|
Ecuador and Galapagos Tours Ecuador is a small country that offers a great variety of nature and cultural options for tours. From the fascinating Galapagos Islands to the mighty Andes and the mysterious Amazon, Ecuador tours can be quite rewarding.
To the left are links to some of the options that we can offer.
|
NEW ENTRY PROTOCOLS to visit ECUADOR, approved by the National Government :
- Starting Thursday, May 29, 2025, all travelers can get their Transit Control Card (TCT) online before going to the Galápagos. This mandatory document is required for all travelers and incomers. The new online system, created by the Galápagos government, makes it easier and faster to get the TCT. To obtain the TCT, travelers will need to:
- Go to: https://siig-cgreg.gobiernogalapagos.gob.ec
- Accept the data policy.
- Watch a mandatory video outlining Galápagos entry regulations.
- Fill out a personal information form and confirm their email address.
- Submit travel and accommodation details.
- Accept the terms and complete payment using a credit or debit card.
- Download the TCT after payment (and receive a copy by email).
Required Documents for Galapagos entry. Please remember that every Traveler must present the following documents at the airport befor departure towards the Galapagos Islands:
- TCT (printed or digital copy)
- Valid passport or ID
- Proof of round-trip flight
This new system helps travelers save time by allowing them to obtain their TCT online before their trip. It also helps protect the Galápagos Islands by making sure all visitors follow the rules and travel responsibly.
The Galapagos Biosecurity Agency (ABG) has recently updated the platform used to complete the mandatory Sworn Declaration of Goods for all travelers flying to the Galapagos Islands from Quito or Guayaquil. As this change was implemented without prior public announcement, we are sharing the updated information below for your reference.
- The declaration must be filled online 24 to 72 hours prior to departure.
- Once completed, travelers will receive a QR code, which must be presented at the ABG (Biosecurity Agency) counter at the airport (Quito or Guayaquil) and again upon arrival in the Galapagos.
- The system now allows users to download the PDF, send it to their email, or take a screenshot directly from the confirmation page.
- If no email is received, travelers can search for the declaration using their passport number on the same site and resubmit if needed.
Important: Passengers must abide by the regulations of the Galapagos National Park, the Galapagos Government
Council, the Ministry of Health of Ecuador, and the Airports.
The National Customs Service of Ecuador has issued a clarification regarding the Customs Declaration Form (FRA).
You are only required to complete the FRA if you are entering or leaving Ecuador with goods that must be declared, including:
Cash, bearer negotiable instruments, precious metals, or gemstones valued at or above USD 10,000 (or the equivalent in another currency).
Access the online form here: www.aduana.gob.ec/servicio-alciudadano/viajeros-por-via-aerea
Starting July 29, the declaration must be completed online, although in exceptional cases, it may still be submitted in physical form.
In a groundbreaking move aimed at advancing conservation efforts and fostering sustainable tourism, the Galápagos National Park Authority has unveiled a revised entry fee structure for the Galápagos Islands. Effective August 1, 2024, this new fee system stands as a testament to Ecuador's commitment to safeguarding the unique ecosystem of the islands, ensuring their preservation for the benefit of future generations. For the first time in over a quarter of a century, the entry fees to the Galápagos Islands will undergo an adjustment. The Galapagos National Park acknowledges the indispensable role tourism plays in the local economy while emphasizing the paramount importance of preserving the islands' delicate ecosystem. The new fee will be US$200 for foreign adults and US$100 for foreign children.
|
"It was a great trip, without any problems whatsoever, and I very much appreciate your promptness and responsiveness during the planning and immediate post-planning process. I definitely felt that we did all that I had hoped with great service and smooth transitions among the different components of the trip. And all of this at a reasonable price. So, in general, I am a very satisfied customer, and would gladly work with you again on a future South American trip for my family and myself (which I think is likely). Thanks very much for your help again." David "We arrived back in Chicago last night safely. The trip overall was amazing and an unforgettable experience. We really enjoyed all of the different locations, activities, and guides. Thank you for helping us organize everything and for your recommendations. I will recommend your services to friends and family and will also be in touch for future travel. If you need any other feedback from me, please let me know and I will be happy to share. " Kunal |
The geographical diversity of Ecuador means that there are a number of different climates and microclimates in the country's four regions. Temperatures vary according to elevation and the location of the cities and towns. Due to geographic differences in altitude, longitude and latitude, and the climatic effects of the Pacific Ocean, the Amazon, and the Andes, the various regions and sub regions of Ecuador have very different climates and microclimates.
Ecuador is home to 8 percent of the world's animal species and 18 percent of the planet's birds. Around 3,800 species of vertebrates have been identified in Ecuador as well as 1,550 species of mammals, 350 reptile species, 375 species of amphibians, 800 fresh water fish species, and 450 salt water fish species. Ecuador is also home to 15 percent of the world's endemic bird species. Moreover, there are more than a million species of insects and 4,500 species of butterflies that live in Ecuador. The ecosystems which exist in the country go from sea level to an altitude of around 6400 metres. Its total area is 14,583,227 hectares, including the highlands, the coast and the Amazon region. There are 46 ecosystems which are made up of paramo, woods, valleys and the Pacific Ocean, located in different climate zones. One of the ecosystems which is richest in biodiversity is the tropical rain forest, which large trees of different and numerous species and an abundance of plants, flowers, mammals, reptiles, birds, invertebrates, fish and amphibians.
|
