Environmentally friendly tourism in the Galápagos

Environmentally friendly tourism in the Galápagos

For many it is a dream destination: the untouched islands of the Galápagos, a refuge for some of the most unique and rare animal species in the world - or so we thought. There were certainly untouched parts of the islands, but there were also roadworks in Puerto Ayora, broken beer bottles at Cerro Tijeretas, plastic bottles in Tortuga Bay and, saddest of all, a baby seal playing with a plastic spoon.

We couldn't help but wonder whether the Galápagos would be better left alone, untouched and unsullied by tourism. We are not in a position to discourage future tourists from visiting, but we can show you how to do so in the most environmentally friendly way possible.

First, realize that tourists only have uncontrolled access to a tiny portion of the islands. 97 percent of the island is protected by the national park and the 70 registered visitor sites cover only 0.01 percent of the landmass [1]. Secondly, every tourist has to pay $100 entrance fee. While a large portion of tourism dollars flow to mainland Ecuador, approximately US$63 million contributes to the local economy and conservation efforts on the islands each year [2]. Finally, being aware of your footprint at all times can significantly reduce the impact of your visit. Here's how.

Consider exploring by land

The national park limits the size of boats to 100 passengers, but even 100 people can overload a beach when disembarking. 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 rather than an international cruise company.

Stick to the inhabited islands

Part of the allure of the Galápagos Islands is that large swaths of it are untouched by tourists - but when you visit the uninhabited islands, they are no longer untouched by tourists(!). inhabited islands of Santa Cruz, San Cristobal, Isabela and Floreana and surrounding waters, so consider visiting only these.

Save water at all costs

Water is very precious on the islands, so make sure you cover the basics: short showers and never baths, turning off the faucet when brushing your teeth, and using your toilet flush sparingly.

Dispose of waste properly

Garbage of all types should remain with you and be disposed of in the proper recycling bins upon your return to populated areas. Whatever you do, don’t leave plastic behind. When using the bathroom, do not flush your paper down the toilet; instead, dispose of it in a recycling bin.

Follow quarantine procedures

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

Do not smoke

Smoking and campfires are prohibited in the national park. They are a danger to flora and fauna, so refrain from doing so.

Choose activities carefully

Any type of fishing from excursion boats is prohibited. In addition, motorized water sports, mini-submarines and air 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 not into weed, but sometimes it's the right thing to do.)

Buy souvenirs carefully

Souvenirs made from black coral, shells, volcanic rocks, animal parts and native woods are not permitted to be purchased and/or taken off the islands. If you see this, report it.

Stay on marked trails

Hiking trails are marked to protect wildlife. If you turn, you will likely upset the natural balance on the islands, so resist the temptation. Areas within the national park can only be visited with a licensed Galápagos National Park guide, so do not attempt to enter these on your own.

Keep your distance from wild animals

Don't touch them or let them touch you.

Do not feed the wild animals

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

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Do not use flash photography on wildlife

This can change their natural way of life. Professional photographers and filmmakers require a national park permit.

Only use authorized campsites

You must obtain approval 48 hours before setting up camp. Contact the National Park Service before visiting.

Visit the interpretation centers

Spend time at nonprofits like the Charles Darwin Research Center to learn more about the history of the islands. The interpretive center on San Cristobal is particularly good, so give yourself some time to get there.

Choose eco-friendly suppliers

When booking a hotel (or other provider), take 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 crunches, don't stay silent. On San Cristobal we saw a bus with 'Eco-Friendly Tours' on the side that sat idle for 10 minutes with the engine running. If you're on a bus like this, say something!

Pick it up

If you see a plastic bottle on the beach or trash on the side of the road, throw it in a trash can. You will do your part to preserve the beauty of the islands.

Finally, if you are not really interested in nature, consider not going there

There is a risk that the Galápagos Islands will become a mass tourism destination, not for nature lovers, but just for people who want to have a great vacation. If this is you, you should go somewhere else instead.

Find out more: galapagos.org

Mission statement: Atlas & Boots

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