Plan
your journey with our Ecuador travel guide focused on the Galapagos
Islands. Discover essential tips on visas, weather, costs, safety,
and culture to explore Ecuador’s incredible mainland and island
highlights.
Country: Ecuador (Galápagos Archipelago)
Continent / Region: South America / Pacific Ocean
Capital City: Puerto Baquerizo Moreno (administrative), Puerto Ayora (largest town)
Government Type: Part of the Republic of Ecuador
Population: Approx. 33,000 (across inhabited islands)
Official Language(s): Spanish
English Usage: Widely spoken in tourism
Currency: US Dollar (USD)
Time Zone (GMT): GMT−6 (Galápagos Time)
Driving Side: Right
Electric Plug Type / Voltage: Type A/B – 120V
Adapter Needed: UK travellers require a plug adapter
Emergency Numbers: 911 (all services)
Travel Time from the UK (London): 15–20+ hours (2 stops via mainland Ecuador)
Best Time/Months to Travel: December–May (warm season) / June–November (cool, wildlife-rich season)
Main International Access Airports (via mainland Ecuador):
Main Galápagos Airports:
- Visa Requirements: Same as Ecuador
- Visa Needed for UK Citizens: Not required
- Visa Duration / Cost: 90 days (free)
- Vaccinations Needed: Hepatitis A recommended; Yellow Fever if arriving from risk countries
Important Entry Fees:
Embassy Information (UK Embassy in Ecuador):
Average Daily Costs: £60 / £120 / £250+
Tipping Culture: 10% recommended
Public Transport Options: Boats, ferries, taxis (limited), cycling
Approx. Cost of Single Ferry: $30–$35 USD (inter-island)
Internet / SIM Availability: Limited & slow; Claro and Movistar best options
Main Climate Type: Tropical, influenced by ocean currents
Average Temperature: 22–30°C depending on season
Major Islands: Santa Cruz, San Cristóbal, Isabela, Floreana
Natural Attractions: Volcanoes, lava fields, beaches, reefs, mangroves
Popular Destinations: Tortuga Bay, Sierra Negra Volcano, Kicker Rock, Bartolomé Island, Darwin Bay
Main Religions: Christianity
Local Life: Quiet, conservation-focused island communities
Cultural Etiquette / Customs:
Cuisine Highlights: Fresh fish, ceviche, seafood stews, plantains, Ecuadorian dishes
Local Festivals: Sea Lion Festival (San Cristóbal), island fairs, Ecuadorian Independence Day
Famous Landmarks: Charles Darwin Research Station, Los Tuneles, Darwin Bay, Pinnacle Rock
Overall Safety Rating: Very safe
Common Scams: Rare; occasional tour overpricing
Health Risks: Strong sun, seasickness, dehydration, marine stings
Recommended Clinics: Puerto Ayora & San Cristóbal have basic hospitals
Insurance Recommendation: Essential — wildlife excursions & boat trips require it
Internet Speed: Limited and often slow — expect basic connectivity only
Useful Phrases:
Must-See Attractions: Tortuga Bay, Kicker Rock, Bartolomé Island, Los Tuneles, Sierra Negra Volcano, Darwin Research Station
Unique Experiences: Swimming with sea lions, giant tortoise encounters, penguins on the equator, blue-footed booby sightings
Hidden Gems: Lava tunnels, Playa Mann, Wall of Tears (Isabela), Las Grietas lagoon, secluded coves
Popular Areas to Stay: Puerto Ayora (Santa Cruz), Puerto Baquerizo Moreno (San Cristóbal), Puerto Villamil (Isabela)
Average Hotel Prices: £40 / £90 / £200+
Book A Hotel: You can book your accommodation right here.
Nightlife Areas: Low-key bars in Santa Cruz & San Cristóbal
Local Drinks: Ecuadorian beer, cocktails, fresh juices
Entertainment: Beach bars, live music, stargazing, sunset spots
Inter-Island Travel: Ferries, speedboats, small planes
Local Transport: Taxis (cheap), walking, cycling
Car Rental: Rare and not needed
Best Markets: Puerto Ayora waterfront, San Cristóbal craft shops
Popular Souvenirs: Tortoise carvings (ethically sourced), handmade jewellery, eco-friendly crafts, local art
Local SIM Card Providers: Claro, Movistar
Typical Business Hours: 8 a.m.–6 p.m. (Mon–Sat)
Tap Water Safety: Not safe to drink — bottled or filtered only
Local Apps to Download:
Did You Know?
The Galápagos inspired Charles Darwin’s Theory of Evolution, and is home to species found nowhere else on Earth.