HOW TO ARRIVE FROM
Quito to the
Galapagos Islands
Emetebe Airlines
There are two ways to get from Quito to the Galapagos Islands by airplane
Quito, the capital of Ecuador, is not only a city full of history and culture, but also one of the most important starting points for those wishing to explore the wonders of the Galapagos Islands. If you are planning to fly from Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO), here you will find relevant information to organize your trip efficiently and safely. Although Emetebe Airlines operates exclusively between islands within the archipelago, many of our passengers arrive in Galapagos via commercial flights from Quito.
From the Quito airport you can fly to::
- This is the most used airport.
From here, passengers cross the Itabaca Channel by ferry to Santa Cruz.
Less frequent but also available depending on season and airline.
Airlines that operate these routes:
LATAM Airlines
Route: Quito (UIO) → Baltra (GPS)
Average duration: 2 h 05 min
Frequency: 1 flight daily
Estimated price: from USD 114-190 (although it may go up in high season)
Web site: latam.com
Avianca Airlines
Route: Quito (UIO) → Baltra (GPS)
Average duration: 2 h 14 min
Frequency: up to 8 flights/week, with 1-2 daily
Estimated price: from USD 124–136
Web site: avianca.com
If you are traveling from Quito to the Galapagos Islands, it is important to know that all flights make a technical stopover in Guayaquil, regardless of the airline you choose. This stopover is part of the standard itinerary and does not always require passengers to change planes, allowing for a smoother transfer to the archipelago.
The approximate air distance between Quito and Galapagos is 1,332 kilometers (828 miles), and the total travel time – including the technical stopover – varies between 2 and 3 hours, depending on the connection and the airline.
Important: Even if you do not leave the plane, keep an eye out for crew announcements in Guayaquil, as in some cases there may be aircraft or gate changes.
EMETEBE GALAPAGOS AIRLINES
Flights between Galapagos Islands, Ecuador
San Cristóbal, Galapagos Islands (SCY)
to Baltra (GPS)
03 Jun 2025 - 12 Jun 2025
Seen 3 hours ago
San Cristobal, Galapagos Islands (SCY)
to Isabela (IBB)
16 Jun 2025 - 20 Jun 2025
Seen 2 hours ago
Baltra, Galapagos Islands (GPS)
to San Cristobal (SCY)
02 Jul 2025 - 16 Jul 2025
See 1 hour ago
Isabela, Galapagos Islands (IBB)
to San Cristobal (SCY)
18 Jul 2025 - 24 Jul 2025
Seen 2 hours ago
Recommendations before your trip
- Advance purchase: Prices are usually more affordable if purchased at least 2-3 months in advance.
- Special fare for foreigners: LATAM requires purchasing the “Full” fare to avoid USD 150 airport charges. Avianca offers economy fares without additional surcharges.
- Fees and taxes: Apart from the flight, consider USD 20 for transit card and USD 100 for entrance to the national park.
- Consider the time change (Galapagos is 1 h less than Quito).
- Get your transit card in advance.
Things to do in Quito
For pre-flight nights, we suggest staying in safe hotels, with transportation included, breakfast and fast check-in near UIO.
- Explore the Historic Center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Visit Mitad del Mundo, 20 km north
- Tour the Cable Car and Andean views
- Enjoy cafes and art in La Floresta or La Mariscal
Tips for your trip to the Galapagos Islands
- Book flights and accommodations in advance, especially if traveling in high season (June-August and December).
- Carry cash in U.S. dollars. Many islands do not accept credit cards or have limited ATMs.
- Pack light, comfortable clothing and a light coat for cool nights.
- Protect the ecosystem: do not bring food, seeds or other prohibited items onto the islands.
- Use biodegradable sunscreen to avoid damaging the reefs and marine fauna.
- Rent or bring your own snorkeling equipment. Many activities require it and renting can be expensive.
- Respect Galapagos National Park regulations: always travel with certified guides and keep your distance from the animals.
- Bring a reusable water bottle. It will help you stay hydrated and avoid plastic waste.
- Check baggage restrictions for Emetebe inter-island flights (maximum weight and dimensions).
- Plan your inter-island itinerary with Emetebe Airlines to save time and enjoy more of each destination.
EMETEBE GALAPAGOS AIRLINES
Flights between Galapagos Islands, Ecuador
When you arrive to Galapagos, Emetebe Airlines offers air connection between Baltra, San Cristobal and Isabela islands. Enjoy fast, safe flights with flexible schedules. With more than three decades of experience, we take care of every journey as if it were your first flight with us. We kindly suggest you to book in advance to ensure availability on the desired dates.
