Galapagos Transit Control Card Limits Date Flexibility

Transit (Migration) Control Card Regulations Eliminate Date Flexibility in the Galapagos Islands

Travelers must know their specific departure date before entering the Galapagos Islands. In the past many people visiting the Galapagos Islands would change their return flight date to extend their stay in the Galapagos after their cruise. Unfortunately, the Transit Control Cards have eliminated any date flexibility, meaning that travelers can't just decide to extend their trip while they are in the Galapagos.

Travelers arriving to the Galapagos must specify to the Galapagos authorities their exact departure date from the Islands, as the Transit Control Card (issued on the mainland) will contain their departure information. Any travelers found on the Islands after the departure date specified on their Transit Control Cards will be fined and sent back to the mainland on the first flight from their corresponding airline.

While this change eliminates a great deal of flexibility, any attempts by the Ecuadorian authorities to protect the Galapagos Islands must be appreciated and supported. If you think you may want to extend your stay in the Islands we suggest you book this in advance of your trip. This will also allow you to be sure you can get the return flight you prefer and the hotel of your choice.