Unfortunate for most, getting in, around and out of the Galapagos is not cheap. Travel restrictions, endangered animals and wildlife, and the overall dismal condition of the Islands' ecosystem are to blame. With so much going into its preservation, any potential for advantageous influences are met with the strictest guard.

Flying directly to the Galapagos is not an option; instead, flights from Ecuador's Quito and Guayaquil, into the island cluster is the most direct and expedited route taken by those who visit.

Note that it is not possible to purchase a one-way ticket to the Galapagos without proof or transportation from the islands.

A preferred method of visiting is by a Galapagos cruise, allowing for visitors to delve into the experience, to gradually immerse in the mystery of the Islands.

Getting Around

Accommodations are available and many on the larger islands such as Santa Cruz and is where most tour agencies operate and the location of day trips of any type and length.

Another method of luxury travel among the Galapagos is through an all-inclusive island hopping package. Already offered by most boat tours, there are also smaller, locally run businesses that run tours beneficial to the area's economy and, although not as glitzy, provide a similar level of exploration.

However you make it to-and-from, deciding to travel the Islands, fueling its economy and preserving its ecosystem, is the initial and essential step to getting there and should be addressed before trend turns fact and there is nothing left to visit.