Sustainable Travel

Sustainable travel means being a responsible, respectful traveler who makes conscious choices to minimize impact, support local communities, and protect fragile environments. In the Galápagos, this isn’t just a nice idea it’s essential to preserving one of the most unique ecosystems on Earth.

At Galakiwi, we live and work here, so sustainability is at the core of everything we do. Together with our travelers, we strive to leave a positive legacy for future generations.

Your goal should be to leave the islands looking just as they did — or better.

1. Refill: Bring refillable water bottles and containers. Single-use plastics are banned in the Galápagos.
2. Protect: Always dispose of trash properly and opt for biodegradable products whenever possible.
3. Recycle & Reuse:  Efficient waste management systems aren't a reality in many destinations.  Recycle, reuse, and repurpose items whenever possible.

Fresh water and energy are two of the most limited resources in the Galápagos. Every drop and every watt counts.

1. Use Less Water:  The islands have very limited fresh water; in many towns, supply is brought in by boat or desalinated at great cost. Keep showers short, turn taps off while brushing your teeth, and avoid unnecessary laundry requests.
2. Conserve Energy:  Leaving your AC on when you’re not in the room may make for a cooler reentry, but it also wastes valuable energy. While the Galápagos is transitioning to more sustainable power sources like solar, wind, and hybrid systems, energy production is still limited and costly. Please switch off lights, fans, and air conditioning whenever they’re not needed — every watt saved reduces pressure on the islands and helps keep the system sustainable.

Tourism can only be sustainable if it benefits the people who live here.

1. Stay Local: Small, family-owned hotels and guesthouses reinvest directly into the community, whereas chain hotels often send profits abroad.

2. Eat Local: Island farms produce papayas, bananas, coffee, and more. Eating locally grown food reduces the need for imports, cuts down on shipping emissions, and supports island farmers.

3. Shop Local: Instead of buying imported souvenirs, look for handmade items from artisans; jewelry made from recycled glass, woven bags, or organic soaps made in small batches on the islands.

Sustainable travel isn’t just about the environment — it’s about cultural respect too.

A willingness to learn, step outside your comfort zone and not have all the answers is the first step to connecting to and learning from other cultures.

1. Communicate:  The best way to learn about a people and a culture is to talk to them.  Learning some words in the native language breaks the ice and shows eagerness to learn and to listen. 
2. Blend in:  Dress modestly when away from the beach, and respect customs when visiting churches, schools, or community spaces.
3. Be curious: Every island community has its own traditions and rhythms. Ask questions, listen, and take the opportunity to see life from a different perspective.

The Galápagos is one of the most protected ecosystems in the world - but it’s still fragile.

1. Follow Park Rules: Always stay on marked trails, and only enter the park with a certified guide.

2. Keep Your Distance: Maintain at least 2 meters from animals — it protects them and you.

3. Do Not Feed Wildlife: It changes animal behavior and harms ecosystems.

4. Be Ocean-Friendly: Use reef-safe sunscreen, avoid touching coral, and never collect shells, rocks, or plants — even as souvenirs.

You can help ensure that your trip has lasting benefits.

1. Donate: Consider supporting a local conservation project, school, or NGO working to protect the islands. Even small contributions make a big difference.

2. Volunteer (if possible): Some organizations welcome short-term volunteers for beach cleanups or community projects. Ask Galakiwi if opportunities align with your trip.

3. Set an Example: The way you act — picking up trash on a trail, showing patience with wildlife, being respectful to staff — inspires other travelers and creates a ripple effect of responsibility.

Every choice we make has an impact — today and in the future. Short-sighted actions don’t belong in sustainable travel. Instead, conscious awareness of how we move, consume, and connect is essential. You don’t need to single-handedly save the world to make a difference: small, thoughtful decisions add up. Choosing a refillable bottle, respecting wildlife boundaries, or supporting a local business are simple actions that enable a healthier tomorrow for the Galápagos — and beyond.