Update from Tropic Ecuador | 1 November 2026
Severe rainfall on October 31 caused significant flooding in Puerto Ayora, on Santa Cruz Island in the Galápagos archipelago, affecting local infrastructure, homes, and businesses.
While the scale of the damage is still being assessed, local tourism operators and authorities are actively coordinating to ensure visitor safety and maintain tourism services wherever conditions permit.
Current tourism situation
According to the latest operational information available to Tropic Ecuador:
Airports: Baltra and San Cristóbal airports remain operational, with no flight cancellations reported at the time of our latest update.
Accommodation and services: Hotels, transportation providers, guides, and other tourism services involved in our operations continue to operate.
Visitor sites: The Galápagos National Park has temporarily restricted access to six visitor sites on Santa Cruz and San Cristóbal as a precautionary measure while safety conditions are assessed.
Road infrastructure: Some roads on Santa Cruz have been affected, with controlled access in certain areas and ongoing monitoring of conditions.
Tropic Ecuador confirms that all its travelers currently on the ground have been accounted for and are safe. Its local team members and their families are also safe, although some have suffered considerable material losses.
Looking ahead
Tourism activities across the archipelago continue, although temporary itinerary adjustments may be necessary in affected areas.
Travelers and tour operators with upcoming departures are encouraged to remain in close contact with their local destination management companies for the latest operational information and any necessary adjustments.
Beyond the immediate tourism response, attention is turning to the needs of the local community, particularly families whose homes and livelihoods have been affected. Tropic Ecuador is assessing opportunities to support its colleagues and the wider Puerto Ayora community in the recovery process.
For further information or specific questions regarding travel arrangements, partners are welcome to contact their Tropic Ecuador representatives directly.
Tropic Ecuador – Local expertise, responsible travel, and a longstanding commitment to the Galápagos Islands.