Galapagos Entry Fee Increases to $200 for Foreign Visitors Starting February

If a trip to the Galapagos Islands is on your 2026 bucket list, take note: the national park entry fee for foreign visitors doubled to $200 as of February 1, up from $100. The increase, approved by Ecuador's Environment Ministry, is aimed at funding expanded conservation efforts as visitor numbers continue to climb.

The New Fee Schedule

• Foreign tourists: $200 (previously $100)
• Foreign residents of Ecuador: $50 (previously $25)
• Ecuadorian citizens: $6 (unchanged)
• Children under 12: 50% discount across all categories

The Resident Advantage

Here is where having your cedula really pays off. Foreign residents pay just $50 -- a quarter of the tourist rate. The catch is that your cedula is the only document accepted as proof of residency at the point of entry. A passport stamp, visa printout, or residency letter will not suffice. If you are planning a Galapagos trip, make sure that cedula is packed and accessible.

Why Fees Are Going Up

The Galapagos welcomed a record 328,000 visitors in 2025, and the archipelago's delicate ecosystem is feeling the strain. The Environment Ministry says the additional revenue will be directed toward three priorities: expanding marine reserve patrols, accelerating invasive species removal programs, and upgrading sustainable tourism infrastructure on the inhabited islands.

Getting to the Islands

Flights to the Galapagos depart daily from both Quito and Guayaquil, with LATAM and Avianca operating the routes. Round-trip tickets generally range from $250 to $450 depending on the season and how far in advance you book. Purchasing tickets at least three to four weeks ahead typically yields the best fares.