Valise pour les Galápagos et Vols depuis Quito : Guide 2026

The Definitive Galapagos Packing & Airport Logistics Blueprint

Traveling to the Galapagos Archipelago requires specific pre-departure preparation due to stringent environmental biosecurity laws and baggage weight restrictions.

Step-by-Step Quito Airport (UIO) Departure Protocol: 1. **Arrive 2.5 to 3 Hours Prior to Departure:** Flights depart from Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO) in Quito, with a brief stopover in Guayaquil (GYE) or nonstop to Baltra (GPS) or San Cristóbal (SCY). 2. **Step 1: The ABG Biosecurity Inspection:** Before approaching airline counters, take your checked bags to the **Consejo de Gobierno / ABG Biosecurity X-ray counter**. Your bags are scanned for organic matter, seeds, and fresh fruits, then sealed with a tamper-proof plastic tag. 3. **Step 2: Transit Control Card (TCT):** Pay the mandatory **$20 USD fee** at the adjacent government counter (or show the pre-issued barcode provided by Vermilion Routes) and receive your physical printed TCT card. 4. **Step 3: Airline Check-in:** Check your sealed bags and proceed through regular airport security to your departure gate. 5. **Step 4: Landing in Galapagos:** Present your passport and TCT card at immigration, and pay the **$200 USD National Park Entrance Fee** in cash (or provide proof of pre-payment).

The Essential Galapagos Packing Checklist: * **Footwear:** 1 pair of closed-toe sturdy hiking/trail shoes with thick rubber grip for sharp basalt lava trails; 1 pair of water sandals (Teva/Chaco style) for wet beach landings; casual sneakers for evenings. * **Sun & UV Defense:** High-neck UV50+ long-sleeve rashguard for open-ocean snorkeling; wide-brim hat with chin strap (ocean breezes can be strong); mineral reef-safe zinc sunscreen (SPF 50+); UV400 polarized sunglasses. * **Luggage & Protection:** 10L to 20L waterproof dry-bag for zodiac boat transfers and boat trips; reusable insulated stainless-steel water bottle. * **Photography Gear:** Mirrorless or DSLR camera with 70–300mm telephoto lens (remember: you must remain 2 meters away from wildlife!); underwater action camera (GoPro) with floating hand grip. *Note: Civilian aerial drones are strictly prohibited throughout the National Park.*

⚡ Traveling Tomorrow? Our 24-Hour Express Commitment: Need to leave on short notice? Vermilion Routes specializes in rapid-turnaround private expeditions. When you contact our concierge, we secure your flight seats, register your biosecurity clearance, and arrange your private island guides in under 24 hours.