How to get to the Galápagos Islands

• The only way to get to the Galápagos Islands is by air.
• You can only fly to the Galápagos Islands from mainland Ecuador: Quito or Guayaquil
• The Galápagos Islands and mainland Ecuador have a 1 hour time difference which is important to consider when booking flights.
• There are essential documents you need to be aware of before you fly.

Flying to Ecuador

As the Galápagos Islands are so isolated, the only way to reach them is by flying. It is essential to travel to mainland Ecuador first, as no international flights fly directly to the Galápagos Islands.

Most travelers arrive into Quito and fly to the Galápagos Islands from there but it is also possible to fly from the port city Guayaquil, which offers daily flights. 

Flying direct from either city takes approximately two hours, but bear in mind that there are more direct flights available from Guayaquil, with many flights from Quito stopping off to pick up passengers in Guayaquil.

Is it better to fly from Quito or Guayaquil?

Flying to the Galápagos Islands

There are two airlines that offer daily flights from mainland Ecuador to the Galápagos Islands: Avianca, the Colombian airline, and LATAM, the Chilean airline. 

You can either fly to Seymour airport or San Cristobal airport. 

Seymour Airport, GPS

This airport is located on Baltra Island, just a stone’s throw from Santa Cruz Island and easily accessible by water taxi. While there is not much in Baltra other than the airport, you should fly to Seymour Airport if your cruise or tour begins in Baltra or Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz Island.

San Cristobal Airport, SCY

San Cristobal Airport is in the town of Puerto Baquerizo Moreno on San Cristobal Island. Situated only a few minutes from the centre, it is possible to get to town with the airport bus, taxi or even by walking.

Note: The Galápagos Islands and mainland Ecuador have a 1 hour time difference which is important to consider when booking flights.

Airport Procedures

When planning a trip to the Galápagos Islands, there are two fees that you will need to factor in:

• INGALA Transit Control Card - 20USD per person
• Galápagos National Park Entrance Fee - 200USD per person

INGALA Transit Control Card

The Galápagos Transit Control Card is a control measure set by the Ecuadorian government to keep track of who is entering and leaving. It is like your own personal Galápagos ID that you will need to keep safe for the duration of your trip.

You won’t be allowed to board your flight to the Galápagos Islands if you do not have a valid Transit Control Card. You will also be required to show this card upon arrival and departure from the islands. 

You can pre-register for your card online via the official government website and collect it at the INGALA counter which you can find at both Quito or Guayaquil airports. 

Alternatively, you can register in-person at the airport before your flight at the same INGALA counter. The queues and administration may take some time so leave extra time if registering at the airport.

SICGAL Bag Check

Once you have collected your Transit Control Card, you will need to visit the SICGAL booth with your luggage, where they will inspect it for any non-native species such as fruits, seeds, or nuts. As the Galápagos Islands are so isolated from the rest of the world, these mandatory bag checks ensure you are not travelling with non-native species that could be introduced to the ecosystem.  

Once checked, they will attach an approval label to your bags and you can make your way to the airline check-in desk as normal.

Galápagos National Park Entrance Fee

When you arrive at either Seymour or San Cristobal airport, you will need to pay the Galápagos National Park Entrance fee. The cost is 200 USD (100USD for children) and can only be paid in cash.

This mandatory fee goes towards the conservation of the Galápagos Islands, as well as improving the services on the islands.