Galapagos Islands arrival procedures
Airport pickup, flights, and visas for your trip to the Galapagos Islands
We have all the information you need to know for your trip, from helping with visa queries to walking you through a placement induction on your first day in the Galapagos Islands. Our hassle-free approach means you can concentrate on what really matters, making a difference at your placement.
Arrival airport and pickup in the Galapagos Islands
You’ll arrive at San Cristobal Island Airport (SCY), and a friendly Projects Abroad staff member will be there to pick you up. The airport is very close to the town of Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, where our projects are based. It’s only about a five minute drive from the airport to our local office. The cost of the airport transfer is covered by us, as part of your placement fee.
Booking your flights to the Galapagos Islands
Searching for flights online is easier than ever, but it can still be a time-consuming, overwhelming, and frustrating process. If you need support, our staff have in-depth knowledge of all our destinations. We’ll let you know which airport you’ll be flying to and recommend the best way to get there.
We can advise you on booking the best return flights, ensuring you have the safest, most convenient, and most cost-effective flight options, no matter how complex your travel plans are. Find out more about the flight booking process.
Visas requirements for your volunteer project or internship in the Galapagos Islands
One of the perks of volunteering with us is the visa guidance we give you. We have a dedicated visa team who have up-to-date information on visa requirements for all of our destinations around the world. You can get in touch with us if you have any visa queries, big or small, and we will talk you through the process. Once you apply, you’ll also get a link to your own MyProjectsAbroad webpage, which will include all the necessary visa information.
You will be required to pay US$20 in cash on arrival at Quito or Guayaquil for an Immigration Galapagos card. This fee goes directly towards preserving and enhancing this world famous National Park.
Your induction and orientation in the Galapagos Islands
Our local staff are always available to support you, especially on your first day. You’ll receive a thorough orientation to your new home town, which will include a brief tour. A staff member will show you where to buy a local SIM card and exchange money, and point out other useful locations. They’ll also talk you through navigating things like the local public transport.
As part of your induction, you’ll also get to see our local offices, and learn about the way we run our different projects in Ecuador. You’ll also receive an induction pack. This contains all the information you need, like a map of the town with important places highlighted.
Your first day at your volunteer or internship placement in the Galapagos Islands
On your first day, a staff member will accompany you to show you how to get to your placement. You’ll receive plenty of guidance on your first day, so your actual project work will only begin on your second day. It’s important that you learn about what you’re expected to do and how everything is run.
You’ll have a chance to meet the people you’ll be working with, and receive a basic introduction to the placement. This means you’ll have a clearer idea of what kind of activities are involved, and how your days will be structured.
Support, safety, and backup
Your safety and security is our prime concern. We have many procedures and systems to ensure you have the support you need to enjoy your trip with peace of mind. Our Projects Abroad staff are available 24 hours a day to help, and will be on-hand to make sure you settle in well at your accommodation and placement. If you encounter any problems, they will be available to help at any time.
Find out more about safety and backup.