The Galapagos Islands are one of the most extraordinary and fragile ecosystems on the planet. Formed over the past 5 million years and still volcanically active today, this remote Pacific archipelago is home to unique species found nowhere else on Earth.
Thanks to its connection with Charles Darwin and the theory of evolution, the Galapagos have become a global icon of conservation and natural history. Nearly 100% of the land and surrounding waters are protected by strict national park regulations, aimed at preserving the islands’ delicate balance of flora and fauna.
To ensure the Galapagos remain pristine, all visitors must follow clear rules—many of which are legal requirements. This guide outlines what not to do, what not to bring, and how to behave responsibly while exploring the Enchanted Islands.
Note: Most of these rules are actual laws. Please follow them carefully to avoid fines and help protect this incredible place for future generations.
Feeding animals disrupts their natural behaviors and can lead to dependency on human food, altering the ecosystem’s balance.
Most animals here have no natural predators and are not shy at all. Stay at a distance of at least 3 meters. If a curious Blue-footed boobie comes closer, take a step back and especially do not touch it.
This is especially important, in order not to destroy plants and disrupt nesting sites.
Remove nothing from the islands. Stones, corrals, plants, seeds, or even eggs, animals.
Leave everything alone and in place.
He knows the National Park regulations best and will make sure you have an optimal experience.
Take all the trash you produce back to the hotel or cruise ship with you. Even organic stuff like banana peels.
To reduce the plastic pollution of the oceans, try to use as little plastics as possible. Carry a refillable water bottle with you.
The islands have limited resources, so use water, electricity, and other resources responsibly.
Plastic waste is harmful to marine life and ecosystems, and the islands have strict regulations to minimize plastic pollution.
Plants, seeds, animals, or insects not native to the Galapagos could disrupt the delicate balance of the ecosystem.
To protect the islands from invasive insects, all planes westbound to Galapagos are routinely sprayed with insecticides within the cabin.
Also, all luggage will be checked by sniffing dogs after landing, to detect plants or open foods.
Chemicals in regular sunscreen can harm marine life and damage coral reefs.
Stick with reef-friendly products.
Both are strictly prohibited by law for tourists.
Fishing is under regulations and only possible for locals who fish with a line and for their own and the traveler’s consumption.
This is not completely true but should be mentioned.
Flying drones is only permitted over private properties.
Over 97% of the land mass, and 99% of the sea surface surrounding the islands, which belong to the National Park, flying your drone is prohibited.
Exceptions, for example for documentary film recordings, require a special permit, which can be issued ahead of time with the local government, with bureaucratic hurdles, and at high cost.
