Question 1

What is the "Boat Day Trip Overcrowding" scam in Galapagos Islands?

Accepted Answer

Day trip operators in Puerto Ayora sell spots on small boats visiting Tortuga Bay or Bartolomé Island beyond the vessel's safe and legal capacity. In rough Pacific conditions, overloaded small boats are a safety hazard. Book day trips with operators who clearly state their capacity and safety equipment. Avoid any operator whose vessel appears overcrowded at the dock.

Question 2

What is the "Unauthorized Tour Operator Sales" scam in Galapagos Islands?

Accepted Answer

Agents in Quito and at Baltra Airport sell Galapagos cruise packages with small-boat operators that are not licensed by the Galapagos National Park authority. These vessels may be unsafe, over capacity, or skip protected sites due to lack of permits. Verify that any cruise or tour operator is registered with the Galapagos National Park. Book through established agencies with verifiable credentials.

Question 3

What is the "Overpriced Diving Courses" scam in Galapagos Islands?

Accepted Answer

Dive shops in Puerto Ayora offer PADI certification courses at 3–4 times the standard global price, knowing that tourists are captive to the unique marine environment and cannot easily compare prices. Consider completing dive certification before arriving in the Galapagos. If taking a course there, compare at least three shops and read recent reviews.

Question 4

What is the "Fake National Park Entrance Fee Collector" scam in Galapagos Islands?

Accepted Answer

The Galapagos National Park entrance fee is collected on arrival. Scammers near airport exits pose as officials and offer to process payment at a discounted rate outside the official fee station. Pay the National Park entrance fee only at the official counter inside the airport immediately after clearing immigration. The fee is never discounted.

Tour & Activity Scams in Galapagos Islands

Boat Day Trip Overcrowding

Unauthorized Tour Operator Sales

Overpriced Diving Courses

Fake National Park Entrance Fee Collector

Experienced a scam here?