The Galapagos are
known for their tame
and unique wildlife, sea
lions, and iguanas,
living amidst a barren
volcanic scenery

 

 

 

 


"The inhabitants...
state that they can
distinguish the tortoise
from different islands;
and that they differ not
only in size, but in other characters." Charles
Darwin, The Voyage of
the Beagle-1845

 

 

 

 


On land they walk with
a waddle and appear to
be very clumsy, but in
the air the Waved
Albatross are among
the most graceful
of sea birds

 

 

 

 


Bartolome is famous
for its Pinnacle Rock,
which is the most representative
landmark of the
Galapagos

Ask the Expert

 

Q: Do I need a visa to travel to Ecuador or Peru?
A: No, U.S. citizens do not require visas for Ecuador or Peru for visits less than 90 days in length, however all visitors entering Ecuador or Peru must hold a passport that is valid for at least six months.  In addition, all visitors must have outgoing travel documents and sufficient funds to finance their stay.

Q: What's the best time to travel?
A: There is no best time to travel to Ecuador as the climate is excellent year round. The busiest months in Galapagos are June to August and December and during holidays like carnival and Easter (March or April). You can see wildlife throughout the year without any problem with the exception of the albatross that migrates in the middle of December and doesn't fly back to the islands until the month of March.

Q: How many shots do I need?
A: No inoculations are required for entry into Ecuador or Peru. However, because of the high altitudes in parts of Ecuador and Peru, passengers with heart conditions or high blood pressure should consult with their doctors before traveling. Please consult your physician, local health authority or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s hotline for international travelers at 877-FYI-TRIP (877-394-8747) or via their web site at http://www.cdc.gov/travel for any addi­tional health precautions. For outbreaks of infectious diseases abroad consult the World Health Organization’s web site at http://www.who.int/en/ . Further health information for travelers is available at http://www.who.int/iht.

Q: Is the water safe to drink?
A: Do not drink tap water, despite signs posted in hotels. Avoid using ice cubes as well. Be prepared to purchase bottled water, and carry a plastic thermos or bottle to be refilled at clean sources.  You will require considerably more liquid than you normally do, and while there is ample beer (Pilsen and Club are popular ;) non-alcoholic sodas are also available. Avoid eating raw vegetables, fruit which you cannot peel, and food from street vendors. While on board the ship in the Galapagos, you can be assured that all salads, vegetables and fruits will be cleaned properly so they are safe to consume.  

Q: How in shape do I need to be?
A: Travelers to the Galapagos (and Peru) should be in good physical condition. If you are able to walk a few hours a day unassisted then you may be able to fully enjoy the Galapagos.  Some of the excursions involve walking along rocky and uneven pathways, short steep climbs or long walks in hot weather.  However, most excursions require moderate activity, and the walks are at a leisurely pace, which provides adequate time for your naturalist guide to describe what you are seeing.  To get to the landing sites on the islands from the ship, you will have to climb in and out of pangas (inflatable dinghies) which will require moderate agility and balance.  If you are concerned about your ability to do any particular hike, or climb in and out of the pangas, please consult with the naturalist on board your vessel beforehand.  In order to enjoy your trip to the fullest potential, it is a good idea to exercise before your trip (walk, swim or bicycle).

Because of the strong currents, there will be moderate movement of the vessel while navigating.  Most passengers are not affected.  If however, you are prone to motion sickness, we strongly urge you to bring some type of medication to prevent or diminish it.

Q: I plan on enjoying the shopping, as well. Are credit cards accepted?
A: Some major credit cards are accepted such as Diner’s Club, MasterCard, Visa, and American Express. However, it is advisable to carry some cash or travelers checks in US Dollars for purchases outside urban areas, and tipping. Since the Ecuadorian currency is now the US Dollar, you obviously will not need to exchange any currency there. In Peru, the exchange of U.S. Dollars can be made at lodges and banks. You should not depend on your ATM card outside of the U.S. unless your bank advises otherwise. Local banks will give you notes in local currency. Keep your traveler’s checks on you, along with other valuables, including passport, credit cards, or lock in the safety deposit boxes when provided. Cash works best in the marketplaces and with vendors along the road, where bargaining is expected.

Q: Any packing suggestions?
A: Just a few! Following is my recommended packing list:

  • Small backpack to take while exploring Galapagos Islands
  • A small flashlight with extra batteries
  • Adapter plugs and converters for electrical appliances for use in Peru
  • Packaged wet tissues ("Wash & Dry" "Wet Ones")
  • A tiny calculator for estimating cost while shopping
  • Plenty of film or tape for your camera + extra batteries or rechargers
  • Good quality sunglasses - preferably polarized. Tinted fashion glasses are not good in strong light
  • Sun hat with a brim
  • Shorts/skirts
  • Long trousers/slacks
  • Underwear and socks
  • Good walking shoes (running/tennis shoes or broken-in hiking shoes are fine)
  • Water-proof sandals (for wet landings in the Galapagos)
  • Sandals or rubber flip/flops for poolside
  • Swimsuits with light cover-up garment
  • Jacket or sweater for cooler mornings or evenings
  • Light rain gear
  • If you wear contact lenses, we recommend that you bring along a pair of glasses
  • BINOCULARS  (ESSENTIAL) and a bird book if you are keen
  • Personal toiletries (basic amenities supplied by most establishments)
  • Moisturizing cream & suntan lotion
  • Insect repellent e.g. Off!, Jungle Juice, etc
  • Basic medical kit (aspirins, plasters, Imodium, antiseptic cream and Anti-histamine cream etc)
  • Motion sickness treatments (pills, patches, pressure wristband, etc)
  • Tickets, passports, money etc
  • Waterproof bags/cover for your cameras
  • Small Spanish/English dictionary

DID YOU KNOW?
The most recognized symbol of the Galapagos is the Tortoise. The islands common name is Spanish for saddle; referring to the shape of the Galapagos Tortoise Shell.