How Much Does a Trip to Galapagos Cost? A Step-by-Step Budget
It is the question we hear most: how much does a trip to Galapagos cost? The answer depends on whether you take a cruise or travel around the inhabited islands with a hotel and day tours. We explain each expense so you can build your budget with no surprises.
1. Mandatory entry costs
Every visitor pays for the Transit Control Card (TCT), USD 20, and the Galapagos National Park entrance fee, which is paid in cash on arrival. The fee varies depending on whether you are an Ecuadorian, foreign or Andean Community/Mercosur visitor. Check the official amounts in our guide How to get to Galapagos: requirements, TCT and fees.
2. Flights
Flights leave from Quito and Guayaquil to Baltra (Santa Cruz) or San Cristobal. The price changes a lot depending on the season and how far ahead you buy: book early, especially for July, August, December and public holidays.
3. Hotel, tours and transfers
Traveling around the inhabited islands is usually the most affordable way to see Galapagos. The easiest way to calculate it is with a package that already includes everything:
- Puerto Ayora Package, 4 days and 3 nights: USD 760 per person.
- Tortoise Package, 4 days and 3 nights: USD 820 per person.
- Penguins Package, 5 days and 4 nights: USD 1,085 per person.
- Adventure Package, 6 days and 5 nights on Santa Cruz and Isabela: USD 1,365 per person.
The packages include hotel, transfers and tours; they do not include flights, the TCT or the Park fee. If you prefer to plan it yourself, you can add day tours and the inter-island ferry, which costs USD 50 per leg.
4. What about a cruise?
A Galapagos cruise reaches remote islands that are not visited on day tours, and it already includes accommodation, meals and excursions. The price depends on the yacht, the category and the number of days.
5. Other expenses
- Meals not included in your package.
- Water taxis and local transport.
- Tips for guides and crew.
- Rental of snorkel gear, bikes or boards.
💡 How to save
- Travel in the low season and buy your flights in advance.
- Arrive at one airport and leave from the other so you do not repeat the ferry.
- Check our last-minute deals.
- Bring cash: some islands have few ATMs.
Want an exact budget? Message us on WhatsApp with your dates and number of people, and we will send you a free, no-obligation quote.
Example budget per person
A quick way to estimate your trip, using our packages on the inhabited islands:
- Galapagos National Park entrance fee: USD 200 for foreign adults, paid in cash on arrival.
- Transit Control Card (TCT): USD 20, paid at the airport in Quito or Guayaquil.
- Package with hotel, transfers and tours: our Puerto Ayora Package is USD 760 for 4 days, and the Adventure Package is USD 1,365 for 6 days.
- Flights to Baltra or San Cristobal: the price depends on the season and on how early you book.
- Meals not included, tips and extras: plan a daily amount for lunch or dinner in town.
Plan your trip
Frequently asked questions
What is the cheapest way to visit the Galapagos?
Staying on the inhabited islands (Santa Cruz, Isabela or San Cristobal) and taking day tours is usually the most affordable option, compared with a cruise.
How many days do I need?
We recommend at least 4 days. With 5 to 7 days you can visit two islands and combine several day tours without rushing.
Do I need cash in the Galapagos?
Yes. The National Park entrance fee is paid in cash on arrival, and some places on Isabela and Floreana do not accept cards. ATMs exist on Santa Cruz and San Cristobal.
Is a cruise worth the extra cost?
A cruise is more expensive but reaches remote islands that day tours cannot, and it includes accommodation and all meals. It is ideal if you want to see as many different islands as possible.
When should I book?
Book flights and popular tours as early as possible, especially for July, August, December and holidays. In the low season you can also find last-minute deals.
Can we help with your trip?
Message us on WhatsApp and we will advise you from Puerto Ayora.
Ask on WhatsApp