How to Get to Santa Cruz, Galapagos: A Complete Guide With Prices

Santa Cruz is the most visited island in the Galapagos archipelago, and it is home to Puerto Ayora, the largest and most populated city in the province. Considered the gateway to the natural paradise of Galapagos, Puerto Ayora welcomes the majority of travelers arriving at this destination.

Although the airport is not located directly in this city but on the neighboring island of Baltra, separated by a channel of just 1,300 feet (400 meters), the transfer is simple and well organized. In reality, it consists of three quick, practical connections that are all part of the experience of arriving at the fascinating Galapagos archipelago.

The journey to Santa Cruz begins with a flight from Quito or Guayaquil to Seymour Airport on Baltra Island. From there, the adventure continues by crossing the Itabaca Channel on a small ferry, and then traveling across the island by bus or taxi until you reach Puerto Ayora, the vibrant heart of the archipelago.

In this guide, we walk you through every step from the mainland to your arrival in Puerto Ayora, the largest and most dynamic city in the province. Here you will find costs updated to 2026, entry requirements, and the best transportation options between islands, so your only worry will be enjoying one of the most extraordinary natural destinations on the planet.

Cover photo: Baltra and Santa Cruz Islands, Galapagos Islands, Ecuador.
Photo by Diego Delso, CC BY-SA 4.0.

Step 1 - Flying to Galapagos From Mainland Ecuador#

Galapagos Ecological Airport.
Photo by aeropuertoecologicodegalapagos on Instagram.

Only two airlines operate flights to the magical Galapagos Islands: LATAM Airlines and Avianca. These companies connect the mainland with the airports on Baltra (GPS) and San Cristobal (SCY). It is important to note that there are no direct international flights to Galapagos; all travelers must first enter through mainland Ecuador before continuing to the archipelago.

Now, to reach Seymour Airport on Baltra Island, you can fly from Quito with a brief layover in Guayaquil on a flight of approximately 2.5 hours, or directly from Guayaquil on a flight of around 1.5 hours.

Round-trip tickets generally range between 450 USD and 600 USD for foreign visitors, and from 300 USD for Ecuadorian citizens. In general, flights departing from Guayaquil tend to be 10 USD to 50 USD cheaper.

Airlines Flying to Galapagos in 2026#

LATAM offers the greatest connectivity, with routes from Quito and Guayaquil to both the Baltra and San Cristobal airports. It is the airline with the most daily frequencies and, overall, the best-rated option for its punctuality and reliability. Reference prices for foreign visitors generally range between 450 USD and 600 USD round-trip.

For its part, Avianca operates flights from Guayaquil to Baltra and San Cristobal. Although it usually offers similar fares, between 450 USD and 580 USD round-trip for foreign visitors, some travelers report fewer flight frequencies and occasional issues related to cancellations or luggage.

It is worth mentioning that if you find information about Equair in other guides, you should know that this airline ceased operations in 2023. Despite still appearing on some websites, it no longer offers flights to the archipelago.

Flights From Quito or Guayaquil: Which Is More Convenient?#

If you fly from Quito, keep in mind that all flights to the Galapagos Islands make a brief technical stop in Guayaquil (approximately 30 minutes on the ground). Total travel time is usually around 2.5 hours. From Guayaquil, on the other hand, the flight is direct and lasts around 1.5 hours. Besides being shorter, it is generally 10 USD to 50 USD cheaper, making it a practical and convenient alternative.

Many travelers choose to spend the night in Guayaquil before flying to Galapagos. By doing so, you could save some money on airfare and avoid tight connections, allowing you to start your adventure in a more relaxed way.

However, before Galapagos, why not discover Quito? If you fly from Quito to the archipelago, you will have the opportunity to explore some of the country's most iconic destinations. You can visit the famous Mitad del Mundo (Middle of the World), walk through the best-preserved historic center in South America, and immerse yourself in the rich culture and local traditions of Ecuador's capital.

Plus, from Quito you can enjoy our exciting day tours to natural wonders such as the Cotopaxi volcano, the hot springs and waterfalls of Banos, or the stunning Quilotoa lagoon, as well as cultural destinations like the Otavalo markets. These experiences will turn your trip into a complete journey full of contrasts.

Tips for Finding Cheap Flights#

• Buy your flights on Tuesdays or Wednesdays, directly on the airline's website.

• Book at least 2-3 months in advance.

• Low season (February-May, September-November) offers the lowest prices.

• Compare on Skyscanner or Momondo, but verify the final price on the airline's website.

• Make sure your ticket has the correct fare class (foreign visitor vs. resident). If the airline detects a resident fare at check-in, they will charge a surcharge of up to 150 USD.

Step 2 - Requirements and Documentation for Entering Galapagos#

Galapagos Ecological Airport.
Photo by aeropuertoecologicodegalapagos on Instagram.

Before flying to the Galapagos Islands, you need a Transit Control Card, a valid passport, and a round-trip ticket. Upon arriving at Seymour Airport, you must pay the Galapagos National Park entrance fee. Here is a detailed explanation of these requirements:

Transit Control Card (TCT)

The Transit Control Card (TCT) is a mandatory immigration document for all visitors. It allows a maximum stay of 2 months in the archipelago and costs 20 USD per person (children under 2 are exempt).

Since May 2025, you can process it online. To do so, follow these steps:

1. Go to siig-cgreg.gobiernogalapagos.gob.ec

1. Accept the data policy and watch the mandatory informational video.

1. Complete the form with your personal information and verify your email with the code they send you.

1. Pay with a debit or credit card.

1. Download your TCT with QR code.

Do this 48 hours before your flight. Even though you already have the digital QR code, at the Quito or Guayaquil airport you must stop by the Consejo de Gobierno de Regimen Especial de Galapagos (CGREG) counter to pick up the physical card.

Galapagos National Park Entrance Fee

Since August 2024, the fees have been updated. The entrance fee for foreign adults went from 100 USD to 200 USD. This fee is paid upon arrival at the Baltra or San Cristobal airport, right after passing through immigration.

Category | Fee

• Foreign adults (12+) — 200 USD
• Foreign children (<12) — 100 USD
• CAN/MERCOSUR adults\* — 100 USD
• CAN/MERCOSUR children\* — 50 USD
• Ecuadorian adults — 30 USD
• Ecuadorian children — 15 USD
• Seniors (65+) — 15 USD
• Disability (CONADIS card) — 15 USD
• Children under 2 — Exempt

*CAN Countries: Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru.

* MERCOSUR Countries: Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, Uruguay.

Source: Consejo de Gobierno de Regimen Especial de Galapagos (n.d.), Galapagos National Park Entrance Fee.

Biosecurity Inspection

Your luggage goes through inspection by the Galapagos Biosecurity Agency (ABG) at two points: before boarding at the departure airport and upon arrival on the islands.

It is prohibited to bring plant or animal products, seeds, and soil. Drones require a special permit from the National Park. Before landing, the airplane cabin is fumigated, a standard WHO-approved protocol that is completely harmless.

Step 3 - The Three Transfers From Baltra to Puerto Ayora#

Ferry crossing the Itabaca Channel.
Photo by Maria Gabriela Mancheno.

From Seymour Airport on Baltra to Puerto Ayora, you need to make 3 transfers: a bus to the Itabaca Channel (10 min), a ferry across the channel (10 min), and a bus (1h15) or taxi (45 min) to Puerto Ayora. It sounds like a lot of moving around, but everything is coordinated with flight arrivals. You will not get lost since all passengers follow the same route. Below, we explain these transfers in detail.

Bus From the Airport to the Itabaca Channel

The Lobito bus waits outside the Baltra terminal. It costs 5 USD per person and the ride takes about 10 minutes to the Itabaca Channel dock. It departs when full, coordinated with the flights. Have cash and small bills ready (1 USD, 5 USD), as you will need them for all transfers.

Ferry Across the Itabaca Channel

You have two options for crossing the Itabaca Channel:

• Government ferry (large barge): 1 USD per person

• Private boat (faster): 2 USD per person

Both options take about 10 minutes. Your luggage goes on the roof of the vessel, so make sure your suitcase is sturdy.

The Itabaca Channel offers a vibrant welcome to Galapagos. The atmosphere is lively and rustic, with the constant bustle of boats and travelers. While waiting for the ferry, it is common to see sea lions resting on the dock, blue-footed boobies diving for fish, and marine iguanas along the rocky shores.

Bus or Taxi to Puerto Ayora

Once on solid ground in Santa Cruz, the last stretch is the longest: 25 miles (40 km) from the northern part of the island to Puerto Ayora in the south. You have the following options to get there:

• Public bus: 5 USD per person, 1 hour 15 minutes. This bus drops you off at Parque San Francisco, right in the center.

• Taxi (white pickup truck): 25 USD flat rate for up to 4 people, approximately 45 minutes.

• Private transfer: from 45 USD per person, with the option of making stops along the route.

We recommend our private transfer service. Contact us and we will take you to your destination in the safest, most comfortable way.

Below is a summary of transfer costs.

Leg | Budget Option | Comfort Option

• Bus airport → Itabaca Channel — 5 USD — 5 USD
• Ferry Itabaca Channel — 1 USD — 2 USD (private boat)
• Itabaca Channel → Puerto Ayora — 5 USD (bus) — 25 USD (taxi/4 pax)
• Total per person — 11 USD — 32 USD

Alternative: Arriving via San Cristobal and Taking the Ferry#

If you have decided to enter the Galapagos Islands through San Cristobal Island, you can take the ferry to Santa Cruz whenever you wish. In fact, arriving directly at San Cristobal is useful if you want to visit both islands. San Cristobal Airport is just 4 minutes from Puerto Baquerizo Moreno (2 USD by taxi), a shorter and more economical transfer than from Baltra.

Advantages of Arriving via San Cristobal

If you choose to arrive at San Cristobal, you will notice a big difference when it comes to transfers. On this island, you walk out of the airport and in four minutes you are in town. On Baltra, by contrast, you need 1.5 hours and 3 transfers to reach Puerto Ayora. The same airlines operate at both airports with similar prices.

This route makes sense if you are planning to visit San Cristobal anyway. You can spend a few days there, during which you can see sea lions at the well-known Loberia, or witness the famous Leon Dormido (Kicker Rock), and then take the ferry to Santa Cruz.

Ferry From San Cristobal to Santa Cruz

Ferries depart daily from Puerto Baquerizo Moreno:

• Schedules: 7:00 AM and 3:00 PM.

• Price: 35 USD per person (30 USD for children ages 2-10)

• Duration: 2 to 2.5 hours

• Luggage: maximum 50 lbs (23 kg), 10 USD extra for excess

Buy your ticket a day in advance at the agencies along the malecon. Spots are limited and sell out during peak season. The crossing is done on speedboats that navigate the open sea between islands, so this is not a large, stable ferry but rather a more dynamic experience. The sea can be calm or rough depending on the time of year; January through June tends to be calmer, while July through December can bring bigger swells.

When conditions are choppy, the boat can sway with rises and drops that some compare to a "roller coaster" on the water, something completely normal for this type of transport. The boats have seats in the cabin and on deck, life jackets, and basic safety measures, though it is not a luxury service. If you are prone to seasickness, it is recommended to take preventive medication, as even people who do not usually get seasick prefer to take pills as a precaution.

Inter-Island Transportation From Santa Cruz#

From Puerto Ayora, daily ferries depart to Isabela (35 USD, 2 hours), San Cristobal (35 USD, 2 hours), and Floreana (35 USD, 2 hours). Schedules are 7:00 AM and 3:00 PM. There are also inter-island flights with EMETEBE, but they are more expensive and weather-dependent.

Once on Santa Cruz, the archipelago opens up. Puerto Ayora serves as the central hub for maritime transportation.

Ferry Routes From Puerto Ayora

Destination | Schedules | Duration | Price

• Isabela (Puerto Villamil) — 7:00 AM, 3:00 PM — \~2h — 35 USD
• San Cristobal (Pto. Baquerizo) — 7:00 AM, 3:00 PM — \~2-2.5h — 35 USD
• Floreana (Pto. Velasco Ibarra) — 8:00 AM — \~2h — 35 USD

Children ages 2-10 pay 30 USD. Maximum luggage: 50 lbs (23 kg).

Tickets can be purchased at the agencies along the Puerto Ayora malecon or through your hotel. If you are traveling during peak season (June-September), buy your ticket at least one day in advance.

Inter-Island Flights

Emetebe Airlines operates short flights between islands. It is the fastest option but also the most expensive, and flights are frequently canceled due to weather conditions. This is useful only if you are short on time and need an urgent connection.

How Much Does It Cost in Total to Get to Santa Cruz?#

Galapagos Ecological Airport.
Photo by aeropuertoecologicodegalapagos on Instagram.

Below, you will find an estimate of the main costs to reach Santa Cruz in the Galapagos Islands. Values vary by nationality and season. No other guide gives you this complete figure. Here is the breakdown:

Total Cost by Traveler Profile

Item | Foreign Visitor | Ecuadorian

• Round-trip flight — 450-600 USD — 190-350 USD
• TCT — 20 USD — 20 USD
• National Park entrance — 200 USD — 30 USD
• Transportation Baltra - Puerto Ayora — 11-32 USD — 11-32 USD
• Total — 681-852 USD — 251-432 USD

Not included: accommodation, meals, or tours. If you are from a CAN/MERCOSUR country, the National Park entrance fee is 100 USD instead of 200 USD.

Tips for Reducing Costs

• Low season: February through May and September through November. During this time, flights drop significantly.

• Cash ready: Bring enough cash for the park entrance fee. There is no ATM at the Baltra airport. Also, ATMs tend to be scarce on the islands.

• Bring your own snorkel gear (mask and snorkel) to avoid paying daily rental fees.

Need help planning your trip to Santa Cruz? Contact us and get a personalized quote with our tours included.

Practical Tips for the Trip#

Carry cash in dollars for the park entrance fee and transportation. Register your TCT online 48 hours in advance. The Baltra-Puerto Ayora journey takes approximately 1.5 hours total, so be patient with the 3 transfers, as they are part of the experience.

What to Bring for the Transfer

• Cash in small bills

• Printed TCT or on your phone

• Original passport

• Return ticket

• Sunscreen and water for the wait

• Sturdy suitcase (it goes on the roof of the boat)

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not registering the TCT in advance. Remember that the lines at the airport counter are long.

• Not having an accommodation reservation. This is a requirement for entry to the islands.

• Bringing items prohibited by biosecurity (fruits, seeds, soil).

• Taking a taxi without confirming the price, or not having a safe and reliable private transport service. Contact us and we will take you to your final destination in Galapagos safely and comfortably.

Frequently Asked Questions#

How much does it cost to get to Santa Cruz, Galapagos?

The total cost for a foreign adult includes: round-trip flight (450-600 USD), TCT (20 USD), National Park entrance (200 USD), and ground transportation Baltra-Puerto Ayora (11-32 USD). Estimated total: 681-852 USD per person. For Ecuadorians, the total is lower: 251-432 USD thanks to reduced fares on flights and park entrance.

How do I get from Baltra Airport to Puerto Ayora?

There are 3 transfers: bus from the airport to the Itabaca Channel (5 USD, 10 min), ferry across the channel (1 USD, 10 min), and bus (5 USD, 1h15) or taxi (25 USD, 45 min) to Puerto Ayora. The total trip takes between 1.5 and 2 hours depending on the transportation you choose.

What airlines fly to Galapagos?

Currently, LATAM and Avianca are the only two airlines operating flights to Galapagos from Quito and Guayaquil. Equair ceased operations in 2023. LATAM has more frequencies and is considered more reliable. Flights arrive at Seymour Airport on Baltra (GPS) or San Cristobal Airport (SCY).

Which city offers a more complete experience before flying to Galapagos? Quito or Guayaquil?

Guayaquil is 10-50 USD cheaper because it is a direct flight lasting 1.5 hours. From Quito, the flight stops in Guayaquil and takes about 2.5 hours total.

If we only consider time and price, Guayaquil seems to win: direct flight, one less hour, and a few dollars saved. But if we look at the complete travel experience, the answer is clear: Quito.

Flying from Quito is not just a transfer to Galapagos; it is the opportunity to discover the best-preserved colonial city in South America, stand at the Mitad del Mundo (Middle of the World), and add unforgettable adventures at destinations near the city, such as the imposing Cotopaxi volcano, the Otavalo markets, the waterfalls of Banos, or the magical Quilotoa lagoon.

Because it is not just about getting to Galapagos, but about turning the journey into part of the adventure.

What is the Transit Control Card (TCT)?

It is a mandatory immigration document for all visitors to Galapagos. It costs 20 USD and since May 2025 can be processed online at siig-cgreg.gobiernogalapagos.gob.ec. It is recommended to do so 48 hours before your flight. You must keep your TCT for your entire stay.

How much is the Galapagos National Park entrance fee?

Since August 2024, the fee for foreign adults is 200 USD (previously 100 USD). Foreign children pay 100 USD, CAN/MERCOSUR citizens 100 USD, and Ecuadorians 30 USD. Children under 2 are exempt.

What documents do I need to enter Galapagos?

You need a valid passport (6+ months validity), TCT (20 USD), round-trip ticket, and a confirmed accommodation reservation for every day of your stay.

Is there a ferry from San Cristobal to Santa Cruz?

Yes, ferries depart daily at 7:00 AM and 3:00 PM from Puerto Baquerizo Moreno. The trip takes approximately 2-2.5 hours, costs 35 USD (30 USD for children ages 2-10), and the maximum luggage weight is 50 lbs (23 kg) with an extra charge of 10 USD for excess. Buy your ticket in advance as spots are limited.

Can I take a ferry from Santa Cruz to Isabela?

Yes, ferries depart daily at 7:00 AM and 3:00 PM from Puerto Ayora to Puerto Villamil (Isabela). Duration: 2 hours. Price: 35 USD per person. Tickets can be purchased at agencies along the Puerto Ayora malecon or through your hotel.

How long does it take to get from Quito to Puerto Ayora?

Approximately 5-6 hours total: flight from Quito to Baltra with a layover in Guayaquil (2.5 hours), airport procedures (30 min), bus to Itabaca Channel (10 min), ferry (10 min), and bus or taxi to Puerto Ayora (45 min-1h15). From Guayaquil, it is approximately 4-5 hours total.

When is the best time to travel to Galapagos?

Galapagos is a destination you can visit year-round, but the low season (February-May, September-November) offers cheaper flights and fewer tourists. June-September is peak season with higher prices. Be sure to read our article about the best time to travel to Galapagos, where you will find all the information you need on this topic.

Do I need to book accommodation before traveling?

Yes! And it is not just a recommendation; it is a mandatory requirement to have a confirmed accommodation reservation for every day of your stay on the islands. You will need to present it along with your documentation upon entry. In Puerto Ayora, you will find options for every travel style, from affordable and cozy hostels to premium hotels with all the amenities.

But here is something key that many travelers overlook. In addition to lodging, it is essential to have your activities planned in advance. Tours in Galapagos have limited spots and tend to fill up weeks, even months, ahead of time. If you leave everything to the last minute, you will very likely not find availability for the excursions you really want to do.

Traveling to Galapagos is not a destination for improvisation; it is an experience best enjoyed when well organized. Secure your hotel, confirm your activities, and avoid unnecessary setbacks. Do not leave your trip to chance. Organize it with us and enjoy every moment without worries.

Galapagos tortoise at Rancho Primicias, Santa Cruz.
Photo by Quito Tour Bus

Now Go Explore Santa Cruz#

This guide with prices offers you all the information you need to plan your arrival in Santa Cruz, from flights to transfers and entrance fees, making your island adventure organized and hassle-free. Getting to Santa Cruz, Galapagos is simpler than it seems: one flight, a couple of procedures, and three short transfers. Once in Puerto Ayora, the entire archipelago will be within your reach.

Now that you know how to get to Santa Cruz, discover what to do on the paradise islands of Galapagos. Read our complete guide: things to do in Santa Cruz Island.

We also invite you to check out our Santa Cruz and Isabela and Santa Cruz + San Cristobal tours, designed so you can experience the best of the archipelago without worries. Travel with us and start an unforgettable adventure on the magical Galapagos Islands. Leave everything in our hands and enjoy every experience with the support of an expert team that will make your trip a memory for a lifetime.