The Galapagos Islands boasts an amazing diversity of wildlife, many of which are endemic and uniquely approachable due to the absence of predators and years of dedicated conservation efforts to preserve their distinctiveness for future generations. One of the most important entry requirements for visiting the islands is the Galapagos Transit Control Card (TCT) and the National Park fee.
- Overview
- Why Galapagos Park Entrance Fees Are Changing?
- Updated entrance fees
- Ecuador Tourism Ministry to our travelers (Official Statement)
- Where does the money collected from Galapagos entrance fees go?
Overview
Recently, the authorities responsible for the Galápagos National Park made the decision to raise the entrance fee to the Enchanted Islands. This decision has been on the table for a very long time, as this fee hasn’t seen an increase since the late 1980’s. Out of 9 votes, 5 authority representatives voted on favor, while 4 were against the notion. A polarizing decision; while some authorities, many locals, businesses owners and fleet owners think this is a positive thing many among themselves fear that an increase in the fee will discourage travelers, specially locals and budget travelers.
For travelers visiting the Galápagos islands from overseas this fee will rise from $100 to $200/per person (for nationals from $6 to $30). This adjustment will come into effect from August 1th, 2024.
In contrast to the Galápagos Transit Control Card (TCT), which is to be paid at mainland Ecuador airports (Quito/Guayaquil International Airports) before boarding your flight to the islands, the Galápagos Entrance Fee is to be paid upon arrival to the islands, and it must be paid in cash.
Why Galapagos Park Entrance Fees Are Changing?
Minister of Tourism, Niels Olsen, has pointed out that mass tourism is impacting the Galápagos Islands. “We observe tourist sites experiencing high saturation levels, which are causing a negative impact through the introduction of more invasive species and shortages of supplies.”
One of the primary reasons behind this decision was the concern over the impact of a growing tourist population and the fact that this fee has remained unchanged for the past 24 years. According to the Galápagos municipality, the additional revenue generated will be used to enhance and implement conservation projects, improve tourist experiences, and bolster management efforts.
Updated entrance fees
The recently revised entrance fees to the Galápagos National Park are as follows:
Official Statement from the Ministry of Tourism
*We copy-pasted the Official statement from the Ecuadorian Ministry of Tourism translated from Spanish by ITK Voyage Ecuador & Galapagos Agency.
Ecological Leap: Ecuador Adjusts Entry Fees to the Galápagos Islands for a Sustainable Tourism Future
In an innovative move aimed at promoting conservation efforts and fostering sustainable tourism, the Galápagos National Park Authority, represented by Mr. Arturo Izurieta, and the Minister of Tourism, Niels Olsen, have introduced a revised entry fee structure for the Galápagos Islands. Effective August 1st, 2024, this new fee system represents Ecuador’s commitment to safeguarding the islands’ unique ecosystem, ensuring its preservation for the benefit of future generations.
For the first time in over a quarter of a century, entrance fees to the Galápagos Islands will undergo an adjustment. This decision follows thorough deliberation and underscores the urgent need for sustainable tourism practices within the archipelago. The Galápagos National Park recognizes the indispensable role that tourism plays in the local economy while emphasizing the paramount importance of preserving the islands’ delicate ecosystem.
The collection of revised entrance fees represents a significant step toward aligning the needs of the local community with crucial environmental preservation efforts. These funds will be channeled directly toward conservation initiatives, infrastructure improvements, and community programs aimed at mitigating the ecological footprint of tourism on the islands. Of particular importance is the allocation of funds toward critical areas such as sewage systems, waste management, and medical infrastructure. This targeted investment will not only strengthen our environmental resilience but also safeguard the well-being and health of both residents and visitors, ensuring the lasting beauty and biodiversity of the islands for generations to come.
“The Galápagos Islands are not just a national treasure, but a global one. It is our collective responsibility to protect and preserve this unparalleled ecosystem for future generations,” declared Niels Olsen, Minister of Tourism. “The adjustment in the entrance fee, the first in 26 years, is a necessary measure to ensure that tourism in the Galápagos remains sustainable and mutually beneficial for both the environment and our local communities.”
The Government of Ecuador remains committed to transparency and pledges to provide regular updates on projects and initiatives funded through entrance fees. Visitors to the Galápagos Islands can anticipate enhanced conservation efforts, renovated facilities, and educational programs aimed at fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of the islands’ natural heritage.
For more information on the new entrance fee structure and how funds will be utilized, visit gobiernogalapagos.gob.ec
Best regards,
Niels Olsen Peet
Minister of Tourism of Ecuador
Adriana Bucheli
Public Relations Officer
Where does the money collected from Galapagos entrance fees go?
The Galápagos National Park currently receives between $14-$18 million dollars annually. With this increase, by 2025, this figure could reach $40 million dollars. The park entrance fee is allocated predominantly to the Galápagos National Park, as well as other authorities and institutions, as outlined in the following chart:
Important Notes:
– The price of the Ingala TCT Card, essential for visiting the Galapagos Islands, will also be adjusted starting from August 1st, 2024. The new tax fee will be $30 per person, for both children and adults.
– Now you can apply for the Galápagos TCT (Transit Control Card) online or obtaining it at the airport in Quito or Guayaquil. In addition to this, upon arrival to the Galapagos, the entrance is to be paid.
