Galapagos Islands holidays

Galapagos Islands holidays

How this holiday makes a difference

The pristine Galapagos Islands are protected as a World Heritage sanctuary for good reason – they are home to a vast array of unique and endemic wildlife. To maintain its unique ecosystem, tourism to the islands is tightly controlled, with a limited number of tourists allowed daily and boats being forced to follow strict guidelines. Small, environmentally friendly vessels are used with a maximum of 16 berths, offering an intimate and enjoyable experience. Waste management is closely controlled on the boats and, when on land, physical contact with the wildlife is strictly forbidden. This operator is committed to using local leaders on all our holidays and, on this trip, despite taking only 16 passengers they employ a crew of 9, including a fully qualified local guide.

The plight of the waved albatross is a moving one, as many have died as a result of longline fishing off the coast of Peru. This operator has given substantial financial support to various organisations to help stop the needless slaughter of these magnificent birds by ensuring that relevant international agreements are implemented that will benefit both the birds and the legal fishing industry.

The nature of this trip ensures that travellers become acutely aware of the importance of conservation and also become ambassadors for the continual protection of wildlife and wilderness the world over. By only employing staff born and bred in the regions they visit, they are supporting local economies. Through offering employment and steady revenue, tourism can ultimately make a real positive difference to local communities. This company is proud to be a member of IGTOA (International Galapagos Tour Operators Association), a non-profit association of tour operators, conservation organisations and other concerned groups that are dedicated to the lasting protection of the Galapagos.

Galapagos Islands holidays

Reviewed 03 May 2008 by Fiona Kiernan

1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?

Seeing wildlife up close, particularly snorkelling with friendly sea-lions.

2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?

Bring a very good camera, and plenty of room on cf card for photos.

3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?

Hopefully. I didn't notice much of an environmental impact, except for the flights to the Galapagos, which are necessary. I'm not really sure about the benefits to the local people, although all employed on the trip were local.

4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?

10/10.

Reviewed 04 Apr 2008 by Tony Bond

1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?

The spectacular landscapes of each island, every wildlife encounter especially snorkelling with sea lions, frigate birds in mating season, waved albatross in flight, brightly coloured marine iguanas, giant tortoises in the wild, spotting sea turtles in a mangrove swamp... I could go on!

2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?

Make sure you have an SLR, 18-200 lens, and plenty of storage. I took 4,000 photos!

3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?

Absolutely. Roberto (the guide) was outstanding and the crew were local, friendly and a great team.

4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?

Our dream holiday to celebrate our joint 50th & 30 years together. Simply outstanding.