FAQ
We have compiled a list of frequently asked questions. If you have a question that is not answered below, please do not hesitate to contact us, and we will try to answer it to the best of our ability.
THE LODGE
Each room has a maximum capacity with set prices. For some rooms we can add an additional bed. Please contact us for pricing.
Yes, we can arrange for pick-up’s and drop-off’s from the canal to the lodge, as well as into town. Please contact us prior to your arrival if you require a pick-up from the canal.
Galapagos is not known for having the best internet, so please be aware of this. There is WiFi, but it is only available in the social areas of the Lodge.
Check-in time is at 2pm and check-out time is at 10am. Please let us know prior to your check-in or check-out if you require a different time. Please note, we do try to accommodate alternate check-in and check-out times, but we may not be able to accommodate all requests based on the lodge’s current capacity.
Yes. Please let us know if you require laundry services during your stay.
THE POOL + HOT TUB
7 days a week. 8am-11pm
You can be any age to access the pool, however, as we do not have a life-guard on duty, we recommend all children under the age of 12 are accompanied by a parent or guardian.
THE RESTAURANT
Please contact us through our ‘Contact Page’ prior to your stay so that we may accommodate your food restrictions. As well, please remind your server prior to ordering.
Yes, breakfast is included during your stay. It is served between the hours of 7am-10am. An earlier breakfast can be arranged for groups, please contact us prior to your stay to arrange this.
No, unfortunately at this time we do not have room service.
THE GALAPAGOS
Currency: All of Ecuador uses the US dollar.
Taxes (IVA): 12%
Electrical outlets: 2 flat parallel blades at 110Volts (same as Canada and US)
Time: Ecuador GMT-5 / Galapagos: GMT-6
Area/Calling Codes: International dialing from Ecuador (00, Ecuador (593), Quito (2)
Departure Tax: Quito $41 | Guayaquil $28
Tipping:
Restaurants & Hotels: Most mid-high end restaurants and hotels will add a 10% service fee as well as 12% tax (totalling appx. 22%). Tipping is not necessary if service fee has been included, however if you wish to tip more, please do so at your own discretion.
Taxis: Tipping your taxi driver is not typically customary, or required.
Legal drinking age: 18 years old.
There are no Covid-19 vaccine requirments to enter the country.
If you have COVID-19 symptoms on arrival, you may be required to take a rapid antigen test. If the result is positive, you will be instructed to wear a mask but self isolation is no longer mandatory. However, your state of health will still be monitored by the Ministry of Public Health via phone calls, using the details you provided on your Health Status Declaration Form.The Ministry of Public Health has published more information on coronavirus protocols and direct contact options (Spanish only).
If you are transiting through Ecuador, you are subject to the same COVID-19 requirements as for entering Ecuador (Health Declaration Form).
When visiting the Galapagos Islands, a National Park and World Heritage Site, all visitors are expected to act responsibly and to treat the environment with respect. Below are 14 rules of the Galapagos National Park Directorate (GNPD) that all visitors are expected to abide by while in the Islands:
- Visitors to any protected areas within the Galápagos National Park must be accompanied by a naturalist guide authorized by the GNPD.
- Travel only with tour operators and/or boats authorized to work in the protected areas of Galápagos.
- Remain on marked trails at visitor sites and respect signs at all times for the protection of wildlife, and for your safety.
- Maintain a distance of at least six feet (two meters) from wildlife to avoid disturbing them, even if they approach you.
- Never feed wildlife, as this can cause health problems.
- Flash photography is not permitted when taking photos of wildlife. Professional photography and videos recorded for commercial purposes must be authorized by the GNPD.
- Camping is only allowed in a few authorized areas in the Islands. Request authorization to camp at the Galápagos National Park’s offices at least 48 hours in advance.
- It is your responsibility not to introduce food, animals, or plants into the Archipelago. Cooperate fully with all environmental inspection and quarantine officials during your visit.
- Do not take or buy any products or souvenirs made from banned substances, including black coral, shells, lava rock, animal parts, or any native wood or vegetation prior to leaving Galápagos. This is illegal and must be reported.
- Practice “leave-no-trace” principles in order to maintain the beauty of the environment.
- Pack out all trash and dispose of or recycle it in the populated areas or on your tour boat.
- Smoking and/or campfires are strictly prohibited within the Galápagos National Park, as fires poses a serious risk to the flora and fauna of Galápagos.
- Fishing is only permitted on recreational tour boats authorized by the GNPD.
- Motorized aquatic sports, mini-subs, and aerial tourism activities are not permitted in the Galápagos National Park or Marine Reserve.
Yes, there are ATM’s in the town of Puerto Ayora (Banco Pacifico, Banco Pichincha). Please keep in mind that there are daily limits that you can take out, typically around $500. All funds are given in USD.
Once you arrive at the airport in Galapagos, you will be charged a $100USD Park Fee, this goes back to the Galapagos National Park, and aids in sustaining it. You will also be charged a transit fee, typically when you purchase your airfare to Galapagos.
Taxi’s in Santa Cruz cost approximately $1.50USD + for short trips around town. It is approximately $25USD to take a taxi from the channel (where you arrive by ferry from the Airport on Baltra), to the town of Puerto Ayora. All taxi’s have an established rate sheet, which you may request to see.