Cancellation policy
Operating in the Galápagos Islands requires strict marine permits, National Park clearances, and advance logistics. Because costs behind our services are committed well in advance, we enforce a clear, standardized policy. A cabin or space held on a manifest cannot easily be replaced on short notice.
We would rather you read this before you book than after you need it.
Cancelling a tour or cruise
Percentages apply to the total tour price. Cancellations inside 30 days are completely non-refundable as permits, vessel spaces, and logistics are fully committed by that stage.
Charters & Groups (6+ passengers)
Private vessel charters and group reservations require upfront reservation of captain, crew, and park permits, and are subject to stricter cancellation terms.
Rescheduling & Date Changes
- 60+ days before departure: Free date changes, subject to guide and vessel availability.
- 15 to 59 days before departure: Subject to a 15% administrative fee plus any rate differences for peak season transitions.
- Within 14 days of departure: Date changes are treated as a late cancellation (0% refund) and cannot be guaranteed without rebooking.
The rest of the rules
- Cancellations must be in writing via email. All requests must be sent to info@touringalapagos.com. Verbal cancellations via phone or WhatsApp are not accepted. The date the email is received determines eligibility based on Galápagos time (GMT-6).
- No-shows and late arrivals. Land vehicles, water taxis, and chartered vessels depart on strict schedules. If you do not arrive at the meeting point on time, your booking is marked as a No-Show and no refund will be provided.
- Airline Disruptions. We are not responsible for missed tours or connections caused by airline delays or flight cancellations arriving into Baltra (GPS) or San Cristóbal (SCY).
- Weather and Ocean Safety. Safety is non-negotiable. If local maritime authorities (Capitanía del Puerto) or National Park authorities close sites due to bad weather, we will first attempt to modify the itinerary or reschedule. If rescheduling is impossible due to your international flights, a full refund for the affected day activity will be issued.
- Park fees & third parties. National Park entrance fees and Transit Control Cards (TCC) are paid to government authorities and follow their rules.
- Unused services. Missed landings, skipped dives, or early disembarkations do not trigger partial refunds.
- Refund Processing. Approved refunds are returned to the original payment method within 5 to 10 business days. Bank processing fees (including a standard 5% credit card fee) and international wire charges are non-recoverable and will be deducted from the refund.
Travel & Dive Insurance
We strongly urge all guests to take out comprehensive travel cancellation insurance the day you pay your deposit. Insurance is the only safeguard for events outside our control: personal illness, family emergencies, or mainland flight disruptions.
For liveaboard cruises and diving activities, proof of specialized dive accident insurance (DAN, DiveAssure, or equivalent) is strictly required prior to boarding.
Questions about a booking?
If you need to make changes or have questions about an existing reservation, contact our support team in writing.
This policy applies to bookings made directly with Touring Galapagos and forms part of our terms and conditions. Operations Office: Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, San Cristóbal Island, Galápagos, Ecuador. Last updated: March 2026.