Ecuador & the Galápagos Islands

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Ecuador & the Galápagos Islands

Jewels of Ecuador & Galápagos Islands Cruise

• Discover Mindo Cloud Forest
• Explore the charming Andean city of Otavalo
• See the iconic wildlife of the Galapagos Islands

Save up to £200 per person

Feb 2027 - Mar 2028

18 days

Prices from £8,795 Per person

Find out more

Frequently Asked Questions about Ecuador & the Galápagos Islands

• What is the time difference between the UK and Ecuador and the Galápagos Islands?

  Ecuador GMT -5 hours

  Galápagos Islands GMT -6 hours

• What is the currency in Ecuador and the Galápagos Islands?

  United States Dollar

• What will the weather be like in Ecuador and the Galápagos Islands?

  Generally, all our tours operate when it is considered the best time to travel, although it is important to note that climates may vary between different regions and countries, if visiting more than one, so climates may change throughout your tour. As weather patterns around the world become less predictable the information we provide should be used as a guide only and is no guarantee of the weather at the time you travel. We also recommend checking up-to-date weather forecasts before you depart.

  You can expect warm temperatures and sunny weather in the Galápagos with calm seas and excellent wildlife-viewing opportunities, with the occasional tropical shower. On mainland Ecuador, you can expect generally mild weather, with a mix of sunshine and occasional showers. Evenings and early mornings can be considerably cooler, particularly at higher elevations.

  If you are visting the Amazon Rainforest on our extension, October to April is rainy season in this area and weather can change quickly. Downpours are highly likely but your lodge can provide waterproof ponchos and wellington boots.

• What clothing should I take to Ecuador and the Galápagos Islands?

  Dress for our tours is generally relaxed and informal during the day, dressing to suit the weather conditions and the activity you are undertaking. Evening dinners are also informal, with smart casual dress being the norm.

  It’s likely there will be occasions when exploring you’ll be walking on uneven surfaces, so we recommend sturdy and comfortable walking shoes. Wearing layers of clothing means it’s much easier to deal with potentially varied weather conditions – remember it will be cooler at higher altitudes – and it’s always advisable to carry a waterproof, good insect repellent, a high factor sunscreen lotion and a hat for protection from the sun.

  Although Ecuador is generally informal, local communities in the Andes often adopt a more conservative style of dress than visitors may be used to in the UK, and we recommend dressing modestly when visiting towns and villages. When entering churches and religious sites, it is respectful to cover your shoulders and avoid overly revealing clothing.

  If you are visiting the Amazon Rainforest on our extension, your lodge can provide waterproof ponchos and wellington boots but lomg waterproof trousers are highly also recommended.

• What is the best way to pay for things in Ecuador and the Galápagos Islands?

  When travelling in South America, the best option is to use a mix of payment methods. Carry local currency for small purchases and rural areas and use credit or travel cards like Revolut for hotels and larger establishments.

  Please note the following general advice:

  • ATMs are generally available in major cities, less so in rural areas

  • Credit cards are generally widely accepted in the majority of hotels, cruises, larger international restaurants and shops, although be aware credit card payments may incur an additional fee

  • If buying small items or purchasing from local shops, restaurants and markets, or when outside of major cities, with the exception of hotels, local currency is always recommended

  • If you are planning to use your debit or credit card whilst travelling, advise your bank of your travel plans so you do not encounter potential problems when trying to withdraw cash or make a payment

  • When you change money, ask for some small bills and keep these, along with coins, separate from larger ones - this is also handy for tipping

  • It is always worth carrying a small amount of UK Sterling or US Dollars as these can usually be readily exchanged

  • Keep your exchange receipts as these may be needed if you want to exchange any remaining currency you have at the end of your trip

  • A currency card is a simple way to buy local currency and lock in an exchange rate before you travel. We recommend Revolut, a digital banking app which offers a pre-paid physical or virtual currency card. It is simple to apply for, set up and use. For more information on the Revolut Currency Card, please click here.

• How much should I tip in Ecuador and the Galápagos Islands?

  Tipping in most countries is a way of showing your appreciation for good service, and whilst not compulsory, it is now an accepted practice in many of the countries we visit on our tours and in many, very much a way of life.

  Tipping remains discretionary, although at the end of your tour, if you are happy with the services provided by your Tour Manager, local guides, coach drivers and assistants, we would suggest showing your appreciation for the services offered.

  We have included a number of gratuities into your tour. Tipping for your Tour Manager, local guides and drivers are not included.

  We would suggest the following amounts:

  Ecuador
  • Tour Manager: US$5 per person / per day
  • Drivers: US$3 per person / per day
  • Local Guide: US$5 per person / per day

  MV Galápagos Legend
  • Guide: US$15 per person, per day
  • Crew: US$20 per person, per day

• What are the entry requirements for Ecuador and the Galápagos Islands?

  The information provided on entry requirements, passports and visas is for British Citizens only. Any visa information covers visa requirements for the duration of our tour stays in any given country. If you intend to stay longer you should seek additional information before booking.

  Holders of a British Subject passport, non-British citizens and holders of a passport endorsed in any way should check immigration requirements with the relevant embassy or consulate of the country to be visited, as should clients with dual nationality or renounced citizenship.

  It is important to recognise that whilst the information provided is correct at the time of publishing, all requirements may change and all clients must check the up-to-date position in good time before departure with the embassy or consulate of the country(ies) you are travelling through and to.

  We also suggest referring to the UK government’s Foreign Travel Advice website, for advice about travelling abroad, including the latest information on safety and security, entry requirements and travel warnings.

• Do I need to renew my passport for my trip to Ecuador and the Galápagos Islands?

  A valid ten-year British passport is required for all our holidays, valid for a minimum of six months after your return date to the UK. If you are not currently in possession of a valid passport, please make sure you leave plenty of time before your holiday to apply for this document.

  A full British passport presently takes approximately up to ten weeks to obtain. If you are 16 or over and have not yet arranged a passport, you should apply for one at least 10 weeks before your departure from the UK. The UK Passport Service has to confirm an applicant’s identity before issuing their first passport and may ask them to attend an interview in order to do this. Please note, if you need to apply for visas after you receive your new passport, you will need to factor in additional time for this.

• Will I need a visa to enter Ecuador and the Galápagos Islands?

  British citizens can visit Ecuador for stays of up to 90 days with no visa required. 

  For more information on passport information and entry requirements please visit the Government Passport Office website and the Foreign Office website.

• Do I need to have any vaccinations for Ecuador and the Galápagos Islands?

  Health facilities, hygiene and disease risks vary worldwide and may change at any time. You should take health advice from your GP or local travel clinic about your specific needs as early as possible and ensure that vaccinations or preventative measures are taken early enough (which may be a month or more prior to departure) to be fully effective by the date of travel.

  In addition to the UK government’s own travel advice website, we also recommend visiting the NHS Travel Vaccinations website, for more information on any required vaccinations.

  Please Note:
  • A Yellow Fever vaccination may be required
  • Tours within South America include high-altitude locations. Guests with concerns should check with their doctor before booking.