{"id":2087,"date":"2026-01-08T11:34:21","date_gmt":"2026-01-08T17:34:21","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.galakiwi.com\/blog\/?p=2087"},"modified":"2026-01-29T15:08:16","modified_gmt":"2026-01-29T21:08:16","slug":"galapagos-entry-requirements-what-you-need-to-know","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.galakiwi.com\/blog\/galapagos-entry-requirements-what-you-need-to-know\/","title":{"rendered":"Gal\u00e1pagos Entry Requirements: What You Need to Know"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>Planning a trip to the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.galakiwi.com\/blog\/the-islands-you-have-to-see-in-the-galapagos\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" title=\"\">Gal\u00e1pagos Islands<\/a>? Whether you\u2019re coming for the wildlife, the landscapes, or the once-in-a-lifetime adventure, it\u2019s essential to first understand the entry requirements before you go. Since the Gal\u00e1pagos is one of the most ecologically sensitive destinations on Earth, it therefore enforces strict regulations to protect its unique environment. As a result, all visitors are expected to comply.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><br>Before you board your flight from Quito or Guayaquil, be sure to have all required documents ready and clearly understand the rules for entering both the province of Gal\u00e1pagos and the Gal\u00e1pagos National Park. To help you prepare, this guide breaks down everything you need to ensure a smooth arrival and a responsible, unforgettable experience in the Islands.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Gal\u00e1pagos travel requirements:<\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\n<h6 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Valid ID or Passport<\/strong><\/h6>\n\n\n\n<p>Most travelers don\u2019t need a visa to visit the Gal\u00e1pagos. Visitors from the U.S., Canada, the U.K., the EU, Australia, and many other countries receive a 90-day tourist stay upon entering Ecuador.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>What you do need is a valid passport that meets the following requirements:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>At least 6 months of validity from your date of entry<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Matches the name on your airline ticket and your TCT registration (Transit Control Card)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Before your trip, double-check your passport\u2019s expiration date and ensure all personal information matches your booking details. It\u2019s a simple step that keeps your Gal\u00e1pagos adventure running smoothly from the start.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h6 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Tourist Days Available<\/strong><\/h6>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019ve visited the Islands previously, ensure you haven\u2019t exceeded the permitted 60-day limit within a 12-month period, as per Ecuadorian regulations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h6 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><strong>Round-Trip Airline Ticket<\/strong><\/strong><\/h6>\n\n\n\n<p>You must show a personal, non-transferable round-trip ticket, with a <strong>maximum stay of 60 days<\/strong> in the Gal\u00e1pagos.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2560\" height=\"1440\" src=\"https:\/\/www.galakiwi.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/PK_Photo_pax-edited-scaled.jpg\" alt=\"Land-Based Galapagos sustainable tour hike\" class=\"wp-image-2181\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.galakiwi.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/PK_Photo_pax-edited-scaled.jpg 2560w, https:\/\/www.galakiwi.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/PK_Photo_pax-edited-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.galakiwi.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/PK_Photo_pax-edited-889x500.jpg 889w, https:\/\/www.galakiwi.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/PK_Photo_pax-edited-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.galakiwi.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/PK_Photo_pax-edited-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.galakiwi.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/PK_Photo_pax-edited-2048x1152.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2560px) 100vw, 2560px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h6 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Transit Control Card (TCT)<\/strong><\/h6>\n\n\n\n<p>The Transit Control Card (TCT) is mandatory for all travelers entering the Gal\u00e1pagos. This document helps regulate and protect the islands by tracking all visitors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You must complete and pay for your TCT online before your flight, ideally within 48 hours of departure, using the official site:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/siig-registro.gobiernogalapagos.gob.ec\/app\/tct\/emitir\">https:\/\/siig-registro.gobiernogalapagos.gob.ec\/app\/tct\/emitir<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The fee is $20 USD per person. Once the payment is processed, download or print your confirmation, you\u2019ll need to show it during check-in and again at the boarding gate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Although airports in Quito and Guayaquil still have INGALA counters, the in-person option is being phased out. Completing the TCT online is the fastest and most reliable way to avoid delays and ensure your trip starts smoothly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Be sure to keep your digital or printed confirmation handy, you\u2019ll present it more than once before landing in the islands.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1280\" height=\"720\" src=\"https:\/\/www.galakiwi.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/aa387c63-5547-4541-942a-61505cb7391b-edited.jpg\" alt=\"Galapagos ISA Tintoreras Boat Ride - Galapagos Land-Based Sustainable Tour\" class=\"wp-image-2185\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.galakiwi.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/aa387c63-5547-4541-942a-61505cb7391b-edited.jpg 1280w, https:\/\/www.galakiwi.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/aa387c63-5547-4541-942a-61505cb7391b-edited-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.galakiwi.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/aa387c63-5547-4541-942a-61505cb7391b-edited-889x500.jpg 889w, https:\/\/www.galakiwi.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/aa387c63-5547-4541-942a-61505cb7391b-edited-768x432.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1280px) 100vw, 1280px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h6 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Gal\u00e1pagos Biosafety Sworn Declaration<\/strong><\/h6>\n\n\n\n<p>To help protect the fragile ecosystems of the Gal\u00e1pagos, all visitors must complete the <strong>Gal\u00e1pagos Biosafety Sworn Declaration<\/strong>. This form ensures you are not bringing any items, such as seeds, fresh foods, or biological materials, that could introduce invasive species to the islands.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You must submit the form <strong>online within 48 hours before your flight<\/strong> at:<br><a href=\"https:\/\/declaracion.abgalapagos.gob.ec\"><strong>https:\/\/declaracion.abgalapagos.gob.ec<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Once completed, you\u2019ll receive a confirmation email with a <strong>QR code<\/strong>. Keep this handy, digital or printed, as you will need to present it to the biosecurity team when you arrive in the Gal\u00e1pagos.<br>Paper forms are being phased out, and travelers who do not complete the declaration in advance may experience delays. Submitting it online is the easiest way to ensure a smooth arrival and support the conservation efforts that keep the islands thriving.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h6 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><strong>Your Flight to the Gal\u00e1pagos<\/strong><\/strong><\/h6>\n\n\n\n<p>Arrive at the airport <strong>at least 2.5 hours before your flight<\/strong>. You\u2019ll need time for INGALA verification, luggage inspection, check-in, and security.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>All luggage, checked and carry-on, must be scanned by Agrocalidad to ensure you\u2019re not carrying organic products or anything that could threaten the islands\u2019 biodiversity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Arriving early keeps everything smooth, so you can start your Gal\u00e1pagos adventure stress-free. If You would like more details on Your Flight to Galapagos explore our blog covering all the details.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h6 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Gal\u00e1pagos National Park Entry Fee<\/strong><\/h6>\n\n\n\n<p>All visitors pay the Gal\u00e1pagos National Park entrance fee when they arrive in the islands. This contribution directly supports conservation, community programs, and the ongoing protection of the archipelago.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>$200<\/strong> for international tourists (ages 12 and older)<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>$100<\/strong> for children under 12<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Important: <\/strong>Payment must be made in cash, so be sure to have the correct amount ready before you land.<br><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"805\" height=\"500\" src=\"https:\/\/www.galakiwi.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/ISA-Volcano-Pax-A-1-805x500.jpeg\" alt=\"Land-Based Galapagos sustainable tour hike Sierra Negra\" class=\"wp-image-1409\" style=\"width:764px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.galakiwi.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/ISA-Volcano-Pax-A-1-805x500.jpeg 805w, https:\/\/www.galakiwi.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/ISA-Volcano-Pax-A-1-300x186.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/www.galakiwi.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/ISA-Volcano-Pax-A-1-768x477.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/www.galakiwi.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/ISA-Volcano-Pax-A-1.jpeg 1024w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 805px) 100vw, 805px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><strong>Final Tips Before Your Trip<\/strong><\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Complete your <strong>TCT registration online<\/strong> before arriving at the airport.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Fill out the Gal\u00e1pagos Biosafety Sworn Declaration<\/strong> online at <a href=\"http:\/\/declaracion.abgalapagos.gob.ec\">declaracion.abgalapagos.gob.ec<\/a> up to 48 hours before your flight. Saving the QR code to your phone.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Arrive at the airport early to allow time for check-in, Transit Control Card (TCT) verification, and mandatory baggage inspection by the Gal\u00e1pagos Biosecurity Agency.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Keep your <strong>TCT and ID\/passport<\/strong> with you at all times during your trip.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Respect local rules to help protect the Gal\u00e1pagos environment and wildlife.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><strong>Ready to Explore the Gal\u00e1pagos?<\/strong><\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Make your journey to the Gal\u00e1pagos smooth, and stress-free by preparing in advance. From securing your Transit Control Card (TCT) to having the right documents in hand, a little planning goes a long way.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Good news:<\/strong> You can now complete your TCT registration digitally, saving you time at the airport.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>&nbsp;\u2192<a href=\"https:\/\/www.galakiwi.com\/news\/gal%C3%A1pagos-tct-permit-now-available-online?p=1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" title=\"\"> <strong>Learn about TCT registration here<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>When you travel with Galakiwi, you won\u2019t have to worry about the paperwork or logistics. We help coordinate your permits, requirements, and key travel details, so you can focus on the experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019d like to get inspired and explore some top Gal\u00e1pagos experiences, click here and check out our tours!<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Planning a trip to the Gal\u00e1pagos Islands? Whether you\u2019re coming for the wildlife, the landscapes, or the once-in-a-lifetime adventure, it\u2019s essential to first understand the entry requirements before you go. Since the Gal\u00e1pagos is one of the most ecologically sensitive destinations on Earth, it therefore enforces strict regulations to protect its unique environment. As a [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":7,"featured_media":1411,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[12,8],"tags":[17,15],"class_list":["post-2087","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-about-the-galapagos","category-galapagos-national-park","tag-galapagos","tag-galapagos-land-tour"],"aioseo_notices":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.galakiwi.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2087","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.galakiwi.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.galakiwi.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.galakiwi.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/7"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.galakiwi.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=2087"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/www.galakiwi.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2087\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":2186,"href":"https:\/\/www.galakiwi.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2087\/revisions\/2186"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.galakiwi.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/1411"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.galakiwi.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=2087"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.galakiwi.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=2087"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.galakiwi.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=2087"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}