How much does it cost to visit the Galapagos islands?

Before starting to talk about costs, I want you to know that there are different ways to get to know this dream destination; Galapagos cruises, Galapagos Land-based tours and if your interests are other, of course you can take a more personalized trip, all of these options are great, don’t worry…. we will be happy to help you to choose the best option.                                    

 I assure you that at the end of reading this blog, you will have everything clearer.  

How long would you like to stay on the islands?

The time of your stay is a crucial factor to consider, if you plan is stay for a long time, more expenses you will have to make in food, lodging, transportation and in an activities, you plan to do. Therefore, it is important to set how long you want to stay, according to the budget you have allocated for your trip to the Galapagos islands.

Would you like to book a cruise or land based tour?

All of these options have their advantages, here it will depend a lot your personal preferences and your travel style.                                                                                                                                        A Galapagos cruise offers you the opportunity to explore multiple islands, cruises also usually include all meals and accommodations and of course guided activities and land excursion through the National Park, so tourists know exactly which visitor sites are included. You’ll wake up every morning on a new island, ready to explore. Every day gives you the opportunity to hike and snorkel, with your guide on hand to show off the best wildlife.

What are the average prices for cruises tours?

In Expedition Ecuador, we have all-inclusive cruises from $1222.  You can choose your favorite Galapagos tours between our 4 different Diving or Naturalist cruise categories: Standard, Mid Rage, First Class and Deluxe. We are happy to help choosing the best cruise in the greatest deals.

On the other hand, land tours it allows you to explore the islands more flexibly. With the possibility of spending more time in each place and learning about the local culture. This is a trip that adjust all budgets as it can be tailored exactly to what you need. When you book this Galapagos tour, you’ll enjoy the stability and comfort of a hotel room. This is the ideal Galapagos tour for families traveling with young children, as you can adventure and do things at your family’s pace. Also, this is a great idea to complement your Galapagos cruise and have some free days on the beach and maybe do tours that were not included in your cruise experience. See More

What are the average prices for land tours?

Among the most requested tours is the 5-day tour that visits Santa Cruz Island and Isabela has amazing spots and tours to explore, this tour includes Naturalist guides, hotels and the best activities selected for you. Prepare yourself to have days full of Snorkeling, hiking and wildlife appreciation! These types of tours start at $1400 but it all depends on your budget.

How Much Should You Expect to Spend on Accommodation in the Galapagos Islands?

Believe it or not, accommodation in the Galapagos Island is not expensive at all, you can even find budget options for backpackers, and you should also take into account that you will only visit the accommodation to sleep since the rest of the time you will be getting to know the Enchanted Islands. In the Galapagos Islands you can find accommodation from $20 per night per person.

Another factor to consider is:

Are you interested in see a wildlife or in visit any specific place?

Your interests and activities you plan to do in the Galapagos Islands can also have a significant impact on the cost of your trip, which is why we recommend you plan carefully and prioritize your interests.

Wildlife: If what you are looking for on your visit to the Enchanted Islands is to see flora and fauna such as the Galapagos; Giant Tortoises, penguins, blue-footed boobies, unique marine iguanas of the Islands and more animals. The best option for you are the specialized tours in the wildlife observation where you can do bird watching, diving, snorkeling, etc. See More

Historical and cultural sites: You can visit places like the Giant Tortoise Breeding Center or the Wall of Tears, which usually have a fairly affordable entrance fee and remember entry to all the beaches is free.

Adventure activities: If adventure is your thing, you can also do activities such as kayaking, surfing, snorkeling, diving, etc., but you have to keep in mind that these activities require equipment, courses, and in some cases, it is necessary to hire instructors or guides.

Are you traveling in the high season (Easter, school vacation time, Christmas, New Year´s eve)?

Thanks to the geographical location, the islands enjoy a very good climate throughout the year, however the High season coincides with the vacation months of the rest of the world and this can have a significant impact on the total cost of your trip, since during the season high, the prices of flights, accommodation, cruises, etc. They tend to be higher due to high demand, which is why we recommend you book in advance to ensure availability and avoid even higher prices. See More

Overview of Travel Cost to the Galapagos Islands for 11 days  

FLIGHTS. – ($880) To get to Galapagos you can only do it by plane, so from your departure destination you must travel to Quito or Guayaquil to take your flight to Galapagos.

FEES. – (Traffic Control Card: ($20), Entrance fee to the Galapagos National Park ($200)

ACCOMMODATION. – ($250 approx.) per person

TRANSPORTATION. – ($250 approx.)

 ACTIVITIES AND EXCURSIONS. – ($450 approx.)

TRAVEL AND DIVING INSURANCE. – ($128)

FOOD. – ($146.50)

TOTAL. – $2325 APPROX. Per person

EXTRA COST.-  Tips for the trip crew: Around $9 to $ 13 per person and day.

Now, as I mentioned at the beginning, I also thought that traveling to the Galapagos Islands was something “expensive”, but you must consider that the Islands are located approximately 1000 km from mainland Ecuador, so to transport any type of product there It has a very important added cost, to give you an idea, everything that arrives on the Island is transported on ships that take approximately 2 to 3 full days to arrive.

On the other hand, there is the issue of environmental protection because to protect and conserve the islands, and their flora and fauna, only 3% of the territory is declared as developable. In addition, the Galapagos National Park has been considered a Natural Heritage of Humanity since 1976.

All funds from the entry are used to benefit the local community and improve its basic services, educational projects, health and services linked to tourism.

My perspective changed after knowing this and seeing the variety of animals so close up, swimming on white sand beaches, turquoise water and snorkeling among thousands of fish of all sizes and colors! It is without a doubt one of my favorite places in the world that is definitely worth visiting and to which I will surely back soon!

And that’s all for this blog, dear traveler, The Galapagos islands are waiting for you and our advisors are happy to help you quote your trip.