Like all destinations, the islands offer a unique list of requirements and considerations for travelers heading to the destination.
The Basics
The Galápagos Islands are located off the coast of Ecuador and are accessible by plane from Quito or Guayaquil. Many travelers visit one of these cities for a day or two prior to flying into Baltra or San Cristobal, where the two main airports are located in the island chain.
Travelers staying on the mainland for a few days can explore the Ecuadorian Amazon, the Ecuadorian Andes or, in Quito, can discover Latin America’s best-preserved 16th-century historic center and UNESCO World Heritage Site.
San Cristobal Island, Santa Cruz Island, Isabela Island and Floreana Islands are the main islands that comprise the Galápagos Islands.
The best time to visit the islands is from June to December, when it’s their dry season. The peak tourist seasons are during the Christmas and New Year holidays, as well as from mid-June to September.
While the islands are a part of Ecuador, the U.S. dollar is the main currency used, making it easy for American travelers.
“The Galápagos Islands are a unique and fragile place in terms of their ecosystem,” said Damon Corkin, founder and Travel Director for Andean Discovery, which also offers trips to the islands. “It is important to respect the rules and restrictions established to preserve the flora and fauna of the islands. Have a distance of 6 feet from the animals.”
