Galapagos National Park Rules and Fees
The Galapagos islands are a national park of Ecuador and and this special areas are protected by the Ecuadorean government, therefore The Galapagos National Park Directorate has created rules that all visitors must abide by while visiting the islands .
Before flying to Galapagos from Ecuador, a fee of 20 USD must fee payed for a transit control card TCT and all luggage must be inspected for live animals , food or forbidden organisms.
Upon arrival to the islands you will have to go through the National Park control where an entrance fee must be payed, at the moment is $100 for adult visitors and $50 for visitors under 12 years of age , the fee for residents of the Comunidad Andina is $50 as well, these fees are expected to be increased by the end of 2019.
Te following are the rules of the Galapagos National Park.
1.- Visitors to any protected areas within the Galapagos National Park must be accompanied by a naturalist guide authorized by the GNPD.
2.- Travel only with tour operators and/or boats authorized to work in the protected areas of Galapagos.
3.- Remain on marked trails at visitor sites and respect signs at all times for the protection of wildlife, and for your safety.
4.- Maintain a distance of at least six feet (two meters) from wildlife to avoid disturbing them, even if they approach you.
5.- Never feed wildlife, as this can cause health problems.
6.- Flash photography is not permitted when taking photos of wildlife. Professional photography and videos recorded for commercial purposes must be authorized by the GNPD.
7.- Camping is only allowed in a few authorized areas in the Islands. Request authorization to camp at the Galapagos National Park’s offices at least 48 hours in advance.
8.- 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.
9.- 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 Galapagos. This is illegal and must be reported.
10.- Practice “leave-no-trace” principles in order to maintain the beauty of the environment.
11.- Pack out all trash and dispose of or recycle it in the populated areas or on your tour boat.
12.- Smoking and/or campfires are strictly prohibited within the Galapagos National Park, as fires poses a serious risk to the flora and fauna of Galapagos.
13.- Fishing is only permitted on recreational tour boats authorized by the GNPD.
14.- Motorized aquatic sports, mini-subs, and aerial tourism activities are not permitted in the Galapagos National Park or Marine Reserve.
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