Terms and Conditions

Last updated: January 2026

These Terms & Conditions govern all travel services provided by ECUADOR AND GALAPAGOS INSIDERS CORP., operating under the brand name Galapagos Insiders ("we", "our", "us"). By requesting a quote, making a reservation, or confirming a booking with Galapagos Insiders, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agreed to these Terms & Conditions in full.

1. Personal Information & Privacy

In order to plan, reserve, and operate your trip in Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands, we require certain personal information from each traveler (including, but not limited to, full name, passport details, date of birth, dietary restrictions, and emergency contact information).

This information is used exclusively for operational and legal purposes such as issuing tickets, travel vouchers, permits, and reservations with authorized operators. Your personal data is never sold, shared, or disclosed to third parties except where strictly necessary to deliver the contracted services or when required by law.

2. Scope of Services

Galapagos Insiders acts as a travel planner and intermediary between clients and independent third-party service providers, including cruise operators, hotels, transport companies, and licensed guides.

Galapagos Insiders Will:

• Work exclusively with carefully selected, legally authorized, and reputable local operators.
• Provide accurate and timely pre-travel information relevant to your itinerary.
• Issue all required travel documents, vouchers, and confirmations.
• Assist in contacting family members, insurance providers, or embassies in case of serious emergencies caused by force majeure.

Galapagos Insiders is not responsible for the acts, omissions, or operational decisions of third-party suppliers.

3. Traveler Responsibilities & Assumption of Risk

By booking with Galapagos Insiders, you acknowledge that travel in Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands involves inherent risks, including but not limited to:

• Transportation delays or disruptions
• Weather conditions
• Wildlife encounters
• Physical activities such as snorkeling, diving, hiking, kayaking, cycling, horseback riding, and other nature-based or adventure activities

You voluntarily assume all such risks, including those arising from force majeure events such as natural disasters, civil unrest, strikes, pandemics, government actions, or other extraordinary circumstances beyond our control.

4. Travel Insurance (Strongly Recommended)

We strongly recommend that all travelers obtain comprehensive travel insurance covering:

• Medical expenses and emergency evacuation
• Trip cancellation or interruption
• Baggage loss or delay

While insurance may not be legally mandatory, traveling without adequate coverage is done entirely at your own risk.

5. Documentation & Special Requirements

You are responsible for:

• Holding valid passports, visas, and immigration documents in compliance with Ecuadorian law
• Meeting any vaccination or entry requirements
• Informing us in advance of dietary needs, medical conditions, disabilities, or mobility limitations

Failure to comply may result in denied participation without entitlement to a refund.

6. Deposits, Payments & Booking Confirmation

• Reservations are confirmed only upon receipt of a non-refundable deposit of 25%–30%, depending on the selected program.
• Deposits must be received within 7 days of booking confirmation.
• Bookings made 61 days or fewer before departure require full payment within 5 days.
• Temporary cruise holds require payment before the hold expiration date.

Full Payment

The remaining balance must be paid no later than 60 days prior to departure. Failure to do so may result in cancellation without refund.

7. Price Changes

Galapagos Insiders reserves the right to adjust prices in the event of increases beyond our control, including:

• Government taxes or park fees
• Fuel surcharges
• Changes to domestic or international flight prices

8. Cancellations by the Client

All cancellations must be submitted in writing and are effective upon receipt.

• 121 days or more before departure: deposit amounts paid are non-refundable
• 60 days or fewer before departure: 100% of the total trip cost is forfeited

This policy reflects the non-refundable terms imposed by cruise and lodge operators. We will provide documentation required by your travel insurance provider when applicable.

Date changes or rescheduling are not permitted under any circumstances.

9. Changes or Cancellations by Operators

Galapagos Insiders reserves the right to modify or cancel itineraries due to force majeure or operational decisions by third-party providers. This may include substitutions of vessels, accommodations, guides, or services of comparable quality.

Refund eligibility depends entirely on operator policies and the nature of the disruption.

10. Complaints, Claims & Refund Requests

Any issue must be reported immediately during the trip and submitted in writing no later than 7 days after tour completion.

Galapagos Insiders will act solely as an intermediary with suppliers. Refunds are not guaranteed and remain subject to operator approval.

Refunds will not be issued for:

• Voluntary itinerary changes
• Mechanical issues
• Missed services due to late arrival or no-show
• Early departure or unused services
• Incomplete documentation
• Events beyond our reasonable control

11. Governing Law

These Terms & Conditions are governed by the laws of the Republic of Ecuador. Any disputes shall be subject to Ecuadorian jurisdiction.

12. Acceptance of Terms

By confirming a booking with Galapagos Insiders, you acknowledge full acceptance of these Terms & Conditions without the need for a physical or electronic signature.

For questions, please contact us prior to booking.