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The Galapagos are a remote chain of volcanic islands that are some 600 miles west of Equador. Whilst small and far removed, these tiny islands catapulted into fame thanks to Darwin. So diverse and abundant is the ecology here that you really can see evolution in practice as you move from one island to the next. With no doubt, the only way to explore the Galapagos is from a liveaboard. And Scuba Travel works with the best and most luxurious, custom built dive boats to ensure you get to all the hot spots. Diving in the Galapagos is for advanced divers as conditions can be challenging but the rewards are unmeasureable. This really is the trip of a lifetime. Rich in all things natural, the underwater world is no less alluring. The entire region has a mighty reputation for the action packed and supreme diving that awaits beneath the seas. With warm water welling up from the deep and so much nutrient rich plankton swirling around, the marine life comes in thick and fast.

It is perhaps easier to list the things you won't see on a trip to the Galapagos as the roll call of regular visitors is impressively long. Gone are the crowds and hordes of other divers. Instead the islands are most famous for the hammerheads sharks that school in vast numbers and swirl around the deep water pinnacles. Huge throngs of white tips sharks cruise the reef alongside snapper, tuna and barracuda. Galapagos sharks are unique to this region, which is also one of the few places divers can get close to sea lion and fur seals all on same trip. Add to all of this the frequent manta, eagle rays, golden rays and turtles as well as whalesharks and dolphin - what more could you want. Well why not snorkel with penguins or marine iguana? There is clearly nowhere else on the planet that can compare with the Galapagos. Seeing really is believing... and the diving really is just that good.

Galapagos Travel Information

Location: The Galápagos Islands are an archipelago of volcanic islands distributed around the equator in the Pacific Ocean, 972 km west of continental Ecuador. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site: wildlife is its most notable feature. Explored by Charles Darwin in the 19th century, it is now of the world's top dream destinations.

Languages: The official language, Spanish, is spoken by 90% of the population. 10% of the American Indian population speak Quechua dialects. English is hardly spoken.

Religion: Christianity, with 95% Roman Catholic.

Time: GMT - 7 (GMT - 6 from the last Sunday in March to last Sunday in October)

Weather & Water Temperature: The weather is dry and moderate all year round on the Galapagos Islands, but the best climate conditions are found during the months of January, June, July, August and December. Air temperature varies from 24°C - 29°C and water temperature is around 23°C. Please choose your exposure suit accordingly or contact us for advice for your holiday.


Electricity: 120 volts AC, 60Hz. Plugs used are American-style (two perpendicular flat blades above a circular grounding pin) and Japanese-style (two perpendicular flat blades). It’s advisable to take an adaptor. We also highly recommend that you take a surge adaptor with you if using expensive and valuable appliances. If you have a specific electrical requirement please contact one of the Scuba Team who can discuss this with you and advise you accordingly.

Currency: US $ is Ecuador’s standard currency. We suggest taking small denominations US $. Don’t take sterling, as its is virtually impossible to change. All major credit cards are accepted onboard the liveaboards, however a surcharge does apply on credit cards Personal cheques are not accepted onboard. On the Galapagos Islands Mastercard currently is the only accepted card.

Tipping: 10% service charge is usually added to the bill in hotels and restaurants. If you are unsure what to give please do hesitate to speak with the local dive guide or contact us.

Visas: No visa is required for UK passport holders for stays of up to 90 days. Non UK passport holders can contact the Ecuador Embassy on +44 (0)207 584 1367.

Taxes: The departure tax for international departures for Quito is approx $41. Guayaquil’s departure tax is approx. $26. Please be aware that these prices are subject to change. Food & Drink: The biggest form of health problems with divers and tourists alike is being dehydrated. Please drink plenty of water before and after a dive as well as throughout the day. We also advise that you don’t drink the local water and only drink bottle water and wash all fruit beforehand.

Foreign & Commonwealth Office Travel Advice: For up to date advice on foreign travel please visit http://www.fco.gov.uk.

Health & Vaccinations: Requirements vary from country to country, your own GP is the best person to speak to regarding relevant requirements. Make your GP aware that you will be scuba diving, as some medication is not recommended for Scuba divers.

Clothing: Lightweight natural fabrics; rainwear in subtropical areas. We recommend warmer clothes for cool evenings as well as taking a beach towel to use after diving. Shoes are never worn on the liveaboard. Importantly remember sunscreen, hats and sunglasses. For shore excursions good comfortable wearing shoes / trainers are advised.

Passports: Passports much be valid for at least 6 months on your return to the UK.