a full-time resident. These birds just show up for mating in the spring and summer.

How to Get There

Getty Images/Mauricio Handler

Flights to the Galápagos Islands depart multiple times each day from Quito or Guayaquil on mainland Ecuador. Flights from the U.S. are plentiful to both cities. Hotel options are better in Quito and, in general, this city is more compelling with a stunning colonial center, which was made a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1978. It's also home to ample museums, shopping, and restaurants to easily fill a few days. However, Quito is over 9,000 feet above sea level, so altitude can be a problem for travelers arriving from lower elevations. Steamy Guayaquil, Ecuador's largest city, is at sea level, so altitude is not an issue. However, the hotel and restaurant selection is much more limited in Guayaquil.

If you're booking your own flights from mainland Ecuador to the Galápagos Islands, remember that there are two airports on two different islands in the archipelago. San Cristóbal Airport is on the island of the same name. Seymour Airport, which runs entirely on sun and wind power, can be found on tiny Baltra Island, which is separated from Santa Cruz Island by a narrow channel. Be sure to book your flights to the same island you'll be based on, or where your boat departs and returns.

By Land or By Sea

Getty Images/Westend61

The first decision you have to make when visiting the Galápagos Islands is also the most difficult. Do you want to stay in a hotel on one of the three inhabited islands, exploring other islands and areas via day-trip boat rides? Or do you want to be based on a live-aboard boat, which provides accommodations and transportation from island to island? There are three main factors to consider when choosing between land and sea: cost, time management, and access.

A trip to the Galápagos Islands can be pricey. However, it's easier to craft a less expensive experience if you choose to be land based. These days, there are hotels and restaurants at many price points on San Cristóbal Island, Santa Cruz Island, and, to a much lesser extent, Isabela and Floreana Islands. Live-aboard boats come in a range of price points, too. However, all but the most bare-bones boats still add up to more than a land-based vacation.

If you choose a land-based vacation, expect to spend a lot of time getting from your hotel onto a boat, out to the day's destination, then back to your property. On the other hand, live-aboard boats do most of their navigating during the night when travelers are asleep in cabins on board. This means passengers wake up in a new destination ready for a full day of exploration. Because land-based explorations are limited to the five islands that can be reached in one day, travelers won't be able to visit the more distant islands that boat-based itineraries include.

Unless you're terrified of sailing, suffer from seasickness , or hate the idea of being on a boat for a week, book a cruise. You'll waste less time running back and forth, plus you'll see as many distinct areas of the Galápagos Islands as possible.

Most live-aboard boats offer five- to eight-day itineraries, with set departure dates and routes. Routes are dictated by Galápagos National Park officials to mitigate crowding and environmental stress. Your boat will provide a northern or southern itinerary (sometimes called eastern and western itineraries), alternating weekly. Both include wonderful land excursions, plenty of time in the water, and ample opportunities to see the famous flora and fauna of the Galápagos.

Boats in the Galápagos Islands are limited to a maximum of 100 passengers, but most carry fewer than that. The benefit of traveling on a smaller-capacity vessel is a more intimate onboard experience and faster transfer times between your main vessel and the rubber dinghies. Smaller boats also tend to have more character and history. And if you're traveling with a big group, don't worry, as larger-capacity boats tend to have more onboard services, like guest lectures and medical facilities.

Ecoventura , which has several vessels that allow for up to 20 passengers at a time, is another excellent operator. In addition, two naturalists take guests onshore and explain every animal and plant in great detail.

Scuba divers who want to focus on underwater adventures have a few options in the Galápagos Islands as well. The Galapagos Sky , Galapagos Aggressor III , and Galapagos Master are live-aboard boats that were designed specifically for scuba divers. They ply the waters all the way to the little-visited northernmost islands in the archipelago, where deep, cold, current-filled diving yields time with manta rays, whale sharks, sunfish, and hammerhead sharks. Note that these are for experienced divers only.

Best Hotels and Resorts

A wide range of hotels can be found on Santa Cruz Island and San Cristóbal Island, and several boats operate out of harbors on those islands as well. Be sure to book a hotel that's located near the harbor (not in the highlands), so you can be close to the boat's boarding spot for day trips.

For example, the 19-room Golden Bay Galapagos is situated right on the harbor of San Cristóbal Island. You can watch sea lions cavort on a small beach directly in front of the property, and day-trip boats leave from a dock that's no more than a three-minute stroll away. Book the corner suite, which features a living-room bathtub and glass walls that slide open to eliminate all barriers between you and the nature outside. Meanwhile, the Angermeyer Waterfront Inn is right on Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz Island. The hotel's newest room has been cleverly fashioned inside a beached wooden boat.

Or, book a hotel that owns and operates its own boats to ensure a seamless standard of service and the most practical and convenient itineraries. For example, the unparalleled Pikaia Lodge , located in the highlands of Santa Cruz Island, has its own boat that is used exclusively for guests on packages that include land and sea adventures.

The Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel , set in Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz Island, also has its own yacht, dubbed the Sea Lion . This vessel can hold up to 20 passengers plus two guides (many other day-trip boats carry 16 passengers and have just one guide). Sea Lion itineraries also encompass all five islands that day-trip boats are allowed to visit.

Last-minute deals are sometimes available for travelers who can afford to spend a few days searching for sales after arriving. However, the Galápagos Islands are a major tourist destination, so it's advisable to book well in advance. Dive boats, in particular, tend to fill up fast because there are so few of them.

If you are spending the night in Quito or Guayaquil, there are a few nice hotels that we also recommend checking out. In Quito, Casa Gangotena , on Plaza San Francisco in the heart of the capital's colonial center, is the best hotel in Ecuador, combining history, style, and service. Another top option is Illa Experience Hotel , a 10-room boutique hotel in the city's central San Marcos neighborhood. The property sits in a renovated mansion, and each floor presents different decor, including colonial, republic, and contemporary styles. In Guayaquil, Hotel del Parque , located in the city's leafy Parque Histórico, is a sophisticated boutique property with 44 rooms. The restored building dates back to 1891, and houses a spa where you can book a massage in a repurposed church bell tower.

Best Restaurants

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As you can imagine, the seafood in the Galápagos Islands is extremely fresh and the islands have many fine dining establishments to cater to hungry visitors. You'll find a range of dining options across all the islands' main hubs, many of which are associated with hotels, such as the Finch Bay Restaurant in Santa Cruz, which blends local Ecuadorian cuisine with international style. Another popular restaurant is the FraFre GastroBar , where the fish is served with a regional flair that's popular among locals and tourists. You'll also find more casual eateries like the humorously named Booby Trap that serves up fish tacos and pizza on Isabela Island alongside wonderful oceanfront views.

If you are looking for a memorable meal in Quito, Zazu is the only Relais & Châteaux restaurant in Ecuador. For a more casual experience, head to sibling restaurant Zfood , where a Hamptons-style fish-shack vibe is replicated perfectly and seafood reigns supreme. At Urko , chef/owner Daniel Maldonado stays focused on showcasing Ecuadorian ingredients and flavors. Go for the tasting menu to get a full sense of what he calls cocina local .

Things to Do

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Aside from observing the fabulous animals above and below the water, you can incorporate many other striking landscapes into your adventures. If you want to island-hop, you can coordinate visits to these sites yourself, but if you're on a cruise you may have to follow the pre-planned itinerary.

Throughout the islands you can enjoy the white sands of beaches like Tortuga Bay and Puerto Villamil, or take the adventurous route for a hike to the top of the Sierra Negra Volcano, an active shield volcano that last erupted in 2018, providing a dazzling show for offshore boaters. For something more tame, you can pay your respects at the Charles Darwin Research Station in Puerto Ayora, which has been used as a scientific base since 1964. Visitors can access the exhibition hall, gardens, and public library.

Best Islands to Visit

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There are 127 islands that make up this tropical archipelago, but only about 20 are frequently visited by tourists, and only four have major populations. Isabela Island is the largest of these, but despite its size, it has fewer people than Santa Cruz, which is the most populated island with approximately 12,000 inhabitants between the towns of Puerto Ayora and Santa Rosa. When you fly into the Galápagos, you will most likely arrive through Baltra Island, which is separated from Santa Cruz by a short ferry ride. Meanwhile, the province's capital is located on San Cristobal Island.

Booking a live-aboard boat trip will give you more opportunities to see the many different islands that make up these enchanted isles. However, if a particular attraction or animal captures your attention, you may want to seek out specific sites like Bartolomé Island, known for its volcanic rock formations like Pinnacle Rock, and Española Island, where you'll find the nesting sites of the waved albatross at Punta Suarez. If you're interested in the history of human discovery, Floreana Island was the first to be visited by people. Here, you can hear the stories of the many seamen who rolled into these waters and learn about the fascinating postal system they set up using a simple wooden barrel. Bird-watchers are especially fond of Genovesa Island, where frigatebirds and red-footed boobies are frequently spotted. For Galápagos penguins and flightless cormorants, the sparsely vegetated Fernandina Island is another popular spot.

Packing Tips

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A trip to the Galápagos is a big adventure, so you should come prepared with the right clothes and tools to face the elements. It may be tough to find what you need once you arrive on the islands — especially if you are spending most of your time at sea — so we've broken it down into essential categories and created a packing list to get you started.

Basic supplies are available at small shops on both San Cristóbal and Santa Cruz islands, but prices are high and the selection is limited. It's best to have the essentials with you. These include sturdy closed-toe walking shoes with durable soles. Although land excursions are generally short and trails tame, you may be walking over jagged volcanic rock and other obstacles from time to time. However, you will also want sandals or flip-flops to wear in towns and on boats. Leave the heels at home, especially if you've booked a boat-based itinerary. Even the most luxurious boats have narrow, steep stairways that are nearly impossible to navigate safely (or gracefully) in heels.

You'll also be glad to have rain gear and good weather protection for your camera. You will be traveling on boats and in dinghies, and rain showers can occur at any time. If you're exploring an island when wet weather rolls in, there will be no place to shelter out of the rain.

Health and Comfort

Stock up on lots of insect repellant and water-resistant, high-SPF sunscreen. As you might have guessed Ecuador is on the equator, which magnifies the strength of the rays, and most Galápagos excursions are completely exposed to the sun. We also recommend purchasing reef-safe sunscreen to help protect the coral, animals, and waters around the islands. A hat with a brim for sun protection during land excursions is also recommended. If you're planning to participate in kayaking and snorkeling excursions, a rash guard is also useful for sun protection. When water temperatures are colder, a wet suit will be provided. If you have fins, a mask, and a snorkel that you love, bring them with you. Snorkeling gear is provided, but the quality and cleanliness vary.

Seas are generally calm, and boat captains take great care in choosing protected anchoring spots. However, if you're prone to motion sickness, bring some Dramamine with you. Prescription preventions like scopolamine patches work well, too. Note that scopolamine is generally not available for sale in Latin America. Bring a reusable water bottle , so you can fill it up for day-long excursions and reduce your plastic waste.

There are ATMs on Santa Cruz and San Cristóbal islands, but they can run out of cash, so bring some with you to cover tips. Credit cards are also often accepted at shops and restaurants. The official currency of Ecuador is the U.S. dollar.

What Not to Bring

The introduction of non-native plant species is considered a top environmental threat to the Galápagos Islands, so do not bring any fruits, vegetables, or plants of any kind with you. Anything that might have seeds or spores clinging to it, such as the soles of your shoes and any outdoor gear or camping equipment, should be washed and inspected thoroughly before being brought to the islands. The threat of invasive plant species is so great that visitors arriving in the Galápagos have to sign an affidavit swearing that they're not bringing in any food, animals, seeds, or dirty camping gear.

In 2012, Ecuador's then-president Rafael Correa abolished fees at national parks and reserves in the country. However, Galápagos National Park was not part of that exemption and still requires a $100 entrance fee per person, which is payable only in cash upon arrival at either airport in the Galápagos Islands. In addition, each visitor must buy a $20 transit card, which is also payable only in cash at the airport. The transit card is a measure of immigration control, so all visitors must purchase one at the airport when they arrive and return it when they leave. If you are booked on a tour, your tour operator might take care of this for you, but it's better to ask ahead of time.

Before Visiting the Galápagos Islands

With the anticipation building for your trip, you may be looking for books and movies to get into the spirit of an adventuring naturalist. Here are some of our recommendations of what to read and watch to prepare for your trip.

• My Father's Island by Johanna Angermeyer: Published in 1998, this book provides an account of the author's German ancestors, who were among the first to settle on Santa Cruz Island. Their challenges and triumphs are humbling, offering valuable perspectives on the Galápagos. Members of the Angermeyer family still live on Santa Cruz Island, where they run the Angermeyer Waterfront Inn.
• The Galapagos Affair: Satan Came to Eden: Released in 2013, this documentary cleverly splices video footage, letters, and other archival material to recount a real-life murder mystery involving a self-proclaimed baroness, her lovers, and other settlers on Floreana Island in the 1930s. Cate Blanchett narrates one of the main characters.
• On the Origin of Species by Charles Darwin: This classic and its author will be referenced repeatedly during your time in the Galápagos. Read up on Darwin's seminal theory of evolution, which was inspired, in part, by observations he made in the archipelago.

Galapagos Islands Tours & Vacations

Step into an isolated world. See giant tortoises roaming and unforgettable landscapes unfurl before your very eyes. 

Inquisitive sea lions and spiky marine iguanas breach and bask between island and shore. Friendly hammerhead sharks patrol the depths and blue-footed boobies cut through the sky. Come with us on our Galapagos Islands tours & holidays and observe the local wildlife in the same, untouched way Charles Darwin did hundreds of years ago. Nowadays, these Ecuadorian islands host a steady stream of modern-day explorers from animal-seekers who long for face-to-face encounters to sun-chasers itching to relax on a pristine beach or two. Embark on your own adventure as you wander from isla to isla, soak in crystal-clear waters, traverse volcanic landscapes, and spot animals you've only ever seen pictures of . To be honest, there's simply no place on Earth quite like the Galapagos.  

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Galapagos Islands highlights

Transport in the galapagos islands.

Intrepid believes half the fun of experiencing a new country is getting there, and getting around once there! Where possible, Intrepid uses local transport options and traditional modes of transport - which usually carry less of an environmental impact, support small local operators and are heaps more fun.Depending on which trip you're on while in the Galapagos Islands, you may find yourself on:

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Galapagos Islands at a glance

Capital city.

Puerto Baquerizo Moreno

US dollar (USD)

(GMT-06:00) Galapagos

CALLING CODE

Electricity.

Type A (North American/Japanese 2-pin), Type B (American 3-pin)

Learn more about Galapagos Islands

Best time to visit.

Simply put, there’s no bad time to visit the Galapagos Islands. Good weather is mostly found year round, as are the animals. This being said, November through to June is the preferred time to visit, with clearer skies, calmer seas and decreased winds. Of these, March and April have less rain, while November and December are the warmest. July to November is the best time for divers as whale sharks can often be spotted at Wolf and Darwin islands.

Learn more about the best time to visit the Galapagos Islands

Culture and customs

Ever since Charles Darwin brought attention to the giant tortoises, sea lions, hammerhead sharks and other spectacular wildlife of the Galapagos Islands, people have been fascinated by this archipelago of volcanic islands. Originally a pirate hideout, people started migrating to the islands from Ecuador after it became part of the country in 1832. Of the 13 major islands and scores of smaller islands and islets that make up the Galapagos, only five of them are inhabited – about 26,000 residents spread over the islands of Isabela, Santa Cruz, Floreana, Baltra and San Cristobal. The wildlife rules the rest of the islands, which are carefully managed to help protect the precious environment.

Geography and environment

Located in the Pacific Ocean about 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador, the Galapagos Islands are a volcanic archipelago of 13 major islands, six smaller islands and more than 100 islets. Some are sparsely vegetated with largely mountainous interiors, whereas others are comparatively lush with white-sand beaches. Many of the islands are in a state of flux, as continual volcanic eruptions cause them to erode and expand.

The largest island, Isabela, makes up half the land area of the Galapagos and is characterized by three active volcanos, a blue lagoon, clear lakes filled with flamingos and beaches where iguanas and sea lions roam. Santa Cruz is the second largest island with giant tortoises, marine iguanas and Galapagos crabs residing in Tortuga Bay. The oldest and most remote island, Espanola (also called Hood), boasts boobies, albatrosses and many species of birds and lizards not found anywhere else in the world. 

Top wildlife to spot

1. Sea Lions

Whether you're loafing about on the beach or snorkeling offshore, you’ll be hard-pressed not to come face-to-face with these frolicsome critters at some stage. Playful, plentiful, and pretty much fearless, you’re supposed to keep a 2-meter distance from these guys at all times - though their insatiable curiosity can make this hard.

2. Marine Iguanas

The only lizards in the world that can live and forage in the ocean, the marine iguana is found solely in the Galapagos. Fierce and ferocious though these Godzilla-like reptiles may appear (Darwin called them ‘Imps of Darkness’), it’s all bluff – they only feed on algae. And with lung capacities permitting up to half an hour of underwater foraging, you’re just as likely find them gorging on the islands’ surrounding seabeds as scampering about the craggy rocks they inhabit.

3. Hammerhead Sharks

Boasting one of the animal kingdom’s most puzzling physiologies, hammerhead sharks are found in abundance off Wolf, Bartolome, Santa Cruz and Darwin islands. Unlike most sharks, they will often merge into schools of over 100 during the day - making for some incredible and surreal photo opportunities. And with no known human fatalities and a wealth of choice natural prey on offer, diving amongst them isn’t as scary or dangerous as one might think.

Darwin finches gave rise to one of the most game-changing theories of all time. By studying the differences between finches from different islands, Darwin hypothesized that the birds’ adaptations to their habitats resulted in their mutation into different species: his Theory of Evolution.

5. Giant Tortoises

No trip to the islands is complete without a visit to its most famous residents. Weighing up to 882 pounds, regularly living for more than 100 years, and able to go for up to 1 year without food, these gentle and slow-moving monsters are an intriguing and humbling spectacle to observe.

6. Sea Turtles

Snorkeling alongside these majestic creatures of the deep (or more accurately, the shallows) is one of those rare, life-affirming moments that makes a trip to the Galapagos immediately worthwhile. Keep your eyes peeled on the beaches for turtle nests too - the Galapagos is a hotbed of activity for these critters. 

7. Blue-Footed Boobies

Despite essentially looking like handsome seagulls with painted toenails, blue-footed boobies, when caught hunting, serve up one of the Galapagos' most thrilling spectacles. Diving from heights of up to 100ft, groups of boobies hit the water at speeds up around 60km per hour. They usually let out a shrill whistle before letting rip, which means you'll usually have warning enough to get your camera out too. How considerate.

8. Flightless Cormorants

Granted, a flightless cormorant spotted on land isn't one of the most invigorating sights you'll see during your time here. But wait until you don your snorkel gear and spot one weaving elegantly through the water - the flightless cormorant will likely become one of your favorite discoveries in the Galapagos Islands for this reason alone.

9. Frigatebird

With its striking wingspan and deeply-forked tail, the magnificent frigate bird is easily one of the most impressive birds in the skies of the Galapagos archipelago. But they don't have such a swell reputation amongst other birds. Whilst they hunt fish on the oceans surface, they also force their winged brethren to regurgitate their food, which then they eat - a process known as kleptoparasitism. Still, they look gorgeous – particularly the males, with their bright-red chin sac.

Healthy and safety

Intrepid takes the health and safety of its travelers seriously, and takes every measure to ensure that trips are safe, fun and enjoyable for everyone. We recommend that all travelers check with their government or national travel advisory organization for the latest information before departure:

From Australia?

Go to:  http://www.smartraveller.gov.au/

From New Zealand?

Go to:  http://www.safetravel.govt.nz/

From Canada?

Go to:  https://travel.gc.ca/

Go to:  http://travel.state.gov/

Go to:  http://www.fco.gov.uk/en/

The World Health Organisation

also provides useful health information:  Go to:  http://www.who.int/en/

Further reading

Similar destinations.

Thinking about a trip to the Galapagos Islands but still browsing other destinations? Check out our tours to neighboring countries:

Colombia tours

Brazil tours

Comparison 

Galapagos or Madagascar? 

Galapagos Islands travel FAQs

Do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travelers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travelers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

Do I need a visa to travel to Galapagos Islands?

Visas are the responsibility of the individual traveler. Entry requirements can change at any time, so it's important that you check for the latest information.

Please visit the relevant consular website of the country or countries you’re visiting for detailed and up-to-date visa information specific to your nationality.

Check the Essential Trip Information section of the itinerary for more information.

Is tipping customary in the Galapagos Islands?

While tipping isn’t mandatory, tips are very much appreciated by service workers and guides.

Leaving a 10% tip is customary in restaurants.

Some automatically add a 10% service charge to your bill, in which case an extra tip isn’t required.

What is the weather like in the Galapagos Islands?

The Galapagos Islands enjoy almost perfect weather all year with two distinct seasons offering warmer, rainier months and cooler, drier months.

Temperatures rarely dip below 70°F or reach higher than 90°F. You can travel to the islands anytime throughout the year and experience fantastic weather.

Light rainfall is expected from January to May (along with high humidity levels), but it never lasts for long and doesn't often turn into heavier downpours.

What is the internet access like in the Galapagos Islands?

There are reliable internet cafes in Puerto Ayora (Santa Cruz Island) and Puerto Baquerizo (San Cristobal Island).

Some hotels and restaurants on other islands will have a Wi-Fi connection, but it is best not to rely on it.

Can I use my cell phone in the Galapagos Islands?

There's good cell phone reception on the larger islands, but don’t expect it when at sea. The best local telephone companies are Porta and Movistar.

Ensure you have global roaming activated before leaving home if you wish to use your cell phone.

What are the toilets like in the Galapagos Islands?

Most towns have Western-style flushable toilets, though you will likely encounter squat toilets as well. Regardless, it’s a good idea to carry your own toilet paper and hand sanitiser, as they are not always provided.

What will it cost for a...?

• Juice = USD 1
• Street food snack = USD 1.50
• Simple lunch at a local restaurant = USD 3-5 
• Sit-down dinner at a cafe or restaurant = USD 10–20

Can I drink the water in the Galapagos Islands?

Tap water isn’t considered safe to drink in the Galapagos Islands.

Avoid drinks with ice and make sure to peel fruit before eating it.

Help the environment and try to avoid buying bottled water. Instead, fill a reusable water bottle with filtered water. Your leader or hotel can tell you where to find filtered water.

Are credit cards accepted widely in the Galapagos Islands?

No, credit cards are not widely accepted.

There are a handful of shops on Santa Cruz that may accept major credit cards, but it’s preferable to pay in cash.

How many islands make up the Galapagos Islands?

The Galapagos Islands are made up of 13 larger islands and more than 60 smaller islands and islets. 5 islands are habitable to just over 30,000 people.

These 5 islands are Isla Baltra, Isla Floreana, Isla Isabela, Isla Santa Cruz, and Isla San Cristobal.

What is ATM access like in Galapagos Island?

The banks in Puerto Ayora and Puerto Baquerizo have ATMs.

The Banco del Pacifico in both towns is open from 8 am to 3:30 pm Monday to Friday and 9 am to 12.30 pm on Saturdays.

It's best to withdraw your money on the mainland in case these are out of order.

Check each bank's website for up-to-date opening hours.

What public holidays are celebrated in the Galapagos Islands?

• 1 Jan: New Year's Day
• 6 Jan: Epiphany
• 1 May: Labour Day
• 24 May: Battle of Pichincha
• 10 Aug: Independence Day
• 9 Oct: Guayaquil Independence Day
• 2 Nov: All Soul's Day
• 3 Nov: Cuenca Independence Day
• 25 Dec: Christmas
• 31 Dec: New Year's Eve

Please note, Galapagos Islands public holidays may vary.

Are the Galapagos Islands a safe destination for LGBTQIA+ travelers?

The Galapagos Islands are a relatively hassle-free destination for LGBTQIA+ travellers.

Same-sex marriage was legalised in Ecuador in 2008. The country hosts several fiestas where it’s acceptable for men to cross-dress as women.

However, homophobic attitudes do exist among the older generations. It is best to avoid public displays of affection where possible.

For more detailed advice, we recommend visiting   Equaldex   or   ILGA   before you travel.

What to drink in the Galapagos Islands

Quench your thirst after a glorious day spent exploring the Galapagos  by sipping on a glass of canelazo, horchata tea, or freshly made fruit juice.

During your cruise around the islands, it makes sense to try as many traditional Ecuadorian drinks as you can, especially since there are heaps to choose from.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before traveling?

Absolutely. All passengers traveling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

Are Intrepid trips accessible for travelers with disabilities?

We are committed to making travel widely  accessible , regardless of ability or disability. We do our best to help you see the world, regardless of physical or mental limitations. 

We are always happy to talk to travelers with disabilities and see if we can help guide them toward the most suitable itinerary for their needs and, where possible, make reasonable adjustments to our itineraries.

Does my trip support The Intrepid Foundation?

Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. Trips to this country directly support our global Intrepid Foundation partners, Eden Reforestation Projects and World Bicycle Relief. Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

Eden Reforestation Projects

Eden Reforestation Projects are helping to mitigate climate change by restoring forests worldwide; they also hire locally and create job opportunities within vulnerable communities. Donations from our trips support restoration across planting sites in 10 countries around the globe. Find out more or make a donation World Bicycle Relief

World Bicycle Relief provides people in low-income communities with bicycles to mobilize school kids, health workers, and farmers in far-out areas – giving them access to vital education, healthcare, and income. Donations help provide Buffalo Bicycles – specifically designed to withstand the rugged terrain and harsh environment of rural regions – to those who need them most. Find out more or make a donation

Finding the Universe

Travel tales, photography and a dash of humor

Travelling to the Galapagos Islands Independently: A Detailed Guide

Last updated: April 13, 2021 . Written by Laurence Norah - 8 Comments

After we finished up our 10 day tour of the Galapagos with GalaKiwi , we independently stayed an additional nine nights on San Cristobal island, exploring all the options that it had to offer.

In this post we’re going to go through everything you need to know about visiting this island, and the Galapagos in general, as an independent traveller. We’ll cover all the highlights of San Cristobal as well as how to get to and from the Galapagos, where to stay on the Galapagos Islands, budgetary considerations and so on.

We’d recommend reading this post in conjunction with our “ Preparing and Planning for a Galapagos Trip ” post, to ensure you are fully prepared!

San Cristobal is the perfect island in the Galapagos for the independent traveller. Unlike the majority of the islands in the Galapagos, it has a good number of attractions that you are allowed to visit without a Galapagos National Park guide – although there are of course some attractions that you do need a guide for.

It also has a wide choice of accommodation options and is directly connected to the mainland by regular flights. If you want to visit the Galapagos independently, then this is the island we recommend you base yourself from.

How to Travel to the Galapagos Independently

Getting to and from the galapagos islands.

Getting to San Cristobal from mainland Ecuador is easy as there is a relatively new airport on the island with flights from both Guayaquil and Quito with Aerogal, Tame and LAN. Flight costs vary from $400 – $600 return depending on time of year. You need to buy a return ticket unless you can prove you have another means of leaving, but changing the return date on your ticket is not a big challenge.

You also need to buy a specific visa for the Galapagos, which you can get at the airport you leave from at a cost of $10. When departing, you’ll go through a special part of the airport where they scan your bags for agricultural products – obviously it’s a good idea to avoid having any in your bag before heading out!

Finally, upon arrival into the Galapagos you have to pay a $100 park entry fee per person. Bring cash to cover that.

Getting around on San Cristobal is easy. There are countless taxis, and a ride from the airport to the main town, Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, will take about five minutes and cost around a dollar. It’s also easily walkable, taking around twenty minutes, but if it’s hot and you’ve got baggage, a taxi will be easier.

Once you’re settled in, most locations are in easy walking distance, with a few spots best accessed by bike. If you want to head up into the highlands or across to Puerto Chino on the other side, then you can grab a taxi, or, for the truly fit / deranged amongst you, cycle.

Accommodation on the Galapagos – San Cristobal

The main town of Puerto Baquerizo Moreno is where you are likely to be basing yourself as this is where pretty much everything is. There are other villages on the island, but they are predominantly just farming communities.

There is a variety of accommodation on offer. We found that price varied from a minimum of around $40 a night for a double with en-suite and air conditioning, and went up to around $100, based on two people sharing.

There is a high season, which falls between November and February, and we were advised that whilst prices don’t really change, the availability will. This can also be said for June to August. Nearly all the hotels are locally owned and operated.

If you want to stay longer, there is also the option to rent a room or an apartment, or take part in a homestay with a local. Lots of people have spare rooms available and love to host international guests.

Prices for these options vary, but are likely to be $10 – $15 a day, which might include some meals. The easiest way to find these is to just ask around when you arrive, but you can also check out websites like Vrbo .

During our trip we stayed at a couple of places – Casa Blanca (pictured with the dome), and Hostal Casa de Laura . The former was a little more pricey because that was their best room, but it did offer a great view. The latter was excellent value for money. Note that at the time of writing, both these properties have to be booked directly via their websites.

Food in the Galapagos

Finding food on San Cristobal is easy – there are plenty of options to choose from – and if you’re into seafood then you’re in for a treat.

Prices vary. You can easily pick up a locally oriented breakfast of fish soup (encebollado) or a lunch deal consisting of soup, main dish with rice and juice (almuerzos) for $3 to $4. If you want more options, then there are plenty of places to choose from, ranging from this popular seafront spot to the San Jose Grill, the latter of which is awesome for BBQ’d specialities. For seafood, we particularly enjoyed Descanso del Marinaro .

Of course, you pay more for these options, with prices ranging from $10 – $20 per item.

Finding a Tour operator in the Galapagos & Gear Hire

The operator we were visiting the Galapagos with, GalaKiwi , don’t offer single day trips as they specialise in multi-day tour packages. However, they were kind enough to recommend the following operators for day trips and diving from San Cristobal:

Islanders Galapagos . We did a day trip with these guys at a cost of around $125 per person up to Punta Pitt. This was a full day tour and included lunch, gear hire and a guide, and was very much worth it. More on day tours in the what to do section below.

If you’re into diving, then we were advised to recommend WreckBay . We don’t dive, however they are the firm that GalaKiwi use if they have clients who have diving needs, and we trust their opinion.

Finally, if you’re looking to hire gear, from snorkelling equipment to bikes or surf boards you will find that these are available from many places at hourly, half day or daily rates. Just check the equipment is in decent condition before setting off.

Other essentials in the Galapagos – money / health / safety / shopping

Money – When we visited, there were three ATM’s available, one of which had an actual bank branch (Banco Pacifico). Unfortunately none of these ATM’s would dispense us money, which wasn’t an entirely uncommon theme in Ecuador where only certain bank branches worked with our Visa credit card. Luckily, the bank branch itself would give us money, although this did cost us a bank transfer fee.

Health – There is a clinic on San Cristobal, but any serious medical emergency will likely require you to be taken to the mainland. We always recommend having good medical insurance with evacuation cover wherever you travel in the world, and the Galapagos is no different.

Safety – The Galapagos islands are very safe, we walked around with our cameras out at all times of the day and night and felt perfectly safe. In that respect, it’s a marked difference from cities like Quito or Guayaquil. Obviously you should always keep a close eye on your belongings wherever you are, but we felt very safe here.

Shopping – Along the main boardwalk there are some little shops and souvenir stands. A few blocks back from this are a couple of reasonably sized supermarkets, although be aware that things do cost a bit more here than mainland Ecuador. There is also a truly excellent bakery at the north end of town.

What to do on San Cristobal in the Galapagos

There is a lot to do on San Cristobal. Unlike many of the other islands in the Galapagos, you can do a great deal on this island without needing a Galapagos National Park ranger, although some attractions do require taking a tour. In no particular order, here are some ideas for passing your time on this wonderful island:

1. Las Loberias Beach

At the other end of the airport, and around a 5 minute taxi / 15 minute cycle / 40 minute walk from town is the beach of Las Loberias . It’s a picturesque little cove where you can get up close with marine iguanas on rocks, and snorkel with sea lions. It’s a really nice place to pass a few hours.

If you’re feeling like a slightly longer hike, you can take a walk on past the beach and along the cliffs, which offer some spectacular views of the coast and the unspoilt island wilderness. Very much worth it in our opinion.

2. Visit the Treehouse , as part of a trip to a gorgeous beach, Giant Tortoises and a Crater Lake

Regular readers might be aware that we spent one of our nights in the Galapagos sleeping in a treehouse ! This may not be for everyone (it’s open air, and the highlands get their fair share of bugs), but it’s open throughout the day, and you can visit for a nominal fee to see this marvellous construction.

This would be a good excursion to combine as a full day trip across to Puerto Chino , the beach on the other side of the highlands, as well as visiting the tortoises at Galapaguera and the Laguna El Junco crater lake walk way up in the highlands.

For this trip you’re looking at at least five hours, and so you’d be best off hiring a taxi for the excursion. This would cost in the region of around $50 to do so – arrange the price in advance.

3. Drink coffee

Before we visited the Galapagos, we had no idea that these islands were home to some of the most sought after coffee in the world. At Starbucks, if they have it, a cup of Galapagos coffee can set you back as much as $8 a cup.

Or, you could drop in to the Mockingbird Cafe on San Cristobal, operated by the chap who oversees the main coffee plantation on the island, and get a cup for much less, safe in the knowledge that it’s entirely organically produced with a seriously low transport cost!

We were lucky enough to have an exclusive tour of the coffee plantation set up for us. This isn’t generally available to the public, but if you’re nice to the owner of the Mockingbird Cafe , maybe you’ll be able to figure something out! Or, you could read our post on the subject instead.

4. Take a Tour to Punta Pitt

As previously mentioned, you can do a great deal on San Cristobal island entirely by yourself. However, there are two experiences that we absolutely insist you do, both of which will require you to take a licensed tour operator.

The first is a ride up to Punta Pitt. This is at the far eastern end of the island, featuring a crazy volcanic landscape that you won’t find anywhere else on the island. It’s also home to all three species of booby, in particular the harder to spot red-footed booby, which we were lucky enough to spot during nesting season.

The visit requires you to take a boat to the end of the island (there’s no road), followed by a walk which is just under 2km. It’s not overly taxing, but there is a bit of uphill, there’s little shade, and the Galapagos is a hot place. So bring sunscreen, a hat and a water bottle! For more on preparing and planning for a Galapagos trip , take a look at our detailed post on that subject .

5. Take a Tour to Kicker Rock

We’ve spent a fair amount of time snorkelling, including time in the stunning Similan Islands of Thailand , but we’ve never had a snorkelling experience like that at Kicker Rock off San Cristobal.

Within seconds of getting in the water we were following a three metre wide manta ray, before becoming distracted by a pod of dolphins who wanted to say hello. Shortly after, we were snorkelling between the walls of the sleeping lion (named so by the locals for the shape of the rock), where there were turtles, reef sharks and countless fish.

Then there were eagle rays, sea lions and a gigantic ball of fish to swim through, before the day topped itself off with an encounter with at least a hundred hammerhead sharks.

So yes – Kicker Rock . If you do only one day trip on San Cristobal, make it this one. If you are lucky, you might be able to find a company doing a day trip that includes both Kicker Rock and Punta Pitt in one full day adventure, which would be a truly unforgettable experience.

6. Watch the Sunset at Punta Carola

There is nothing we like better than watching the sun set over the sea, and San Cristobal offers some good locations for this – the best of which is Punta Carola , also known as Lovers Beach.

A popular spot with locals,visitors and sea lions alike, this little sandy cove offers gorgeous sunset views as well as great surfing. Yes, the Galapagos are also a surfing destination for the well heeled surfer. Who knew?

You can either watch the sunset from the beach, or take a walk up Cerro Tijeratas hill, as mentioned below, for a great view from above.

Getting to Punta Carola involves a walk – you can either head past the interpretation centre (see below) or through the interpretation centre and follow the path. It’s not hard to find, and anyone on the island will be able to point you in the right direction if you lose track of where you’re going. On the way you will walk past Playa Mann, the closest beach to town which gets very popular on the weekends and is great to cool off either on the way to or back from Punta Carola.

7. Visit the Interpretation Centre

One of the main reasons you’ve come to the Galapagos is to learn about the history of the islands, from the wildlife through to the geology and also the human inhabitants. And, after visiting a few locations on a number of the islands, we concluded that the best place to learn about all of the above was the Interpretation Centre on San Cristobal.

This building contains everything you might need to know about the islands, without being too overwhelming. Handy displays walk you through how the islands formed (and continue to form: the Galapagos are still actively volcanic), how the wildlife came to be and its importance in our understanding of biology, as well as the history of the people of the islanders.

The latter was fascinating – the history of the Galapagos people is often a story of tragedy and desperation, of people battling to survive in a land which was deeply unwelcoming. Plus, there are tales of murder, mystery and intrigue. Even better, the Interpretation Centre is entirely free to visit. We highly recommend you visit early on in your stay to get a good feel for where you are. It can be found a short walk to the north of town, or a 2 minute taxi ride from the town centre.

8. Walk up Frigate Bird / Cerro Tijeratas Hill for a spectacular view

Around the back of the Interpretation centre is a loop trail which takes you to Punta Carola as well as up to Cerro Tijeratas Hill, from where you can get very close to Frigate Birds, as well as get a great view of the island, Kicker Rock, and the sun setting into the sea.

It’s not a particularly challenging walk, although the last section does require you to go up the hill via a staircase. If you’re feeling fit, the trail carries on along the ridge and to another gorgeous beach which is rarely visited.

Below the hill there’s a cove which is excellent for snorkelling and is also home to a statue of Charles Darwin. This is believed to be where he first made landfall on his historic voyage to the islands. From his statue you can see blue footed boobies as well as frigate birds wheeling overhead.

9. Hang out with Sea Lions

Saving the best for last! Without doubt, our highlight on San Cristobal were the sea lions. These guys are literally everywhere, in far greater quantities than on any of the other islands, lying on benches, in the road, on boats… yep, generally everywhere you can imagine.

They are very used to humans (although you aren’t supposed to get within 2 metres of any animal in the Galapagos), so are easy to take photos of. They are also endearingly, unbelievably cute. We visited in December, which happened to coincide with sea lion babies being everywhere. And if there’s anything cuter than a baby sea lion wobbling across the sand, I don’t know what it is. So yes, sea lions. You can’t miss them.

Summary of an Independent Trip to San Cristobal Island, Galapagos

Before I visited the Galapagos, I wondered if it would live up to expectation. And the answer, is yes, yes they do. Although we were invited on a tour with GalaKiwi, we paid for our own flights to the islands as well as for our subsequent nine days of independent exploration and accommodation on San Cristobal. And we would go back in an instant. They are just that marvellous of a place.

We would very much recommend doing an organised tour if you have the budget. We went with GalaKiwi , who gave us an amazing experience, took care of all the logistics, made sure we learnt everything we possibly could about the islands, and basically filled every day with awesome experiences .

However, if your budget doesn’t quite stretch to it, or you really prefer doing things yourself, or you just happen to have some free time after a tour, then we can highly recommend basing yourself on San Cristobal for your trip, and exploring from here. It has everything you could want to experience, is easy to get to, from, and around, has plenty of accommodation options, and is far less busy than Santa Cruz with more to do.

Further Reading for your Independent Galapagos Adventure

Want to know more about planning a trip to the Galapagos ? Check out this comprehensive guide we wrote, which contains tips on things to bring, how to get between the islands, and an insider’s guide to going to the loo on a boat.

We also have a series of other posts from our Galapagos adventures to inspire you, here , plus a guide to what to pack for the Galapagos . Enjoy!

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There are 8 comments on this post

Please scroll to the end to leave a comment

thomas says

19th October 2022 at 10:20 pm

What month did you visit Galapagos, I really want to see the hammerhead sharks in Kicker Rock 🙂

Laurence Norah says

21st October 2022 at 1:40 am

It was in December as we were there for Christmas and New Year 🙂

Have a good trip!

Pati M says

11th January 2019 at 4:32 pm

We are going in March. So excited to see everything we were reviewing on your site with details and pictures!! THANK YOU. Will post to you when we get home !

11th January 2019 at 6:26 pm

Our pleasure Pati – have a wonderful experience and let us know how it goes! Say hi to the sea lions for us 😀

Felisa says

21st July 2016 at 5:34 pm

OMG, that Punta Carola pic is amazing! thank you for the posting and all the tips! Can you post advice on taking pictures with iphone for the non-professional lazy people, even with recommended iphone add-on lenses?

Laurence says

4th February 2016 at 12:34 am

Hey Stef! My parents love to tell me this story about their visit 😀 Hope you had a great time in the Galapagos 🙂

Jenny Nutter says

31st January 2016 at 9:17 pm

What a great post! I just came across your post as my husband and I are planning a 9 day trip to the Galapagos at the start of March, on the way back to Australia after a 12 month trip! San Cristobal sounds amazing. Your photo from a roof top on a building which is bright blue and white is gorgeous. Is that where you stayed? What was the name of the hotel/hostel, and can you remember how much it was? Thanks for your advice.

4th February 2016 at 1:05 am

Thanks Jenny – you’re going to have an amazing time! The property is “Casa Blanca”, I think we paid $100 a night for that room which was about the most we paid for anywhere on the islands, but that was their most expensive room (roof top dome!), and we stayed over New Years Eve 😉 I’ve updated the accommodation section of the post to make it a bit clearer about where we stayed, hope it helps 🙂

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How to Travel the Galápagos Islands on a Budget

Home » Blog » Budget Travel » Backpacking Destinations » How to Travel the Galápagos Islands on a Budget

Everyone wants to know: “Is it expensive to travel to the Galapagos?” YES. No question about it. But lucky for you, we’re going to share our best tips for traveling there on a budget because we believe it’s a place that not only the rich should experience.

Soaking up sunshine and frolicking with sea lions in the Galápagos Islands seems like a far-off dream, doesn’t it? But it doesn’t have to be.

But I bet now you’re wondering: “Isn’t it expensive to travel to the Galápagos?”

YES. No question about it.

But lucky for you, we’re going to share our best tips for traveling there on a budget because we believe it’s a place that not only the rich should experience.

We’ll even share exactly how much we spent, so you have an idea of what you’re in for.

Though not as budget-friendly as many other South American destinations, visiting this stunning archipelago is definitely doable even if you’re not a millionaire.

While backpacking in South America, we had no intention of visiting the Galápagos. From everything I had read, I knew it was hella expensive, and that was enough to keep us away. We had a pretty tight budget to stick to, after all. But after countless travelers we met along the way recounted stories of this magical place, we finally convinced ourselves that since we were already in   Ecuador , going to the Galápagos would never be cheaper.

We thought of it this way: Sure, in 10 years we will (hopefully) have more dough in our savings account, but it’s highly likely that the ecological wonder will no longer be the same. The ecosystem on the islands is already being damaged in large part due to tourism .

Side note: When you do visit the Galápagos, please travel consciously . Don’t litter (go the extra mile and pick up a few pieces of trash while you’re there!), choose companies that treat the environment with respect, and don’t harm the animals!

Once we realized that there’s no better time to visit the Galápagos   than the present, we bit the bullet and bought a last minute flight. We were fully aware that this excursion would break the budget we’d set for our 3-month trip , but we were determined to do our best of keeping our costs as low as possible. And we did a pretty good job of it!

So are you thinking of packing your bags?

Great! I promise this is a trip of a lifetime that you won’t regret. There are so many things to do on the Galápagos Islands , and you will be talking about this experience for years to come.

And we’re here to help you plan!  We learned a lot along the way and are excited to share all we know about traveling to the Galápagos on a budget so you’ll be able to maximize each dollar! 

And this includes having the right travel gear. Our friends at Practical Wanderlust have a great Galapagos Islands packing list to get you ready for any adventure on the islands. 

Okay, let’s get started…

Come with a plan

I’m about to divulge all of our best tips for traveling the Galápagos on a budget, but first I’m going to get the bad news out of the way… Even if you follow these tips exactly, you will still spend a good chunk of money while visiting these islands. Yes, these tips will save you money (hopefully lots of it!), but it is still a very expensive place to travel. There’s no way around it. 

What you can do, though, is come with a solid budget plan. This way, you’ll be prepared and will find it much more enjoyable than if you come with unrealistic expectations.

So let’s talk numbers:

First things first: you’ll need to book a flight . There are only a few airlines that fly to the Galápagos, and prices typically hover between $350 – $450 (round trip from mainland Ecuador) depending on how far in advance you book.

Tip # 1: The cheapest city to fly from is usually Guayaquil. And yes, this means you need to first account for the cost of getting to Ecuador.

Tip #2: If you can be flexible with your time, use Skyscanner’s “whole month” function to find the cheapest dates to fly. (When selecting departure and return dates, click on “whole month” instead of a specific date.)

Once you have accounted for the cost of the flight, add $110 per person. This is a conservation fee that each visitor must pay before stepping foot out of the airport. No bargaining here!

Now, add to this the cost of getting from island to island via ferry – $30 each way, which adds up fast. So if you’re like us and want to see the 3 main islands, you’re looking at $120 per person just in ferry costs.

I know you’re not going to want to hear this, but the cost of accommodation, food, and entertainment in the Galápagos is much more comparable to the United States than it is to the rest of Ecuador. Be prepared to spend at least 3 times what you would in the rest of the country.

If you already know that’s going to break your budget, consider a cheaper alternative: visiting Isla de la Plata (also known as the “poor man’s Galapagos”).

1. Rethink the cruise

The absolute cheapest way to explore the Galápagos is by basing yourself on land. You can take day trips to the ocean and hop from island to island. If you are on a tight budget, this is definitely the way to go!

Another way of seeing the islands is on a cruise. Though I don’t have personal experience with seeing the islands this way, we met both travelers who had great experiences and terrible ones. If cruising seems more your style, there are a few things you’ll want to consider.

Sure there are “budget cruises” advertised, but remember, you get what you pay for.  Why come to one of the most spectacular places in the world, only to have your experience tainted by staying in a stuffy boat with subpar staff and sketchy food. There are some great medium-priced companies out there and there are some pros to traveling this way, but make for sure you’re going with a quality, ethical company before you make a reservation.

Be sure to look at reviews and rankings for any cruise you take. We’ve done a little research for you and we really like Liveaboard.com . They have quality boats from all over the world in their network and can hook you up with the best trip in the Galapagos. They specialize in scuba diving trips so if you want to see this magical place underwater, look no further. 

Remember that you can see everything you would on a boat, by basing yourself on the islands and taking day trips to sea. This way, even if you wind up staying in a bad hotel, you only need to sleep there. If you are on a cruise, you’re stuck.

2. Book accommodation in advance  

We found that there were many luxury and mid-range options for accommodation, but inexpensive hotels were seriously lacking.

If you’re looking only for budget rooms, you will have a limited number of places you can stay. I will tell you, some of these budget places are absolutely disgusting. Think rude owners, rooms with stained sheets and rotting ceilings… oh, and waking up in the middle of the night with a cockroach scurrying across your face is not enjoyable either.

We stayed in two such places when we first arrived on the islands because we hadn’t done our research.

The good news for you is that you can avoid the duds. The bad news is that decent, inexpensive hotels book up quickly. Plus, the Internet in the Galápagos is terribly slow, so doing your research ahead of time really is a must.

Below is one hostel we recommend from personal experience:

Galapagos Best Homestay (Santa Cruz Island)

An all-around great place to stay, each room has a kitchenette and an unlimited supply of purified drinking water. This place is it is a bit out of the way – about a twenty-minute walk to the town center. Taxis on the island are cheap though, and it will only cost you $1 to get downtown if you really don’t want to walk.

Here’s how we find other affordable accommodation on the Galapagos Islands .

3. Time your trip right

You may not always have control over the time of year you visit, but obviously peak season (June – September, and December – January) will cost more than off-season.

In addition to the time of year, consider how many days you will spend in the Galápagos.  Visiting for a short amount of time does not always mean you will save money. Generally speaking, the longer you stay, the less you will actually spend per day. 

It goes without being said that a month in the Galápagos will cost you a small fortune. You’ve got to find that sweet spot where you have enough days to travel slowly, but not so many that you spend unnecessary money.

We spent one week in the Galápagos, which was enough to see the three main islands. We did have to rush around a bit in our last couple of days though, costing us more money than we would have spent otherwise. In my opinion, 10 days would be ideal. 

4. You need to search, but there is cheap food

While most tourists flock to the Italian pizzerias and Western joints, follow the locals for some cheap, Ecuadorian cuisine.

On Santa Cruz Island: At night, look no further than Binford Street for great people watching and even better food. The seafood looks delicious and is no doubt very fresh, but it is still expensive. Instead, sit at one of the many open-air restaurants and order the Cazuela de Camarones – a traditional “stew” of plantains, spices and shrimp. This $12 dish was delicious and more than enough for two of us to share.

On Isabela Island: Head outside the main drag to Restaurante el Tropical where the locals gather.

5. Buy (most of) your drinks at the supermarket

As with most of our travels, we bought our drinks at a market to avoid paying top dollar at bars.

There are countless restaurants that advertise “happy hours” that last nearly all day. Despite being discounted, the drinks are still not cheap. Too rich for our backpacking blood!

So grab a box of wine or a bottle of rum, head to the beach, and enjoy the sunset with class! 

6. Choose your tours wisely

You could easily spend a month on the islands, taking a new excursion every day. But eventually they will start to blend together… and take a toll on your budget because they ain’t cheap!

Do your research and pick a few tours that interest you and stick with those. Hiking, SCUBA diving, snorkeling, sunset cruise, sailing… pick your poison. Expect to splurge, but go in knowing that you can’t do it all if you’re trying to stay on budget.

Our top tour pick:  If you are on Isabela Island, the Los Túneles tour is a must! At $95 per person, it is a splurge, yes, but totally  worth it.

Tip: Ask the tour agency if they will give you a discount for booking multiple tours with them. Sometimes it pays off to be loyal to one company instead of booking each excursion through a different operator.

7. Bring cold, hard cash to Isabela Island

Although the Galápagos thrives on tourism, it is less developed as a whole than we were expecting. This was a pleasant surprise after having traveled to many places that have lost their luster due to a surplus of visitors. 

The island of Isabela, with its sandy streets and lack of infrastructure, is seriously charming. It was my favorite place in the Galápagos, but there was one tiny – well, actually huge – problem.

There is not a single ATM on the island. And apart from one crazy expensive restaurant, no place on the island accepts credit cards.

So there we were, stuck on the island without any money. So there I am thinking, The only way I’m going to be able to eat is to shell out $25 per meal at this Western restaurant that also charges a 7% credit card fee. Holy sh*t… there goes all of my money!

And then there was the issue of getting off the island. Turns out we didn’t even have enough cash on us for us for a ferry ticket back.

If it weren’t for the generosity of the manager at our hostel (and the wonders of PayPal), I don’t know how we would have gotten off the island. One of us may have had to stay. Which wouldn’t have been too bad, after all…

Don’t get yourself in this situation. Learn from our mistake and bring plenty of US dollas to Islabela!

8. Take advantage of free activities

On Santa Cruz Island:

Las Grietas: More popular with locals than tourists, Las Grietas is a unique place to spend an afternoon. Observe teenagers jumping off the jagged cliffs into the crevice filled with crystal water below. Better yet, join in the fun and take the plunge yourself!

Tortuga Bay: It’s a bit of a walk to reach this secluded beach, but you’ll be glad you made the trip. Head out in the morning to avoid the scorching afternoon sun. If you’re lucky, you might even see baby sea turtles scurrying away from their nest and out to sea!

Fish Market: Watch as fishermen bring in their fresh catch to be fried up for a long line of hungry customers. A crowd of pelicans will likely be waiting for scraps to be thrown in their direction, making for a great photo opportunity. The nearby dock is usually crowded with local children pushing each other into the water, which is a sight in itself!

On Isabela Island:

Concha de Perla: This wooden boardwalk is home to many lazy sea lions getting their tan on! Be careful not to step on any of them as you make your way to the end of the boardwalk, where you will find a shallow bay. Put on a snorkel and fins, and swim with schools of fish, sea turtles, and manta rays.

Enjoy a sunset: Yes, the token “free sunset” tip. But seriously, the sunsets on Isabela are spectacular. They are made even better with some boxed wine. I’m classy, I know.

On San Cristobal Island:

Swimming with sea lions: Totally free! Just bring a snorkel and mask so you can see these friendly creatures up close. (Many hotels or tour agencies rent them out for $5.)

How much did we spend?  

To give you an idea of what to expect, we spent $1,000 each for one week. This includes our flights, ferries, tours, accommodation, food and drinks. We did it just about the cheapest way possible, so expect to spend at least this much per person per week! 

You might also like…

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Planning a trip to Galapagos? Save this article for later!

We want to hear from you!

Have you traveled to the Galapagos? Did you find it hard to stick to a budget? What are your best money saving tips? Comment below!

Comments (39) on “ How to Travel the Galápagos Islands on a Budget ”

great article….

great article.. thanks for the information…

Thank you so much for your insight! I have always wanted to go to the Galapagos, but didn’t think we could ever afford it. You have given me great hope!

What a great blog, thank you for the tips. Do you have any recommended hotels/hostels in Santa Cruz and San Cristobal? Thanks!

Hi Jade, we recommend Galapagos Best Homestay for Santa Cruz (link in the article). It’s a nice hostel/guesthouse but it’s a bit far and you’ll need to take a taxi there or a 20-30 minute walk from the city center. Unfortunately, we did not stay on San Cristobal Island, so I can’t personally recommend anything. Hope this helps!

I am traveling with my 15 year old son. We are vegetarian and looking forward to going in July or August. Any advice or great places to sleep, eat, and see. We hope to be on the islands for 8-10 days and would love to know if you can recommend days and which islands would be best. We love snorkeling, wildlife and sunsets. 🙂 We are planning to stay in Quito for a few days prior so also looking for central affordable places to stay before flying to Galápagos. Look forward to your advice!

Hi Bina. What a great trip you have planned with you son. As you can see from this article, we recommend Santa Cruz Island because there are many things to do there. We also recommend Isla Isabella, because it has an untouched feel in certain places. We also like the Los Tuneles Tour because you get to snorkel around underwater arches that were formed by lava. Please check out our details in this article and our other Galapagos articles to see what places we recommend on each island.

We also have a Quito article where we show you what we did in the city and where to stay. Feel free to check it out.

I was curious if you stayed on one island the whole time and did day trips from there, or did you stay in a few different places? If you were to do the trip again (as a first timer), would you stay in the spots? Not meaning the same hostels or hotels, but the same towns?

Hey Laura. We stayed in two hotels on Isla Santa Cruz and two hotels on Isla Isabela. Day trips can become very long days if you base yourself on Santa Cruz. I would recommend, if you have time, to choose an island in addition to Santa Cruz, and stay there for a few nights. That way you are able to explore around that island easier.

I am planning 2 weeks trip to ecuador in July with a 12 yr old. Thinking of going to Quito, Guayaqil, and the Galapagos islands. How shall I divide the days of our trip? How many on the islands? We want to connect local people, expand on our Spanish speaking, food, soccer etc.

I am going to Galapagos in February so this was useful. Thanks!

Wonderful read, so glad I came across your blog. Wondering how one travels within the island? taxi cabs? tuck-tucks?

Hey Angela! There are tuk tuks throughout the entire island and they are easy to flag down. They typically cost about $1 per ride anywhere within the city. Happy planning!

Thank you very much for this review and we have found it most helpful. We are planning a trop to the Galapagos within the year 2018. thank you. the Lacy’s

Hey Stephanie. You’re welcome! Happy planning!

Just want to say, what a great guide!! I am planning on doing a month in every country in south america starting in March, never been travelling before and I am from Northern Ireland so I am going to stick out like a MASSIVE sore thumb, think it might have something to do with the ginger hair and freckly skin, I will be using this guide religiously!! it just seems like one of them places whilst expensive….I JUST CANT MISS IT!! thats the problem I’m having at the moment when trying to plan my trip is seeing everything at the right time, because i want to do EVERYTHING in south america from iguazu falls to seeing Patagonia to taking samba lessons in brazil haha so this sort of guide is tremendously helpful!! 🙂

Thank you!!

I’m glad you found our guide helpful. It is super tempting to do everything when traveling in South America, but remember it is a HUGE continent. So if you don’t do everything that is okay. It sounds like you have an incredible trip planned and I wish you the best of luck. Take in every moment.

Hi Katie i was just wondering if you went on your travels I am planning to go to Columbia and Ecuador in November 2018 I am also from Northern Ireland so would be grateful of your advice

Hey Mary, we first traveled to Colombia and Ecuador in February and March, and we have been back to Colombia in Dec and July and have had great weather. For more information check out our Colombia and Ecuador pages in our Destinations Page.

Sorry meant to say Lee

Hi Lee I assume you completed your trip – i am from NI too and heading off next month for a month – did you have an itinerary or any tips

Hey Mary! Sounds like you have some fun travel plans coming up. Most of our tips are in this blog article so feel free to have a look. We would recommend to have a few days on at least two different islands. We spent about a week in total and spent 4 days in Santa Cruz and 3 days in Isla Isabella. We also took a day trip to San Cristobal. Hopefully this gives you a start. Let us know if you have any more questions!

Whilst it’s great to save money by staying on land and "rethinking the cruise", just be aware that by doing this you are limiting where you can go and what you can see.

Some of the more out of the way islands (Genovesa and Espanola to be specific) which are also some of the most amazing islands can only be reached on a small ship cruise (large cruise ships are too big to reach them and it’s illegal/not possible for day trips from the main islands to go here).

One company that is really big on environmental sustainability AND giving back to local communities of the countries it goes to (pretty much any country you’d want to visit) is INTREPID! They have a great range of Galapagos tours, most of which are on board the Daphne which is a really good, small ship (8 rooms total).

this is such an awesome blog, i am planning our trip and this is very helpful

Thanks Jane for the kind words! Happy planning!

Thanks for these great tips! There are so many options that it is important to investigate a lot before choosing the best option for you! if you decide to book a cruise, ask if you will have different activities to choose, so that you won’t have to stick with the same group all the time, and be able to choose depending on your interestes.

Thanks so much for writing this great blog! I am planning a trip to the Galapagos and was wondering which day tours you used for your activities? It seems to me like most of the tours are several days long. Thanks in advance!

Hey Victoria, we actually only did day tours while we were in the Galapagos. We asked out hotels/hostels for recommendations, and shopped around a bit. There’s no need to book in advance unless you’re really limited on time. We usually just booked each tour the day before and didn’t have a problem. Hope this helps!

Thanks for the great info! You didn’t mention which tour company you used for your snorkel tour, I would love to know! Thanks!

Hey Catlin, good question… We actually can’t remember the name of the company. Our hostel recommended them and booked it for us. And we can’t for the life of us find the name. Sorry! But it didn’t seem like you needed to book far in advance. We just arranged the tour for the next day, so I’m sure you could do the same and get recommendations from the hotel you’re staying at. Sorry we couldn’t be more help! Best of luck!

I hope this post will inspire more people to explore Galapagos on their own. I just was there for three month and I know from the locals how much they hate the cruises. Most of the money will go the the cruises operators based in Quito. But the Galapagos are so safe and easy to travel. Never really cheap but also not that horrendously expensive as the agencies are trying to sell it to you.

People listen to this and explore the Galapagos independently!

Thanks Céline for your thoughtful comment. We are big advocates for traveling independently because not only do you get to support local people financially (instead of large tour operators), but you also get a much more authentic experience. It’s fun connecting with like-minded people like you 🙂 I’m so glad you had a great experience in the Galapagos!

Thanks for all these tips and for a well designed, easy to read site. We are heading to the Galapagos on Friday so will take your tips in my back pocket. 😉 I am also reading your Philippines section as we will be there in Dec / Jan. Nice work! Keep it up.

Hey Astrid, thanks so much for the kind words. Have an amazing time in the Galapgos – threes no other place quite like it! Let us know how your trip goes. And how exciting to be going to the Philippines too! It’s one of our favorites 🙂

I booked my accommodation by AirBnB and it was great! Half the price and excellent local free advice. Highly recommend to do the same, check for reviews and prices

Yeah, we love AirBnB too, Flor! And if you sign up through our site, you’ll get $25 free toward your first stay! Such a fun way to see a "local" side of a new place!

Any specific AirBnB recommendations?

I will strongly recommend your readers to really pay attention while selecting your day tour operator. They lack safety control from any entity and it shows. Be careful!

Hi Manuel, Thank you for taking the time to comment. I think it’s good to shop around and read reviews online to help you choose tour companies, and by doing this we were very pleased in our choice in tour companies.

The company we went with for the Los Tuneles tour on Isabela Island was 100% safe, reliable and had great service. They have top ratings on TripAdvisor, and we were very pleased in our experience.

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Sustainability and conservation: Tortuga Bay in Galapagos

Puerto Ayora, Ecuador

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About this trip

Walk to Tortuga Bay, a beach paradise with turquoise waters ideal for photography and relaxation. You will have the opportunity to contribute to conservation by collecting microplastics with a handmade strainer 

What’s included

• Transport Private transportation with professional driver
• Guide English speaking naturalist guide
• Visit Tortuga Bay Visit to Tortuga Bay and Brava Beach
• Handmade strainer Handmade strainer made by local craftsmen

What’s not included

• Personal expenses
• Other beverages and me
• Services not mentioned

Available Packages

Departing in the morning from your hotel, you will be transferred to Tortuga Bay, which is only a 45-minute drive away. 

Tortuga Bay is among the most beautiful beaches in the archipelago, with turquoise waters that are perfect for photography and refreshment. As you journey, you will encounter Playa Brava, an area known for its strong waves that are ideal for surfing. On the other hand, Playa Mansa, in the west, is a gentler region. Between the two areas, a crystal-clear lagoon is an ideal location for activities such as swimming and snorkelling.

You also have an opportunity to aid in the conservation of these vulnerable ecosystems by dedicating some of your leisure time to picking up microplastics from the beach. We shall provide you with a handcrafted sieve, crafted by local artisans, as a form of support.

Return to your hotel and Puerto Ayora at your convenience.

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7 perfect gifts to take from Ecuador

• January 29, 2020 October 26, 2023
• Nature Galapagos & Ecuador
• Uncategorized

Gifts to take away from Ecuador

Every journey deserves more than one way to be remembered, isn’t it? That’s why you’ll search for something that truly represents Ecuador to take home. Gifts the Ecuador

Supporting the traditions and handmade craft made by locals is important to leave your mark where you go. Nothing better than take a little piece of land and love from the locals inside your luggage.

After all you may buy, the best present you can take home are your experiences. So keep your sight on the landscape and everything it has to give you.

All around the country you’ll find special fairs made for tourists. There you’ll find plenty of options to bring to your loving ones.

Keep this tip in mind: sellers are use to bargain. This can make your shopping ride cheaper.

The world’s most famous hat is the classic souvenir for every Ecuador visitor. It’s made from Jipijapa leaves, a variety of small palm tree that grows on the coast. You can find industrial craft or the handmade ones and its authentic model.

If you buy one, remember to take the wrapping as soon as you can. Otherwise, after three days it can lose its distinctive shape. Gifts the Ecuador

Although its name suggests another nationality, the hat has its own myths. It became famous by President Roosevelt in Panama during the construction of the canal, but was actually made in Ecuador.

Comfortable and breatheable, you can buy it just about everywhere: from small shops to large factories. They are a total art.

Known as the best from South America, there’s only truth in that statement. Not only because the cacao production is here, but also the crafters have a unique technique.

You’ll find many chocolate and coffee shops along the country that showcase the abilities to improve (even more) the piece of chocolate that you taste.

The local cacao production makes it particular. Using cocoa butter instead of the more economical vegetable oils, is one of the indicators of a higher end product. This gives creaminess and a stronger flavor. From ones with milk added, almonds and mint, the cacao concentration can rise until 100% and give you the real flavour of chocolate at its maximum. Give a chance to every variety and, definitely, take them home.

Don’t forget to grab a great amount of chocolate. It’s the best present you can bring and become the favourite one among your friends, for sure.

Don’t miss the chocolate tasting that some brands offer. This will give you the chance to find out what characterizes every bar of chocolate depending on where was the cacao tree from. The variances inside your mouth will make you crazy.

Many great manufacturers are available. But try out little producers, you’ll be surprised.

Buy a stack of bars and do a taste test when you get home. You’ll fly back to Ecuador in a blink of an eye. No matter how many bars you buy, they are never enough.

In the last few years, a couple of companies put their efforts into improving the process of producing coffee grains, and they really achieved it.

This will be something you’ll miss the most, as soon as you take off. No matter if you prefer ground or beans, nothing compares to its flavor. You’ll find many coffee shops to buy a few bags, and also try out the varieties before buying them. Don’t miss the opportunity of trying different brands and roasters to decide which are your favourites. Gifts the Ecuador

Light, strong, with chocolate flavour or citric notes, there are plenty of options to choose from. You’ll feel the necessity to buy them all.

Alpaca wool

There’s nothing softer and warmer than alpaca wool. You’ll find it in hats, socks, blankets and ponchos shape. Also, if you enjoy to knit, take the chance to buy balls of wool.

Be aware that some products come from Peru or made of alpaca blended with sheep wool or a synthetic material . Gifts the Ecuador

The blankets here are typically all handmade using traditional techniques from very experienced weavers. If you want to get someone (or yourself) a gift that will last for years, you should seriously consider buying one.

Brightly colored backpacks are very common here and the patterns loudly announce the South American culture . Often these are made from a combination of leather and sheep’s wool.

They are a really cool gift for students and adults also. They have a ton of character and are truly memorable.

Ecuador is known for handmade gold and silver jewelry. Often this is woven from fine wire (filigree) to great very ornate pieces, complete with colorful stones.

It’s amazing to watch how craftsmen work with fine strands of silver, working it into amazingly detailed masterpieces. If you have a picture or sketch of what you want, you can have them make it for you. Most of the shops here have little areas in the back where the silversmiths carefully and meticulously work away.

The typical ones, Gifts the Ecuador

Magnets or mugs are souvenirs that everybody like and, some even collect. There are never enough and will always remind you of the trip

Quite inexpensive, are suitable for adults and kids, and also for those who you didn’t plan to bring a present but you think will be nice.

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Travel Itinerary For One Week in Moscow: The Best of Moscow!

I just got back from one week in Moscow. And, as you might have already guessed, it was a mind-boggling experience. It was not my first trip to the Russian capital. But I hardly ever got enough time to explore this sprawling city. Visiting places for business rarely leaves enough time for sightseeing. I think that if you’ve got one week in Russia, you can also consider splitting your time between its largest cities (i.e. Saint Petersburg ) to get the most out of your trip. Seven days will let you see the majority of the main sights and go beyond just scratching the surface. In this post, I’m going to share with you my idea of the perfect travel itinerary for one week in Moscow.

Moscow is perhaps both the business and cultural hub of Russia. There is a lot more to see here than just the Kremlin and Saint Basil’s Cathedral. Centuries-old churches with onion-shaped domes dotted around the city are in stark contrast with newly completed impressive skyscrapers of Moscow City dominating the skyline. I spent a lot of time thinking about my Moscow itinerary before I left. And this city lived up to all of my expectations.

Travel Itinerary For One Week in Moscow

Day 1 – red square and the kremlin.

Metro Station: Okhotny Ryad on Red Line.

No trip to Moscow would be complete without seeing its main attraction. The Red Square is just a stone’s throw away from several metro stations. It is home to some of the most impressive architectural masterpieces in the city. The first thing you’ll probably notice after entering it and passing vendors selling weird fur hats is the fairytale-like looking Saint Basil’s Cathedral. It was built to commemorate one of the major victories of Ivan the Terrible. I once spent 20 minutes gazing at it, trying to find the perfect angle to snap it. It was easier said than done because of the hordes of locals and tourists.

As you continue strolling around Red Square, there’s no way you can miss Gum. It was widely known as the main department store during the Soviet Era. Now this large (yet historic) shopping mall is filled with expensive boutiques, pricey eateries, etc. During my trip to Moscow, I was on a tight budget. So I only took a retro-style stroll in Gum to get a rare glimpse of a place where Soviet leaders used to grocery shop and buy their stuff. In case you want some modern shopping experience, head to the Okhotny Ryad Shopping Center with stores like New Yorker, Zara, and Adidas.

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To continue this Moscow itinerary, next you may want to go inside the Kremlin walls. This is the center of Russian political power and the president’s official residence. If you’re planning to pay Kremlin a visit do your best to visit Ivan the Great Bell Tower as well. Go there as early as possible to avoid crowds and get an incredible bird’s-eye view. There are a couple of museums that are available during designated visiting hours. Make sure to book your ticket online and avoid lines.

Day 2 – Cathedral of Christ the Saviour, the Tretyakov Gallery, and the Arbat Street

Metro Station: Kropotkinskaya on Red Line

As soon as you start creating a Moscow itinerary for your second day, you’ll discover that there are plenty of metro stations that are much closer to certain sites. Depending on your route, take a closer look at the metro map to pick the closest.

The white marble walls of Christ the Saviour Cathedral are awe-inspiring. As you approach this tallest Orthodox Christian church, you may notice the bronze sculptures, magnificent arches, and cupolas that were created to commemorate Russia’s victory against Napoleon.

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Unfortunately, the current Cathedral is a replica, since original was blown to bits in 1931 by the Soviet government. The new cathedral basically follows the original design, but they have added some new elements such as marble high reliefs.

Home to some precious collection of artworks, in Tretyakov Gallery you can find more than 150,000 of works spanning centuries of artistic endeavor. Originally a privately owned gallery, it now has become one of the largest museums in Russia. The Gallery is often considered essential to visit. But I have encountered a lot of locals who have never been there.

Famous for its souvenirs, musicians, and theaters, Arbat street is among the few in Moscow that were turned into pedestrian zones. Arbat street is usually very busy with tourists and locals alike. My local friend once called it the oldest street in Moscow dating back to 1493. It is a kilometer long walking street filled with fancy gift shops, small cozy restaurants, lots of cute cafes, and street artists. It is closed to any vehicular traffic, so you can easily stroll it with kids.

Day 3 – Moscow River Boat Ride, Poklonnaya Hill Victory Park, the Moscow City

Metro Station: Kievskaya and Park Pobedy on Dark Blue Line / Vystavochnaya on Light Blue Line

Voyaging along the Moscow River is definitely one of the best ways to catch a glimpse of the city and see the attractions from a bit different perspective. Depending on your Moscow itinerary, travel budget and the time of the year, there are various types of boats available. In the summer there is no shortage of boats, and you’ll be spoiled for choice.

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If you find yourself in Moscow during the winter months, I’d recommend going with Radisson boat cruise. These are often more expensive (yet comfy). They offer refreshments like tea, coffee, hot chocolate, and, of course, alcoholic drinks. Prices may vary but mostly depend on your food and drink selection. Find their main pier near the opulent Ukraine hotel . The hotel is one of the “Seven Sisters”, so if you’re into the charm of Stalinist architecture don’t miss a chance to stay there.

The area near Poklonnaya Hill has the closest relation to the country’s recent past. The memorial complex was completed in the mid-1990s to commemorate the Victory and WW2 casualties. Also known as the Great Patriotic War Museum, activities here include indoor attractions while the grounds around host an open-air museum with old tanks and other vehicles used on the battlefield.

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The hallmark of the memorial complex and the first thing you see as you exit metro is the statue of Nike mounted to its column. This is a very impressive Obelisk with a statue of Saint George slaying the dragon at its base.

Maybe not as impressive as Shanghai’s Oriental Pearl Tower , the skyscrapers of the Moscow City (otherwise known as Moscow International Business Center) are so drastically different from dull Soviet architecture. With 239 meters and 60 floors, the Empire Tower is the seventh highest building in the business district.

The observation deck occupies 56 floor from where you have some panoramic views of the city. I loved the view in the direction of Moscow State University and Luzhniki stadium as well to the other side with residential quarters. The entrance fee is pricey, but if you’re want to get a bird’s eye view, the skyscraper is one of the best places for doing just that.

Day 4 – VDNKh, Worker and Collective Farm Woman Monument, The Ostankino TV Tower

Metro Station: VDNKh on Orange Line

VDNKh is one of my favorite attractions in Moscow. The weird abbreviation actually stands for Russian vystavka dostizheniy narodnogo khozyaystva (Exhibition of Achievements of the National Economy). With more than 200 buildings and 30 pavilions on the grounds, VDNKh serves as an open-air museum. You can easily spend a full day here since the park occupies a very large area.

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First, there are pavilions that used to showcase different cultures the USSR was made of. Additionally, there is a number of shopping pavilions, as well as Moskvarium (an Oceanarium) that features a variety of marine species. VDNKh is a popular venue for events and fairs. There is always something going on, so I’d recommend checking their website if you want to see some particular exhibition.

A stone’s throw away from VDNKh there is a very distinctive 25-meters high monument. Originally built in 1937 for the world fair in Paris, the hulking figures of men and women holding a hammer and a sickle represent the Soviet idea of united workers and farmers. It doesn’t take much time to see the monument, but visiting it gives some idea of the Soviet Union’s grandiose aspirations.

I have a thing for tall buildings. So to continue my travel itinerary for one week in Moscow I decided to climb the fourth highest TV tower in the world. This iconic 540m tower is a fixture of the skyline. You can see it virtually from everywhere in Moscow, and this is where you can get the best panoramic views (yep, even better than Empire skyscraper).

Parts of the floor are made of tempered glass, so it can be quite scary to exit the elevator. But trust me, as you start observing buildings and cars below, you won’t want to leave. There is only a limited number of tickets per day, so you may want to book online. Insider tip: the first tour is cheaper, you can save up to $10 if go there early.

Day 5 – A Tour To Moscow Manor Houses

Metro Station: Kolomenskoye, Tsaritsyno on Dark Green Line / Kuskovo on Purple Line

I love visiting the manor houses and palaces in Moscow. These opulent buildings were generally built to house Russian aristocratic families and monarchs. Houses tend to be rather grand affairs with impressive architecture. And, depending on the whims of the owners, some form of a landscaped garden.

During the early part of the 20th century though, many of Russia’s aristocratic families (including the family of the last emperor) ended up being killed or moving abroad . Their manor houses were nationalized. Some time later (after the fall of the USSR) these were open to the public. It means that today a great many of Moscow’s finest manor houses and palaces are open for touring.

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There are 20 manor houses scattered throughout the city and more than 25 in the area around. But not all of them easily accessible and exploring them often takes a lot of time. I’d recommend focusing on three most popular estates in Moscow that are some 30-minute metro ride away from Kremlin.

Sandwiched between the Moscow River and the Andropov Avenue, Kolomenskoye is a UNESCO site that became a public park in the 1920’s. Once a former royal estate, now it is one of the most tranquil parks in the city with gorgeous views. The Ascension Church, The White Column, and the grounds are a truly grand place to visit.

You could easily spend a full day here, exploring a traditional Russian village (that is, in fact, a market), picnicking by the river, enjoying the Eastern Orthodox church architecture, hiking the grounds as well as and wandering the park and gardens with wildflower meadows, apple orchards, and birch and maple groves. The estate museum showcases Russian nature at its finest year-round.

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If my travel itinerary for one week in Moscow was a family tree, Tsaritsyno Park would probably be the crazy uncle that no-one talks about. It’s a large park in the south of the city of mind-boggling proportions, unbelievable in so many ways, and yet most travelers have never heard of it.

The palace was supposed to be a summer home for Empress Catherine the Great. But since the construction didn’t meet with her approval the palace was abandoned. Since the early 1990’s the palace, the pond, and the grounds have been undergoing renovations. The entire complex is now looking brighter and more elaborately decorated than at possibly any other time during its history. Like most parks in Moscow, you can visit Tsaritsyno free of charge, but there is a small fee if you want to visit the palace.

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Last, but by no means least on my Moscow itinerary is Kuskovo Park . This is definitely an off-the-beaten-path place. While it is not easily accessible, you will be rewarded with a lack of crowds. This 18th-century summer country house of the Sheremetev family was one of the first summer country estates of the Russian nobility. And when you visit you’ll quickly realize why locals love this park.

Like many other estates, Kuskovo has just been renovated. So there are lovely French formal garden, a grotto, and the Dutch house to explore. Make sure to plan your itinerary well because the estate is some way from a metro station.

Day 6 – Explore the Golden Ring

Creating the Moscow itinerary may keep you busy for days with the seemingly endless amount of things to do. Visiting the so-called Golden Ring is like stepping back in time. Golden Ring is a “theme route” devised by promotion-minded journalist and writer Yuri Bychkov.

Having started in Moscow the route will take you through a number of historical cities. It now includes Suzdal, Vladimir, Kostroma, Yaroslavl and Sergiev Posad. All these awe-inspiring towns have their own smaller kremlins and feature dramatic churches with onion-shaped domes, tranquil residential areas, and other architectural landmarks.

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I only visited two out of eight cities included on the route. It is a no-brainer that Sergiev Posad is the nearest and the easiest city to see on a day trip from Moscow. That being said, you can explore its main attractions in just one day. Located some 70 km north-east of the Russian capital, this tiny and overlooked town is home to Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, UNESCO Site.

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Sergiev Posad is often described as being at the heart of Russian spiritual life. So it is uncommon to see the crowds of Russian pilgrims showing a deep reverence for their religion. If you’re traveling independently and using public transport, you can reach Sergiev Posad by bus (departs from VDNKh) or by suburban commuter train from Yaroslavskaya Railway Station (Bahnhof). It takes about one and a half hours to reach the town.

Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius is a great place to get a glimpse of filling and warming Russian lunch, specifically at the “ Gostevaya Izba ” restaurant. Try the duck breast, hearty potato and vegetables, and the awesome Napoleon cake.

Day 7 – Gorky Park, Izmailovo Kremlin, Patriarch’s Ponds

Metro Station: Park Kultury or Oktyabrskaya on Circle Line / Partizanskaya on Dark Blue Line / Pushkinskaya on Dark Green Line

Gorky Park is in the heart of Moscow. It offers many different types of outdoor activities, such as dancing, cycling, skateboarding, walking, jogging, and anything else you can do in a park. Named after Maxim Gorky, this sprawling and lovely park is where locals go on a picnic, relax and enjoy free yoga classes. It’s a popular place to bike around, and there is a Muzeon Art Park not far from here. A dynamic location with a younger vibe. There is also a pier, so you can take a cruise along the river too.

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The Kremlin in Izmailovo is by no means like the one you can find near the Red Square. Originally built for decorative purposes, it now features the Vernissage flea market and a number of frequent fairs, exhibitions, and conferences. Every weekend, there’s a giant flea market in Izmailovo, where dozens of stalls sell Soviet propaganda crap, Russian nesting dolls, vinyl records, jewelry and just about any object you can imagine. Go early in the morning if you want to beat the crowds.

All the Bulgakov’s fans should pay a visit to Patriarch’s Ponds (yup, that is plural). With a lovely small city park and the only one (!) pond in the middle, the location is where the opening scene of Bulgakov’s novel Master and Margarita was set. The novel is centered around a visit by Devil to the atheistic Soviet Union is considered by many critics to be one of the best novels of the 20th century. I spent great two hours strolling the nearby streets and having lunch in the hipster cafe.

Conclusion and Recommendations

To conclude, Moscow is a safe city to visit. I have never had a problem with getting around and most locals are really friendly once they know you’re a foreigner. Moscow has undergone some serious reconstruction over the last few years. So you can expect some places to be completely different. I hope my one week Moscow itinerary was helpful! If you have less time, say 4 days or 5 days, I would cut out day 6 and day 7. You could save the Golden Ring for a separate trip entirely as there’s lots to see!

What are your thoughts on this one week Moscow itinerary? Are you excited about your first time in the city? Let me know in the comments below!

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24 comments.

Ann Snook-Moreau

Moscow looks so beautiful and historic! Thanks for including public transit information for those of us who don’t like to rent cars.

MindTheTravel

Yup, that is me 🙂 Rarely rent + stick to the metro = Full wallet!

Mariella Blago

Looks like you had loads of fun! Well done. Also great value post for travel lovers.

Thanks, Mariella!

I have always wanted to go to Russia, especially Moscow. These sights look absolutely beautiful to see and there is so much history there!

Agree! Moscow is a thousand-year-old city and there is definitely something for everyone.

Tara Pittman

Those are amazing buildings. Looks like a place that would be amazing to visit.

Adriana Lopez

Never been to Moscow or Russia but my family has. Many great spots and a lot of culture. Your itinerary sounds fantastic and covers a lot despite it is only a short period of time.

What was their favourite thing about Russia?

Gladys Parker

I know very little about Moscow or Russia for the\at matter. I do know I would have to see the Red Square and all of its exquisite architectural masterpieces. Also the CATHEDRAL OF CHRIST THE SAVIOUR. Thanks for shedding some light on visiting Moscow.

Thanks for swinging by! The Red Square is a great starting point, but there way too many places and things to discover aside from it!

Ruthy @ Percolate Kitchen

You are making me so jealous!! I’ve always wanted to see Russia.

Moscow is in my bucket list, I don’t know when I can visit there, your post is really useful. As a culture rich place we need to spend at least week.

DANA GUTKOWSKI

Looks like you had a great trip! Thanks for all the great info! I’ve never been in to Russia, but this post makes me wanna go now!

Wow this is amazing! Moscow is on my bucket list – such an amazing place to visit I can imagine! I can’t wait to go there one day!

The building on the second picture looks familiar. I keep seeing that on TV.

Reesa Lewandowski

What beautiful moments! I always wish I had the personality to travel more like this!

Perfect itinerary for spending a week in Moscow! So many places to visit and it looks like you had a wonderful time. I would love to climb that tower. The views I am sure must have been amazing!

I was lucky enough to see the skyline of Moscow from this TV Tower and it is definitely mind-blowing.

Chelsea Pearl

Moscow is definitely up there on my travel bucket list. So much history and iconic architecture!

Thumbs up! 🙂

Blair Villanueva

OMG I dream to visit Moscow someday! Hope the visa processing would be okay (and become more affordable) so I could pursue my dream trip!

Yup, visa processing is the major downside! Agree! Time and the money consuming process…

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When is the best time to visit Moscow? | Weather, budget, events by month

• July 14, 2023

Discover when is the best time to visit Moscow. In this blog post, I will talk about weather, budget and other things to know to choose the best time when to go to Moscow for you. I cannot account the times when we went in Moscow. Here are the pros and the cons of each month taking all main criteria into account!

I will first describe the main criteria that will help you choose when to go to Moscow:

• Climate in Moscow: temperatures and weather

Special events in Moscow

• Budget and visa

Then I will talk about each season (go directly to this party if you already have an idea of ​​the desired departure date):

• Advantages and disadvantages month by month

The weather cannot be the only criterion to decide when is the best time to visit Moscow for you. Even if the temperatures drop low, Moscow in December is just magical! This is why I advise to take into account several criteria at the same time. Also remember that it takes at least a month to get the Russian visa.

When to go to Moscow: climate and weather

The seasons are well marked. The mid-season months are not necessarily the best for the weather. However, they are not necessarily to be avoided, because, as we will see later, Moscow is a city that changes all the time and the prices can be more attractive. For example, for a lot of people winter is the best time to visit Moscow.

Weather in Moscow. Moscow is inland, making the city “more protected” from changing weather. For example, the weather is much more changeable in St. Petersburg. On the other hand, the weather in Moscow is more and more scorching in summer, we can then easily reach 30 degrees (for the Russians, it’s already the heat wave).

Moscow temperatures

As soon as you think of Russia, you want to do “Brrrr”. Let’s prepare our down jackets! Indeed, the Russian climate is not the mildest on the planet. However, it all depends on the region, because the country is very large. Moscow is almost at the same latitude as Copenhagen. As Moscow is relatively far from the coast, there is a pronounced continental climate. It is hot in summer and cold in winter.

In addition, global warming is there. For several decades, annual average temperatures have always been recorded above the past. I suggest you look at the averages over the past five years to be as close as possible to reality:

Sunshine and precipitation

Sunshine. This is surprising, but there is more sunshine in Moscow than in Paris or even in Berlin: 1,731 hours in Moscow, compared to 1661 in Paris and 1626 in Berlin.

Duration of the day in winter. We had questions about the length of the day in winter. So, here are a few things. As in Europe, the shortest days are in December. In Moscow, at the end of December, the sun rises around 9 a.m. and sets around 4 p.m. Then the day gets bigger until the end of June, when the day is the longest.

Precipitation. There is more precipitation in Moscow than in Paris (705mm against 637mm).

When is the best time to visit Moscow: interesting events

Moscow is a city that moves a lot. It is even said that this city never sleeps. So there are a lot of events, forums, exhibitions, conferences. Here I’m going to talk about the main recurring events that punctuate the year and that may help you decide when to go to Moscow.

End of year celebrations in Moscow

December 31 rather than Christmas. The Russians are eagerly awaiting the holiday season. Here on December 31 is like Christmas with us. Religion, “opium of the people” according to Marx, and, above all, its official absence marked the country during the Soviet years. This then reinforced the celebration of December 31, while Orthodox Christmas is January 7.

Russian calendar. In addition, it should be known that the first week of January is a bank holiday. Many Russians therefore do not work during this period. Europe also greatly influences the habits of Muscovites. Consequently, the Christmas markets start in early December and, for some, continue until early February!

Fairytale atmosphere. If you are wondering when to go to Moscow and you love the holiday mood, then the end of December – early January, and even February, is for you! There are many things to do during this time: for example, Christmas markets, decorations, winter games, skating rinks. In 2016, Moscow opened the largest ice rink in Europe. In short, the city is doing a lot of entertainment during this period and the general atmosphere is at the top! However, everything comes at a cost. You can see more detail below in the article, month by month.

Find our more in this blog post: Christmas and New Year in Moscow .

Visit Moscow in May

May 1 and 9 are two big festivals in Russia. Both dates are known worldwide. May 9 in Russia is May 8 with us in France. The signature that marks the end of the Second World War. The shift day is explained by … the difference in time zone.

The May 9 holiday is a very important holiday for the Russians. The Soviet human losses amounted to millions. So there are many families who have been directly affected by the war. The first big parade was organized by Stalin on June 24, 1945 in Red Square in Moscow. Later each year the USSR and then Russia organized a parade on May 9. Here is the video of the first parade dating from 1945 in color, then the last – that of 2016.

A disadvantage of the beginning of May. For the planned events, Red Square will not be completely empty. There are always installations for May 9, but also rehearsals. So, to the question “when is the best time to visit Moscow”, I would not say that May is the best one. You can find out more in the article “Moscow in autumn” below.

Throughout the year, the Moscow City Hall organizes free events (festivals, small markets, concerts, etc.) in the Red Square and in the streets of the city center. For example, there are two major interesting events:

• Festival of Lights “Around the World”: in 2019, it was from September 28 to October 4.
• Anniversary of the city of Moscow always celebrated the first weekend of September.

When is the best time to visit Moscow: budget, price seasonality, visa

Most touristy periods. Many travelers come to Moscow from May to October. This is the period when we see the most tourists in Moscow. In addition, many are also those who come at the end of December and at the beginning of January for the New Year. The beginning of May and the first week of January are also strongly requested, in particular by the Russians (school holidays, public holidays).

Accommodation. Hotel rates therefore necessarily increase during these periods of the year. But they do not go so far as to triple. To give an idea, count at least 80 euros in the city center for a double room with breakfast. You can read more about the districts of Moscow in my article: Where to stay in Moscow?

Guides and tours. Also take into account that during these periods it will be more difficult to find a guide at the last moment. It’s best to do it 2-3 months in advance. There will be more waiting or difficulty obtaining tickets during the months of high tourist influx: late December, early January, May, June, July, August.

Visa for Russia. The cost of the visa does not change depending on the month of the year. On the other hand, the deadlines can be longer if you make the request for the high tourist season (from May to October). Allow about a month. Getting the Russian visa is not complicated, there is a procedure to follow.

In Russia, the seasons are divided as follows:

• Fall: September, October, November.
• Winter: December, January, February.
• Spring: March, April, May.
• Summer: June, July, August.

Discover Moscow in autumn: when is the best time to visit Moscow in autumn?

From the beginning of September, we feel that the temperatures begin to drop gradually, especially at night.

Moscow in September

More and more travelers are choosing the month of September to go to Moscow. Because it is not cold yet and there are fewer tourists than in summer. Prices drop slightly, but remain higher than in the lean months of the year. There is also the city’s birthday on the first weekend in September, but also the “Around the World” festival towards the end of the month.

Moscow in October

You are likely to come across the colors of autumn from the beginning of October. The accommodation prices are starting to drop gradually. There is less waiting in the places to visit. Temperatures are not very low: during the day they are generally around +6 degrees. On the other hand, the only negative point can be the cost of plane tickets, if you leave during the French school holidays.

Moscow in November

It’s one of the least calm! Temperatures drop and can approach zero during the day in mid-November. Hotel rates are low, there are few tourists, and therefore less waiting in museums. It’s easier to get tickets for the Kremlin Palace of Armor, which can be very difficult in the summer. Guides also have more availability. So why not go to Moscow in November?

Discover Moscow in winter: when is the best time to visit Moscow in winter?

Winter is a very nice time to go to Moscow, because the Christmas and New Year decorations are installed from the beginning of December and are not removed until the end of February. To learn more about the different activities in winter, read this article: What to do in Moscow in winter? If winter temperatures scare you, check out Moscow in the spring (see below).

Moscow in december

Normally, negative daytime temperatures set in, although the weather can vary significantly from year to year. In general, from mid-December the snow is durable. It is from December 20 that more and more travelers come to Moscow. December 31st is celebrated like Christmas in France. Accommodation rates are higher from mid-December. It’s also more complicated to find a guide at the last moment. Furthermore, as in Europe, the days of December are the shortest of the year. But if you want to mark New Years Day, you will have lots of memories!

Moscow in january

January is also a very festive month. The first week of January is a public holiday in Russia. Besides, it’s also a week of Russian school holidays. There are more people in the streets, museums and everywhere in the city. To find out more about this time of year (Christmas markets, itineraries, etc.), read: Christmas and New Years in Moscow . Prices remain high during this week, but drop from mid-January.

Moscow in February

It’s the second quietest month of the year. In February, winter clearly takes its ease. The temperatures are the lowest, it’s a real winter! The days are longer in February than in December. So we’re enjoying the day more, and with the snow it’s really nice, because the weather in Moscow in February is pretty sunny. Accommodation rates are at their lowest, and the decorations are still there. So, if you are looking for when to go to Moscow, if the cold does not scare you and you appreciate the snowy landscapes, why not consider the month of February?

Discover Moscow in spring: when is the best time to visit Moscow in spring?

Spring is a contrasting period between March, which is still quite cold, and May, when we really feel the arrival of summer.

Moscow in March

The ice and snow begin to melt around mid-March. Winter is coming in March, but spring is not quite there yet. It’s the third quietest month of the year. It is therefore possible to visit the city more quietly. Accommodation prices are low, guides are available. The weather in Moscow in March is milder than in February. In addition, the days are longer, so you can take many walks.

Moscow in April

It is only from mid-April that we begin to feel the beginnings of sunny days. The weather in Moscow in spring and April in particular is getting milder and colder: we can expect +7 during the day. In addition, there are not many travelers yet and we fear to enjoy the places more quietly, but we feel that the start of the tourist season is approaching. Accommodation rates are lower than in May.

Moscow in May

The early May holidays attract many travelers to Moscow. There are also many Russians who come to the capital on public holidays. It is therefore advisable to plan visits in advance to avoid queuing once there. Red Square can be closed or partially closed for rehearsals for the May 9 parade, the same day and one or two days after. More info in: Moscow in May: events, budget, what to do?

Discover Moscow in summer: when is the best time to visit Moscow in summer?

All summer months are great, if you take temperatures into account. The weather in Moscow in summer is quite pleasant. However, in recent years, there have been great heat peaks or heat waves in July (30 degrees during the day).

Moscow in June

From June, you can take long walks in the city’s parks, very numerous and much appreciated by the locals. Boat trips are more enjoyable from June. On the other hand, the prices of accommodation in Moscow are higher than in the lean months. There are also more tourists. Book your hotel, tours and activities in advance.

Moscow in july

July is the hottest month, but we’re not on +40. Moscow is a city inland and therefore there is little fresh air, if it is very hot. We can do lots of walks to discover the city. We have written several complete itineraries so as not to miss anything of Moscow in our special Moscow travel guide. It also contains tips to save time and enjoy the city off the beaten track, as there are so many tourists during this time of year.

Moscow in August

Temperatures are starting to drop gradually, but there are still so many people. In order to be sure of the choice of accommodation, I advise you to book in advance. The same goes for guided tours or entrance tickets to the Kremlin. It’s also a good time to discover the city differently by going to places that are less touristy and more frequented by locals.

When is the best time to go to Moscow? In summary!

The best time to discover Moscow depends on the criteria you want to favor: the weather, the budget, the tranquility of the visits, the special events to be experienced on site.

In summary:

• The peak tourist season in Moscow begins in early May and ends in late September.
• Late December and early January is the best time to experience the holiday mood, but it comes at a cost.
• End of January, February, March, beginning of April, November are the quietest months of the year, when you can visit the city more calmly and on a reduced budget.

So, have you decided when to go to Moscow? 🙂 Do you plan to visit Moscow in spring, summer, autumn or winter?

Travel idea! As in all cases you will get a visa and there is only 4 hours by train between Moscow and Saint Petersburg, why not visit both cities? Read an example of a route here: Moscow to Saint Petersburg in one week.

If you still have doubts, take a look at what you can visit in Moscow in order to choose the best period: Things to do in Moscow in 1, 2, 3, 4 or 5 days.

For a great trip to Moscow:

• Visit Moscow and St Petersburg in one week: itinerary
• Where to stay in Moscow?
• Tourist voucher for Russian visa

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