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At Galakiwi, our journey began with a simple idea and a bold spirit: that exploring the Galapagos should be about connection, not just observation.

Crystal didn’t set out to run a Galápagos tour company, but sometimes the best journeys aren’t planned. What started as a visit turned into a second date… then a marriage, a move to the islands, and eventually, a business partnership with her husband Tim.

Since 2009, she’s been quietly reshaping how a small, family-run company can operate in one of the most remarkable places on Earth, balancing business with community care, and strategy with soul.

As co-owner of Galakiwi, Crystal is the behind-the-scenes force who makes sure everything flows. She’s the systems thinker, team builder, and strategy mind shaping the way the company grows, with intention, clarity, and a whole lot of spreadsheets. With a background in organizational psychology (and a slight obsession with optimizing), Crystal loves turning chaos into calm. She’s passionate about building tools and workflows that support her team, make roles feel clearer, and keep things running smoothly, even when she’s not in the room.

Off the clock, you’ll find her baking with her kids, reading a great book, or snorkeling in her favorite bay, where sea lions swirl like wild dancers.

Her favorite animal? Definitely the sea lion  playful, curious, and just the right amount of trouble.

What she hopes every traveler leaves with:
A sense of wonder, a slower heartbeat, and the reminder that sustainability isn’t about sacrifice, it’s about deeper connection.

Crystal - Managing Director

Crystal Hightower-Cooney