Small group holiday to Machu Picchu and Galapagos

The Galapagos Islands have more endemic species than any other archipelago in the world, and in 1979 became the first natural site to be UNESCO-listed. In 1998 it was made a Marine Reserve, with some really positive conservation work happening in the area. There are strict regulations governing the number of visitors to the islands, as well as the activities permitted. The hotels that we use take their responsibilities seriously - for example, the Casa Natura Lodge on Santa Cruz island collects rain water for their water supply, and many of the ingredients used for the breakfasts come directly from their garden instead of being shipped from the mainland. The Galapagos is suffering from the worldwide issue of plastic litter, which gathers along coastlines and puts wildlife at risk of ingestion or entanglement. Plastics were banned on the islands in 2018, therefore we advise customers where to refill their reusable water bottles.

As part of our stay, we visit the Arnaldo Tupiza Breeding Centre in Puerto Villamil, which has the aim of replenishing the endangered Giant Tortoise population by breeding and then releasing the animals. The centre takes donations from visitors, which go back into their release projects - far from being a 'zoo', this centre, along with the two others that exist on the islands, is doing some important work for the survival of the species.

As a travel company we are continually looking for ways to improve and are proud to be ‘Responsible in everything we do’. Education is key, and so all staff, Tour Leaders and partnering suppliers are trained in responsible and sustainable tourism. At our Head Office, we continually strive towards a sustainable and planet-friendly working environment, including having solar panels installed and a company commitment to reducing our plastic usage.