What to Know Before Going to the Galapagos Islands

A Galapagos expedition cruise is one of the best ways to appreciate the beauty, history, and biodiversity of the islands. This famed Ecuadorian archipelago offers volcanic landscapes, diverse wildlife, and crystal-clear waters for snorkelling and diving. If you’re planning a trip, here’s what to know before going to the Galapagos Islands.

Being both a remote destination and a National Park, there are some extra considerations to consider when planning a Galapagos expedition, but knowing what to expect ahead of time will make your adventure even more rewarding.

As Galapagos experts, here are our top tips on what to know before your expedition cruise, whether you’re in the initial planning stages or are about to pack your suitcase!

Galapagos Island photography is out of this world, so consider which gear to bring along

Volcanic landscapes, sunbathing seals, and dramatic mountains—the scenery of the Galapagos is a dream for photographers, so you’ll want to think about your gear before you travel.

If you’re an avid snorkeller or diver, a GoPro, waterproof camera, or underwater housing for your mirrorless or DSLR will help you capture those magical moments in the ocean. That being said, currents and visibility conditions may impact your ability to take quality photos, so it’s also ok to leave the camera behind and just live in the moment!

However, please note that selfie sticks and drones are not allowed in the Galapagos Islands for the protection of wildlife. Flash photography is also banned, but in daylight, you should have plenty of sunlight, making it easy to take incredible images without a flash.

Talk to your doctor about recommended vaccines before you travel

To stay healthy as you travel, your doctor may suggest some travel vaccines before you go to the Galapagos, including Typhoid, Yellow Fever, Tetanus, and Hepatitis A and B.

You’ll need a valid Yellow Fever certificate if you’re entering Ecuador after spending more than 10 days in the nearby countries of Peru, Brazil, Bolivia, or Colombia. For all other travellers, vaccination isn’t mandatory but is highly recommended.

Vaccination requirements are always subject to change, so consult Smartraveller.gov.au before you go. Chimu also requires all passengers to have travel insurance before departing, but we can help you arrange the right policy for your needs. 

Your main transport off and on your Galapagos ship will be panga boats

You’ll love the thrill of panga cruises! Pangas are small, motorised inflatable boats, similar to the zodiacs used in Polar expedition cruising. These strong rubber boats will transport you off your ship and onto land, but they’ll also be used as sightseeing cruises with your naturalist guide.

Abide by Leave No Trace

We believe in the Leave No Trace philosophy, no matter where we travel. Leave No Trace is a simple ethos, with travellers leaving a natural environment just as they found it. In fragile and unique ecosystems like the Galapagos, this is more important than ever.

We know no one wants to litter or disrupt the environment, but accidents can happen. You can help avoid them by taking stock of little things before you leave your ship, like ensuring no food wrappers are in your unzipped jacket pockets, securing your hat with a strap, and leaving any maps or guidebooks on board. This way, you can enjoy your Galapagos landing visit without the stress of accidentally dropping a tissue or piece of rubbish as you hike.

The biodiversity of the Galapagos is completely unique, so strict guidelines ensure it remains protected

Galapagos National Park is strictly regulated to ensure conservation of its resident wildlife and fragile landscapes. As ethical travellers, it helps to familiarise with the park’s requirements before you go. These include:

-Visitors must be accompanied by an accredited naturalist guide at all times, but all of the logistics of this will be coordinated by your ship. However, you’ll love spending time with your guide as they’ll share insight, history, and wildlife information as you travel.

-Speaking of wildlife, guests must remain at least two meters (six feet) away from all wildlife.

-No food can be brought into the Galapagos, but your ship will provide delicious meals, snacks, and can cater to any dietary requirements.

-Stay on marked trails at all times, unless instructed otherwise by your guide.

Visitors will need to pay their National Park Entrance Fee on arrival

When you arrive at the airport, you’ll need to pay the mandated National Park Entrance Fee. As of October 2025, the fee is $200 USD for international adults and $100 USD for children under 12. This needs to be paid in cash. (Please note, this pricing is correct as of October 2025 but is subject to change.)

The Galapagos Transit Control Card fee is usually included for Chimu passengers, but your Destination Specialist or travel advisor can provide more details at the time of booking.

You’ll want to bring along US dollars

The official currency of Ecuador is the US dollar, so travel with some cash for smaller purchases. However, cards are also widely accepted and can be used for settling your onboard account.

Cash is also the preferred option for tip payments on some Galapagos vessels. 

Pack smart and save space in your cabin

With a tropical, semi-arid climate, the Galapagos Islands enjoy warm temperatures throughout the year. This means you can pack light—freeing up space in your onboard cabin!

When it comes to Galapagos packing tips, we recommend lightweight, quick-drying fabrics, waterproof sandals, comfortable trainers, reef-safe sunscreen, insect repellent, and a wide-brimmed hat.

If you have questions about what to pack (or not pack!), just get in touch as many of the Chimu team are Galapagos experts and can give you suggestions based on their own experience.

If you can extend your time in the Galapagos, you’ll be rewarded immensely

Some travellers hope to ‘tick off’ the Galapagos from their bucket list with a three or four-night cruise—and yes, this can be an ideal introduction to the islands. However, if your schedule and budget allow, consider staying a little longer.

It takes some effort to reach the Galapagos, and there are 13 main islands in total that you can visit. Most cruises focus on one or two geographical regions.

This means a six or seven-night cruise will allow for more islands to visit, giving you more time for increased wildlife viewing, hiking, and snorkelling opportunities—plus, that priceless relaxation time on your catamaran’s back deck, cocktail in hand.

If you’re interested in booking a Galapagos Islands cruise, or just have questions about your options, please get in touch. Our Destination Specialists are Galapagos experts, with access to a wide range of ships and itineraries, and are here to help you find the perfect cruise.