Seymour Airport serves as Ecuador’s gateway to the Galápagos Islands, located on Seymour Island off the coast of Manabí. The airport provides a direct link between mainland Ecuador and this unique archipelago known for its wildlife and volcanic landscapes. Travelers arrive by small aircraft from Quito or Guayaquil before transferring to boats that reach the islands’ docks. Its strategic position makes it essential for visitors seeking quick access to protected areas where endemic species thrive in natural habitats untouched by modern development.
| Power Grid: |
120 V, 60 Hz Plug: Type A , Type B
Type A:
  Read about power adapters |
|---|---|
| Currency: |
US Dollar (USD) £1 ≈ US$1.33 |
| Cashless info: |
Rating 4/5
Cashless payments are becoming more common in Ecuador, especially in urban areas. However, cash is still widely used, particularly in rural regions. Credit cards are accepted in larger establishments.
Save with a travel credit card |
| eSIM providers: |
Best value: Saily Flexibility: Airalo Read our in-depth comparison |
| Tipping: | Tipping is appreciated in Ecuador, though not mandatory. A 10% tip in restaurants is common, and small tips are also welcome for taxi drivers and hotel staff. |
|---|---|
| Public drinking: | Public drinking is generally not allowed in Ecuador, and alcohol consumption is confined to licensed establishments like bars and restaurants. |
| Public smoking: | Smoking is prohibited in indoor public places, including restaurants and public transport. Smoking is allowed in designated outdoor areas. |
| Independence Day (10 August) |
National holiday celebrating Ecuador’s independence |
|---|---|
| Christmas (25 December) |
Celebrated with family gatherings, festive meals, and fireworks |
| Emergency contact: | Emergency Number: 911 |
|---|---|
| Taxi apps: | Uber |
| Other: | Ecuador is known for its diverse landscapes, including the Amazon rainforest, the Andes mountains, and the Galapagos Islands. It offers a mix of nature, culture, and adventure for travellers. |
Seymour Airport is famously known as the world’s first ecological airport, opened in 2012 with a design focused on minimizing environmental impact. Situated on Baltra Island, it features solar and wind energy usage, seawater desalination and innovative building materials. This eco-friendly approach blends well with the pristine surroundings of the Galápagos Islands.
The airport terminal is modest but efficient, offering essential services including a VIP lounge, shops, cafes, free Wi-Fi and ATM facilities. Due to its remote island location, infrastructure is intentionally minimal to protect the delicate ecosystem, but this can mean fewer amenities compared to mainland airports.
Travelers should be prepared for a few logistical hurdles: Seymour is located on Baltra Island, while the main tourist hub, Puerto Ayora, is on Santa Cruz Island. Visitors need to take a ferry across the Itabaca Channel after arriving, plus local transport from the ferry terminal to their accommodations. The public bus monopoly on Baltra means transportation options from the airport are limited to a single bus company, so planning ahead is essential.
Despite these challenges, the airport’s green credentials, smooth operation and its gateway role to one of the world’s most remarkable natural reserves make it a fascinating and inspiring place to begin an unforgettable Galápagos adventure.
This lounge offers comfortable seating, refreshments, Wi-Fi, and a quiet environment. It is located after security in the main terminal, catering to both domestic and international travellers. Access is via paid entry or invitation, providing a peaceful oasis in an otherwise small airport.
Accommodation options are not available on Baltra Island, so most visitors stay on Santa Cruz Island in towns like Puerto Ayora, offering a range of eco-lodges, boutique hotels and guesthouses in natural settings.
To Puerto Ayora:
To reach Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz Island, travellers must take a 5-minute bus shuttle (costing about US$5 (£3.74)) from Seymour Airport to the ferry terminal at Itabaca Channel. Ferries run every 15 minutes and cross the channel in about 5 minutes. Upon arrival on Santa Cruz, local taxis and shared pickups transport visitors approximately 45 minutes to Puerto Ayora town. The whole journey requires some coordination but is well organised for tourists.
To Santa Cruz Island:
Apart from Puerto Ayora, other parts of Santa Cruz Island are accessible via taxis and buses from the ferry terminal. Limited public transport means pre-booked transfers work best for remote or less visited areas.
To Other Galápagos Islands:
To explore other islands, travellers usually return to Seymour Airport for connecting flights or embark on multi-day boat tours starting from Puerto Ayora. Planning is essential due to limited flight schedules and protected area regulations.
+1
