Galapagos Islands More Info

 More Trip Info

              

ACCOMMODATIONS 

Isabela Beach House   For six nights of our Galapagos Islands Adventure, we will enjoy  the charming, quaint and comfortable  Isabela Beach House  perfectly situation between town center and a favorite  snorkeling spot.  Our waterfront guest house offers comfortable double occupancy rooms with private bathrooms and air conditioning. The shared living area offers lounge chairs along the beachfront where  you can relax during “down time” and perhaps watch a Galapagos Penguin swim by in the surf!  Bikes are available for rent and boogie boards may be rented in town. We have essentially book all rooms but one, each with a  unique style some rooms facing  the beach while others offer a garden view. (double occupancy accommodations and all meals provided from Day Four-Day Ten).

We are so please to announce that we have  secure double occupancy accommodations at Rincon De Puembo  near the Quito International  Airport  for Day One-Day Two and Day Ten). Relax pool side, enjoy a sauna, hot tub, Turkish bath or cocktail as we begin and end our Galapagos Islands Adventure.  We have also secured double occupancy accommodations at the charming Hotel Ninfa for our one night on Santa Cruz Island.

PASSPORTS: Everyone is required to have a current passport for entry into Ecuador. Please make sure that your passport is current at least 6 months past your date of arrival into Ecuador. In other words, your passport can not expire before May 4th, 2027. It usually takes 6-8 weeks to process a passport. For information on obtaining a passport, please visit:  Passports  Most post offices provide the service to process US passports.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

Ecuador  does not require any specific immunizations for entry from the USA.  However, The Center For Disease Control has a set of recommendations for travel to Ecuador. In general,  travelers should be up to date on routine vaccines such as measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis(TD or Tdap), varicella (chickenpox), polio, hepatitis A, shingles, and your yearly flu shot.  It is recommended that  travelers  take steps to prevent mosquito bites that may transmit Chikungunya. Chikungunya vaccination is generally not recommended by the CDC. There may be additional travel recommendations, so we encourage you to check with your health provider and review the latest travel updates.  Receive your travel immunizations 4- 6 weeks prior to travel for maximum benefit.

Please visit the CDC Travelers’ page for Ecuador or updates and suggestions before you travel. All medical precautions are the decision of each participant. You may also consult a travel clinic that specializes in immunizations and travel updates.

Travel Insurance  is required by the Ecuadorian government  for all tourists entering the Galapagos Islands. Please review options here: Required Travel Insurance

COVID-19 AND FLU UPDATED OCTOBER 1ST, 2025

In 2023, The Public Health Emergency for COVID-19 declared by the World Health Organization and the US Department of Health and Human Services expired. However, several  international outfitters including Blue Water Ventures continued to monitor for COVID-19 before and during our travel programs.  As of October 1st, 2025 we offer our latest updates. Guests who choose to test for COVID-19 during our program  and test positive will be asked to wear a mask while traveling in vans. They may be asked to isolate during meal time. Their traveling companion sharing a room will also be asked to wear a mask when traveling in group vehicles. Guest who test positive will follow local health protocols in the countries we are visiting. Everyone will be encouraged to wash their hands frequently. Our staff will check in with anyone who appears ill,  but we will  no longer require Flu or COVid-19 testing before or during a trip.

As always, it will be imperative to avoid contact with people who have cold or flu like symptoms prior to our trip’s departure. Wash hands frequently and be mindful of staying healthy before and during our adventure together. At any time during our program, you may choose to wear a mask.  We expect our clients to be accountable for their own well-being and accept the inherent risks associated with group travel. We reserve the right to adjust our Covid-19 and Flu protocol as needed, as new  guidance may evolve.

This link will be updated  if any requirements are implemented for travel between Ecuador  and the United States.

Fernando Gil sharing the wonders of the island he calls home

OUR GALAPAGOS BASED OUTFITTER: We are thrilled to be under the care of  Fernando Gil and his team. Fernando is the owner and head naturalist of the eco adventure company based on Isabela Island, No Signal Means Galapagos Like Blue Water Ventures, No Signal Means Galapagos provides naturalist-led adventures and active vacations with an educational focus. Our naturalist guides have an excellent reputation for water safety, client care and imparting natural history lessons. Fernando grew up on Isabela Island. His passion for sharing the extraordinary beauty of his home is apparent each day.

PHYSICAL CONDITIONING: While experience in snorkeling, kayaking or hiking is not required to participate in this program, good general health is needed. Some level of upper body conditioning is advisable to prepare for snorkeling. You will need upper body strength to hoist yourself up on the boat ladder after snorkeling several times throughout some days on our boat trips.   If you have a chronic back, shoulder  or neck  injury or condition you may find kayaking or  snorkeling uncomfortable.  Our kayaking tours last 1-3 hours and are always optional. Depending upon marine conditions and the interest of the group, we may kayak once or twice  during our adventure.  Our longest hike is  4 miles with a shorter hike optional.  It will begin at approximately 2000 feet elevation and gradually ascend to  the summit at 3280 feet.  If you are a non swimmer,  do not join our snorkeling  program in The Galapagos.   Please text Kim Powell if you have any questions regarding the activities planned at 831 345 2417  or email Kim Powell at: bluewaterventuressc@gmail.com  We reserve the right to deny anyone participation in an activity during our Ecuador program. 

Boat rides may be bumpy and jarring with the prevailing winds across the Galapagos Archipelago,  however sometimes, the water is smooth and glossy. We can not predict marine conditions far in advance. If you have a chronic back, shoulder  or neck  injury or condition you may find the boat rides uncomfortable and we don’t  recommend joining us.

CONDITIONING PRIOR TO YOUR ARRIVAL:  As our trip date approaches, please consider visiting a pool for some lap swimming.  For those who have not snorkeled in awhile, please get in the water and try out your gear.  Your Blue Water Ventures guides will offer a variety of additional excursions  most days for those who want to keep active. Join us snorkeling at a protected lagoon near our accommodations where we will swim among  tropical reef fish, marine iguanas, sea lions and perhaps even a Galapagos penguin.  Join your  Blue Water Ventures naturalist during scheduled tours or  free time  as we explore and interpret the vast  marine underwater world of the Galapagos Islands.

GIFTS: People often inquire about bringing gifts to donate to local schools.  Gifts are  certainly not expected especially with the weight restrictions with our luggage. If you have  some extra space  school supplies are always appreciated.  Suggestions are: color pencils, regular pencils, pens, erasers, magic markers, rulers, small notebooks and colored paper. Any supplies would be welcomed.  A  functional laptop or Ipad  donated to a school, that would be a lovely gesture.

LUGGAGE: A medium to large duffel bag is recommended. Hard-shelled suitcases are acceptable, but since weight is restricted, soft duffels are preferred as they may weigh less than hard suitcases. Rolling duffels are convenient and acceptable . On our domestic flight  each passenger is permitted one checked bag not to exceed 50 pounds and/or  one carry one bag not to exceed 22 pounds if you chose the Flex option on Avianca Airlines (Quito to Baltras). You will be charged extra baggage fees if over 50 pounds and overweight bags  may be  sent on a later flight or days later. Please  keep your personal belongings to 50 pounds or less,  plus  22 pounds of carry on. Please review the  baggage allowance for the airlines you choose for travel to Quito.

CORAL SAFE SUNSCREEN: If you have had a chance to look over our website packing list, you will have noticed several brands of Coral Safe Sunscreens. There are many out there, some that claim to be safe but actually are not. A key ingredient to avoid is oxybenzone, harmful to marine life. Two brands that we personally like are: Raw Element and Stream2Sea, although there are other good brands on the market. Review this link for more details:Coral Safe   and  Coral Safe Sunscreen Guide. We truly appreciate your consideration of coral safe sunscreen to help reduce our impact on the fragile marine ecosystem.

CAMERAS: Photographing  marine wildlife can be exciting as well as distracting! Sometimes it’s highly recommended to leave the camera behind and simply be in the moment! Your Blue Water Ventures  and Galapagos guides will photo document your trip and we will send a photo link to you. Over the years, we have preferred the Olympus Tough Underwater Camera . Other clients have been extremely happy with the Cannon or Fiji underwater cameras. GoPro cameras work extremely well with their wide angle setting as wildlife approaches you, but are less effective for distance. Be sure to review your equipment prior to arrival. We will gladly offer any guidance on your equipment that we can.

ACTIVITIES INCLUDED: Guided snorkeling, kayaking and hiking excursions, sea safaris, visits to nature centers and tortoise conservation centers, museums, guided intertidal exploration, natural history lectures, beachcombing,  and cultural activities.

SNORKELING ENCOUNTERS~GALAPAGOS:  There is  no snorkeling destination on earth quite like the Galapagos Islands.  Curious sea lions, comical Galapagos penguins, uniquely armored marine iguanas, graceful spotted eagle rays  and massive green sea turtles  are among the species we may encounter while snorkeling.  We will explore the intricate roots of a mangrove forest searching for the elusive Pacific seahorse while roosting magnificent frigatebirds may be perched above us. We hope to encounter the endemic flightless cormorant. Restricted to only two islands in the Galapagos Archipelago, Isabela and Fernandina island, The flightless cormorant  may be  found feeding  in the nutrient rich water along the  dramatic coastline of Isabela Island’s western shore.  From June though November, filter feeding mega fauna foraging within a  planktonic soup may be observed including humpback whales, Brydes whales, blue whales  and giant manta rays.   Orcas  as well as  other toothed cetaceans may be seen during our sea safaris. As with all wildlife sightings, the level of viewing and interaction varies and is dependent upon weather, sea conditions and the animals  themselves. 

SNORKELING ROCKY AND CORAL REEFS: Your Blue Water Ventures and local naturalists are avid snorkelers eager to share information about coral reef ecology, invertebrate biology, marine mammals, reptiles and fish behavior. We will offer informal talks and guided snorkeling excursions in addition to our  boat tours led by our local naturalist and expert boat captain. We hope you will join us in the water as we explore and interpret the truly amazing aquatic ecosystem.  Please bring your own mask, fins and snorkel that have been tested and are ready to go prior to the trip. As an alternative, snorkel gear and wetsuits may be rented on Isabela island.


Photo Credit: Kim Powell

SNORKELING GEAR: Please test out new gear prior to arrival. If you have purchased a new mask, you will need to clean it at home and then test it. Repeat cleaning until it is fog free. It will be frustrating to have a new mask fog up on our first wildlife encounters. Instructions may be reviewed here Cleaning your Mask. If you are using new fins, try them out! Some fins which have a back heel strap will fit more comfortably with a wetsuit booty or wetsuit sock. Fins that lack the back strap usually don’t require a booty or sock.  A visit to a local dive shop will help answer your questions on snorkeling gear. Be sure that your wetsuit fits comfortably  and that your arms are not feeling too restricted. We highly recommend bringing  your own mask fins and snorkel to the Galapagos.  Personal wetsuits are nice, but you may rent one on Isabela Island.  Mask fins and snorkel may be rented as well, see below.

IMPORTANT UPDATES ON SNORKEL GEAR: We have recently learned about the potential dangers in full face masks. Apparently, in some models CO2 builds up inside the mask leading to blackouts, potentially fatal. Here are just a few articles regarding the dangers of full face masks: Dangers of Masks  With that said, Blue Water Ventures is banning the use of full face masks while we snorkel in The Galapagos  and on all of our snorkeling programs. In Florida, there is very little physical exertion as we don’t even use fins and a few clients became light headed using full face masks. However, in the Galapagos,  we use fins and sometimes kick into some current or enjoy extended  snorkeling time. . You may argue that you did your own research and purchased the top of the line full face mask. However, we can not assume this risk nor ask our guides to shadow anyone in the water who chooses to wear a full face mask. Full face masks can not be used.

WETSUITS: While in the Galapagos,  November  water temperatures  may range from 70-74, depending upon locations and variation from year to year.Wetsuits are recommended  for snorkeling. We recommend that you bring a 3 mm full body wetsuit. During our scouting trip,  some of  us got by with just a  3mm shorty wetsuit (arms included but to their knees only). However, November is notably cooler than when we scouted our program in March.  A wetsuit hood will  provide additional warmth and will protect from biting flies. Wetsuits are available to rent  on Isabela Island  ranging from $60-70 for the week. Snorkel gear may be rented for $30-40 for the week.

SCUBA DIVING: Certified divers may want to consider a day trip from Isabela island to go scuba diving. Please take a look online to review  a variety of  dive options.  Blue Water Ventures does not make any  arrangements for  those who wish to dive during our trip. You may ask recommendations from our local guide.

SEA SICKNESS PREVENTION: If you are prone to sea sickness, we highly recommend bringing some form of prevention. Medications such as Bonine or Dramamine are usually effective although drowsiness or thirst can be a side effect. Many clients have been very happy with Scopalimine patches that requires a prescription. Your local pharmacist or physician can advise you. Many health food stores will recommend herbal remedies such as Motionease for sea sick prevention and we have found this brand quite effective. In the past, several clients have successfully used “sea bands” which employ a pressure point on the wrists rather than medication. Sea Bands have no side effects and can be purchased at most dive shops or online at Prevention.

CLIMATE: November  is considered to be  a drier and cooler month with less humidity than other times  of the year.   Rain is always a possibility, especially in the highlands  so please arrive prepared.   Good rain gear is required to protect from wind and spray when traveling by boat or a rare, yet potential downpour.  Lying near the  equator, the sun can still be intense and we may also expect some windy conditions. Temperatures should be relatively pleasant with day time highs in the 70’s and cooler temperatures at night into the  upper 60’s. Your fleece jacket and additional layers may be needed while we are in Quito with cooler temperatures, mid 60’s  during the day and cooler at night.   More information on weather patterns in the Galapagos Islands during the month of November  can be reviewed here: Weather Patterns . You may also review current weather conditions here: Isabela Weather and Quito Weather

INSECT REPELLENT: Mosquitoes, horse flies  and a few other insects will be encountered in the Galapagos Islands. A strong repellent is a good defense against mosquitoes  that we may encounter. A layer of lightweight, light in color clothing and a hat is an effective defense against insects. In recent years, clients have been very happy with a Eucalyptus Lemon Natural Repellent as an alternative to products with Deet. Avon Bug Guard is an effective repellent against sand gnats or “no see ums” found in coastal areas. The skies are not black with insects. However, if you can’t tolerate insect bites, a trip to a tropical region is not for you!

ELECTRICAL OUTLETS: Throughout Ecuador, you will find that hotels use the same electrical plugs that are found in the United States.

WIFI CONNECTION: Your cell phones may work throughout Ecuador although phone calls back home can be expensive. We suggest that you call your provider to see what the fees are for calls, texting and international plans. Phone apps such as Facetime, Messenger and WhatsApp should  work from our hotels as well.

DRINKING WATER: At all hotels and restaurants,  you will be briefed on policies towards drinking water.  Our hotels will supply purified water. Over the years of international travel, a few clients have brought their own  water filtration devices or straws that they have used while traveling or backpacking. Our Blue Water guides have always had confidence in the water purification system at hotels we visit. However, feel free to bring your personal devices or purchase a device which may be reviewed here: water purifers.

TAKING SHOWERS: Our hotel accommodations will have standard showers in each room, but quick showers are advisable to conserve water use.

CLOTHING AND LAUNDRY: Loose fitting cotton or quick drying nylon work well in the tropics. Jeans add weight, take too long to dry out and are not recommended. Laundry can be done by hand as needed by each participant. You may also plan on dropping off  laundry at our hotel on Isabela Island for a fee.

FOOT WEAR: Most beach hiking can be done with a surf booty or pair of keens which offers good toe protection.  Our program includes  one spectacular hike on a well maintained trail to a volcanic caldera where a sturdy tennis shoe or a light weight hiking boot is recommend. Such shoes may also be a nice choice while walking through town.  For beach time our  suggestion is to wear the same surf booties you plan to wear with your fins while exploring intertidal areas or stretches of beaches. Flip Flops are a fine choice for around our hotels. While keen like sandals are quite popular as they provide toe protection, the down side is that sand and pebbles may get trapped  in the sandal causing discomfort or blisters.   For this reason, your head  BWV guide prefers surf booties, flip flops  and sturdy tennis shoes worn with light weight socks.

LOCAL CUISINE: Each night, we will venture out into the  welcoming community of Puerto Villamil for dinner, a true cultural experience.  We may stop by colorful beach bars for libations, enjoy a ceviche class or savor a local pastry from the town square. For dinner, you may anticipate local dishes featuring  chicken, pork, beef,  fresh seafood, local fruit and breads. Vegetarian options will always be avilable. We recommend that you bring your favorite snack to supplement our meals, all of which are included except during airport transfers on  Day  10-11, breakfast on Day 2. Please specify any dietary restrictions or allergies on the waiver form that will be sent to you. During meals, special coffee drinks (latte, cappuccino, etc.) and alcoholic beverages  will be on your own tab.

Visiting a coffee plantation in the Highlands, Isabela Island

MONEY: The US dollar is  the accepted currency throughout Ecuador.  Foreign credit card  transactions may  add 5- 10%  in addition to any foreign transaction fees your bank may impose.  You may review more here: Money while traveling  There is only one ATM on  Isabela Island. We  suggest you bring cash or  plan to use credit cards at shops.  A mix of small bills~ ones, fives,  tens and  some twenties   are suggested. You will need cash to settle your drink bills while dining with the group.

The only costs you are responsible for while in the Galapagos are: alcoholic beverages, special coffee drinks, local snacks and any unscheduled excursions by boat,  taxi or otherwise you wish to take. You will cover meals while traveling on Day 10-11, Dinner on Day 1 and breakfast on Day 2 (some people may opt to sleep in this morning). Our final dinner together on Day 10 is included. Certified divers will need to make payments for any dives they make. An airport departure tax should be included in your ticket, but traveling home with some emergency cash is recommended.

TIPPING: It is customary to tip our local  guides and boat captains as well as hotel staff, restaurant servers, drivers and cultural performers.  We have factored in a  generous tip into the  total price of your  trip, but you may contribute to our tip pool at any time.  If you feel as though your Blue Water Ventures Assistant guide has served you well, please consider a tip for her that the group collects  at the end of the trip. $125 per person would be greatly appreciated.  As is customary in hotels you may choose to leave a small tip in your room for hotel room attendants. US dollars are fine, but no US coins.

HOW TO REACH OUR GROUP BY PHONE:  Our group may be reached by contacting Fernando Gil, our local guide  on What’s App at:  +593 98 563 7316 or by email at: fernando.surf.9@icloud.com. A final email will be sent to you with more details on how family members may contact us in the event of an emergency back home.  Kim Powell’s cell phone for text messaging or Whats App is: +1 831 345 2417.

ILLEGAL DRUG USE: The Ecuadorian  government has  very severe penalties for the use of illegal drugs. Do not bring illegal substances into Ecuador or purchase/use them during this program. Products containing CBD oils or THC are illegal and  should not be brought through customs.

     Swim Back to the Galapagos Islands