Galapagos travel insurance is strongly recommended for cruise passengers. The islands are remote, medical facilities are basic, and a cruise is usually prepaid and non-refundable close to departure. A good policy covers medical evacuation, trip cancellation and missed connections. Here is what to look for in a US policy. For a fully private trip, see how Galapagos charters compare with shared departures.
Galapagos travel insurance: what is the quick answer?
Quick answer: choose a policy with emergency medical cover and medical evacuation of at least US$100,000 to 250,000, trip cancellation and interruption for the full prepaid cost, missed connection cover and coverage for snorkeling. Check whether your US health plan covers you abroad; many do not.
See Galapagos entry requirements and Galapagos cruises.
Is travel insurance required for the Galapagos?
Ecuador and the Galapagos have, at times, required visitors to show proof of health insurance. Requirements change, so check the latest rules before travel and carry proof of coverage.
Why is medical evacuation important?
Serious cases are flown to the mainland, and costs can be very high. Make sure evacuation is included and covers air ambulance from the islands to Guayaquil or Quito, and to the USA if needed.
GIC Expedition Atlas · Insurance checklist
Policy terms vary; read the fine print before buying.
What about cancellation and missed connections?
Cruise payments are often due 60 to 90 days ahead and become non-refundable. Cancellation cover protects that money. Missed connection cover helps if a delay makes you miss the cruise start. Read Quito or Guayaquil before your cruise.
Are snorkeling and kayaking covered?
Most policies cover snorkeling and kayaking; scuba diving may need an add-on or depth limit. Divers should check DAN or similar dive insurance. See private Galapagos dive charters.
When should you buy the policy?
Buy soon after paying the cruise deposit. Many US policies include extra benefits, such as pre-existing condition waivers, only if purchased within 10 to 21 days of the first trip payment. Insure the full prepaid, non-refundable amount.
What else should you check in the fine print?
Look at exclusions for pre-existing conditions, adventure activities, alcohol-related incidents and travel against government advisories. Check the claims process and whether the insurer has 24-hour assistance in Spanish and English. Keep copies of the policy and emergency numbers offline on your phone.
What does a typical policy cost?
Comprehensive travel insurance with cancellation and evacuation cover often costs 4 to 8 percent of the insured trip cost, depending on age, coverage limits and the state you live in. Medical-only policies are cheaper but do not protect your prepaid cruise. Compare at least three quotes using the same coverage limits.
What should you carry while traveling?
Carry a printed copy of your policy, the insurer’s 24-hour assistance number and proof of coverage in English and Spanish if possible. Keep receipts for any medical care or extra costs caused by delays. If something happens on the cruise, tell the guide and captain right away; they coordinate with the mainland.
About us: we are the team behind GalapagosIslands.cruises, local experts who have traveled the islands more than 40 times. We are not a travel agency or a cruise operator. We publish independent guides and, when you write to us, we help you narrow the options and point you to the right vessels and next steps.
Frequently asked questions about Galapagos travel insurance
Do I need travel insurance for the Galapagos?
It is strongly recommended, and Ecuador has at times required proof of health insurance.
Does my US health insurance work in the Galapagos?
Often not; check with your provider and consider a travel medical policy.
How much evacuation cover do I need?
Many experts suggest at least US$100,000 to 250,000 for remote destinations.
Does travel insurance cover snorkeling?
Most policies do; scuba diving may require an add-on.
When should I buy Galapagos travel insurance?
Soon after your first trip payment to qualify for extra benefits.
Have questions about trip planning? Email hola@galapagosislands.cruises. See Galapagos cruises.
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