Safety · Destination Guide
Galapagos Islands
Pelagics, endemics, and protected waters in a living laboratory
Safety · Destination Guide
Pelagics, endemics, and protected waters in a living laboratory
Galapagos is safe when you respect currents, briefings, and conservation rules. Licensed operators, naturalist guides, and rangers protect both visitors and wildlife.
Use an SMB, stay within sight of your guide, and be conservative with gas in strong currents. Expect blue-water safety stops and the occasional negative entry. Cold thermoclines challenge buoyancy and breathing control. Carry dive accident insurance that includes hyperbaric treatment and evacuation.
A recompression facility operates in Puerto Ayora with trained hyperbaric staff. Mainland medevac options exist from Guayaquil. Bring personal medications and seasickness remedies, and protect against sun and wind chill.
Strong currents and surge
Briefings matter. Stay close to your guide, watch for downcurrent edges, and carry an SMB.
Cold thermoclines
Expect sudden drops to 16°C. Hooded suits improve comfort and safety.
Seasickness on crossings
June to November rides can be rough. Bring medication and hydrate.
Follow park rules at signed visitor sites. Keep at least 2 m from animals, do not feed wildlife, and never remove natural objects. Biosecurity inspections on the mainland and inter-island ferries prevent invasive species.
Do Not Do This
Avoid entering when strong currents and surge. Confirm local briefings before committing.
| Contact | Role | Phone | Availability |
|---|---|---|---|
| SSS Recompression Chamber, Puerto Ayora | Hyperbaric treatment | +593 5 252 6911 | 24/7 on-call |
| Emergency services | Police, fire, medical | 911 | 24/7 |
| Galapagos National Park | Visitor site and conservation authority | +593 5 252 6146 | Business hours; rangers on duty at sites |