Galapagos | The Ultimate Travel Guide

2. Table of Contents Introduction - Why the Galapagos Islands? - Where are the Galapagos - Islands? - Galapagos Facts - Galapagos Flora and Fauna Traveling to the Galapagos - How do you get to the islands? - Who can travel to the Galapagos? - Health and Safety - Galapagos National Park Activities - What is the best month to visit the Galapagos Islands? Tips Before You Go - What should you pack? Island Hopping or Cruises - How to Choose the Best Galapagos Cruise - Why Cruise to Galapagos?

3. Why the Galapagos Islands? A unique wildlife-watching destination that inspired the scientist Charles Darwin to develop his theory “the evolution of species”. I 1959 it was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, from that date until today the Islands won several prizes in tourism such as: ‘Best Green Destination in the World 2013’, awarded by the international association World Travel Awards (WTA), considered the ‘Oscar’ award for tourism. Recently “the Enchanted Islands” was recognized as “one of the destina- tions you must visit before you die,” awarded by the site 10best.com and the newspaper USA Today. n the archipelago, there is a minimal presence of humans, with 97% designated as a highly controlled and strictly regulated National Park. The absence of natural predators has led to fearless fau- na that permits up-close-and-personal observation like nowhere else in the world. Galapagos is a unique paradise that amazes and inspires the world. In 3

4. Where are the Galapagos Islands? The Galápagos Islands are part of the Republic of Ecuador. The archipelago consists of 19 islands and dozens of islets distributed on either side of the equator in the Pacific Ocean. 4

5. Galapagos Facts - Population of Galapagos Province: 33.042 in 2020 (across four inhabited islands) - Official Language: Spanish Currency - US Dollar Time Zone Ecuador: UTC/GMT-5 Time Zone Galapagos: UTC/ GMT-6 - Galapagos Demographics: Mainly mestizo (a mix of Spanish and indi- genous South American lineage), arriving on the islands during the last century Galapagos - Weather: Pleasant all year round, with two distinct seasons: a humid hot season (December through May) and a slightly cooler dry season (June through November) - Government: Democratic constitutional republic US State Department Travel - Hospitals in the Galapagos: 2 hospitals, additional smaller health cen- ters - Connectivity in the Galapagos: Internet and cellular service are availa- ble in the populated centers of the inhabited islands. - Reported Cases of Zika in the Galapagos in 2020: None 5

6. Galapagos Fauna T endemic species living in and around the Galapagos Islands. More than 45 species of endemic birds, 42 reptiles, 15 mammals and 79 fish, live in the Galapagos in harmony with humans. We’ve created our list of the most iconic ones in the Galapagos. The unique ende- mic and native flo- ra and fauna in the world makes the Galapagos Islands an exceptional pla- ce. There are approximately 2,000 6

7. In cruise, the experience is better If you take a cruise-based tour of the Galapagos Islands, we guarantee you’ll have a much better chance of seeing the most emblematic species of the islands. 7

8. T are around 500 species among vascular plants, bryophytes and algae and approximately 825 in- troduced species of vegetation. he plants that coat the terrain of the Galapagos archi- pelago are as in- triguing and as rare as the wildlife Galapagos Flora that inhabits the islands. There ONLY in the Galapagos Islands, you can hug a cactus–the giant prickly pear, believe it or not! 8

9. HOW TO GET TO THE GALAPAGOS ISLANDS The Galapagos archipelago is located approximately 600 miles off the coast of South America. Additionally, as it is a protected National Park, there are restrictions for incoming flights. - There are no direct international flights to the Galapagos Islands. - Daily flights to the Galapagos Islands depart from the cities of Quito and Guayaquil on the mainland Ecuador. - Flights to the Galapagos take around two and a half hours. - Most flights from Quito have a stopover in Guayaquil. - There are two airports in Galapagos, on the Islands of Baltra and San Cristobal. Make sure to book the flight to the island where your cruise is departing from. - Flight departs from Quito early in the morning therefore, hence make sure you arrive at least 24 hours prior to your Galapagos flight. - Daily flights depart from Quito or Guayaquil. - International airlines must make a stop either in Quito or Guayaquil to connect with the Galapagos flight. 9

10. Airlines Choose the best airline for you! Guayaquil’s Jose Joaquin de Olmedo “International Airport” receives daily flights from: - Miami and New York. - Amsterdam and Madrid. - Some of the major cities of Central and South America. Quito’s “Mariscal Sucre” International Airport, receives flights from: - Atlanta, Dallas, Houston, Miami, New York, and Toronto - Amsterdam, Paris, and Madrid. 10

11. Who can travel to the Galapagos? Galapagos Islands welcomes nationalities from all over the world. No visa is required! It is recommended that tourists be at least 6 years old because bathrooms are scarce during the tours or itineraries and there are limited daycare services. 11

12. Safe and Healthy The Galapagos Islands is one of the safest destinations in the world in terms of health and safety The archipelago is completely free from the threat of pirates, terrorism, and organized crime. Additionally, the weather is pleasant over the year and there are no extreme weather patterns (storms, hurricanes, etc.). The Galapagos is a remote expedition destination, so it is important to choose a direct tour operator, that offers all the healthy and safe measures. 12

13. Medical help in Galapagos There are two main hospitals (on Santa Cruz and San Cristobal) that handle some outpatient procedures. Also, there are smaller health centers on Santa Cruz Island that offer limited treatment options. For extended medical attention patients will need to be travel to the mainland of Guayaquil or Quito. Pinta Genovesa Marchena Isabela Santiago Baltra Fernandina Santa Fe Santa Cruz San Cristobal Española Floreana Recommendation: Acquiring an international medical insurance policy before traveling. 13

14. Galapagos National Park Galapagos is home to rare and endemic species that are in danger of extinction. The Islands are one of the last remaining pristine wildlife paradises in the world. For this reason, there is a National Park that attempts to protect these species through conservation and preservation rules. 14

15. USEFUL RULES FOR VISITORS Galapagos tourism activity emerged in 1960, currently exceeds more than 220,000 annual visitors and the number continues to increase due to new hotels and ships that appear. Tourism represents 95% of the island’s income and is an important part also in the national economy. Keeping the Galapagos islands protected is essential for the benefit of tourism, local communities, and the ecosystem. Any protected national park around the world maintains the same rules and it is your responsibility to leave the site as it was before your visit. Jet Ski, submarines, helicopters, water skiing, and air tourism are prohibited. 15

16. Protected areas 1. Tourists accessing any area of the Galapagos National Park must be accompanied by a guide authorized by the GNP 6. Flash is not allowed during photography. 7. If you want to camp you must ask for authorization 48 hours in advance. Camping is only allowed in some authorized areas. 2. Visitors must belong within the marked trails for animal protec- tion and for your own safety. 8. Do not buy products made from the following materials: black co- ral, shells, lava rocks, animal parts, or any native wood or vegetation before leaving Galapagos. This is illegal and must be reported. 3. It is important to stay at least six feet (two meters) away from wildlife. In other parts of the world, staying so close to the species is impossible for tourists. 9. Pick up any trash you leave be- hind, dispose of or recycle in po- pulated areas or on your tourist 4. Never feed animals, the Galapa- gos ecosystem is extremely deli- cate and feeding them can alter their environment. 10. Smoking or bonfires are prohibited 5. Do not introduce food, animals or plants into the archipelago. 16

17. Activities The most exciting way to live the Galapagos adventure is practicing all exiting activities this unique place offers 17

18. Snorkel Snorkeling in the Galapagos Islands will be the best experience because you can swim alongsi- de live fish, curious sea lions, fascinating sharks, placid turtles, fascinating sea iguanas. 18

19. Kayak Paddle across the Galapagos Islands’ beautiful waters in a kayak and admire everything that lies above and below the surface of the water! 19

20. Paddle Board Walk on water! With this enjoyable and relaxing activity, you have the privilege to watch the majestic ocean over marine life. 20

21. Panga Ride Onboard our pangas (small yet) you can explore the treasures of the island and delve into little-explored virgin places! 21

22. Animal Watching The only place in the world where you can see animals in their natural state 2 steps away! Galapagos animals are totally intrepid 22

23. Hiking Throughout our hiking excursions on the islands, you will be able to enjoy the most beautiful species in the world that do not exist anywhere else and are completely intrepid, which means that you can admire them from just a couple of steps. 23

24. What is the best month to visit the Galapagos Islands? A destination to visit any day of the year. If you want to spend time in the Enchanted Islands, be it in J anuary, December or any month in between, you will always see iconic spe- cies and enjoy the most pleasant climate. It never rains for long, and the wonder of this amazing place sets the tone for an experience like no other. Temp in ˚C Rainfall in mm 35 30 25 20 15 10 5 0 140 120 100 80 60 40 20 0 JAN FEB MARA PR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCTN OV DEC Warm-season It is the best time to visit the Galapagos for diving, as the sea çis calmer and underwater visibility is really good. species and no need to wander off in search of waterholes or food. Cool-season The climate in the Galapagos is not typical of the tropics. The dryer and cooler months lend themsel- ves more to hiking along the coast and throughout the highlands. Species Watching Animals here can be seen year-round, with few migratory 24

25. What should you pack? What documents do you need to travel? Every tourist must travel with his/her original passport to Galapagos. Dizziness kit (box with bracelet and earplugs) Lightweight shoes, rubber clogs, flip-flops for walking only on board In order for us to organize your trip, please send us the following information: passport number, nationality, date of birth, full name and any specvial. Good walking shoes Personal use medicine Caps or hats Clothing for hot weather Coat/windbreaker, raincoat for cold season (June-October) Sunscreen Insect repellent Personal toiletries Toothbrush and toothpaste For women (menstrual products) Swimsuit Cameras Binoculars Sunglasses Cash money 25

26. Island Hopping or Galapagos Cruises Galapagos Cruise Itineraries: Galapagos cruises offers a complete guide to spending enough time sailing in remote islands that can only be reached by cruise. Enjoy more the landscapes: You’ll be able to get a bigger picture understanding of the islands. Take advantage of your time: For travelers who want to maximize their time in the Galapagos, cruises are the key. Because cruises navigate at night, you’ll be able to awake the next morning on another destination. Comfort: Aboard each cruise, you’ll find relaxing accommodations, amenities, and personalized services. Adventure: If you are ocean lover the cruises offer a wide variety of water and land activities like kayaking, snorkeling, paddleboarding, hiking, and more are available expedition. Restful and relax: If you travel with a cruise director operator everything is going to be under control. Part of the cruising experience, in the Galapagos Islands, is that you get to simply sit back, relax, and enjoy. New friends: Exclusive cruises of only 16 passengers you can socialize with the travelers of other cultures and the crew. All-inclusive: The itinerary is planned, meals are set, and everything you need is on the ship. 26

27. Island Hopping or Galapagos Cruises Island Hopping Reservations: This option needs more effort, because you have to book a stay in a Galapagos hotel or lodge on an island (or many stays on multiple islands), and hopping back and forth between the different islands day after day. More flexibility: Some travelers like to do everything at the last minute. Your plans: You decide your plans each day, where to visit, where to go. Extra budget: As the islands hopping does not have a pre-established itinerary, we advise you to have an extra budget for your needs or an emergency. New friends: if you explore the towns on your own you can socialize with the people of the community of Galapagos. 27

28. Galapagos Cruises Deals 1. Better plan your schedule with flexibility. Cruise dates are set in stone and options to diminish quickly as the departure date is near. 2. Investigate. Do a Galapagos cruise comparison. No matter when you are going, you need to figure out which cruises and itineraries are best for you. 3. Identify if the offer is from an agency or direct operator. A direct operator has certain information about reservations, availability and personalized service. 4. Choose the “ideal” 5-day“ cruise for know most of the charms offered by the island. 5. Extend your stay in the Galapagos Island by staying in a hotel or lodge before or after your cruise. The cost per day tends to be less and there are spectacular places to explore when you stay inland, on one of the inhabited islands such as Floreana, Isabela, San Cristobal, and Santa Cruz. 6. Verify the payment methods and credibility of the company that will take you to Galapagos. Many travelers try to do it on their own and it becomes a headache because the costs rise individually, instead of planning your trip with an agency integrates all the services and gives you the tranquility of knowing that everything is under control. 7. We recommended you stay extra days in Ecuador. Our country is a paradise full of natural and cultural wonders. Arriving at the capital, Quito, and planning trips to Amazonian, Andean and coastal region of Ecuador before or after your Galapagos trip is an ideal and complete adventure. One needs about ten days in order to know the most amazing places in Ecuador. 8. Ensure your flight from Quito or Guayaquil to Galapagos in a timely date. Do not miss your flight! because a delay in the arrival of the flight could cause you to lose your cruise, in most cases. 28

29. Why Cruise to Galapagos? Cruise to Galapagos offers immediate solutions to your requirements. Where most tour companies have a minimum of two intermediaries with Galapagos Ga- laxy Cruises there is only one intermediary between the customer and the Galapagos operation. Security The safety of our guests and crew is our top priority. We have a history of marine safety with 11 years of experience. Environmentally Friendly Cruises Cruises build on ecological parameters to reduce the consumption of water, fuel and CO2 emissions to the environment. Activities & Experiences on Board Most convenient itineraries as all visits and activities in the Galapagos Islands are different. 29

30. SECURE PAYMENTS METHODS Choose from a wide range of payment methods, including credit/debit cards, direct debit, and online bank transfer. 30

31. OUR FOUR WONDERFUL CRUISES With more than 10 years of experience and hundreds of very satisfied passengers, we were awarded as the new “Cruise operator of the year” (Runner Up) by the Latin America Travel Asociation, last June 10th. 31

32. For more than 10 years, we have had the pleasure of sha- ring life-changing journeys with our guests, giving them the best experience with excellent service on board our exclusive Galapagos cruises. We are director operators, so all the requests that our guests require will be attended to immediately. We own a fleet of 4 exclusive ships, thought and reinvented to pro- vide the best service for our guests, always preserving the nature and beauty of the Galapagos Islands. We are an industry leader on setting the standard for de- veloping innovative, top-quality concepts and product offerings in the most iconic destination 32

33. BONITA YACHT The Real Tourist Superior Class A suitable boat for those who looking for enjoys the Galapagos Islands with a bit of luxury in a comfortable environment. 33

34. GALAXY YACHT Amazing Expeditions Admire the “Galapagos Islands” on board our re- newed Galaxy First Class Cruise, offering exclusive- ness and personalized service in a comfortable and majestic environment. What our expeditionists say on Tripadvisor. 34

35. ECOGALAXY CRUISE Environmentally Friendly Explore the “Enchanted Islands” aboard our first-class EcoGalaxy catamaran cruise, built to sail the Galapagos Islands while preserving its fragile ecosystem and, of course, its beauty. What our expeditionists say on Tripadvisor. 35

36. THE ALYA LUXURY CATAMARAN Luxury Esperience Enjoy the best of the “Enchanted Islands” on board our new Alya Luxury Catamaran Cruise, also known as “The Jewel of Galapagos,” due to its design representing the perfection, beauty and uniqueness of an exotic paradise. What our expeditionists say on Tripadvisor. 36

37. Contact us We guarantee you will have a blast experience Call Free 1-866-238-5006 WhatsApp Gabby A. E-mail reservations@cruisetogalapagos.com

38. Cruise to Galapagos www.cruisetogalapagos.com 2020| Written by: Andrea Paucar Graphic design: Karen Santamaria Photography: Ivan Franco