Key Information & FAQs

We offer expeditions throughout the year on both National Geographic Endeavour II and National Geographic Islander II.

Anytime you can! All year you’ll be able to see much of the iconic wildlife of Galápagos, including the giant tortoises, blue-footed boobies, Darwin finches, endemic sea lions, and marine iguanas. Galápagos straddles the Equator, and wildlife is active throughout the year. In fact, these islands are unusually cool and dry for the tropics, and due to the influence of marine currents, the islands have a cool (June to December) and a warm (January to June) season. Please let us know if there is a specific species or behavior of interest and we can help guide you. Most animals are opportunistic about breeding, there's variation year to year, and, of course, nothing can be guaranteed.

Air temperatures vary from island to island, and water temperatures can vary greatly since they are affected by converging currents and upwellings that create the rich seas that support so much life. For air temperature, in general, you’ll find that from January to May the lows are at 60-70°F and the highs 85-90°F. From June to December the lows are 65-70°F and the highs 75-90°F. The water temperatures from January to May are 75-82°F and from June to December are 62-68°F.

The newest addition to our Galápagos fleet, the all-suite National Geographic Islander II, began sailing on August 18, 2022 and accommodates 48 guests in 26 suites. National Geographic Endeavour II is larger, accommodating 96 guests in 52 outside-facing cabins. National Geographic Islander II and National Geographic Endeavour II both operate year-round in Galápagos. National Geographic Endeavour II offers 10-day Galápagos expeditions and 16-day Galápagos and Peru’s Land of the Inca, while National Geographic Islander II is dedicated to the 7-day Wild Galápagos Escape and 10-day Wild Galápagos & Peru Escape.

Both ships include a mix of suites, dedicated solo cabins, and connecting cabins for families and friends.

You can find more information on our Galápagos fleet here: National Geographic Islander II & National Geographic Endeavour II

Both ships include a mix of suites, dedicated solo cabins, and connecting cabins for families and friends.

Please consult the US State Department for any vaccination requirements for entry.

Yes. Passports must be valid for at least six months after the return date to the United States.

U.S. and Canadian citizens do not need visas to visit Galápagos.

Yes, Galápagos time is an hour behind mainland Ecuador. The Galápagos does not observe daylight saving time.

Ecuador, including Galápagos, uses the U.S. dollar. There is no ATM aboard the ship, but you will find one in Puerto Ayora if you need cash. Tips to the crew can be paid with a credit card, check, or cash.

That is a personal choice. Credit cards and personal checks from a U.S. bank are accepted on the ships. The U.S. dollar is the official currency in Ecuador. You can purchase souvenirs in Galápagos in dollars. Some shops accept credit cards.

The shipboard currency is the U.S. dollar. All services and products purchased on board the ship may be paid for by cash, check from U.S. bank, or charge (American Express, VISA, MasterCard, and Discover Card).

Transfers are provided for guests traveling on our group flights.

Yes, your Galápagos National Park entrance fee and Galápagos tourist card are both included in the cost of your expedition.

You may extend your stay in Ecuador in either Guayaquil or Quito. We can book additional nights for you. We also offer some extensions and optional tours.

As Peru is only a short flight from Ecuador, you can combine Galápagos with Exploring Peru: Land of the Inca or our Upper Amazon expedition. You can also book Galápagos voyages back-to-back for an epic adventure and see more of the archipelago. Save 10% on any consecutive journeys taken on board one of our expedition ships. 

Children of any age are welcome on our Galápagos expedition. In addition, we believe sharing an expedition with the kids in your life is a life-enhancing experience, and we offer $500 off the double occupancy rate for each person under 18 on all departures. Galápagos is a popular destination for families, and kids tend to travel over the summer and during holidays.

A minor consent form must be signed by the parents or parent not traveling with the child. It is also suggested that the legal guardian of the child sign and have notarized a letter of consent to travel with their knowledge.

Plan on packing a pair of sturdy hiking or walking shoes and some type of water-friendly footwear such as Keens, Teva, or Chaco sandals. Large hiking boots are often not necessary, but it is a personal choice—if you have a comfortable pair of hiking boots that you often use, feel free to bring them. While most of the hikes are not long, most are over rocky, uneven terrain; several options are given most days. Your sandals or water shoes are handy for wet landings when we land Zodiacs on beaches and you must walk through water a few inches deep to shore. On shore, you can either change into your shoes (towels will be at the beach) or walk in your sandals, depending on the day.

Our style is always informal. The relaxed atmosphere of every journey, a Lindblad Expeditions hallmark, is something our guests tell us they particularly enjoy. There is never a need for fancy clothing, so our recommendations on your travel wardrobe are all about comfort, practicality, and likely conditions. A packing list will be included in the Expedition Guide you’ll receive after you book your trip.

Throughout your expedition, there is no need for formal clothing. The onboard atmosphere is casual and comfortable, and so is the dress code.

Every cabin has a hairdryer, and we supply biodegradable conditioning shampoo, body wash, and body lotion. If you choose to bring your own shampoo and/or conditioner, we recommend that you bring biodegradable products. Single-use plastic is restricted in Galápagos.

On the flight from mainland Ecuador to the Galápagos, your checked baggage (one checked bag) may be weighed and cannot exceed 50 pounds (per person). Carry-on bags may be weighed and may not exceed 22 pounds (per person). You must be able to fit your carry-on luggage under your seat or in the overhead compartment.

You’ll find 11.5 inches (29.2 centimeters) of clearance under each bed.

• Public areas
  Both ships are fully air-conditioned and feature a covered deck with chairs and tables, doctor’s office, fitness center, global market, LEXspa, library, lounge with full-service bar, and facilities for films and presentations. An expanded description of ship amenities is included below.
• Air-conditioning
  The ships are air-conditioned or heated throughout, depending on the weather outside.
• Dining
  Meals are served in a single seating in the dining room with unassigned tables to encourage mingling. Meal hours will be posted in the Daily Program.
• Library
  Each ship features an onboard library with an extensive selection of books pertaining to Galápagos.
• Photo kiosk
  For those interested in downloading digital photos aboard any of our ships, there is a digital photo kiosk that will enable you to download your photos to various types of digital media and CD-ROMs/DVDs. Recordable CD-ROMs/DVDs may be purchased aboard.
• Email/internet access
  Email and internet access are available on all LEX ships. Your personal email and internet may be accessed from your own personal laptop or at the internet kiosk onboard. Charges apply.
• Telephone & fax
  Telephone calls and fax transmissions are available at an additional charge.
• Laundry
  Laundry services are available on both ships. There is no dry cleaning.
• Open bridge policy
  We have an open bridge policy that provides guests with an opportunity to learn about navigation and share the Captain’s view.
• Smoking
  For the comfort of all our guests, smoking is permitted only in designated outdoor areas.

• Air-conditioning
  Each cabin has its own thermostat, allowing you to control the temperature level in your cabin.
• Shower amenities
  We supply 100 percent biodegradable conditioning shampoo, body wash, and body lotion. If you choose to bring your own shampoo and/or conditioner, we recommend that you bring biodegradable products. Toiletries are also available for sale in the Global Market or Gallery.
• Electrical appliances
  In general, each cabin is equipped with at least one 110v (American) electrical outlet, which can be used for electric razors and other small devices. Hairdryers are available in each cabin. Additional outlets can be found in the cabins that are either 110v (American) or 220v (European). For vessels with 220v (European) electrical outlets, adapter plugs or converters are available from the hotel manager.
• Windows
  All cabins face outside with windows.
• Valuables
  While our ships are not equipped with safety deposit boxes in the cabins, most have small locking drawers with a key where you can keep your valuables. In keeping with the atmosphere aboard, we do not offer cabin keys aboard our vessels. As our vessel safes are quite small, our policy is that we cannot accept custody or responsibility for guests’ valuables while on board.

Yes. One hour of Wi-Fi per day per person is complimentary aboard both National Geographic Endeavour II and National Geographic Islander II. Additional time is available for purchase. You may access Wi-Fi on your laptop, tablet, or phone to check email, social media, or surf the web, but you may find that the internet connection is not strong or stable enough to support Skype or video chat. If you choose not to travel with a computer, there are Internet kiosks available.

Our shipboard chefs prepare international cuisine with an Ecuadorian flair on this expedition, using fresh ingredients whenever possible, including locally grown produce and responsibly caught seafood. Breakfast is served buffet style. Every morning early-riser pastries of fruit are served an hour before breakfast. There is also a 24-hour coffee and soda station available. Each evening, you will have the opportunity to choose between several dinner entrees–meat, fish, or vegetarian. Special diets can be accommodated and we always have a vegan option.

Meals are served in one open seating, with an informal atmosphere and unassigned tables to encourage meeting new guests.

Vegetarian, vegan, gluten free, and many food allergies can be accommodated. Please call to let us know well in advance. Unfortunately, we are not capable of providing kosher meals in Galápagos, though it is possible on some of our other expeditions.

Beverages and snacks are available throughout the day.

Both ships (National Geographic Endeavour II and National Geographic Islander II) feature a fitness center with cardio equipment, hand weights, resistance bands, yoga mats, and blocks. Both ships have a wellness program including morning light exercise/stretch classes; kayaking and hiking ashore; and spa treatments including massage therapy.

Exploring the world can be a powerful reenergizing tonic. To that end, we are delighted to offer you options to tap into your own personal wellness goals and help rejuvenate as best we can. Our holistic approach includes wellness elements ranging from massages and body treatments to activities with more fitness in mind. Our staff will provide expertise in massage therapy and relaxation; water sports and aerobic hikes; stretching classes with poses inspired by yoga, qigong, and Pilates; and personalized guidance with the fitness equipment. Our goal is not a one model fits all, but rather a multitiered approach to exploration and rejuvenation.

The vessels are staffed with a wellness specialist and feature services that will help you fully recharge. Choose from relaxing full-body, deep-tissue, and focused therapeutic massages; revitalizing facial massage; and exfoliating, moisturizing, or detoxifying body treatments. Each session is tailored for your needs and preferences. Spa services are available for an additional fee, and you will have the opportunity to sign up once on board.

The ship most often sails between morning and afternoon visits, and during the night.

Gratuities are included for the land portion of your expedition but not aboard ship. If you wish to leave a shipboard gratuity, guidelines will be given by your Expedition Leader and are included in the final documents for your expedition. Gratuities are divided among expedition staff and crew members on board.

Prior to your departure date, we will provide you with a list of port contacts and phone numbers, indicating how you can be reached in case of emergency. The ship is equipped with satellite communications for Internet access, telephone, and fax.

There is a medical professional on board, and his or her services are provided free of charge. The medical professional is available at any time in case of emergency.

If you have a tendency to get seasick, please speak with your physician before the expedition. We also have a physician on each ship. Galápagos is a storm-free zone, but sensitivities vary.

No, neither ship in Galápagos is wheelchair accessible.

Yes, everyone on our expedition team speaks English. Some are multilingual as well.

Zodiacs

Key to our operation is our fleet of Zodiacs, which we use to land on remote islands that would otherwise be inaccessible. These sturdy inflatable rubber boats are the same craft that Jacques Cousteau used in his expeditions for over 30 years. They are widely recognized as the safest and most versatile small boats afloat. The Zodiacs we use are 19 feet long, powered by outboard engines, and are capable of carrying 12 to 14 people with ease.

Kayaks and stand-up paddleboards

Kayaks and stand-up paddleboards provide one of the best means for personal exploration in the areas we travel. They are very stable and easy to master for novices and experts alike. There is something special about being alone, or with a partner in our double kayaks, paddling along a remote coastline, or paddling aboard one of our specially designed boards. Lindblad pioneered kayaking from expedition ships in both the Arctic and Antarctic, and Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic is the first company of its kind to be awarded unique permits for kayaking in the fragile Galápagos environment. The Galápagos National Park designates where kayaking and paddling, like snorkeling and other activities, are permitted.

Undersea tools for exploring

Our undersea specialists photograph marine life to share in the lounge. Cameras and other tools allow us to go further and get closer to nature’s wonders. For more information on our Undersea Program, see Tools for Exploration.

Snorkeling

Snorkels, masks, fins, buoyancy vests, and wetsuits are available on board our ships. To ensure a perfect fit, we encourage you to bring your own mask and snorkel (no full face masks, please). For your convenience, we will provide “shorty” wetsuits for snorkeling. Our goal is to ease packing restrictions and provide added comfort in the water. Wetsuits will be available on board in a range of adult sizes including XS, S, M, ML, L, XL, XXL, and XXXL. Kids are harder to fit, so please consider bringing your own child-size wetsuit, especially for smaller children. We advocate the buddy system for everyone, at all times. It is highly recommended that children 14 years of age and under be accompanied by an adult and wear an inflatable snorkel vest while snorkeling.

Nature hikes, snorkeling, kayaking, swimming, paddleboarding, and lectures/presentations by the naturalists.

Your expedition leader will let you know the level of difficulty of every hike, kayak outing, or snorkeling outing. When a long hike over rugged terrain is offered, there will also be a short, easier hike, and often a Zodiac cruise, offered. It is important to be able to get in and out of Zodiacs and to walk through water up to knee-deep for beach landings.

One must be with a naturalist guide when ashore in Galápagos. There is no smoking or eating on the islands. Drones, selfie sticks, and the use of flash are prohibited.

Developed in conjunction with National Geographic Education, our National Geographic Global Explorer program is for kids and teens. Our kids’ program is learning disguised as fun. You’ll see kids discover hidden talents and gain confidence while having the time of their lives. 

• Photo workshops with a Lindblad-National Geographic certified photo instructor using smartphones or point-and-shoots.
• Hands-on science using the video microscope and learning about conservation projects, plus hands-on nature lessons with our naturalists, who are trained to work with kids and are excellent role models.
• Journals and journaling time.
• Scavenger hunts.
• “Certificates of achievement” for various accomplishments. 
• Kid-friendly menus and movie night with pizza are always a hit, too.

Often, the most memorable events are those that are unplanned. That’s why every itinerary has flexibility built into the schedule. On some of our journeys, in fact, whole days are left open for exploring. So if we happen to encounter a blue whale or a school of dolphins, for example, we’ll be afforded the luxury of taking the time to stop and watch rather than having to rush off somewhere else. To get a sense of what these adventurous, open-ended days are like, spend some time reading our Daily Expedition Reports. You can read the top 10 or browse in our archive, looking at the destination and time of year that most interests you.

You’ll find time to relax when the ship is underway between islands, and you always have the option of skipping any of the scheduled activities to enjoy a massage or spend some time aboard. You’ll also find free time when you visit the city of Puerto Ayora to walk the streets, visit a café, or do some shopping.

Photo expeditions include lectures given on photography and more in-depth assistance with using one’s camera to improve your skills, to take the best possible photos, etc. Travel and photography go hand in hand. And with the partnership between Lindblad Expeditions and National Geographic, it’s natural that photography has become a vital component of our expeditions. While all of our expeditions offer a full contingent of specialists to give you plenty of options and an in-depth experience—naturalists, marine biologists, archaeologists, birders, undersea specialists, wellness specialists, and other experts—our photo team is there to help you take the best travel photographs of your life, whether you’re an interested beginner or a seasoned pro.

Also, designated photo expeditions in Galápagos will team a Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic certified photo instructor and a National Geographic photographer, who will tailor daily activities to maximize photo ops and present an array of instructional photo talks. The photo team can enhance everyone’s voyage with useful tips for improving your travel and wildlife images, strategies for being in the right place at the right time, and time-saving hints for editing and storing digital images.

Everyone can now take advantage of these added options:

• Travel with a National Geographic photographer
• In-the-moment tips to help you maximize photo ops
• The option to join Zodiac cruises and walks ashore devoted to photography
• Presentations on the creative and technical aspects of photography
• One-on-one mentoring and coaching in the field
• Voyage slideshows for everyone to enjoy
• While you may choose to make photography a part of your experience, all of our expeditions provide a variety of activities for all our guests

Darwin was struck by the fact that each island had its own species, and you can expect to see a great variety of wildlife during your voyage. Marine life is abundant and diverse. Some species, like Galápagos sea lions, marine iguanas, and blue-booted boobies, are widely distributed. Others, like the waved albatross, nest seasonally on just one island. Each itinerary is designed to maximize your opportunity to see wildlife.

A wet landing is when you disembark from the Zodiac into shallow water and then walk ashore.

It is most definitely possible; in fact, count on it! There is a fleet of kayaks—to give our guests the opportunity for personal, eye-level encounters with beauty and wildness in all the pristine places we explore. Kayaking areas are designated by the park and weather dependent.

Yes, depending on conditions at certain anchorages. In addition, there is an opportunity to swim from beaches many days.

There is a chance to snorkel almost every day. If you do not snorkel, there will be opportunities for kayaking, paddleboarding, and Zodiac cruises. Both ships have a glass-bottom boat.

We enable Scuba divers to experience Galápagos’ diverse marine life by arrangement with a local dive operation. Available to intermediate and advanced divers with recent experience, diving is available on select National Geographic Endeavour II departures at an additional cost. Learn more and speak with an Expedition Specialist for dates and details.

Inflatable snorkeling vests make it easier to float at the water’s surface, and they are provided aboard for guests who choose to use them. Many people find that their wetsuit provides adequate buoyancy.

Yes. And in general, a personal mask offers the best fit and comfort.

The marine ecosystem is very healthy, and that means there are sharks. If your naturalists see one while snorkeling, they will point it out. Sharks, like the rest of the wildlife in Galápagos, have little interest in humans.

No.

All of our naturalists, expedition staff, and crew are Galápagos residents and most are Ecuadorian. Our team is the best in the islands. They are top pros, handpicked by our veteran expedition leaders. They are all licensed by the national park, and many have studied in the U.S as well as Ecuador. Everyone aboard is fluent in English, and our expeditions are conducted in English.

The team of naturalists, biologists, oceanographers, and other specialists who provide talks, guidance ashore, and daily camaraderie are guided by an experienced Expedition Leader. These knowledgeable people will greatly enhance your experience, sharing special insights into areas of the world they know intimately. We send bios of staff with your documents, and you can also find them online.

These people will greatly enhance your experience, sharing special insights into areas of the world they know intimately. We send bios of staff with your documents, and you can also find them online.

Your expedition team is key to your experience. They not only accompany all your explorations off the ship, they also give engaging talks and informal presentations on board. The state-of-the art lounge is equipped with facilities for films, slideshows, and presentations. Naturalists will share their knowledge and add insight to all you see and do. Our undersea specialist shoots undersea footage and then shows images on flat screens in the comfort of the ship’s lounge, giving you a rare view of the undersea world. Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic certified photo instructors share their images and offer one-to-one critiques for those who are interested in participating.

Recap is a Lindblad Expeditions tradition, as much a part of the expedition as riding in the Zodiacs. Recaps are generally held each evening in the lounge prior to dinner and include informal presentations by the staff and a lively review of the day’s events involving both staff and guests. At the conclusion of Recap, your expedition leader will review the activity options for the next day.