Galapagos Islands Transportation Guide

Getting to the Galapagos Islands

Reaching the Galapagos always involves a domestic flight from mainland Ecuador. No international flights go directly to the islands, and all passengers go through extra controls before departure.

Flights from Mainland Ecuador

Flights depart from Quito and Guayaquil, with several daily connections. Guayaquil is closer and often has slightly shorter flight times, and Quito is more convenient if you are already exploring mainland Ecuador.

I flew with both Avianca and LATAM, and I always landed in San Cristobal.

Before boarding, passengers go through document checks and luggage inspections, which are part of the islands’ biosecurity system.

Galapagos Airports

Two main airports connect the Galapagos with mainland Ecuador, and the one you arrive at affects your onward transportation.

• Baltra Airport (GPS): Main gateway for Santa Cruz Island and the primary entry point for flights from mainland Ecuador
• San Cristobal Airport (SCY): Direct access to San Cristobal Island, also with flights from mainland Ecuador

From Baltra Airport, travelers continue by bus, ferry and taxi to reach Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz Island. I never landed at Baltra, but I flew out of it and did the same transfer in reverse. I do not remember the prices.

Isabela also has a small airport, but it is used only for inter-island flights, not for flights to or from the mainland.

Galapagos Islands Transportation - Between Islands

Island hopping in the Galapagos is possible, but the options are limited and schedules can change with weather and sea conditions. Knowing how inter-island transport works is a key part of planning your Galapagos Islands transportation.

Inter-Island Flights

Small planes from Emetebe fly between some of the main islands. They are faster and more comfortable than ferries and more expensive, which suits travelers who are short on time or sensitive to rough seas. I have not flown with Emetebe myself.

Inter-Island Ferries

Ferries are the most common way to travel between islands such as Santa Cruz, Isabela and San Cristobal. They are affordable but can be bumpy in rough seas, and the crossing usually takes about two to three hours.

I took the ferry from San Cristobal to Santa Cruz, from Santa Cruz to Isabela, and back. I think each ride cost about $35, and I got a bit seasick once. You also pay a small water taxi to reach the ferry, which surprised me, but it is cheap.

The inter-island ferries were definitely the roughest leg of my trips, while the flights and the water taxis were fine. The water taxis were also my biggest cost surprise, because I did not know I had to pay for them.

Galapagos Islands Transportation - On Each Island

Once you are on an island, getting around is fairly simple and depends on where you stay and what you have planned.

Taxis & Local Transport

Taxis in the Galapagos are mostly white pickup trucks and run on fixed routes, not meters. Prices are usually standard, but confirm before you get in. I think a ride in town cost me about $2.50.

Car Rental

Car rental is essentially not an option in the Galapagos Islands. The import of vehicles is strictly regulated, and there are no traditional car rental agencies for visitors. You will see many vehicles on the islands, especially in Puerto Ayora, but most of them are taxis or are used for official and local purposes.

Walking & Biking

In Puerto Ayora and Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, many attractions, restaurants and beaches are within walking distance. On Isabela, biking is a popular and practical way to get around, because the terrain is flat and there is little traffic. I rented a bike on Isabela, and it cost between $15 and $30.

Galapagos Islands Transportation - Tours & Excursions

Most visitors explore the islands through organized activities, which makes local transportation much simpler.

Day Tours & Boat Trips

Transportation is usually included in guided tours, whether it is a snorkeling trip, a wildlife excursion or a boat tour. Pickups are usually arranged from your hotel or a nearby meeting point.

Organized Transfers

Many hotels and tour operators offer organized transfers between airports, ferry terminals and accommodation. They are especially helpful the first time you deal with Galapagos Islands transportation.

Galapagos Islands Transportation Tips

Transportation in the Galapagos runs on a flexible schedule, so a little patience helps.

• Book inter-island transport in advance
• Expect delays due to weather or sea conditions
• Travel light, especially for flights and ferries
• Carry cash for taxis and smaller transfers

Cruise vs Land-Based Galapagos Islands Transportation

Transportation depends on how you visit the islands.

• Cruise travelers have most transportation organized in advance
• Land-based travelers rely more on ferries, taxis, and local transfers

Both options work well. Knowing how Galapagos Islands transportation works helps you choose the travel style that suits you.

Where to Stay in the Galapagos Islands

You can stay on a cruise, which is also your hotel, or on land on Santa Cruz, San Cristobal or Isabela, in guesthouses or hotels.

I like staying on the islands and waking up to the sound of the waves, then walking to a nearby beach or town before a day tour. Book early, especially in high season.