
Helpful Information
Questions, answered
Everything you need to know about visiting the Galapagos Islands and staying at Jean's Home.
01
Travel & Arrival
How do I get to Jean's Home from the airport?
From Baltra Airport: 1) Take a bus to the channel (10 min), 2) Take a ferry across to Santa Cruz Island (10 min), 3) Take a bus or taxi to Puerto Ayora (45 min), 4) Take a water taxi from the main dock to Punta Estrada (5 min). We can arrange pickup for you!
Do I need a visa to visit the Galapagos?
Most nationalities do not need a visa for Ecuador for stays up to 90 days. However, you must obtain a Transit Control Card (TCT) before flying to Galapagos, which costs $20 USD and can be purchased at the Quito or Guayaquil airports.
What is the Galapagos National Park entrance fee?
The entrance fee is currently $200 USD for foreigners, $100 USD for CAN/Mercosur residents and $30 USD for Ecuadorian residents. Children younger than 12 pay 50% and children younger than 2 enter free. This fee is paid in cash (bring small bills) upon arrival at Baltra or San Cristóbal airport.
What is the best time to visit the Galapagos?
The Galapagos can be visited year-round! December to May is warmer with occasional rain and calmer seas. June to November is cooler and drier with more marine life activity. Each season offers unique wildlife experiences.
02
Accommodation & Services
What is included in my stay?
All stays include daily breakfast, free WiFi, hot water 24/7, beach towels, bath towels, and access to our beautiful garden. We also provide local tips and can help arrange tours and activities.
Is there WiFi available?
Yes, we have free WiFi throughout the property. Please note that internet in the Galapagos can be slower than mainland connections due to the remote location.
Can you help arrange tours and activities?
Absolutely! Gundi, our host, was one of the first naturalist guides on the islands. She can recommend the best tours, snorkeling spots, and hidden gems based on your interests.
Is there a kitchen I can use?
The Bungalow has its own private kitchen. Guests at Jean's Home (main house) have access to a shared kitchen area. We're happy to recommend local restaurants as well.
Do you offer airport transfers?
Yes, we can arrange airport pickup and drop-off for an additional fee. Please let us know your flight details when booking.
03
What to Bring
What should I pack for the Galapagos?
Essentials include: lightweight clothing, swimwear, comfortable walking shoes, sandals, sun hat, sunglasses, reef-safe sunscreen, insect repellent, reusable water bottle, and a light rain jacket. Don't forget your camera!
What type of sunscreen should I use?
Please use reef-safe sunscreen to protect the marine environment. Look for: environmental approval seal (good EWG rating), broad spectrum protection. Avoid products containing: Oxybenzone, Retinyl palmitate, parabens, phthalates, PEGs (polyethylene glycols), propylene glycol, phenoxyethanol, and sodium laurel sulphates.
Do I need snorkeling gear?
We have some snorkeling equipment available, but if you prefer your own, feel free to bring it. Snorkeling gear can also be rented in Puerto Ayora.
04
Location & Surroundings
Where exactly is Jean's Home located?
We're located in Punta Estrada, a peaceful residential area on a peninsula across the bay from Puerto Ayora. It's just a 5-minute water taxi ride from town.
How do I get to town from Jean's Home?
Take a water taxi from the Punta Estrada dock to Puerto Ayora. Water taxis run frequently during the day and cost about $1 per person. The ride takes about 5 minutes.
What can I do near Jean's Home?
Within walking distance: Playa de los Alemanes (beautiful beach, 5 min walk), Las Grietas (volcanic swimming fissure), and the Finch Bay area. You'll also see marine iguanas, sea lions, and various birds right on our property!
Is it safe to swim at the nearby beaches?
Yes! Playa de los Alemanes is a calm, beautiful beach perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Las Grietas is also excellent for swimming in crystal-clear water between volcanic rock walls.
05
Payment & Booking
How do I make a reservation?
Simply fill out our booking form or contact us via email at jeanshome.info@gmail.com. We'll respond with availability and rates within 24 hours.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept cash (USD), bank transfers and Western Union. Credit card payments may be possible with advance arrangement. A deposit is required to confirm your booking.
What is your cancellation policy?
Please contact us directly for our current cancellation policy. We understand travel plans can change and try to be as flexible as possible.
We're Here To Help
Still have questions?
We're happy to help — reach out to us anytime.