e-Newsletter Sign-UpWhat does “Sustainable Tourism” mean in Galapagos?
The Galapagos National Park Directorate (GNPD) and the Ecuadorian Ministry of Tourism require that tour providers strive to make their businesses as environmentally friendly as possible. Galapagos tour providers must take steps to:
- Conserve water and energy
- Recycle and treat waste material
- Source locally-produced products
- Hire local employees, pay them a fair wage, and offer them additional training
Some companies go beyond simply complying with regulations and are proactive in their efforts to preserve Galapagos by supporting community and conservation projects. Galapagos Conservancy encourages visitors to Galapagos to travel with accredited, licensed tour providers with a strong commitment to Galapagos conservation. Our Travel Partners have corporate philosophies or are members of organizations that ensure adherence to strict environmental standards and social responsibility in their operations.
In 1979, the Galapagos Islands became the world’s first UNESCO-designated World Heritage Site — an honor bestowed upon our planet’s most magnificent places. Following a few simple rules is all it takes to experience the magnificence of the Islands in a sustainable way. From respecting the wildlife to purchasing souvenirs wisely, your choices will make a difference. Please review the Galapagos National Park rules before you travel to the Islands.
From when to travel, what to bring, how to get there and more, we are happy to help you plan your trip — and we have provided some guidelines for all of these questions and more.
Read more about creating a sustainable society in Galapagos.
Latest News
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GC Mourns the Loss of Friend and Colleague Felipe Cruz
08.12.18 August 12, 2018 We are saddened to report that Felipe Cruz, who worked passionately... More >
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67 Tortoises Hatched from the New Floreana Breeding Program This Year
07.25.18 A total of 67 tortoises hatched this year from the first nesting season of... More >
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Sierra Negra Volcano Erupts on Isabela Island, Galapagos
06.27.18 June 27, 2018 On June 26, 2018, scientists from the Geophysical Institute of... More >
Latest Blog Posts
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Return to Santiago: More than a decade after the eradication of the introduced goats, pigs and donkeys
By Wacho Tapia, Director of the Giant Tortoise Restoration Initiative Santiago... More >
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Checking Up on the Young Tortoises on Santa Fe Island
By guest author and GC Adjunct Scientist Dr. James Gibbs of the State University... More >
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Promoting Healthy Pets and Responsible Pet Ownership in Galapagos
By guest author Elsa Kohlbus, Program Director of Animal Balance. On an island... More >
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