Galapagos National Park Rules

Can you imagine what a house without rules would be like? It’s pretty clear: chaos would prevail. That’s exactly why the Galapagos National Park rules are so strict. But don’t worry, these Park regulations are not hard to follow! You just need to keep in mind why they exist and how you, yourself, can become a guardian of this extraordinary archipelago when you visit.

The Galapagos Islands are a UNESCO World Heritage Site thanks in part to its status as a “living museum” and the amount of life that is constantly flourishing there. As a result, all visitors have a crucial role to play when it comes to keeping this unique and mesmerizing “current of life” flowing.

What are the Galapagos National Park Rules?

1. Visits to the protected areas of the Galapagos National Park are only allowed in the company of a Park-certified naturalist guide.

Keeping in mind that the Galapagos National Park extends to over 97% of the Islands, and that the park’s incredible ecosystems are delicate habitats occupied by native and endemic wildlife, exploring the park’s numerous visitor sites can only be done in the presence of a Park-certified naturalist guide. This is one of the best ways the Park can carry out its obligations to keep this natural treasure as safe and pristine as possible. Conversely, it is a perfect way to impart visitors with knowledge about the geographical and biological significance of the park, its flora, and fauna, plus all the conservation efforts that take place to make this destination so special.

2. Use only authorized tour operators and/or boats certified for operations in the Galapagos National Park.

There’s a saying in the Galapagos Islands, and it goes something like this: when in doubt, choose only authorized tour operators or boats. Pretty simple, huh? This is a really important rule because your tour operator will be responsible not only for your safety throughout the excursion but for the conservation of each fragile site you visit in the archipelago! Also, your guide must be certified by the Galapagos National Park Directorate.

3. The Park’s natural resources are vital, so it is imperative that visitors respect all signage and infrastructure and remain within the boundaries of the Park’s established trails.

The Galapagos National Park is tasked with maintaining all infrastructure within the park, including trails, landing areas, beaches, and structures. Visiting the GNP is a one-of-a-kind experience thanks to the Park’s well-coordinated efforts. By staying on the Park’s established trails, observing all signage, and respecting the infrastructure throughout the GNP, visitors can remain safe and ecosystems can be protected from otherwise harmful human impact.

4. Maintain a safe distance of at least 6 feet (2 meters) from wildlife, this includes photo- and videographic equipment, so as not to alter the normal behavior of the animals.

Wildlife in the Galapagos is like no other anywhere in the world. These fascinating animals are inherently unafraid of humans. That said, visitors to the archipelago must always remain conscientious of this fact. Avoiding direct interaction with wildlife, and simply observing and photographing or videoing the animals from a safe distance, can minimize the impact of human behavior on animal behavior. Getting too close to wildlife can alter the creatures’ habits and interrupt their natural routines and rituals, leading to adverse impacts on their wellbeing.

5. Do not touch or feed the animals in the Galapagos.

One of the things that makes the Galapagos Islands so special is the unique native and endemic wildlife. The wellbeing of the archipelago’s fauna depends on animals’ ability to make use of the resources that are readily available to them within their respective ecosystems. By introducing human food to their diet or by making them accustomed to human touch, we do them tremendous disservice. Visitors must always keep in mind that we are observers. The best thing we can do for these extraordinary animals is protect their habitats and minimize our impact.

6. Flash photography is not permitted. Professional commercial filming (and photography), including the use of drones, requires the GNP’s authorization.

How many times have you seen people squinting or blinking in response to the use of flash photography? This kind of instantaneous and potentially harsh stimulus can alter a creature’s behavior and have a detrimental effect on their wellbeing. Worse yet, it can provoke an unexpected or adverse response from the animal. The use of flash photography in the Galapagos is therefore strictly forbidden. Furthermore, any commercial filming and photography, especially projects that include the use of drone cameras, must obtain prior authorization from the Galapagos National Park Directorate.

7. Camping is permitted in designated areas of the Galapagos National Park with prior authorization.

For nature enthusiasts who enjoy camping, the Galapagos National Park has designated specific areas of the park for this purpose. Visitors are permitted to camp in designated areas but must obtain permission in person at a GNP Directorate office on one of the human-populated islands at least 48 hours in advance. Imagine the thrill of staring up at the stars in such a remote location, surrounded by the beauty and sounds of the Galapagos’ ever-impressive flora and fauna. This is certainly one of the most intimate ways visitors can experience the archipelago.

8. Seeds, plants, and/or animals from the mainland and abroad are prohibited in the Galapagos.

Visitors and residents are prohibited from bringing seeds, plants, and animals to the Galapagos Islands. The islands are constantly being threatened by invasive and non-native species, such as plants, insects, and animals, that disrupt the archipelago’s natural ecosystems. Examples include the avian vampire fly, which was originally discovered in Brazil in the 1990’s and was accidentally brought over to the islands; goats, which were introduced in the 1800’s, and, only recently eradicated after first stripping away so much vegetation―the main source of food for giant tortoises; feral cats are responsible for preying on young, rare pink iguanas found in the vicinity of Wolf Volcano; invasive blackberry shrubs that were brought over as an agricultural experiment have since been labeled “an ecological menace.” Even something so seemingly insignificant as the Giant African snail can pose a threat to the islands’ rich biodiversity.

9. Do not remove any elements from the ecosystem.

You can get the best memories out of your Galapagos cruises without taking anything from the islands! Remember: removing things from the ecosystem, no matter how small, may damage and/or destabilize entire ecosystems. Everything that belongs to the Galapagos, must stay in the Galapagos!

10. Writing, engraving, or otherwise defacing trees, rocks, and walls alters the natural beauty of the Islands.

While visiting one of the most pristine places on Earth, do you really want to be reminded of humanity by reading what someone else has engraved, scratched, or written on a rock, tree, or structure? The Galapagos National Park insists that visitors be mindful of their actions and refrain from marking or defacing trees, rocks, and other structures within the park. Preserving the natural beauty of the islands demonstrates respect for the environment, its wildlife, visitors, and residents.

11. Keep it clean! If you generate trash, take it with you!

This rule is straightforward. Carry it in, carry it out. If you’re planning to bring a snack or a drink with you as you explore the GNP, make sure you take what remains of your snack or drink with you. This includes things like wrappers, cans, bottles, containers, bags, napkins, plasticware and utensils, etc. Trash affects the natural beauty of the islands and has adverse impacts on the health of animals and humans alike.

12. Smoking, drinking and fires are strictly prohibited.

This one is imperative! The consumption of alcohol within the GNP can lead to poor judgment and reckless action, especially when fire is involved. Things like campfires, cigarette butts, etc. can be the cause of potentially catastrophic wildfires, endangering not only the parks’ flora and fauna but other guests and yourself.  

13. The use of sound-producing devices (cellphones, radios, etc.) without headphones is forbidden.

Artificial sounds can be very disruptive in the Galapagos National Park, both for wildlife and fellow travelers. Consequently, the use of radios, cellphones, and other sound-producing devices with activate speakers is prohibited. If you want to listen to a recording or broadcast, be sure to use headphones. Afterall, the Galapagos National Park is for enjoying nature. Pulling fellow travelers’ attention away from the incredible scenery, sights, and sounds of the Galapagos, or distracting the wildlife from their normal routines, can be construed as inconsiderate.

14. Fishing is only permitted aboard an authorized fishing vessel that practices vivencial fishing (a.k.a. “catch and release”).

Visitors who wish to try their hand at fishing in the waters that surround the Galapagos Islands can do so only aboard a Park-authorized vessel operated by local fishermen and accompanied by a Park-certified Naturalist Guide. It is a terrific way to learn about the local culture of fishing from those who practice it daily. Visitors must restrict their activity to catch and release, otherwise known as vivencial fishing. Anglers can enjoy feasting upon their catch so long as they stay within the 50-pound (22-kilogram) allowance (plenty for a proper meal). It is not permissible to target protected species like rays and sharks, and all billfish must be immediately released unharmed. Also, spear fishing is not permitted in the Galapagos.

15. Motorized aquatic vessels and aerial tourism are strictly prohibited

In many ocean- and lakeside vacation spots, activities like jet skiing, exploring via submersibles, and even taking an aerial tour can be thrilling ways to experience the destination. However, these activities can have a profound impact on wildlife and the environment. Therefore, they are strictly prohibited in the Galapagos. Instead of these, visitors can take part in non-motorized activities such as paddleboarding, kayaking, swimming, snorkeling, scuba diving, and glass-bottom boat rides. These offer the excitement of observing some incredible species up close. Visitors will never forget a fun underwater encounter with a sea turtle, sea lion, or flightless cormorant!

16. The Galapagos National Park is open to visitors only during specific hours

A resolute team of park rangers, conservationists, biologists, and naturalist guides are responsible for maintaining the park, under the supervision of the Galapagos National Park Directorate. As such, there is an established schedule for accessing different parts of the park’s vast territory. Visits to the Park are permitted between the hours of 6:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. Snorkeling and diving activities must be completed by 5:00 p.m., and night-time snorkeling and diving can only take place in designated areas between 6:00 p.m. and 10:00 p.m. Camping with prior Park approval may have certain restrictions. It is important to review these when applying for authorization.

17. Only certain types of sun block, sunscreens, and UV protection are permitted in the Galapagos

One of the key elements responsible for such remarkable marine biodiversity in the Galapagos is the coral reef system. These reefs are incredibly sensitive to harsh chemicals like oxybenzone and octyl methoxycinnamate (also known as octinoxate) found in many types of sun block, sunscreen, and UV protection. The Galapagos National Park therefore restricts the use of lotions, sprays, and roll-ons that contain these and other chemicals. As a result, be sure to use only mineral-based, non-nanoparticle, and biodegradable sunscreen, free of harmful chemicals.

In the end, these rules are not arbitrary: they are well-contemplated and designed to keep things working properly for everyone and everything on the islands. If you follow these guidelines, we guarantee that you will not only have the time of your life in the Galapagos Islands, but you will contribute to the preservation of this natural jewel and all of its inhabitants: plants, animals and people alike!

And we are counting on you to make it so! Curious to find out more about the Enchanted Isles? Be sure to click here for more Galapagos Information!