Accommodation in Quito
The first night's (arrival day Saturday) accommodation in Quito is in a shared twin or triple room at the volunteer house, which is located in the lively neighbourhood La Mariscal surrounded by restaurants and bars. The house has a spacious living room with a TV, DVD and a comfy sofa, a big table to eat with all your housemates and a great kitchen that is fully equipped for you to cook your meals. You will also be staying at the volunteer house if you choose to participate in the Intro Week in Quito. Please note that the accommodation in Quito is shared even if you choose the private room option in the Galapagos.
Accommodation in San Cristobal
In the Galapagos you stay in a nice hostel in San Cristobal which is close to the beach, shops and cafes. Both the dormitory as well as the single and twin/double rooms have an en-suite bathroom and air-conditioning, and there is hot water most of the time. There is a shared fully-equipped kitchen where you will be able to cook your own meals and a common area where you can eat or chill or do homework. There is also a terrace where you can relax and watch the sun set. Bed linen and towels are included, as is the cleaning services several times a week. As this is a shared house, we depend on your collaboration to make your stay as comfortable as possible. In your welcome package you will find a contract with the rules of the student house which we will ask you to sign. Upon arrival at the Galapagos you will have to pay a guarantee (not included), which will be returned to you at the end of your stay. Internet is not available at the hostel, but there are internet cafes in town.
Arrival transfer from Quito airport to your accommodation is included with Intro Week, if you choose that option.
How to Get to the Project::
Our Galapagos project costs include the return flight from Quito to Galapagos.
When you arrive at Quito airport you will have to pay your $20 INGALA card.
Once you arrive in San Cristobal, you will first have to pay your National Park Entrance Fee. Please go to the line of foreign visitors and pay USD $100.00 (not included). Please take into account that this amount can only be paid cash.
Meals are not included during the volunteer project but there's a well equiped kitchen where you can prepare your meals, alternatively there are a lot of local cafes and restaurants for snacks, lunch and dinner. On the Galapagos almost all items are more expensive than the mainland, and as you will be cooking for yourself, it would be wise to do some advance shopping in Quito for products such as:
- Rice/pasta
- Canned products
- Any sweets or savoury products you might like
- Cereals
- Packaged and vacuum sealed cheese and meat products
While shopping, please take into account that you are not allowed to take fruits, vegetables, meat, seeds, etc. You can purchase fruit and vegetables at the local market or shops. Remember to check your baggage allowance before you start shopping for the essentials. There are also a lot of local cafes, restaurants for snacks, lunch and dinner.
What to do on the Galapagos Islands:
The Galapagos Islands is a dream for many travellers, and you will be able not only to volunteer at the island, but you can also enjoy its wonderful flora and fauna! So spend your afternoons at the beaches, snorkel with the sea lions, learn how to dive, visit the different islands or take a cruise around the archipelago.