The Galapagos Islands welcome visitors from all over the world every single day, and the legal requirements for entering the country are relatively limited. Nevertheless, there are a few things you will want to keep in mind before boarding your flight to the Enchanted Islands that aim to preserve the delicate balance of life in the Galapagos.

Should I Get a Visa?

There are very few countries that require a visa to enter Ecuador. Tourists from Canada, the United States, and the vast majority of European countries do not require a permit. However, if you are planning to visit Ecuador for more than three months out of the year, or for reasons other than tourism, you will likely need a visa. (Regardless, it is always a good idea to check with your Ecuadorian Consulate or embassy before boarding the plane.)

On the other hand, all visitors will undoubtedly require a passport that is valid for at least six months following their arrival. The exception to this rule applies to a few South American countries, in which the citizens can enter with just an identification card, including Argentina, Chile, and Peru, among others.

Galapagos National Park Entry Fee

Before your departure from mainland Ecuador (either Quito or Guayaquil), a park officer will collect your National Park Entry fee. For most travelers to the Galapagos, this amount is $100.00. Ecuadorian residents and nationals from the countries that are part of the Andean Pact are not subject to this same fee, and children under 12 receive a 50% discount. If you are not coming from the United States, you may want to stop by an ATM beforehand, as these payments can only be made in cash and US Dollars (the currency used in Ecuador).

Although it is easy to see this fee as a bureaucratic impediment to entering the islands, it goes into a vital fund for the Galapagos National Park that is used to protect the precious life that lives in the archipelago. This fee is distributed among various park departments and the provincial government, which focus on the protection and preservation of the islands.

Help Protect the Galapagos from Foreign Species

Once you arrive at the airport in the Galapagos Islands, your bags will be inspected to prevent the introduction of any potential diseases or non-native species to the Galapagos Islands. You will also be asked to step on a wet mat to sanitize your shoes. Although this may appear superfluous, it is a significant part of maintaining the Galapagos’ current condition and healthy ecosystems, as foreign life has been, and continues to be, one of its greatest threats.

Moreover, Don’t Forget About Yourself!

While no vaccinations are required to travel to Ecuador, it is a good idea to discuss any relevant vaccines with your doctor before departing on your trip to ensure that your vacation is as stress-free as possible. It is often recommended that first-time international travelers to Ecuador receive Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and Yellow Fever vaccines.

On that note, Ecuador recently passed a new law indicating that all travelers entering Ecuador are required to have health insurance, whether it be from their home country or traveler’s insurance. It can be a good idea to consider traveler’s insurance regardless, as it can save you from potential hassles with your flight.

Despite being one of the most protected archipelagos in the world and a haven for evolution and endemism, the bureaucratic processes to enter the Galapagos Islands are limited. Nevertheless, there are several steps that the Ecuadorian government and national park have implemented to protect both Galapagos ecosystems and the individuals who visit the islands to preserve the delicate balance between humans, and flora and fauna in this living laboratory of evolution.