Machu Picchu and Galapagos holiday

Planet

The ecosystem in the Galapagos took millions of years to evolve in an intricate and unique way and we must do all that we can to preserve this fragile environment by having a minimal impact as a visitor.

As a National Park, there are very strict codes of conduct that the boat operators must adhere too. No boats larger than 100 passengers are allowed in its waters and on land tours to no more than 20 at any one time. As part of small group aboard the boat, you’ll have less impact on the environment and a small vessel will have more flexibility to access some of the smaller islands.

Ninety-five percent of the land area of Galapagos is designated as protected by the Galapagos National Park Directorate (GNPD), and tourists are permitted to explore specific visitor sites only with Park-certified naturalist guides. The GNPD coordinates group visits to these sites and carefully monitors ecological conditions. As a result your itinerary may be subject to change. Different sites are known for their specific scenery, vegetation, and wildlife. However, many species, such as sea lions, marine iguanas, lava lizards, and a variety of coastal birds such as herons, tattlers, plovers, turnstones, and whimbrels, are commonly seen at most locations.

Each island has a marked trail, most of which are less than a mile long — often passing over rough lava or uneven boulders. Some sites have “wet landings” (visitors wade to shore from rafts or dinghies) and others have “dry landings” (passengers step foot directly onto dry land). Your on-board licensed guide must accompany you to these sites.