Climate
The Galapagos Islands lie directly on the equator and can be visited all year around. The climate is influenced by the trade winds. From January to June, the northeast trade wind blows with average temperatures of 24°–28°C (75°-82°F). During this time the Panama current provides for water temperatures of 24°–28°C (75°-82°F). Short tropical rain showers are frequent. From July to December the cold Humboldt current and the southeast trade wind make for cooler conditions with air temperatures of 20°–26°C (68°-78°F) and water temperatures of 18°–23°C (64°-73°F). The bulk of rain falls on the islands, the coasts remain mostly spared.
Language
Official language is Spanish. On the diving cruises English is spoken .
Currency
The US dollar is the only legal currency in Ecuador. It is useful to have smaller denominations, especially USD 1 notes, as many smaller shops and taxi drivers do not change large notes.
Before you go, organise a variety of ways to access your money overseas, such as credit cards, travellers' cheques, cash, debit cards or cash cards. Australian currency and travellers' cheques are not accepted in many countries. Consult with your bank to find out which is the most appropriate currency to carry and whether your ATM card will work overseas.
Electricity
110 volts, for the sockets a US adapter is needed.
Exit requirements
For international flights on departure the following charges apply, which must be paid in cash (as of Jul 10):
Guayaquil: USD 28,-
All other airports: USD 41,-
Drinking Water
Tap water is not drinking water. You should only be drinking bottled mineral water, filtered or boiled water. Caution is advised with ice cubes, as they might consist mostly of frozen tap water. Tap water can be used for brushing teeth.
