How to Do Ecotourism in the Galapagos Islands

The Galapagos Islands are famous for their abundantly diverse and unique wildlife. From penguins to tortoises, the Galapagos are full of wildlife with no natural predators so the animals remain calm when tourists approach. With such a prevalent wildlife and fragile ecosystem, you should choose an eco-friendly operation for your next visit to the islands.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Book your tour with a company that follows ecotourism rules and guidelines and makes every effort minimize impact on the environment. Talk to company representatives ahead of time about efforts they make to minimize impact.
2. Make sure that the company you travel with has a goal of environmental education. Tours in the Galapagos should include education for tourists about the wildlife and the intrinsic value of the natural landscape.
3. Stay with your guide at all times when on the islands. While there may not be a designated trail, follow your guide so as to avoid walking in places off the guide's path. Guides should choose a path that is least threatening to the natural state of the island.
4. Conserve the resources on your boat such as water and electricity, and refrain from camping on the islands even when government regulations allow it. Camping has a more serious affect on the islands than staying on a boat at night, and because of the delicate ecosystem it is not recommended.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't touch the wildlife while you are on the islands, and don't touch the animals or reef that you see underwater when scuba diving or snorkeling. Animals will often approach you at very close proximity in the Galapagos, but you can harm them by touching them.

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