1. Skip to Menu
  2. Skip to Content
  3. Skip to Footer>

Galapagos Ecotourism

Galapagos Ecotourism

Reducing Environmental Footprints


Galapagos Island Tourism offers vacationers many opportunities to see diverse and extensive populations of plants, animals, and birds.  For all generations, from Grandpa to grandchildren and any age in between, a Galapagos vacation can be a once-in-a-lifetime event.  Endemic species abound and for their part, Galapagos Explorer has activities both on board the vessel, and also offers two tours per day for which to plan.

Part of the joy of visiting the Galapagos Islands is in knowing travelers help lower the environmental footprint while witnessing this pristine natural paradise.  Galapagos Explorer participates in all conservation efforts consistent with Galapagos Island tourism efforts and as established by Galapagos National Park System.

Additionally, the Explorer II uses only biodegradable products on board the ship, including shampoos, soaps, and detergents.  The ship’s water is ozone purified (as opposed to chlorine), and all waste is recycled at plants on San Cristobal Island.  Keeping a low carbon footprint is something the Galapagos Explorer is committed to.

In an effort to continue education and training, the Galapagos National Park guides explain environmental efforts undertaken that help sustain Galapagos Island tourism.  They often point out plants, birds, or animals that may be endangered and identify programs that the Charles Darwin station conducts to preserve them.

Some endangered species on the islands include the wave albatross, the Pinta Island tortoise, the Galapagos penguin, Santa Fe land iguana, the mangrove finch, and some sharks.  Plants that remain on the endangered list include Scalesia tree, prickly pear cactus, and the calandrina.

When visitors plan their land excursions, guests are invited to ask any onboard staff for additional information that is available for species conservation and environmental efforts in the park system.  It is one of the many ways that Galapagos Island tourism differentiates itself from other eco vacations offered around the world.