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Although the Galapagos Islands get a reputation for being very expensive, and to an extent they are, this shouldn’t stop budget travelers from attempting to visit them. Even though it might take some creativity to visit them, it can be accomplished on a budget. Here are 5 ways that you can visit the Galapagos without spending your entire life’s savings.

1. Take advantage of some of the cheap last-minute fares

that are often offered in Ecuador. Cruises that don’t fill up sometimes reduce their rates dramatically in an attempt to lure last-minute travelers onto them. After all, getting some money out of patrons is better than having an empty room and not getting any money at all. Cruises can often be arranged from Quito or Guayaquil.

2. Join the South American Explorer’s Club.

Sometimes, cruises offer discounts to members. It’s not a bad organization to join anyway. They offer support throughout the year and you get the opportunity to connect with other like-minded travelers.

3. By traveling in the off-season, you can save about 30% on regular cruise rates.

The off-season for Galapagos is from April until the end of June and again from September to about the middle of December. Although the water might be too cold to go snorkeling during these times, there are still other things that can be done that are just as fun.

4. If you can get to Puerto Ayora, then stay at one of the inexpensive pensions and try to find some island hopper deals.

Sometimes, you can get very inexpensive daytrips to the neighboring islands. Although it’s not the same as a cruise, it can still be a very enjoyable experience. Some people actually prefer this to a cruise since it gives them the chance to get to know the local population and to experience the Galapagos in a more relaxed setting. In addition, you can find accommodations for less than $10 per night so although getting there might be expensive, you can definitely stay there on a tight budget.

5. For a very interesting experience, consider volunteering at the Charles Darwin Research Station.

You should be willing to commit to six months of volunteering and speak Spanish, but you will also see a side to the Galapagos that most tourists will never get to see.

Despite the fact that there are expensive resorts and hotels to be found on the islands, there are some places, such as the Pension Gloria, that can be found for as little as $5 per night, if you’re staying for several nights. If you are able to make it to the islands and stay for a bit, you can explore them at a reasonable rate.

The Galapagos Islands are some of the most interesting places in the world. Unfortunately, most people believe that they are simply out of their price range and will never attempt to go. By visiting in the off-season, searching for discounts, and considering alternative means of tourism, you can have the opportunity to visit this unique set of islands.