Planning a trip to the enchanted Galapagos Islands from Ecuador? Whether you're starting your travels from the city of Guayaquil, Quito, or now also Manta, understanding the flight options and durations is crucial for a smooth travel experience. In this post, we'll explore the flight times, distances, and airline choices available to make your journey to these magnificent islands as seamless as possible, especially for a Galapagos luxury cruise.
The first thing you have to know is that to reach the Galapagos Islands from Ecuador, flying is your only option. Traveling by sea directly from the mainland isn't a practical choice, although it's technically possible if you have your own private yacht. The journey by sea however, takes three days and there are no commercial sea vessels offering trips to the Islands.
Flight Duration from Ecuador to Galapagos
From the city of Guayaquil:
When flying from Guayaquil, Ecuador’s biggest city and the country’s second largest airport, you will cover a distance of about 1,187 km (737 miles) to get to Galapagos. Non-stop flights on this route usually last between 1 hour 45 minutes to up to 2 hours. This can vary based on wind and weather conditions.
Flying from the city of Quito:
From the capital city of Quito:
Starting from Quito, Ecuador's capital and the city with the largest airport, the journey to Galapagos is approximately 1,329 km (825 miles). Direct flights take around 2 hours 20 minutes. It's important to note however, that direct flights from Quito are limited, usually one or two per day. Most travelers opt for flights with one quick stop in Guayaquil, which are more frequent - about 6 to 8 daily. The total travel time, including a stopover in Guayaquil (usually 40 to 50 minutes without deboarding), is around 3 hours 30 minutes to 3 hours 50 minutes.
Next, we'll discuss the best Galapagos airport to fly into (there are two options).
Choosing an Airline for Galapagos Travel:
Only two airlines offer flights from Ecuador to the Galapagos Islands: Avianca and LATAM.. Each airline has its benefits. Avianca allows passengers to earn frequent flyer miles and is part of the Star Alliance network. LATAM has a wide international network, making it a good choice for those connecting to international flights, like to Lima, Santiago or Miami. For international connections, booking a complete travel package with Avianca or LATAM is recommended.
In summary, traveling to the Galapagos Islands from an Ecuador mainland tour is an exciting journey, with various options to suit your preferences. Whether you prefer a direct flight from Quito or a short stopover in Guayaquil, each route offers its own unique advantages. With airlines like Avianca and LATAM providing different perks, you can choose what best fits your travel style. Remember, the Galapagos Islands are a world-renowned destination, so whichever route or airline you choose, you're in for an unforgettable adventure!
