It is not mandatory to have a yellow fever (or any other) vaccination to visit Galapagos. It is always advisable to consult your physician about health measures and vaccinations before travelling to a foreign country.

• First Aid Kit: We have a complete first aid kit for minor injuries or ailments. For any special medications, please ensure you bring them with you.
• Medical Center Nearby: In case of serious injury or illness, a medical center is located within a 25-minute reach of Scalesia Lodge.
• Personal Medications: The island may have a limited variety of medications. We strongly recommend bringing your prescribed medications as advised by your doctor to ensure you have what you need during your stay.
• Motion Sickness: If prone to boat sickness, consider carrying motion sickness pills for added comfort during boat trips and excursions in the Galapagos Islands.

The choice of when to visit depends on personal preferences regarding weather and specific wildlife activities.

It’s worth noting that the Galapagos Islands are a year-round destination, and wildlife can be observed at any time.

Choose your time based on weather preferences and the wildlife experiences you’re after!

WARM SEASON (Rainy season / Green season): DECEMBER TO MAY

• Warm temperature from the 70s to upper 80s Fahrenheit (21-27 Celsius).
• Warm water temperature influenced by the northern Panama Current (mid-70s Fahrenheit (21 Celsius))
• Sunny and hot days with occasional afternoon rain showers that usually clear up by evening.
• Lush green havens with abundant food for land animals.
• Excellent underwater visibility and incredible snorkeling.
• Ocean conditions are calmer. If you’re prone to seasickness, calmer waters often translate to a smoother sailing experience.

COOL SEASON (Dry Season /Garua Season): JUNE TO NOVEMBER

• Cool temperatures that range from the mid-70s Fahrenheit (21 Celsius) down to the low 59s Fahrenheit (15 Celsius).
• Cool water temperature influenced by the southern Humboldt and Peru currents, sometimes reaching as low as 66 -Fahrenheit (19 Celsius).
• Cooler days with persistent misty fog, especially in the highlands, while the coastlines experience minimal rain or occasional midday showers.
• Choppier seas due to increased trade winds.
• Underwater visibility remains good for snorkeling, a wetsuit might be necessary
• This cooler current and the trade winds create a perfect upwelling phenomenon, bringing nutrients to the surface. This nutrient boom fuels an explosion of marine life, making it the prime season for spotting penguins, dolphins, whales, and other fascinating creatures of the deep.
  

The Galapagos Islands have two main seasons:

WARM SEASON (Rainy season / Green season): DECEMBER TO MAY

• Warm temperature from the 70s to upper 80s Fahrenheit (21-27 Celsius).
• Warm water temperature influenced by the northern Panama Current (mid-70s Fahrenheit (21 Celsius))
• Sunny and hot days with occasional afternoon rain showers that usually clear up by evening.
• Lush green havens with abundant food for land animals.
• Excellent underwater visibility and incredible snorkeling.
• Ocean conditions are calmer. If you’re prone to seasickness, calmer waters often translate to a smoother sailing experience.

COOL SEASON (Dry Season /Garua Season): JUNE TO NOVEMBER

• Cool temperatures that range from the mid-70s Fahrenheit (21 Celsius) down to the low 59s Fahrenheit (15 Celsius).
• Cool water temperature influenced by the southern Humboldt and Peru currents, sometimes reaching as low as 66 -Fahrenheit (19 Celsius).
• Cooler days with persistent misty fog, especially in the highlands, while the coastlines experience minimal rain or occasional midday showers.
• Choppier seas due to increased trade winds.
• Underwater visibility remains good for snorkeling, a wetsuit might be necessary
• This cooler current and the trade winds create a perfect upwelling phenomenon, bringing nutrients to the surface. This nutrient boom fuels an explosion of marine life, making it the prime season for spotting penguins, dolphins, whales, and other fascinating creatures of the deep.
  

There are available flights from Quito or Guayaquil to the Galapagos Archipelago. We can arrange flights from continental Ecuador to the Islands and back, as well as inter-island flights from Baltra to Isabela and back, under request.

For flights to Galapagos: 23 Kg (50 Lbs.) for checked bags, 8 Kg (17 Lb) for carry-on.

For inter Island flights: Maximum baggage weight allowed is 30 pounds in TOTAL per passenger, including carry-on bag. Each passenger luggage is weighed individually. Included baggage per passenger weight does not transfer even if you are part of a group under the same reservation.

All baggage is subject to inspection by security personnel. We advise passengers to take the necessary items to Isabela in their carry-on luggage, and we will store the rest of the luggage at Santa Cruz Island. When you continue with your part of the program in Santa Cruz, you will find your luggage already at the hotel.

Suggested Packing List for Your Stay at Scalesia Lodge:

Essentials:

• Passport
• Sun protection (sunscreen, sunglasses, hat)
• Insect repellent
• Water bottle
• Small backpack for day trips and excursions
• Cash (there are no ATMs in Isabela)*

Clothing:

• Dress comfortably for varying weather conditions.
• Lightweight fleece or sweater for cooler moments.
• Lightweight raincoat for unexpected showers.
• Windbreaker
• Comfortable trekking shoes for excursions.
• Water Activities:
• Bathing suit for aquatic activities and Jacuzzi relaxation.
• Consider bringing your snorkel gear for added comfort.

Accessories:

• Binoculars
• Camera – GoPro (for snorkeling tours)
• Plastic bags

*We accept credit card for expenses made at the lodge

Scalesia Lodge provides laundry service (washing and drying) for our guests. Please consult costs with our lodge administrator.

We provide WiFi access only in our common areas, including the restaurant, bar and reception. WiFi is complimentary. Please ask our Hotel Manager for the password at reception.

For any assistance or emergencies, please reach out to the provided contacts.

Before Arrival:
Renata Onofa: +593 99 034 4467
Email: sales@scalesialodge.com

While on Galápagos:
Alejandro Benítez: +593 982662859
Email: hotel@scalesialodge.com

Our private tents are located in serene, secluded spaces surrounded by nature and provide:

• Private Deck
• Bathroom Amenities
• Hairdryer
• Bathrobes
• Slippers
• Private Bathroom
• Hot Water
• 24-Hour Electricity
• Air-conditioning and heating

The use of drones is regulated by the Galapagos National Park authorities and a permit is required to use a drone in the Galapagos for the protection and safety of its wildlife.