eco tourism in galapagos

Galapagos Eco Tours

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Discovering Galapagos

Sustainable Tourism 4/5: Managing Ecotourism in Galapagos

With over 150,000 tourists visiting each year, the Galapagos Islands have become a very attractive holiday destination. What impacts do all these visitors have and how can they continue to visit the islands without destroying them too?

Managing Ecotourism in Galapagos

The Galapagos Islands have been keen to promote ecotourism and the Galapagos National Park is at the forefront of developing this. They have introduced a number of changes to the way the Islands manage tourism.

• Setting ‘carrying capacity ’ limits for different sites and restricting the number of visitors allowed in some areas. Only a certain number of visitors are allowed at a site at one time and the National Park Authority can reduce the number of tourists who are able to visit a site if they think it is getting damaged.
• Planning boat routes so that areas are not overwhelmed by visitors at any one time. The National Park has final control over the cruise lines’ (and indeed smaller local enterprises’) tour routes around the islands as a way of managing the possible damage tourists could cause.
• Introducing entrance fees for visitors to the National Park. These fund conservation projects within the Park. You can find learn more about the entrance fees by clicking here to visit the Impacts of Tourism page .
• Creating a ruling that no tourist is allowed to explore the islands independently. A guide is required for each small group that is exploring a particular site who educates the visitors and protects the sites.
• Developing educational opportunities for visitors and local people. The Galapagos National Park Interpretation Centre on San Cristobal has displays on the island’s biodiversity and cultural history. The Charles Darwin Research Station also acts as an educational resource base for tourists.
• Requiring boat licenses. These have now come into place for both tour operators and for fishing boats and helps the Marine Reserve police the waters far more carefully.
• Establishing urban development zones. Specific areas have been set up for urban development and clearer rules are in place about where tourism based building (such as a new hotel) can occur.

Previous: Sustainable Tourism – Principles of Ecotourism

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Enjoy The Galápagos Islands...

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Traveling to the Galápagos Islands offers wildlife lovers and natural history enthusiasts the remarkable opportunity to experience the world as it once was. Truly a priceless natural treasure, the Galápagos Islands have been called a ‘unique living museum and showcase of evolution’ and are home to an array of fascinating animal and plant species – many of which are found nowhere else on earth.

Visitors can experience the islands by traveling on Galápagos tours offered by a member of The International Galápagos Tour Operators Association (IGTOA).

Because of their incredible natural beauty and unique wildlife, the Galápagos Islands have become a popular travel destination, but they are threatened by a variety of factors including climate change, illegal fishing, invasive species, urban development – and even tourism itself. However, IGTOA and its members are actively working to preserve and protect the area by promoting responsible, well-regulated, low impact Galápagos Islands travel and by supporting critical conservation initiatives and scientific research there.

The International Galápagos Tour Operators Association’s member companies represent the highest standards of quality and professionalism in the travel and tourism industry. When you embark upon a Galápagos Islands tour with an IGTOA member, you can rest assured that you will have a great experience and that you will be doing your part to support the lasting preservation of this priceless world treasure.

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Ecotourism in the Galapagos Islands

The Galapagos Islands, located in the Pacific Ocean near Ecuador, are renowned for their unique wildlife, pristine landscapes, and commitment to environmental conservation. As a result, the archipelago has become a hotspot for ecotourism – a type of sustainable tourism that focuses on responsible travel, environmental preservation, and the well-being of local communities. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore popular ecotourism activities, the best places to go, optimal times to visit, costs, transportation methods, tour operators, and ways to be a responsible traveler in the Galapagos Islands.

Popular ecotourism activities in the Galapagos Islands

Best places to go for ecotourism in the galapagos islands, best times of year to go ecotourism in the galapagos islands, how much does it cost to go ecotourism in the galapagos islands, best ways to get around the galapagos islands for ecotourism, best tour operators for ecotourism in the galapagos islands, best ways to be a responsible ecotourism traveler in the galapagos islands, wildlife watching.

One of the main reasons people visit the Galapagos Islands is to observe the incredible wildlife, many species of which cannot be found anywhere else in the world. From giant tortoises and marine iguanas to blue-footed boobies and Darwin’s finches, there is no shortage of fascinating animals to see. Visitors can participate in guided wildlife tours, birdwatching excursions, and even snorkeling or diving trips to witness the diverse marine life up close.

Hiking and Trekking

The Galapagos Islands offer a variety of hiking and trekking opportunities for visitors eager to explore the archipelago’s diverse landscapes. Trails range from easy coastal walks to challenging volcanic treks, providing options for all fitness levels. Hiking is an excellent way to discover the islands’ unique flora and fauna while minimizing environmental impact. Many trails are located within national parks and protected areas, where visitors can learn about the islands’ ecosystems and conservation efforts.

Educational Programs and Volunteering

For those looking to deepen their understanding of the Galapagos Islands’ unique ecosystems and contribute to their preservation, many educational programs and volunteer opportunities are available. Visitors can participate in workshops, lectures, and field trips led by local experts, focusing on topics like wildlife conservation, sustainable tourism, and environmental management. Additionally, various organizations offer volunteer programs where participants can engage in hands-on conservation projects, such as habitat restoration, species monitoring, or community outreach.

Santa Cruz Island

Santa Cruz Island is the most populated of the Galapagos Islands and serves as a hub for ecotourism. The Charles Darwin Research Station, located in Puerto Ayora, offers educational programs and exhibits on the islands’ unique ecosystems and conservation efforts. Nearby, the El Chato Tortoise Reserve provides visitors with the opportunity to observe giant tortoises in their natural habitat. Santa Cruz Island also features several hiking trails, including paths through the lush highlands and the lava tunnels of El Mirador.

Isabela Island

The largest of the Galapagos Islands, Isabela Island, is home to diverse landscapes, including volcanoes, wetlands, and white-sand beaches. Visitors can explore the island’s unique ecosystems through guided hikes, such as the trek to the active Sierra Negra Volcano or the walk through the Tortoise Breeding Center in Puerto Villamil. Additionally, Isabela Island offers excellent opportunities for marine wildlife observation, with snorkeling and diving sites like Los Tuneles and Cape Rosa.

San Cristobal Island

San Cristobal Island is another popular destination for ecotourism in the Galapagos. The island is home to the Galapagos Interpretation Center, which provides information on the archipelago’s natural and human history. Visitors can also enjoy wildlife watching at spots like Punta Pitt, where blue-footed boobies, red-footed boobies, and Nazca boobies nest, or snorkel with sea lions at the nearby Kicker Rock. Several hiking trails are also available, such as the trek to the island’s highest point, Cerro Tijeretas.

The Galapagos Islands are a year-round destination for ecotourism, with each season offering unique wildlife encounters and experiences. However, two primary seasons are generally considered the best times to visit:

December to May (Warm and Wet Season)

During this season, the Galapagos Islands experience warmer temperatures, calmer seas, and occasional rain. The warmer waters attract a variety of marine life, making it an excellent time for snorkeling and diving. Additionally, many bird species, including blue-footed boobies and waved albatrosses, engage in courtship rituals and nesting during this time.

June to November (Cool and Dry Season)

The cool and dry season brings nutrient-rich currents to the Galapagos, attracting a diverse array of marine wildlife, such as whales, dolphins, and sea lions. This season is also ideal for birdwatching, as many migratory species visit the islands during this time. The cooler temperatures and overcast skies can be more comfortable for hiking and other outdoor activities.

The cost of an ecotourism trip to the Galapagos Islands can vary widely depending on factors such as accommodations, activities, and transportation. Visitors should expect to spend a minimum of $3,000 per person for a week-long trip, which includes airfare, accommodations, meals, and guided tours. However, more luxurious lodges and cruises can cost upwards of $10,000 per person.

It’s essential to factor in additional costs, such as the Galapagos National Park entrance fee ($20 per person), and any necessary equipment rentals or activity fees.

There are several options for getting around the Galapagos Islands while minimizing environmental impact:

Small-Group Cruises

Small-group cruises, typically accommodating 16-20 passengers, are a popular and eco-friendly way to explore the Galapagos Islands. These cruises often focus on sustainable practices, such as minimizing waste, conserving water, and supporting local communities. Additionally, small-group cruises allow for more intimate wildlife encounters and access to remote locations not reachable by land.

Island-Hopping

Another option for exploring the Galapagos Islands is island-hopping, which involves staying in hotels or lodges on the inhabited islands and taking day trips to nearby sites. This method allows visitors to support local businesses and communities while still experiencing the islands’ unique wildlife and landscapes. Travel between islands is typically done via small boats or ferries.

Biking and Walking

Many of the Galapagos Islands’ towns and attractions are accessible by foot or bicycle, offering a more sustainable and budget-friendly option for travelers. Biking and walking tours give visitors a chance to explore the local culture and scenery at their own pace while minimizing their carbon footprint. Several tour operators provide guided biking and walking tours on various islands, highlighting the best of the island’s nature, wildlife, and culture.

When planning an ecotourism trip to the Galapagos Islands, it’s essential to choose a tour operator that prioritizes sustainability, environmental conservation, and responsible travel practices. Here are some of the best tour operators for ecotourism in the Galapagos Islands:

Ecoventura is a family-owned and operated company that organizes small-group cruises on three eco-friendly yachts, accommodating up to 20 passengers. The company emphasizes sustainable tourism practices, including reducing waste, conserving water, and supporting local communities. Ecoventura also partners with the Galapagos National Park to support conservation efforts and educate passengers on the islands’ unique ecosystems.

Andando Tours

Andando Tours offers a range of ecotourism options, including small-group cruises, land-based tours, and customized itineraries. The company focuses on sustainable tourism practices and works with local communities to support conservation efforts and promote responsible travel. Andando Tours also partners with the Galapagos Science Center, providing visitors with educational experiences led by local researchers and scientists.

Tierra del Volcan

Tierra del Volcan offers land-based tours and multi-sport adventures, including hiking, biking, and kayaking tours. The company emphasizes sustainable practices, such as using eco-friendly transport and accommodations and supporting local communities. Tierra del Volcan also partners with local conservation organizations to promote environmental conservation and sustainable development.

To ensure that your ecotourism trip to the Galapagos Islands is as sustainable and responsible as possible, here are some tips to keep in mind:

Choose Sustainable Tour Operators

Select a tour operator that prioritizes sustainability, environmental conservation, and responsible travel practices. Look for companies that minimize waste, conserve water, support local communities, and promote environmental education.

Respect Wildlife and Nature

When observing wildlife and exploring the natural environment, follow park regulations and guidelines to minimize your impact on the ecosystem. Keep a safe distance from animals, stay on designated trails, and avoid touching or disturbing wildlife.

Minimize Waste and Use Resources Wisely

Reduce your environmental impact by minimizing waste, conserving water, and using resources responsibly. Avoid single-use plastics, take short showers, and turn off lights and air conditioning when not in use.

Support Local Communities

Support the local economy and communities by purchasing locally made products, visiting locally owned businesses, and engaging in responsible tourism practices. Learn about the local culture and history and respect local traditions and customs.

Ecotourism in the Galapagos Islands is a unique and rewarding experience that allows travelers to discover the archipelago’s diverse wildlife and landscapes while supporting sustainable tourism practices and environmental conservation efforts. Whether you choose a small-group cruise or a land-based tour, there are plenty of opportunities to observe wildlife, hike through unique landscapes, and learn about the islands’ ecosystems and conservation efforts. By following responsible travel practices and supporting sustainable tourism, visitors can help ensure that the Galapagos Islands remain a pristine and protected natural wonder for generations to come.

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Eco-Tourism Sensations: A Complete Guide to Galapagos Islands Tours

• November 8, 2023

The Galapagos Island is a gem located in the Eastern part of the Pacific Ocean. It brags biodiversity, including beautiful landscapes and thrilling wildlife that you might not encounter anywhere else on the globe. This makes it a must-visit for every nature lover and adventurer traveler. As part of Ecuador, this Island offers a special blend of breathtaking views and natural wonders . So, let’s glimpse why you should consider this destination on your next vacation.

Captivating landscapes:

The Galapagos Islands boast eye-catching landscapes. From the striking beaches and rugged volcanic terrains to the highlands enriched with lush greenery, every corner of the archipelago exhibits a natural beauty that transcends imagination. With its dramatic cliffs, pristine coastlines, and otherworldly geological formations, the islands offer a visual feast for all the visitors.

Amazing wildlife:

The Galapagos Islands is among the homes for extraordinary wildlife. From the playful sea lions along the shores to the graceful sea birds, every moment in the Galapagos offers a chance to witness the wonders of the animal kingdom in their natural habitats. The best part? The islands’ rich biodiversity extends to its marine life. Here, you’ll find different fish species and other marine creatures. This gives a unique opportunity for marine and wildlife lovers to engage in the wonders of the underwater world.

Adventure opportunities:

If you’re looking for an adrenaline-fueled escape, Galapagos Island is the real deal. There are lots of exhilarating activities that promise an unforgettable adventure. You can explore the islands’ diverse terrain through thrilling hikes and a chance encounter with the islands’ unique inhabitants. Get into the crystal-clear waters to discover an underwater paradise teeming with marine life, from playful sea turtles gliding gracefully through the currents to schools of colorful fish dancing around vibrant coral reefs. With snorkeling, diving, hiking, and wildlife excursions at your fingertips, the Galapagos Islands offers a breathtaking adventure that caters to every adventure enthusiast’s desires.

Cultural experiences:

The amazing reason you’d love to visit Galapagos Island and other parts of South America is their culture. The people around are kind and loving, which makes every visitor feel at home, resulting in a sense of belonging and companionship. So whether you want to explore the thrilling parts of the Galapagos or navigate the beautiful areas of Peru, the locals will wholeheartedly share their customs and traditions. This helps develop a complementary and mesmerizing cultural experience.

Even better, the Galapagos Islands offer a unique opportunity to engage in the rich cultural heritage. This can range from the threads of indigenous traditions, such as the vibrant festivals that celebrate the islands’ history and cultural diversity.

Tailored tour options:

The best thing about Galapagos tours is that they foster a combination of different adventures. Do you wish to have a cruise experience? Is it land-based exploration? The Galapagos Island will offer different tour options tailored to cater to every traveler’s needs and preferences. Enjoy a luxurious cruise ship, where each day brings a new adventure and a chance to explore the diverse landscapes and wildlife-rich regions of the archipelago.

Note that considering a land-based tour is the best option. It gives you an opportunity for a deeper connection with the local communities and a more intimate understanding of the islands’ cultural and natural heritage.

Expert guidance and insights:

Another thrilling part about the Galapagos tour is that you’ll have a chance to learn everything. Thanks to the guidance of professional naturalists and knowledgeable people who offer insights and in-depth knowledge about the history, wildlife and conservation efforts of the Island. What’s more? The availability of a multi-guided vessel ensures that you have access to a range of specialized expertise.

The ecological significance of the Galapagos Islands:

An amazing thing with this Island is that it holds great ecological importance on a global scale. What’s more? Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, it serves as a living laboratory for scientific research and environmental conservation. This is geared by their unique ecosystem, which is characterized by its extraordinary biodiversity and distinct geological formations. With all this, it’s sure to provide a wealth of information about the processes of evolution and the intricate relationships between various species and their habitats.

Conservation efforts and sustainability initiatives:

People around this Island highly respect nature. Their commitment to environmental conservation and sustainability is reflected in the numerous ongoing initiatives. All the initiatives carried out here have the focus on preserving the delicate balance of the archipelago’s ecosystems and protecting its unique biodiversity. Their program emphasizes the need for responsible administration and collaborative efforts to safeguard the islands’ natural heritage. This can range from sustainable tourism practices that prioritise minimal environmental impact to habitat restoration efforts that ensure the preservation of critical ecosystems. With a focus on steering the environmental awareness and fostering a culture of conservation, these initiatives highlight the islands’ dedication to maintaining their status as a model for sustainable ecotourism.

Best times to visit and seasonal highlights:

The Galapagos Islands offer year-round attractions, each season unveiling unique highlights and experiences for visitors to enjoy. The warm season, extending from December to May, presents lush landscapes and warmer waters, creating ideal conditions for observing the islands’ rich terrestrial and marine biodiversity. The cool and dry season, spanning from June to November, brings nutrient-rich currents that attract an abundance of marine life, including various shark species, sea turtles, and vibrant schools of fish. This season also marks the islands’ vibrant breeding periods, offering the opportunity to witness the captivating rituals and behaviors of the islands’ diverse wildlife. Whether you prefer the verdant landscapes of the warm season or the rich marine life of the cool season, the Galapagos Islands promise a memorable experience that unfolds against the backdrop of the islands’ ever-changing natural rhythms and seasonal highlights.

Final Thoughts

In essence, Galapagos Island is a great place to visit. With a mix of exciting culture, nature, and friendly people, there is no reason you shouldn’t consider this destination on your next vacation. So, if South America is on your bucket list, start looking for affordable tickets today.

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The Impact of Ecotourism in the Galapagos Islands

Breathtaking volcanoes, white sand beaches, exotic species…, the ecuadorian Archipelago is one of the favourite destinations of the world, a land of natural wonders, a perfect scenario for relaxing and disconnecting.  Visitors that come to Galapagos have the chance to know a incredibly rich nature. Travelers can enjoy the marvelous sights of the coasts and the species, a perfect scenario for biologists and photographers. Unfortunately, Galapagos Islands are endangered and need special protection.

The Archipelago is in risk for many reasons. Some foreign species have been introduced, such as feral goats, cats, cattle and also many plants, this has resulted in the loss of part of the habitat. Another problem is the delivery of some agents of infection.  Some of the natural jewels of these wonderful islands are endangered: a great part of the fauna of Galapagos Islands need special protection . 80% of the birds, 97% of the mammals and reptiles and 30% of the plants are endangered.

ENVIRONMENTAL AWARENESS HAS GROWN IN THE PAST DECADES IN GALAPAGOS

Luckily, in the last past years, the environmental awareness has been growing, and there are measures to protect the ecosystem. Tourism in essential for Galapagos, as it contributes to the economy of the islands. For example, the fees for the Galapagos National Park contribute to some sustainable projects. There are also ways to help Galapagos conservancy from the distance, for example  adopting a Galapagos animal .

Galapagos Conservancy  (GC) is a US organization focused exclusively on protecting the unique ecosystems and biological integrity  of the Galápagos archipelago through directed research, conservation management, informed public policy, and building a sustainable society. There are also other conservation societies, such as Charles Darwin Foundation and  Maquipucuna Foundation .

RULES FOR SUSTAINABLE TOURISM IN GALAPAGOS

There are some rules for being an eco-friendly tourist in Galapagos, so if you want to come, take notes of the most important:

•  Inside protected areas, go with a naturalist guide by the GNPD.
• Don’t use flash in your camera while taking pictures of wild animals.
• Go fishing only with authorized boats.
• Avoid feeding the animals, as you could cause health problems.
• Don’t introduce animals, plants or food into the Islands.
• Avoid litter to conserve the environment.

Promoting tourism in Galapagos Islands is the best way to contribute to their development and progress. It is positive, not only for animals and plants, but also for the communities that live there, and of course for the visitors.

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Atlas & Boots

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Eco-friendly tourism in The Galápagos

It’s a dream destination for many: the pristine islands of The Galápagos, haven to some of the world’s most unique and rare species of animal – or so we thought. There were certainly pristine sections of the islands but there were also roadworks in Puerto Ayora, broken beer bottles at Cerro Tijeretas, plastic bottles on Tortuga Bay and, saddest of all, a baby seal playing with a plastic spoon.

We couldn’t help but ask if The Galápagos were better left alone, untouched and unsullied by tourism. We are in no position to advise future tourists against visiting, but we can show you how to do it in as eco-friendly a way as possible.

First, take heart that tourists have unmonitored access to only a tiny part of the islands. Ninety-seven percent of the island is protected by the National Park and the 70 registered visitor sites comprise only 0.01 percent of the landmass [1]. Second, every tourist must pay a $100 entrance fee. While a large portion of tourism money goes to mainland Ecuador, about $63m contributes to the local economy and conservation efforts on the islands every year [2]. Finally, if you are consciously aware of your footprint at all times, you can greatly reduce the effects of your visit. Here’s how.

Consider exploring by land

The National Park restricts the size of boats to 100 passengers, but even 100 people can overload a beach when disembarking at once. Instead of taking a big cruise, consider exploring the islands by land and taking public ferries to the other islands. This has the added benefit of contributing to the local economy instead of an international cruise company.

Stick to the inhabited islands

Part of the lure of The Galápagos is that large parts are untouched by tourists – but if you’re visiting the uninhabited islands, they’re no longer untouched by tourists(!) It is perfectly possible to see all the main Galápagos creatures on the inhabited islands of Santa Cruz, San Cristobal, Isabela and Floreana, and in the surrounding waters, so consider visiting only these.

Conserve water at all costs

Water is very precious on the islands so make sure you cover the basics: short showers and certainly no baths, turn off the tap when brushing your teeth and use your toilet flush sparingly.

Dispose of waste properly

Trash of all types should be kept on your person and deposited in the correct recycling containers on your return to the populated areas. Under no circumstances, leave plastic behind. When using the bathroom, don’t flush your paper down the toilet; instead, deposit it in a wastepaper bin.

Follow quarantine procedures

Fully cooperate with the environmental inspection and quarantine services during your stay. Introduced plants, animals and certain types of food which are not native to the islands are a very serious threat to the Galápagos ecosystems so take this seriously.

Don’t smoke

Smoking and campfires are forbidden within the National Park. They are a danger to the flora and fauna, so refrain.

Choose activities carefully

Any type of fishing from tour boats is forbidden. In addition, motorised aquatic sports, mini-subs and aerial tourism are not permitted in the National Park. If you see this, report it to the National Park Service . (I’m from East London so I’m no grass but, sometimes, it’s the right thing to do.)

Buy souvenirs carefully

Souvenirs made of black coral, shells, volcanic rocks, animal parts and native woods are illegal to buy and/or remove from the islands. If you see this, report it.

Stay within marked trails

Trails are marked out to protect the wildlife. If you veer off, you will likely upset the natural balance on the islands, so resist the temptation. Areas inside the National Park can only be visited with a licensed Galápagos National Park Guide, so don’t try to access these on your own.

Keep your distance from the wildlife

Do not touch them or allow them to touch you.

Do not feed the wildlife

We were joined by a group of finches at breakfast and were tempted to feed them our crumbs, but resisted. The animals can feed themselves. Don’t alter the natural balance on the islands.

Do not use flash photography on the wildlife

This can alter their natural way of life. Professional photographers and filmakers have to have National Park authorisation.

Only use authorised camping sites

You must get authorisation 48 hours in advance of setting up camp. Contact the National Park Service prior to visiting.

Visit the interpretation centres

Spend time at non-profits like the Charles Darwin Research Center to find out more about the history of the islands. The Interpretation Center on San Cristobal is particularly good so set aside some time to get there.

Choose eco-friendly suppliers

If you’re booking a hotel (or any type of supplier), have a look at their environmental efforts. Royal Palm  on Santa Cruz and Casa Opuntia on San Cristobal are safe bets if you have the budget. If you see something that grates, don’t stay silent. On San Cristobal, we saw a bus with ‘Eco-friendly Tours’ plastered across the side, which sat stationary with the engine on for 10 minutes. If you’re on a bus like this, say something!

If you see a plastic bottle on the beach or rubbish at the side of the street, put it in a bin. You’ll be doing your part in helping to sustain the beauty of the islands.

Finally, if you’re not genuinely interested in nature, consider not going

There is a danger that The Galápagos are becoming a mass tourist destination, not for wildlife enthusiasts but just people who want a good holiday. If this is you, consider going somewhere else instead.

Find out more: galapagos.org

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Sustainable Tourism and Conservation in The Galapagos Islands

by Santiago Amaguaña A. Nov 5, 2021 Articles , Galapagos Information , Galapagos Travel Tips

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The Galapagos Islands are one of the most appreciated natural destinations for nature lovers, adventurers and also luxury travelers. Therefore, tourism activities that take place in the Enchanted Islands are based on sustainable tourism practices that help the conservation of the islands .

In the Galapagos Islands, you can coexist with the animal species that live in them because they do not feel any fear of people.

But what is sustainable tourism, and how does it contribute to the conservation of the Galapagos Islands? Continue reading this short article and find out.

Sustainable tourism in the Galapagos Islands

As mentioned above, the Galapagos Islands are a unique natural destination on the planet and the tourism activities that take place there are intended to conserve the environment, protect the species that inhabit them, support the local economy and leave a legacy for future generations.

Tourism activities based on sustainable practices and conservation projects in the Galapagos Islands will allow us to enjoy this unique wonder of the world.

There are several practices that contribute to sustainable tourism in the Galapagos Islands as the best way to contribute to the conservation and care of the islands. Below, we would like to tell you about a case of success and innovation in the cruise sector in the Galapagos Islands.

Ecological cruises in the Galapagos Islands

In the world’s only natural laboratory, as the Galapagos Islands is also known, ecological cruises were not an option, but rather an opportunity for innovation.

For this reason, the owners of the EcoGalaxy Catamaran were able to take advantage of this opportunity by building the only ecological catamaran in the Galapagos Islands.

The EcoGalaxy catamaran is a vessel that can welcome 16 passengers and 9 crew members on board, which has been built under four fundamental principles:

🍃 Reduce the use of natural materials that can affect the ecosystem. 

🍃 Reduce fuel consumption and CO2 generation. 

🍃 Efficient waste management.

🍃 Promoting environmentally friendly practices among the local population and crew.

With these simple, but effective practices, the only ecological catamaran in the Galapagos Islands has become the most attractive option for naturalists and for those who wish to enjoy an unforgettable expedition full of adventure while contributing to the care of the fragile ecosystem of the most famous archipelago in the world.

The M/C EcoGalaxy the only ecological catamaran for sixteen guests in the Galapagos Islands.

An interesting fact about this boat is that they use biodegradable supplies such as toilet paper that is made from recycled materials and its consumption benefits thousands of recyclers in the country.

Start planning your adventure aboard the M/C EcoGalaxy by clicking here .

Projects for the conservation of the Galapagos Islands:

Sustainable tourism is part of the projects for the conservation of the Galapagos Islands, however, not everything is tourism in the islands, there are several scientific projects that seek to prevent the extinction of the unique animals and plants in the world that inhabit the archipelago.

Projects, Giant Tortoise Tagging © Christian Ziegler. Photo taken from: Galapagos Conservation Trust.

Below, we will mention some of the conservation projects that are carried out permanently in the islands:

Galapagos Conservation: Wildlife Protection Projects

• Galapagos Tortoise Conservation
• Galapagos Penguin Conservation

Galapagos Conservation: Habitat Restoration

• Galapagos Marine Conservation
• Control of Invasive Species at Galapagos
• Prevention of New Invasive Species

Galapagos Conservation: Human Residents

• Responsible Fishing
• Plastic Trash & Recycling

Various of these projects are carried out by the Galapagos National Park , and organizations such as the Charles Darwin Foundation , Galapagos Conservation Trust , and other public and private organizations.

You might be interested in: 3 Tips for a Galapagos Responsible Travel. More details  here .

In conclusion, sustainable tourism and conservation projects in the Galapagos Islands are of vital importance in order to enjoy their beauty for a long time to come. Supporting the local economy and teaching care for our planet and respect for animals and plants is undoubtedly the best legacy we can leave to future generations.

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Sustainable Tourism and Eco Cruises in the Galapagos

Eco cruises in the Galapagos are probably the best way to truly enjoy the island’s natural beauty. Here are some of the best available

By Chere Di Boscio

Eco cruises in the Galapagos consistently ranks highly on most people’s bucket list – and with good reason. This remote volcanic archipelago that straddles the equator is home to some of the most unique (and endangered) wildlife on Earth.

Most famous as the inspiration for Charles Darwin’s groundbreaking works on evolution , the Galapagos lie 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador. Consisting of 13 main islands and hundreds of smaller islets, all created by volcanic activity starting over 4 million years ago, the Galapagos remained in glorious isolation from human interference until the 16th century. Because of this, the islands gave rise to a great number of unique endemic species, including the famous Galapagos Giant Tortoises , marine iguanas, and the wonderful blue-footed booby, to name but a few. The remoteness of the islands and their unique nature makes visiting a true adventure, and lends itself to a luxurious “trip of a lifetime” experience.

Only 5 of the Galapagos islands have been permanently inhabited , but human activity and introduced alien species have meant that the native animal and plant life across the entire area has come under huge pressure, with many species now being critically endangered.

Recognising the fragility of this unique place, the Ecuadorian government made the whole archipelago a National Park in 1959, and the world’s second largest marine reserve in 1986. In order to protect and preserve the Galapagos as much as possible, the National Park authorities place restrictions on the numbers of tourists and the sites that may be visited. Everyone who visits here must be accompanied by a qualified National Park guide , and strict biosecurity measures are enforced for all travellers coming to Galapagos.

The fragility of the unique habitats in Galapagos and the new challenges its wildlife face from the impacts of climate change has led to an upsurge in demand for environmentally responsible tourism. One of the least impactful ways to experience the remarkable nature of Galapagos is to take one of the many wonderful eco cruises in the Galapagos. The latest generation of purpose-built Galapagos cruise ships have been designed to offer the most sustainable way to enjoy the unique experiences the Galapagos has to offer, whilst bringing previously unheard of levels of comfort and luxury – a true “trip of a lifetime” with minimum environmental impact.

In the Galapagos, luxury cruising doesn’t mean formality. Despite the opulence of your surroundings, you’ll be enjoying a real adventure experience in practical clothing that keeps you cool, comfortable and protected from the often fierce equatorial sun . This relaxed feel to your Galapagos cruise enhances the intimacy of discovering the archipelago in a small boat with like-minded travellers.

We asked the experts at Voyagers Travel Ecuador for some advice on how to tour the Galapagos Islands sustainably. The company offers experiential and sustainable tourism programs to Ecuador, the Galapagos islands, Peru, the Amazon rainforest, Patagonia and certain areas of Bolivia. The focus of the company is to showcase natural and cultural highlights of each destination, offering the best opportunities to experience each location at its fullest through highly customized trips for each travellers’ preferences. Here are the eco-cruises around the islands they recommend.

Three of the Best Eco Cruises in the Galapagos

A traditional-style single hull motor yacht that was purpose-built for Galapagos travel, the Galaxy has made it her mission to be the most ecologically responsible of all the eco cruises in the Galapagos. In recognition of her achievements here she is one of the few luxury yachts to have been awarded the prestigious Smart Voyager certification – granted only to those vessels whose operations reduce the environmental impact on the Galapagos. As well as having clean, efficient engines and using solar power and water recycling features, she also operates to the highest standards of waste treatment and other anti-pollution measures.

However, Eco Galaxy proves that having an environmental conscience doesn’t mean adopting austerity measures. Despite being built to berth 19 guests, she only operates to a maximum of 16. This gives her a great feeling of space, and you can always find a quiet corner if you want to soak in the Galapagos in privacy.

Her 7 staterooms and 2 single cabins are beautifully light and airy, and all feature ocean views and sumptuous en suite bathrooms, stocked with luxury biodegradable toiletries, of course. The fresh decor and sumptuous linens make the staterooms the perfect place to rest after a long day exploring the islands. Air conditioning ensures a refreshing night’s sleep.

Communal areas on board are beautifully traditional, but modern design cues bring everything right up to date. There is a comfortable lounge with stunning panoramic windows, a central bar, and an intimate dining room. Outside spaces include shaded areas with plentiful sofas and loungers, and a full length upper sun deck with wonderful views of the islands.

Dining on board is a delightfully extravagant experience. Specialist chefs prepare a wide range of Ecuadorian and international cuisine served in a relaxed an informal style. The ship carries a good range of high quality wines and serves some excellent cocktails!

Another often overlooked area of environmental responsibility is to help more income from green tourism stay in the local economy. This encourages Galapagos residents to start and sustain more environmental tourist offerings like eco cruises in the Galapagos.

Samba is a shining example of a truly local luxury Galapagos cruise ship. This charming Dutch-built motor-sailboat is owned and operated by the local Salcedo family – 30-year veterans of environmental tourism in the archipelago. The family’s passion and respect for the islands is evident everywhere, from the sourcing of ingredients for the galley through to the use of local materials for the ship’s decor.

Unlike almost every other ship in her class, Samba is only berthed for 14 guests – two fewer than the standard. This means your Galapagos adventure is even more intimate and personal, and you enjoy a relaxed and spacious onboard experience. The decor throughout the yacht reflects the islands themselves. Natural shades of creams and whites are complemented by warm wooden furniture and fittings that have been handmade in the Galapagos from local cigar box cedar.

Staterooms carry on the decor theme, and feature stylish private bathrooms and individual air conditioning for perfect comfort. There is plenty of plush seating outdoors to sink into and relax, as well as a perfect al fresco dining area. For sun worshippers (or stargazers)  the open foredeck is the ideal place to indulge in your passion.

Luxury and sustainability also extends to Samba’s galley. Angel the chef carefully sources only the finest local ingredients for his wonderful dishes. All the meat served on board is organically grown in the islands. Only local fish caught using sustainable methods by fishermen known personally to the Salcedo family is used. This respect for the local land and marine environments means you can enjoy the stunning food Angel presents with a clear conscience.

The Salcedo family philosophy about the islands is “look after them and they will look after you”. They also extend this philosophy to their staff. All of Samba’s crew are Galapagos residents, and they are treated as part of the extended family. This means a happy and proud crew who do everything they can to ensure you have a remarkable time on board, and on your excursions.

The chief guide, Juan Manuel Salcedo, has designed the cruise itineraries to give you more than “just a vacation”. HIs stated aim is that you leave the islands having learned a great deal about what makes them unique, having experienced as much as possible, and becoming more environmentally aware.

The yacht itself, its owners, crew, guides and its itineraries all work together with one objective – to give you a luxurious experience that gets you closer to the real Galapagos while having the minimum possible impact on the nature of this wonderful archipelago.

Benno says: “In my opinion, this is the only choice for the real nature lover looking for a luxury Galapagos experience. The Salcedo’s are truly inspiring, and their passion for sustainability and this wonderful yacht will give you a far deeper experience than most of the other boats in the Galapagos can offer. Juan Manuel’s itineraries are packed with excursions, both on land and in the water – there are more snorkeling opportunities on Samba than on almost any other vessel.”

Galapagos Legend

When it comes to the environmental impact of a vessel, sometimes more can mean less. Galapagos Legend was purpose-built in 2001 as an adventure ship that can offer the perfect balance between “big cruise” luxury, a more intimate experience, and minimal impact to the Galapagos.

The 300ft Galapagos Legend offers a more sustainable cruise experience thanks to her size. Moving her 100 passengers through the islands at once is far less disruptive to the fragile ecosystem than the 6 standard 16-berth yachts she can replace. At each visitor site this means only one anchor to disturb the seabed rather than 6.

Having larger, four-stroke engines means Galapagos Legend uses cleaner fuel oil more efficiently than smaller-engined vessels that may burn “dirtier” bunker oil. She can also securely store all potential pollutants such as grey water and refuse for processing or recycling on shore, protecting the ocean.

These superb green credentials don’t come at the expense of luxury and comfort, though. Legend boasts wonderful facilities such as a gym and fitness suite, inside and al fresco bars, large open air jacuzzi, and a swimming pool. You’ll also enjoy relaxing in the piano bar, and you can even take a snooze in one of the hammocks fitted on the sun deck.

Accommodation is spread over 5 decks, and Galapagos Legend has 57 cabins offering a range of comfort levels. She was fully refurbished in 2017 and now offers some of the best appointed rooms in the fleet. The creme-de-la-creme is the remarkable Balcony Suite on the Moon Deck. This opulent feature stateroom has over 43 square metres of space and includes a private balcony and personal fridge with complimentary champagne.

There are further smaller luxury balcony suites suites available, as well as junior suites. All of these feature stunning panoramic windows offering unrivalled views, luxury private bathrooms, and stunning decor and linens.

The levels of service and attention to detail are unmatched in the Galapagos fleet – there are over 60 crew members at the service of a maximum of only 100 guests. For excursions, group sizes are restricted to just 16 guests meaning you still enjoy an intimate experience with a knowledgeable national park guide, and yet you can return to all the facilities that only a larger ship can provide. She also carries on board one of the few glass-bottomed boats in the Galapagos, providing an unparalleled view of the ocean life for those who don’t wish to snorkel.

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There’s a lot of talk about sustainability in the world of tourism, but before we can implement a more responsible industry, first we must understand exactly what it is. Sustainable tourism is a complex concept which not only covers economic, social and environmental issues but which varies greatly depending on the location within which it is practised. Whether you’re a hotel, tour provider or restaurant, in this article, we outline how the idea of sustainable tourism in the Galapagos Islands might help your business to reduce its environmental and social impacts.

What is sustainable (or responsible) tourism?

According to the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC), sustainable tourism:

“refers to sustainable practices in and by the tourism industry. It is an aspiration to acknowledge all impacts of tourism, both positive and negative. It aims to minimize the negative impacts and maximize the positive ones.”

Meanwhile the UN World Tourism Organization states that it is:

“tourism that takes full account of its current and future economic, social and environmental impacts, addressing the needs of visitors, the industry, the environment and host communities.”

Not the same as ecotourism (which refers to niche segment of tourism in natural areas), sustainable tourism then, refers to the operations of the tourism industry as a whole (hotels, tour operators, restaurants etc.) and its potential to preserve and protect people, animals and the planet into the future.

Sustainable tourism across the world

However, sustainable tourism can mean something entirely different in different locations. Take the example of the tourism industry in Mumbai, India compared to the industry in the Galapagos Islands.

In Mumbai, due to the poverty experienced by a large percentage of the city’s residents, the number of carbon emitting vehicles on the road and high levels of waste and pollution, amongst other things, a sustainable tourism company might decide to:

• Purchase from local suppliers to support local communities
• Partner with NGOs working to relieve poverty
• Use electric vehicles to contribute to better air quality
• Implement a reuse, recycle program

The Galapagos Islands

In the Galapagos Islands, where for example, issues might centre around diminishing biodiversity, environmental degredation and plastic waste, a sustainable tourism company might do things a little differently. They could:

• Implement a zero-waste policy
• Encourage the use of sailing boats over speed boats
• Train staff to know about the dos and don’ts of wildlife interactions and national park visits

So what does this mean?

There is no ‘one size fits all’ when it comes to sustainable tourism! Whilst tourism operators should look to ‘sustainable tourism’ as a useful concept, the context within which it is practised should have a significant impact on the initiatives introduced.

For example, if a hotel is interested in improving its sustainable operations, there is no point putting all of its energy into growing fresh organic vegetables if these are responsibly grown and readily available in your region. Much better to focus your time on something that can contribute to a better world and society.

Tourism related issues in the Galapagos Islands

In the Galapagos Islands, sustainable – or responsible – tourism can be a helpful concept for businesses and operators looking to contribute more positively to local communities and the environment. But first, it’s important for operators to know more about some of the issues which face the islands, their animals and communities. The following outlines only some of the tourism related issues in the Galapagos Islands.

Strain on resources

The number of people both living and visiting the Galapagos Islands has increased over the years. Tourism has grown from 40,000 visitors per year in 1990 to over 200,000 today. Meanwhile, the resident population has grown from 15,000 people in 1998 to over 25,000 today. With more people, has come a strain on resources. In general, a large number of visitors can result in a strain on resources and in general more waste and carbon emissions.

The more people living on the Galapagos Islands, the higher the demand for power. Typically, energy on the islands is created using diesel generators which power communities across the archipelago. The diesel, which is funded by the Ecuadorian government, has become a norm for local people. Small tankers are responsible for transportation of the fuel from the mainland of Ecuador. Around six million tonnes is transported per year (with thirty percent of this used for electricity generation). Unfortunately, oil spills are possible during transportation and this has occurred in the past, resulting in the harming of wildlife.

As a collection of somewhat small islands, the Galapagos Islands in some cases (Floreana and Isabela) imports its drinking water. This is of course an unsustainable method of water usage. Meanwhile, a heavy reliance on rainwater means that during droughts and high visitation, resources can run low and more drinking water must be imported.

Waste materials

Increasing visitors and residents in the Galapagos Islands also means more waste. In Santa Cruz, the amount of waste produced is ten tonnes per day. Unfortunately, due to a skill shortage in this area, and due to a lack of formal landfill sites, rubbish often flows into the seas, is dumped or burned (which results in poisonous fumes). All of these result in negative health impacts for both humans and wildlife.

Due to the size of the island and restrictions on fishing and growing crops, the Galapagos Islands also imports much of its food from the mainland. Around 1,100 crates of food and drink a day are sent to the islands. Using a great deal of energy, this importing method is in many ways unsustainable.

In addition to this, overfishing is a huge problem in the region. Not only due to large fishing vessels, overfishing has been exacerbated by illegal small scale fishing. Restrictions put in place currently exist to protect levels of fish in the sea and to protect local marine life. Unfortunately, illegal fishing bypasses these restrictions.

It can be difficult to make a living on the Galapagos Islands from farming and fishing, with various restrictions (for the sake of the environment) stopping young people from choosing it as a career choice. Many families on the islands who rely on these practices for their income experience financial difficulties.

Did you also know that typically, “for every US$100 spent on a tour holiday by a tourist, only around US$5 actually stays in a developing-country destination’s economy” – United Nations Environmental Programme (UNEP)? With many tours available in the Galapagos from different companies, there is plenty of potential for leakage which results in a lessened positive financial impact for the islands.

Nature and biodiversity

The Galápagos Islands National Park was one of the first to be inscribed on UNESCO’s World Heritage List in 1978. With its diverse and endemic species, it became a destination for those wanting to see some of the most unique creatures in the world. In 2007, the Galapagos Islands was put on UNESCO’s “red list” of endangered sites, with concerns about booming population and tourism, overfishing and the introduction of invasive species.

What does sustainable tourism in the Galapagos Islands look like?

Understanding the most pressing matters at hand in the Galapagos Islands, tourism operators can begin to operate using sustainable initiatives. In accordance with the above, the following ideas could help a tourism business in the Galapagos to reduce negative impacts and increase positive ones:

Installing solar panels….  or investing in renewable energy to reduce the amount of diesel required to power the island.

Capturing rainwater….  can help to reduce the amount of water required for shipping from the mainland.

Reducing single-use plastic….  will result in less waste and less need to burn it.

Taking part in recycling initiatives… by researching what is possible in your area and getting involved.

Growing some of your own food….  to reduce the amount needed from the mainland. Every little helps!

Using local suppliers….  and supporting local producers and companies, rather than opting for mainland or international options.

Following all national park rules …  to ensure that your business is doing no harm to the environment and its wildlife.

Sustainable accommodation at Chez Manany Galapagos Ecolodge

Chez Manany invites you to enjoy a responsible vacation on Isabela Island in the Galapagos archipelago. The ecolodge was designed following sustainable principles such as: the use of organic materials, zero-waste management, support local craftsmen, use of renewable energy, water treatment management, organic garden and more.

At Chez Manany, a commitment to sustainability is as central to our business as your comfort and enjoyment!

To book your room with us, click here. 

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7 ways to travel responsibly in the Galapagos Islands

No matter where you travel, there are concerns about how tourism can impact the destination. Whether that impact is overwhelming local businesses in a small port town, wearing away at hiking trails or damaging the natural environment.

Intrepid must walk the fine line between promoting must-see destinations and helping to protect an irreplaceable landmark or ecosystem. This concern is perhaps most apparent in the Galapagos Islands . Tourism to this fragile ecosystem has more than quadrupled in the last 20 years (and the local population has doubled), which means the islands have been hit with unprecedented amounts of human interference.

However, tourism can have a positive impact on the area as well. Experts agree that tourism dollars have helped fund conservation efforts in the Galapagos. And what is perhaps almost as valuable is the perspective travellers gain after visiting the islands for themselves. It’s hard to understand how small things can have a huge impact on an ecosystem until you’ve experienced that delicate balance for yourself.

Some of the unique flora the islands have to offer

Realistically, the solution is not more or less tourism; the solution is better tourism. As a company that is focused on responsible business , we’ve made this a core tenet of how we operate. No matter where we travel, we always do it in as sustainable a manner as possible. We carbon offset all our trips, and, whenever possible, we use local accommodations, eat locally, and travel using shared or local transport.

In the Galapagos, in addition to our regular guidelines for responsible travel, we are careful to follow the regulations set out by the Galapagos Islands National Park . There are 14 rules that all visitors are expected to abide by when they visit. This helps to minimise our impact and preserve the animals’ territory, so they can continue to thrive, and so travellers in the years to come can enjoy the incredible and unique flora and fauna.

Here are seven ways Intrepid Travel maximises the benefits and minimises the negative impact travel can have when we visit the Galapagos Islands.

Small groups mean less impact

In comparison to the large cruise ships that can carry more than 100 passengers, Intrepid’s trips have 16 passengers or fewer . This reduces our travellers’ impact on the land and increases how much time they get to spend with their guide. In turn, this means the local leader has more opportunities to interact with the full group, is able to better convey the issues the islands are facing and can help ensure no one steps off the path or gets too close to the animals.

READ MORE: WHAT GOES INTO BECOMING THE WORLD’S LARGEST B CORP?

An Intrepid group exploring the islands with their local leader

We employ local leaders

The least talked about inhabitants of the Galapagos Islands – the people – are also some of the most important when it comes to protecting the islands. Having seen firsthand the impact that unsustainable activities can have on the islands and the benefits that sustainable tourism has on both the local economy and the environment means they are the best people to be charged with the islands’ tourism activities. That’s why our local leaders  on our Galapagos trips are all  galapaguenos (island locals).

A local leader guiding travellers at the Charles Darwin Research Station

We often go by boat

Many of our trips to the Galapagos Islands are small ship sailing trips . In addition to being the best way to get around the islands, travel by boat is highly regulated in the Galapagos Islands. There are a limited number of boats that can visit the islands at one time, they can only dock at designated ports and they must adhere to certain eco-friendly standards. All of Intrepid’s boats adhere to these standards: we use biodegradable soap on-board, we change the sheets only twice per week to conserve water and we have a water tank on board, so guests can refill water bottles instead of purchasing disposable plastic water bottles.

Travellers aboard one of Intrepid’s boats, the Daphne

We also offer land-based tours, which are less strictly regulated by the national park, but we do our best to lessen our impact wherever we can. We still carry water tanks so guests can refill their water bottles, we encourage travellers to reuse towels to conserve water and we only go to small, locally run accommodation and restaurants to ensure tourism dollars are going toward the local economy instead of large corporations.

We carbon offset all our trips

In addition to following the national park’s regulations, we are proud to ensure that all our trips are carbon-offset. Intrepid has actually been a carbon-neutral travel company since 2010. We’ve calculated the emissions from our offices and our trips and offset them by purchasing carbon credits and helping to fund initiatives like reforestation projects and wind farm projects around the world. Since 2010, we’ve offset over 358,000 tons of CO2 emissions.

READ MORE: HOW MUCH CARBON DO YOU EMIT? HERE’S WHAT YOU CAN DO ABOUT IT

Hiking through the Galapagos Islands

We encourage our travellers to make sustainable choices

As a travel company, we recognise that we bear most of the responsibility for how sustainable our trips are. But when it comes to sustainability, every little bit counts, so we encourage our travellers to follow certain guidelines to minimise their impact. These guidelines include refilling reusable water bottles, using biodegradable sunscreen, reusing towels to conserve water and avoiding souvenirs that are made from animal products.

READ MORE: SMALL WAYS YOU CAN MAKE EVERY DAY EARTH DAY WHEN YOU TRAVEL

And, of course, we insist our travellers strictly abide by the national park’s rules, such as keeping a safe distance from the animals, not leaving any garbage behind, wiping your feet before re-entering the boat so as to reduce the risk of transporting invasive species, and not bringing seeds or nuts along on the trip (yes, believe it or not, your granola bar really could be a threat to the environment).

Small ships exploring the unusual landscapes of the islands

More travellers means more responsible tourism

Many locals are choosing to take jobs in the tourism industry. Since all tourism activities in the national park must adhere to extremely strict environmental regulations at the risk of being banned from the park or receiving heavy fines, this ensures the vast majority of jobs in tourism are responsible and eco-friendly.

RELATED READ: THE 6 RULES OF RESPONSIBLE TRAVEL

Tourist dollars help fund conservation projects

Each tourist that visits the park must pay an entrance fee – international tourists pay $100 and Ecuadorian tourists pay $6. There’s no doubt that money from international tourists has helped conservation efforts in the national park. Over 40% of this fee is funnelled into various projects in the park. Some projects that have benefitted from this funding include the eradication of invasive species like goats and dogs on certain islands and the repopulation of giant tortoises throughout the park.

A giant tortoise in the Galapagos Islands

Tourism to the Galapagos undeniably has both positive and negative effects on the environment, but by choosing to travel responsibly, travellers can mitigate damage and help protect the ecosystem for years to come. This attitude of preservation has already helped the Galapagos: many invasive species have been eradicated and several species have been brought back from the brink of extinction. In fact, over 95% of the original biodiversity has been maintained.

While many travellers have an attitude of “see it before it’s gone” when it comes to the Galapagos Islands, we’ve adopted a more optimistic outlook. It is unlikely that tourism can or will ever be banned outright, so we must learn to work with this living, breathing ecosystem and do our best to protect it for the travellers that come after us and the animals and people that call this place home.

Learn more about how Intrepid Travel operates sustainably in over 100 countries around the world.

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Intrepid Travel

Intrepid has been leading small group adventures for over 30 years. We’re a certified B Corp, which means we want to be the best travel company not just in the world, but for the world. To create positive change through the joy of travel. You can read our latest adventures right here.

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Conservation Impact

Established in 1969, Oceanic Society stands as the oldest nonprofit organization in America committed to ocean conservation. We are trailblazers in the realm of "eco travel," crafting  expeditions that not only align with our charitable mission  but also actively support  marine research and conservation efforts  globally. Moreover, with every booking made, we take pride in  sponsoring the removal of 200 lbs. of plastic waste from the ocean . Dive deeper into  our innovative travel approach here .

Dates & Prices

Dates available throughout the year.

The following is a sample 8-day/7-night Galapagos cruise itinerary. Different cruise itineraries are available depending on your dates, desired trip length, wildlife interests, and the ship you select - contact us for information. Aboard both the first-class Cachalote Explorer and luxurious Origin, Theory & Evolve  we offer the option of two 8-day/7-night itineraries. Itineraries can also be done back-to-back for a 15-day trip.

Day 1: Arrive in Quito or Guayaquil

Arrive in Quito or Guayaquil, Ecuador, overnight on your own.

Day 2: Quito or Guayaquil - San Cristóbal

Fly to San Cristóbal, Galapagos where you will be met and transferred to the ship for a welcome briefing followed by lunch. In the afternoon we will explore the island of San Cristóbal, which is home to several endemic birds, plants, and giant tortoises. We return to the ship for a welcome cocktail party and dinner.

Days 3 thru 8: Exploring the Galápagos Islands

The next seven days are spent visiting various sites of natural and historic interest throughout the archipelago following one of two itineraries. Ports of call include Española, Floreana, Isabela, Bartolomé, Mosquera, Santa Cruz, and South Plaza Islands, and daily activities include guided hikes and snorkeling, birdwatching, panga rides, and optional scuba diving. Contact us for complete day-by-day details depending on your preferred departure dates.

Day 9: San Cristóbal - Quito or Guayaquil

On our final morning in San Cristóbal, we visit the Interpretation Center operated by the Galápagos National Park before heading to the airport to catch mid-day flights back to Quito or Guayaquil. You can make arrangements to connect to international flights (with late afternoon departure times) or opt to overnight in a hotel and fly out the next day.

For detailed itineraries, dates, and availability, please email [email protected]

Cachalote Explorer

Originally built in 1988 in Vancouver, Canada, the Cachalote is a large and spacious motor yacht that was converted into a passenger vessel in the early 2000s.  It can accommodate 16 passengers in 8 air-conditioned cabins, each with their own private b…

Origin, Theory & Evolve

Custom-designed for sustainability and comfort, the Origin, Theory & Evolve- the Relais Chateaux luxury cruises, is the ultimate Galapagos cruise vessel, offering luxurious amenities while minimizing environmental impacts. The state of the art desi…

Naturalist(s)

Your expedition will be led by one or more of the following expert naturalist guides:

Galápagos Naturalist Guides

Trip extensions.

Extend your trip with a pre- or post-trip extensions to visit must-see locations in Ecuador. Custom itineraries and options are available to suit your specific interests or available time - contact us for details. The following are sample itineraries that can be readily customized for your trip.

Ecuador: Quito & Cloud Forest | 3-4 days

Take time to explore the charming city of Quito and the beautiful nearby cloud forest before embarking on your Galapagos cruise. On a guided tour of Quito, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, you will learn about its rich cultural history as you visit the colonial Old Town, world famous monasteries, and more. A day trip (or overnight) to nearby Mindo offers the opportunity to explore a species rich cloud forest ecosystem filled with birds, orchids, waterfalls, and more.

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The evolution of luxury eco adventure

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During the months of September, October and November 2017, our yacht Pikaia 1 will be undergoing its routine biannual maintenance period at a shipyard in Guayaquil port. Pikaia Lodge will be operating its yacht explorations with third party providers. We invite you to see our special offers section for more information.

The Experience

Accomodations, terrace rooms, balcony rooms, garden suite, evolution restaurant, lobby lounge, homo sapiens lounge, infinity pool, private yacht - m/y vision pikaia, half day tour expedition boats, the m/y galapagos aggressor iii, sustainability, awards & accolades, packages rates, exploration packages rates, islands gallery, extra activities, chinese hat, sullivan bay, north seymour, cerro dragon & eden, hi-res images.

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Galápagos Eco Friendly

San cristóbal island, environmental commitment, ecological conservancy and responsible tourism.

Ecotourism allows a place such as Galapagos, a pristine and untainted ecologically sound environment, to keep its fundamental nature and, at the same time, to grow and benefit from tourism.

Tourism requires balancing three interests:

first, the plants, ocean life, animals, biome and biosphere that rely on environmental balance and consistency to thrive and to evolve;

second, the local population so that it can be economically supported;

third: the tourists who stimulate the economy and deserve to have a marvelous, rich and fulfilling time on their journeys.

The concept of responsible tourism supports maintaining strict standards and guidelines that retain the balance of nature on the land and in the sea while still allowing the local population to flourish and advance economically and socially and the tourists to be introduced to and become enriched by unique environments.

Ecotourists leave only a positive footprint. In Galapagos, hotel-based tourism has become the model and method of choice for eco-travelers to enjoy nature and all the wonders and marvels of the archipelago.

Galapagos Eco Friendly promotes and advocates ethical ecotourism, meaning we encourage visitation to our fragile and undisturbed natural areas in a manner that allows minimal environmental impact. We want to contribute to the education and experience of our guests, introduce them to our land and culture and enhance their overall visit to Galapagos. We want out guests to feel that their lives have been enriched and to have a renewed commitment to the environment. Galapagos Eco Friendly is a destination that in all manners supports sustainability and preservation of our environment and on our entire planet.

Our philosophical foundation unites conservation, communities, and sustainable travel. We minimize environmental impact, build ecological and cultural awareness and respect, provide positive experiences for our visitors and raise sensitivity to the political, environmental, and social climate of the Galapagos Islands and Ecuador.

We are a unique operation in that we are family-owned and operated. The hotel is located within the secure and secluded grounds that include our own home. While ecotravel is for many a new and trending idea, for us it is not. As Galapaguaños, we have been committed to sustainable travel and environmental awareness all of our lives. Galapagos Eco Friendly is a logical extension of our personal and deeply ingrained concern for the environment; we hope to pass this devotion on to Galapagos visitors and future generations. We share all of our experience, amenities, knowledge and passion for Galapagos with our guests.

We are certified as an ecotourism destination by the Ecuadorian Ministry of Tourism and hold Platinum Level Green Credentials on TripAdvisor because of our environmental commitments.

• Hotel-based tourism supports and stimulated local businesses and services allowing Galapagueños an overall improved quality of life.
• Tourists who stay at hotels experience and help the many small businesses that provide day-trip opportunities, lodging and restaurants. The local population of Galapagos is economically stimulated by tourists who stay at locally-owned hotels rather than on board a cruise ship.
• Tourists benefit from acting within local communities, walking through the neighborhoods and immersing themselves in Galapagos culture.
• Tourists can experience our rich nightlife and music; on cruise ships guests never get to experience this side of Galapagos.
• Smaller, less environmentally impacting boats take tourists on day trips to visitor sites or for snorkeling and scuba diving.
• Guests rejuvenate after a day of exploration in a beautiful hotel room or lounging on hammocks and in our gardens filled with endemic and indigenous flora.
• Guests are unbound by regimented ship-based schedules and itineraries which require that passengers be on and off each visitor site within a set time frame. With a hotel-based tour, visitors set the pace, select their activities, and create a customized schedule based on their personal interests.
• There is no group to keep up with. On a boat with 16-100 passengers, there is one pace. If you like to run ahead, you can’t because you have to stay with the group. If you like a relaxing amble or stopping for photo ops, on a land-based tour you can do so without imposing on the time of others.
• In general you will be able to take more time in any given location than if you had a daily boat schedule.
• U.S. summer school break, the best time for family vacation, is “winter” in Galapagos when the weather is just beautiful but the waters are rough and cold. Hotel-based excursions avoid problems that come with rougher seas.
• Most important, your trip is tailored to your interests and your areas of emphasis and not those mandated by others.
• There are considerable environmental benefits of the land-based model as well including less pollution, better recycling opportunities, the use of wind-driving and solar power, purified water, less interference with marine life and more.
• Modelling Tourism in the Galapagos Islands: An Agent-Based Model Approach, from the  Journal of Artificial Societies and Social Simulation 17 (1) 14
• Charles Darwin Foundation Report, Tourism, the Economy, Population Growth, and Conservation in Galapagos
• The International Ecotourism Society
• Ecotourism and Ethical Travel, an Essential Combination
• An Interview with Galapagos Eco Friendly Owner Harry Jimenez on EcoLodges.com
• Defning the Essence of Ethical and Responsible Travel Destinations
• Washington Post Article  Out of the Blue , The Virtues of Land-Based Tourism in Galapagos
• Minimize physical, social, behavioral, and psychological impacts.
• Build environmental and cultural awareness and respect.
• Provide positive experiences for both visitors and hosts.
• Produce direct financial benefits for conservation.
• Generate financial benefits for both local people and private industry.
• Deliver memorable interpretative experiences to visitors that help raise sensitivity to host countries’ political, environmental, and social climates.
• Design, construct and operate low-impact facilities.
• Recognize the rights and spiritual beliefs of the Indigenous People in your community and work in partnership with them to create empowerment.
• Using our knowledge of Galapagos to build environmental and cultural awareness and respect.
• Providing a positive and supportive experience from the moment that a potential guest first contacts the hotel until the moment that we drop them at the airport.
• Creating an environment of comfortable rooms and common areas that reflect the designs and heritage of our local culture.
• Supporting and furthering a model of hotel-based tourism that provides financial benefits locally.
• Arranging day trips on land and sea for our guests that provide memorable interpretive experiences and help raise sensitivity to our specific and unique environmental situation.
• Building our hotel with local materials and designing the hotel to have minimal environmental impact.
• Offering a natural setting that has been carefully preserved and is populated by local endemic and indigenous flora.
• Using locally harvested and sustainable and/or recyclable materials for our infrastructure and buildings.
• Purchasing food from local purveyors or growing our own.
• Obtaining our goods and services from local personnel and entities.
• Using only environmentally sustainable energy, water and waste systems.
• Presenting our guests with opportunities for interaction with local owners, managers, staff and our own Galapaguaño family.

Recently, the Galapagos National Park and Ecuadorian Ministry of Tourism have actively changed the standard tourism model in Galapagos from cruise-based to hotel-based. For many years, no new cruise boat permits have been issued, thereby limiting the number of boats and the number of guests given access to our sensitive protected visitor sites. Instead, so that growth can continue while the environment remains protected, new hotel permits have been issued. Now, tourists can come to Galapagos and see the archipelago from a whole new land-based perspective.

In this newer model, Galapagos guests stay at the hotels on the islands and travel each day to destinations of their choice, working with hotel owners and travel agencies who plan these day trips based on the stated desires of the guests themselves.

One of the most intriguing aspects of this new model is its impact on the local Galapagos economy. While nearly all of the cruise ships are owned by outsiders from other countries or the mainland of Ecuador, nearly all of the hotels are owned by Galapagueños. This allows visitors who stay in boutique hotels such as Galapagos Eco Friendly to have a profound positive impact on the local economy, fulfilling one of the linchpins of responsible tourism as advocated by The International Ecotourism Society.

• We track all energy use and regularly measure and record our energy use.
• We encourage all guests to participate in our towel reuse program
• We encourage all guests to participate in our linen reuse program
• Our housekeeping staff is completely trained and regularly informed about all green practices
• We recycle all waste in accordance with the strict standards of the Galapagos National Park Service and Ecuadorian Ministry of Tourism; this includes all types of waste (paper, glass, plastic and cardboard); our recycling bins are located in common areas
• We provide persistent staff training on green practices on at least a semi-annual basis and every time there are new regulations or additions to the hotel
• Instructional pamphlets on our green practices and expectations are available in every guest room
• We advocate our green practices and highlight them in all of our publications making ecotourism and conservation of the environment a priority
• We use energy efficient lightbulbs include compact fluorescent (CFL), LED, and T5/T8 fluorescent bulbs both inside and outside
• We use energy efficient guest room appliances
• All air conditioning are inversion types with temperature set to save energy; guests turn off room air conditioners any time they leave and indoor temperature is set at a minimum of 22 C
• We actively follow our preventative maintenance plan, which includes making regular checks to ensure energy and water equipment is working efficiently
• Energy-saving lighting controls are installed in public areas with sensors that automatically turn off lights when they’re not needed
• We use 60% wind power from turbines on San Cristobal Island; more turbines are being installed and this percentage will increase once the project is completed
• We use solar panels for some of our energy needs, particularly in the garden and outside areas of the hotel
• All guest bathrooms have water-efficient faucets and all of our guest room faucets use 6 liters per minute or less
• Guest bathrooms are equipped with water efficient shower heads and all of theshowerheads use 6 liters per minute or less
• Only water-efficient toilets are installed throughout the property and all of our guest room toilets use 4.5 liters per flush or less
• We use alternative water sources for watering gardens including captured rainwater and condensation
• Only biodegradable and natural toiletries are used throughout the hotel; this includes packaging
• Our products including produce, coffee, and building materials are locally produced
• Our cleaning staff uses only “Green” certified cleaning products
• We are phasing out all individual soap and shampoo dispensers and replacing them with refillable toiletries dispensers
• Even our food is locally purveyed
• Only endemic and indigenous plants are used in our gardens
• Plants are those that require very little water for growth
• Our paving is designed allow water to be absorbed into the ground and recycled rather than flooding
• Our gardens are natural and we use no chemicals or preservatives; landscaping is maintained without use of herbicides, pesticides, and other chemicals
• Much of the hotel was built using recycled materials for insulation
• Building materials are largely locally grown and produced
• We have solar panels for some of our energy needs and recycle rainwater for irrigation
• We share our knowledge of the Galapagos Islands with all of our guests and teach them about our environment and what is necessary for preservation, habitat maintenance and conservation
• We provide guests with free bicycle rental
• We have an on-site resources library
• We participate in initiatives related to local conservation or biodiversity
• We comply with zoning requirements and laws related to protected areas and heritage
• We give all of our guests an opportunity to provide us with feedback on green practices

Remarkable and memorable visitor sites are convenient to galapagos eco friendly

The area in and around Puerto Baquerizo and San Cristobal is filled with countless opportunities for nature lovers to see some of the most unique, intriguing and spectacular wonders of the world.

Hikers, divers, snorkelers and photographers will find that favorite destinations within the Galapagos National Park and Galapagos Marine Reserve, such as Kicker Rock and Isla Lobos, are located on San Cristobal Island and in its environs.

Galapagos Eco Friendly is convenient to these and many more amazing adventures.

Things To Do

Most frequent questions and answers about what to do in galapagos.

While all of the Galapagos Islands is dedicated to conservancy and maintaining the tenuous ecological balance discovered by Charles Darwin, nowhere is this more true than the Island of San Cristóbal itself. It a forerunner in the quest for renewable energy, as at least 60 percent of its energy already is generated by wind and solar power. Moreover, in conjunction with the Charles Darwin Research Center, it is determined to see that the once-dwindling population of indigenous Galapagos tortoises thrives again. To that end, San Cristóbal boasts a remarkable and impressive controlled breeding center for the endemic Galapagos Giant Tortoise population. Observe these gentle reminders of the past and hope for the future wander through their environment searching for shade and leafy greens, as you photograph and preserve your own precious memories. Those adventurous visitors who hike to Galapaguera will experience the giant tortoises in the preserve mirroring their natural habitat. Not only the Giant Tortoises, but also other endemic species can be seen on this hike, including lava lizards, geckos and mockingbirds.

Whatever your interests, we can help you plan your time on san cristobal island

Let us help you plan your days in the beautiful Galapagos Islands. Arrangements will be overseen by the hotel’s owner, Harry Jimenez, an experienced naturalist guide certified by the Galapagos Islands National Park Service, scuba dive master and third-generation San Cristobal native. He will imbue your days with his own passion for and knowledge of the Galapagos land and marine reserves.

Some ideas for excursions that you might enjoy are the following:

PLAN YOUR TIME ON SAN CRISTOBAL ISLAND

Design your own adventure

At Galapagos Eco Friendly our objective is to make your holiday an unforgettable one. Tell us your passions and let us tailor the perfect itinerary for you.

Remember, our owner Harry Jimenez is not only a Galapagos native, but a guide on some of the most prestigious yachts sailing Galapagos. His knowledge of the islands is legendary. Let him share his knowledge with you and help you have the journey of a lifetime.

Introduction to Galapagos

Land-Based Excursion around San Cristobal Island

Boating and Snorkeling Excursion

Days of fun

Boating, Snorkeling and Hiking Excursion

Snorkeling and Scuba Exursion

Experience Galapagos

Boating, snorkeling and hiking expedition

Snorkeling, scuba and hiking expedition

The full galapagos experience

Exploration adventure including San Cristobal and Santa Cruz Islands

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Address: Av. 12 de febrero y Av. J Roldo, San Cristobal island, Ecuador | Phone: 593 99 393 5090 | Email: [email protected]  or    [email protected]  

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Copyright 2022© Hotel Galápagos Eco Friendly

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