GALAPAGOS FLIGHTS
In order to check in with the airline you first have to go to SESA / SICGAL office, in the national departures building, to have your luggage inspected for prohibited products.
Then you have to visit the "Consejo de Gobierno de Galapagos" office , in the national departures building, to buy the transit control card (US $20 per person) and complete it as it will be required upon arrival in the islands.
Both of these authorities are on the main concourse next to the airline counters.
And finally you go to the airline (TAME, AVIANCA or LAN). For flights to the Galapagos islands there are strict weight restrictions. You are permitted two pieces of check in luggage (preferably soft sided) weighing no more than 20 Kg (44 pounds). You are permitted one carry on. There is a charge for excess luggage.
UPON ARRIVAL / ENTRANCE FEE
The Galapagos National Park of US$ 100 (US$ 50 for children under 12) is paid at Baltra airport. Please be sure to carry the above amounts in cash. No credit cards are accepted.
CLIMATE (AVERAGE TEMPERATURES)
The Galapagos Islands have a subtropical climate regulated by the cold Humboldt current and the warm El Nino current. Weather varies during the year. From December until May: temperatures range from low 80°s to low 90°s (with possibilities of rain). From June to September temperatures vary from low 60°'s to high 70°'s. This is the garua season (mist in the mornings). From October until December temperatures range from 70°s to 80°' (dry season).
MARINE CURRENTS
The Galapagos Islands waters have the Humboldt Current's influence that brings cold waters especially during the mist rainy season (cool weather) from July to December. The warm season is during the months of January to June. The southeast trade winds become weaker and the water from the Panama Basin remains warm. During this season there is more of a tropical climate with some occasional rains. The intermittent "El Niño" current may cause a much greater flow of warm waters coming from the west, making the surface warmer and rainfall increase.
AVERAGE WATER TEMPERATURE
January-June: 70°F-80°F (20C-26C)
July - December: 65°F - 75°F (18C- 23C)
VISIBILITY
Average visibility is from 8 to 10 meters (25ft to 35ft); on good visibility days it can reach approximately 18 meters (60ft).
SEA CONDITIONS
From July to December the sea is choppy, strong surge, brisk breezes but no storms. Sailing time is longer ( by 30 - 40 minutes aprox.) when comparing to clam season sailing time. Anti-seasickness medication is recommended.
From December to June the sea is calm with gentle breeze; sailing is easier.
GALAPAGOS NATIONAL PARK, RULES AND REGULATIONS, LAND VISITS
Galapagos National Park rules are very strict and a way to keep the Islands intact for your enjoyment and that of future generations. You might think some of those rules excessive, but have in mind, that only in this way this unique archipelago will last for years to come. As one of the rules of the National Park, a naturalist guide will be with you at all times. He or she will tell you what you can and what you cannot do while visiting the islands. Please obey their instructions on this respect. The most important rules are the following:
- Always follow the marked trail and never leave it.
- Do not touch the animals.
- Do not take souvenirs from the islands.
- Do not get too close to animals.
- Do not litter.
- Do not smoke on the islands.
- Do not take food to the islands.
- Clean your shoes' soles before disembarking in the islands. You may have carried some seeds endemic to one island and would not want to introduce them to another.
- Always stay together with your group.
HEALTH / MEDICAL / DIET
Good general health is required for your travel to Galapagos. You will take long walks in hot weather. We advise you to start to get into shape by bicycling, walking or swimming as this will help you to enjoy your trip. If you take medication regularly, we advise you to take enough for the length of your trip. Please advise us if you have any medical condition, which may require attention, so we can be prepared should an emergency arise. No immunizations are necessary to travel to the Galapagos. If you are vegetarian, allergic to any food or under a special diet, please let your travel agent, tour operator or us know in advance, so we can comply with your requirements.
WHAT TO BRING
It is not necessary to carry much to the Galapagos, pack light and pack smart. Lightweight fast drying cotton is recommended.
- Cotton pants
- Shorts
- T-shirts
- Long sleeved shirt
- A windbreaker or light sweater for evening or early morning
- Hat: preferably that cover the ears
- Lots of sunscreen lotion
- Good walking shoes
- Tevas or sandals
- Sunglasses (with strap)
- An extra pair of prescription glasses (if needed)
- Small backpack to carry on land visits (for your camera and water)
- Plastic bag to keep your camera or photographic equipment dry
- Plenty of film
- Snorkeling gear (not essential)
- Medications (anything you might be using while your cruise)
- Anti-seasickness scopolamine Transderm Scop patch or motion sickness tablets (if you are prone to sea sickness) Inquire-with your physician.
- Books to read (we encourage paperback exchange)
- Wet suit or skin for snorkeling (not essential)
- Binoculars
- If you wear glasses, it is a good idea to bring contact lenses for diving and snorkeling
- Insect repellent
- Wasps are not terribly common, but if you are specifically allergic to wasp stings, bring your own antidote
ADDITIONAL RECCOMMENDATION
As the sun in the equatorial latitude is quite strong, we suggest you wear sunscreen at all times. Make sure you protect your head, face, arms and legs while you are on the sun deck or during the visits to the islands. The guides will guide you appropriately with all water activities.
