Islands in Galápagos, Ecuador
Healthcare in Galápagos Islands: hospitals, costs and insurance
Healthcare in Galápagos Islands
Care is basic. Serious cases are air-evacuated to Guayaquil or Quito, so travel insurance with medical evacuation is mandatory for entry.
Hospitals for foreigners in Galápagos Islands
| Hospital | Good to know |
|---|---|
| Hospital Básico Galápagos (Puerto Ayora) | Public hospital on Santa Cruz; basic emergency care |
| Hospital Oskar Jandl (San Cristóbal) | Public hospital in Puerto Baquerizo Moreno |
Key facts
- Doctor's visit: $30–60 ($30–60) at a private clinic without insurance.
- In Ecuador: Good private hospitals in Quito, Guayaquil and Cuenca at moderate prices, but they want a card guarantee. Public care is free yet stretched; Galápagos has only basic facilities.
- Pharmacies: Fybeca and Cruz Azul pharmacies are everywhere; antibiotics need a prescription, many other drugs don't.
- Health spending: US$509 per person a year (2023); 2.3 doctors per 1,000 people (2020), World Bank.
- Emergency: Police 911 · Ambulance 911 · Fire 911 · All emergencies 911.
Travel and health insurance
Required for entry: Travel health insurance is mandatory for Galápagos visitors and for the digital nomad visa.
| Insurer | Good for |
|---|---|
| SafetyWing Nomad Insurance | Monthly subscription for nomads and long trips; cancel anytime. |
| Genki | Health insurance for nomads, from a European insurer. |
| World Nomads | Trip insurance that covers many adventure activities. |
| Heymondo | Single-trip, annual and long-stay plans with a medical app. |
| IMG Global | Travel medical and long-term international health plans. |
Quick answers
What is the best hospital in Galápagos Islands for foreigners?
Hospital Básico Galápagos (Puerto Ayora): Public hospital on Santa Cruz; basic emergency care
How much does a doctor's visit cost in Galápagos Islands?
About $30–60 ($30–60) at a private clinic.
Do I need travel insurance for Ecuador?
Travel health insurance is mandatory for Galápagos visitors and for the digital nomad visa.
More about Galápagos Islands
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Going to Galápagos Islands solo?
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Sources
- World Bank: health expenditure per capita
- CDC Travelers' Health: Ecuador
- Galápagos National Park Directorate
- Charles Darwin Foundation
SoloSquare has no commercial relationship with the insurers listed. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.