Torrential rain on Santa Cruz Island in the Galápagos caused widespread flooding and forced the evacuation of more than 2,000 people, according to the local government. The disaster has disrupted neighborhoods and essential infrastructure, placing the archipelago among several destinations currently grappling with the effects of El Niño. The United Kingdom’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office updated its Ecuador travel advisory on November 1 to include the flooding on Santa Cruz, advising visitors to follow local authorities’ instructions and confirm arrangements with airlines and tour operators.
Infrastructure and Tourism Operations
While the flooding hit residential areas near Puerto Ayora and Bellavista, Rodrigo Jácome, who runs a guest house and coffee farm on Santa Cruz, noted that key tourism infrastructure remains intact. “The flooding affected residential neighborhoods that are not particularly close to the main hotel areas,” Jácome said. Tourism operations resumed within days, and the road connecting Santa Cruz to Baltra Airport reopened on November 5, allowing travelers to continue arriving as planned. Most visitor sites in the Galápagos National Park have reopened, though some remain temporarily restricted.
Travelers should verify the status of their specific destinations, as conditions vary by island. Naturalist guide Whitman Cox reported that San Cristóbal experienced heavy rainfall and localized flooding but noted no significant damage there. Access to some beaches on the island remains restricted as weather conditions change. Authorities have progressively reopened areas following safety assessments; for instance, Playa El Garrapatero in Santa Cruz is accessible again, while sites like Las Grietas and El Chato are closed.
The region is experiencing a strengthening El Niño event, with the National Institute of Meteorology and Hydrology (INAMHI) forecasting heavy rainfall to continue until February 2027. This climate phenomenon is characterized by unusually warm ocean temperatures in the equatorial Pacific, which can alter atmospheric circulation and rainfall patterns. The potential implications for travelers include heavy rain, temporary road closures, changes to boat excursions, and restricted access to natural visitor sites.
Charles Wittmer, president of the Association of Boat Operators in the Galápagos, ADATUR, explained that El Niño is a cyclical part of the natural environment that occurs approximately every 10 to 15 years. “Nature is unpredictable and if anything, this is a chance to see the adaptations of animals to changing weather conditions,” Wittmer said. “Remember: this is a natural laboratory of evolution.” He noted that Galápagos penguins and cormorants are adapting to warming ocean waters, and shifts in marine ecosystem activity may increase the variety of species spotted while snorkeling.
If you have an upcoming trip, specialists recommend staying informed and remaining flexible. It is best to ask about excursion alternatives when booking a tour in the islands, should weather create a need to pivot. Before departure, confirm flights and accommodation directly with your airline and tour operator. Ask whether planned excursions are operating as anticipated and whether alternative activities are available if certain visitor sites are closed. Travelers should also purchase travel insurance that covers weather-related disruptions, medical emergencies, and unexpected accommodation or transportation expenses. Monitoring official updates from INAMHI and the Galápagos National Park social media accounts and website is advised.
Impact on Local Livelihoods and Traveler Safety
Rodrigo Jácome stated that the flooding devastated coffee harvests and residential neighborhoods, yet it did not damage key tourism infrastructure. He noted that key tourism infrastructure remains intact and tourism operations resumed within days. Local residents rely on travelers to make a living, and Jácome emphasized that tourism is needed now more than ever to help rebuild communities.
Supporting Recovery and Safe Travel Practices
Travelers visiting the islands now can contribute to rebuilding local livelihoods. Rodrigo Jácome noted that tourism remains essential for recovery efforts. Visitors should prioritize booking locally owned accommodations, hiring licensed guides, and dining at independent restaurants. These actions support businesses struggling to recover from the disaster. Tourists must also be respectful. Affected neighborhoods are not tourist attractions. Visitors should avoid photographing residents in distress without permission.