Follow in Darwin's Footsteps and Mingle with Wildlife Found No Where Else on Earth.
GALAPAGOS FAQ’s and PRACTICAL INFORMATION
Why Go?
This archipelago, about 600 miles from Ecuador, shelters some of the world's rarest animal life.
Today, ancient tortoises, blue-footed boobies, curious & playful sea lions, Darwin's finches, and dozens of other unique animal species still live blissfully unaware that their completely isolated world is far from large predators. The greatest spectacle of the Galápagos is simply the everyday life of the animals themselves -- they mate, give birth, nest, feed, and fearlessly hang out in plain sight of us camera-carrying humans.
It's a all year round destination.
A 360 degree approach ensuring the most complete experience -Snorkel, hike, kayak, explore the undersea and follow in the evolutionary footsteps of Charles Darwin.
The rare giant tortoise is only one reason to explore this archipelago overrun with more than 500 spectacular native species found nowhere else on earth.
How far is Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands from the United States?
Very close! Ecuador is approx 3.5 hours from Miami!
Is Ecuador a safe country?
Yes! Ecuador it is a safe Country!
Many national governments provide a regularly updated advice service on safety issues involved with international travel. We always recommend that you check your government's advice for their latest travel information before departure to any country you may be traveling to. We strongly recommend the use of a neck wallet or money belt while travelling, for the safe keeping of your passport, air tickets, travellers' cheques, cash and other valuable items. Leave your valuable jewellery at home - you won't need it while travelling. Many of the hotels we use have safety deposit boxes, which is the most secure way of storing your valuables. A lock is recommended for securing your luggage.
Please take care when wandering about the city on your own, as pick pockets and purse-snatchers are common, particularly in the Old Town. Be safe and leave your passport, credit cards, traveller’s cheques and cash you don’t need in the hotel’s safety deposit box. Most Quiteños are honest and genuinely helpful and friendly, but be safe and enjoy the city!
Is Ecuador on the U.S. Dollar?
Yes! This makes traveling to Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands very easy!
How important is to bring a travel Insurance to travel in Ecuador?
Travel insurance is compulsory in order to participate on any of our trips. When selecting a travel insurance policy we require that at a minimum you are covered for medical expenses including emergency repatriation. We strongly recommend that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects. If you have credit card insurance we require proof of purchase of the trip (a receipt of credit card statement) with a credit card in your name. Contact your bank for details of their participating insurer, the level of coverage and emergency contact telephone number.
It is safe to drink water directly from the tap in Ecuador?
No, you shouldn't drink tap water without first boiling it or, in remote areas, using an appropriate filter or treating it with iodine. In Ecuador, it is always better to drink bottled water when possible. Locals often drink tap water but they have built up a resistance the bacteria that make most travelers sick.
Can I take a flight from my country directly to the Galapagos?
No, all flights to the Galapagos originate in Quito or Guayaquil. Therefore, all international visitors must first fly to one of these two cities before departing for the Galapagos.
Do I need a Visa to visit Ecuador as a tourist?
Tourists from the United States, Europe, and most other countries need only a passport which is valid upon arrival and will still be valid 6 months from his/her arrival date in Ecuador. There are a few exceptions to this rule and rules can change, so please check with the Ecuadorian consulate in your country.
What other expenditures should I consider when calculating the costs of my trip to Ecuador and the Galapagos?
* The entrance fee to Galapagos National Park (currently USD 100 for adults and USD 50 for children)
(Subject to to change)
* Transit control card to Galapagos (currently USD 10) (Subject to change)
* Airfare to and from the Galapagos - must be purchased at the same time as cruise booking (payable at time of final payment)
What should I bring with me for a cruise in the Islands?
• Cotton pants
• Shorts
• T-shirts
• A windbreaker or light sweater for the evenings
• Hat
• Lots of sunscreen
• Hiking boots/shoes
• Sneakers
• Tevas/sandals with security straps
• Sunglasses (with strap)
• An extra pair of prescription glasses (if needed)
• Small water bottle
• Small backpack (for your camera, film, etc)
• Plastic bag to keep your camera or photographic equipment dry
• Camera and/or video equipment and plenty of film
• Snorkeling gear (not essential)*
• Duffel bag with a lock
• Medications (anything you might be using while your cruise)
• Motion sickness medication (if you are prone to sea sickness)
• Books to read while on the yacht
• Binocular
• Insect repellent
If I also take a land tour, what should I bring with me on a tour to the Ecuadorian Amazon?
• Raincoat or poncho
• Light clothes as well as long sleeve shirts
• Sunglasses
• Hat
• Insect repellent
• Binoculars
• Flash light
• Camera and/or video equipment and plenty of film
• Medications (anything you might be using while your cruise)
• Sunscreen
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Tevas/sandals with security straps
• Bathing suit
• Small backpack for day trips and hikes
What should I bring with me on a tour to the Ecuadorian highlands?
• Medium weight clothing
• Warm jacket
• Wind breaker
• Blue jeans
• Hat
• Camera and/or video equipment and plenty of film
• Medications (anything you might be using while your cruise)
• Sunglasses
• Sunscreen
• Raincoat or poncho
• Backpack
Can we snorkel in the Galapagos?
Absolutely! There will opportunities to snorkel during the voyage. Masks, snorkels and fins are available on board (free of charge). We encourage you to bring your own to ensure the perfect fit and therefore the most enjoyable time snorkeling.
Will I get seasick?
The water around the Galapagos is generally calm however it can get rough when the cold Humboldt Current arrives in July through September. If you are prone to seasickness we suggest you contact your physician prior to departure and ask whether medication, patches or wristbands would work best for you.
Are there medical facilities aboard?
There is a basic first aid kit on-board for minor ailments however the boat is not equipped to handle serious medical conditions. Passengers are required to obtain medical insurance that covers medical emergency evacuation.
Is drinking water available on-board?
Purified drinking water is available on board and a refillable water bottle is provided.
What voltage is used on board ship?
There are 110V electrical outlets in the cabins using the North American style plugs, with two flat blade prongs. If you are planning on taking a video or digital camera we suggest you take an extra set of charged batteries.
How much should I tip the guide and crew?
The staff and crew appreciate gratuities. In fairness to all and to make your cruise more enjoyable tips are collected at the end of the voyage and distributed among the crew members and the guide. Although we leave the amount to your discretion, we suggest a rate of USD$8-$10 per passenger per day while on the boat.
Is there a weight restriction on the luggage I bring to the Galapagos?
Due to the cabin sizes on the yachts and the weight restrictions that airlines enforce 20 kgs per person, the amount of luggage you can bring on the boat is limited. You can leave unnecessary items in your joining hotel storage room in Quito.
How much time will we spend on the islands during the landings?
Aside from your arrival and departure day into the Galapagos, there are approximately 2 island landings per day; each taking around 4 hours.
** Please note that all information is subject to change
Click here to see IMAGES of the Catamaran
Click here to for boat information, deck plan & specs
What some of our clients have said:
"Our trip on the Nemo II was awesome. Thanks so much." - Brian
"We thank you and the whole staff for an outstanding operation." - Drake and Carol
"Thank you for a trip of a lifetime!" - A&M
"The Galapagos trip was one of the best trips I have ever taken. The boat and crew were great and the itinerary was well planned allowing us to see all the wildlife, snorkel and hike.
Thanks for an amazing adventure.” - RPM
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