Recent protests and marches in Quito and in the Galapagos have resulted in some flights being cancelled today.

New legislation that impacts the minimum wage in the Galapagos, and the way some Ecuadorians are taxed (for example, a new tax on the sale of real estate and on inheritances) have spurred the recent protests, which have now gone on for four days. The new Organic Law of Redistribution of Wealth and Organic Code of Territorial Organization, Autonomy, and Decentralization mostly impact wealthier families.

Affecting the Galapagos, a 1978 law was recently overturned that had provided a wage subsidy for workers in the islands. Previously the subsidy amounted to a doubling of salaries for public workers and a 75% increase for private workers.

Our office team and staff are in the Galapagos and Quito and report that protests have been mostly peaceful. If there are any changes that may impact future tours, such as continued cancelled flights, we will post updates here and get in contact with travelers coming to the islands.