BEFORE YOUR TRIP
Everything you need to know before arriving in the Galápagos
The Galápagos Islands are a unique destination. A little preparation before your trip will make your arrival and stay much easier and more enjoyable.
GETTING TO SANTA CRUZ
There are no international flights directly to the Galápagos Islands. To reach Santa Cruz, you will fly from mainland Ecuador to Seymour Airport (GPS) on Baltra Island.
Flights to Baltra are available from Quito and Guayaquil. Both LATAM and Avianca currently operate flights to the Galápagos.
BEFORE YOU FLY TO THE GALAPAGOS
Get your Transit Control Card (TCT)
The Transit Control Card (TCT) is required for all visitors traveling to the Galápagos.
Complete your TCT registration online before your trip.
Biosecurity Declaration (DJM)
Passengers over 18 years old must complete a digital Declaration of Goods (Declaración Juramentada de Mercancías) before traveling to the islands. This declaration helps the Galápagos Biosecurity Agency (ABG) prevent the introduction of invasive species and prohibited products.
You can complete your declaration through the official SIABG system before your trip. The system generates a digital confirmation that you will need to present during the biosecurity inspection at the airport.
⚠️ Important
Keep your TCT with you throughout your stay. You will need it when leaving the Galápagos.
BIOSECURITY CHECK
Before boarding your flight to the Galápagos, your luggage will be inspected by the Galápagos Biosecurity Agency (ABG).
This inspection helps protect the islands from invasive species. Some plants, food products and other items are restricted or prohibited.
Tip: Check the official list of permitted and restricted items before packing.
Arriving at Baltra Airport
Your flight to Santa Cruz will arrive at Seymour Airport (GPS), located on Baltra Island.
From the airport, you will need to cross the Itabaca Channel to reach Santa Cruz Island and continue to Puerto Ayora.
DURING YOUR STAY
Respect the Wildlife
Keep a safe distance from animals and never touch, feed, or disturb them. Remember that the wildlife you encounter is protected.
Stay on Marked Trails
When visiting protected areas, remain on designated trails and follow the instructions of your guide or park ranger.
Help Protect the Islands
Avoid leaving any waste behind and use refillable water bottles whenever possible. Small actions make a big difference in protecting Galápagos.
LEAVE NATURE WHERE YOU FIND IT
It may be tempting to take home a small shell, rock, piece of coral, or even a little sand as a souvenir. Please don’t.
In Galápagos, natural materials such as rocks, shells, coral and sand are protected and must remain on the islands. Your luggage may be inspected when leaving Galápagos, and these items can be confiscated.
The best souvenir is a memory — take photos, not pieces of the islands. 🌿