Know the Rules Before You Visit the Galápagos: Help Protect the Magic of the Enchanted Islands
The Galápagos Islands are like no other place on Earth. Wild, beautiful, and full of life you won’t find anywhere else. But with great beauty comes great responsibility. If you’re lucky enough to visit these incredible islands, there’s one thing you must do: respect the rules that protect them.
Before you step foot on this one-of-a-kind paradise, take a few minutes to learn the basic rules of the Galápagos National Park. These rules aren’t just for safety — they’re about keeping the islands wild, clean, and full of wonder for the future.
For more information http://www.galapagos.gob.ec/reglas-de-visita/
Why Do These Rules Matter?
The Galápagos are home to animals that don’t exist anywhere else — giant tortoises, blue-footed boobies, marine iguanas, and more. Most of them aren’t afraid of humans, which makes them easy to see but also easy to harm.
The rules of the Galápagos were created to protect the animals, plants, beaches, and sea. If we don’t follow them, we risk damaging a place that’s taken millions of years to become what it is.
10 Simple Rules That Help Save the Galápagos
1. Go With a Certified Guide
Most of the Galápagos is protected. That means you can’t just wander around on your own. You need to be with a guide who’s trained to protect the islands and keep both you and the animals safe.
2. Stay on the Path
There are marked trails for a reason. If you step off them, you could crush plants, disturb nests, or cause damage you don’t even notice. Stay on the path — nature needs space to thrive.
3. Don’t Touch or Feed the Animals
Yes, the animals are close. Yes, it’s tempting. But feeding or touching wildlife can make them sick or change their behavior forever. Let them be wild — that’s part of what makes this place so special.
4. No Flash Photography
Use your camera, take lots of pictures — just turn off the flash. Bright lights can scare or stress the animals, especially sea turtles and birds.
5. Leave Nature Where It Belongs
Don’t take shells, rocks, sand, or plants. Not even a tiny one. Everything in the Galápagos plays a role in the ecosystem. Let it stay where it belongs.
6. Don’t Litter — Ever
Take everything you bring with you back out again. Trash, plastic, and even crumbs can harm wildlife. Use refillable bottles, avoid plastic bags, and pack out what you pack in.
7. Clean Your Shoes and Clothes
Seeds and bugs from the mainland can hurt local plants and animals. You’ll need to clean your shoes and gear before you arrive and between islands to stop the spread of invasive species.
8. Keep a Safe Distance
Stay at least 2 meters (about 6 feet) from animals. Even if they walk right up to you — don’t touch. Respect their space. They’re not pets. They’re wild and they should stay that way.
9. Only Swim, Dive, or Fish Where Allowed
Some areas are off-limits. Others are open but only with a guide or permit. Always ask before you jump in. This helps protect marine life and coral reefs.
10. Listen to Park Staff and Guides
They’re not trying to ruin your fun — they’re here to protect one of the most amazing places on Earth. Trust their knowledge and follow their lead.
What You Can Do to Help
- Pay the Entry Fee: The money goes directly to conservation and local communities.
- Choose Eco-Friendly Tours: Travel with companies that follow the rules and support the environment.
- Spread the Word: Tell others why the Galápagos matter and how they can help protect it.
Be the Kind of Visitor the Galápagos Deserve
Visiting the Galápagos is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. But with that privilege comes responsibility. These islands don’t need more tourists — they need caring visitors who respect the rules, love nature, and want to make a difference.
Every step you take, every choice you make, can help protect the magic of the Galápagos. So when you go, go with your heart — and with a deep respect for the wild world you’re stepping into.
Because the best souvenir you can bring home… is knowing you helped keep this place alive.
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