Galakiwi Takes a Big Step Forward in Sustainable Tourism

At Galakiwi, we’ve always believed the Galápagos Islands deserve the utmost care and respect. These incredible islands aren’t just a bucket-list destination, they’re one of the most fragile and fascinating ecosystems on Earth. That’s why we’re excited to share some news that reflects our deep commitment to protecting this natural treasure: Galakiwi is now TourCert Qualified.

What Does "TourCert Qualified" Mean?

In simple terms, it means we’re walking the talk when it comes to sustainable tourism.

The TourCert Qualified recognition is part of an internationally respected certification process for tourism companies that are serious about sustainability. It’s not just a badge, it’s a commitment. We’ve gone through an in-depth evaluation of how we operate, how we interact with the local community, and how we minimize our environmental impact. This includes using tools like eco-mapping, developing a sustainability action plan, and signing a formal sustainability commitment.

So while we’re not fully certified yet, this recognition marks a big milestone: we're officially on the path to becoming a TourCert Certified Sustainable Tourism Company, a journey we aim to complete within three years.

Why This Matters (To You, and To the Galápagos)

If you’ve traveled with us before, you already know we keep our group sizes small, hire local guides, and work closely with communities on the islands. But this new recognition means we’re raising the bar even higher. Every step we take toward certification is designed to make your travel experience more authentic, responsible, and impactful, without compromising on the fun or wonder.

Imagine kayaking alongside sea turtles knowing your tour operator is actively working to protect their habitat. Or hiking past marine iguanas, knowing your presence supports local conservation efforts and island economies in a sustainable way. That’s what responsible travel should feel like—and that’s what we’re proud to offer.

What's Next for Galakiwi?

The TourCert Qualified status is valid until September 2026, during which time we’ll be implementing our improvement plan and continuing to refine our sustainability practices. This means even better behind-the-scenes processes, more training for our team, and smarter resource use—all to ensure our tours contribute positively to the islands we love.

It’s not just a goal. It’s a promise: that we’re here for the long haul, doing our part to make sure the Galápagos stay wild, beautiful, and thriving for generations to come.

Whether it’s your first trip to the Galápagos or your fifth, traveling with Galakiwi means exploring one of the world’s most awe-inspiring places in a way that’s respectful, responsible, and real.

As we move forward on our path to full TourCert certification, we invite you to be part of this journey. Come snorkel, hike, and discover with us, knowing your adventure is helping make a difference.

 Ready to explore sustainably? Check out our tours and see where your journey with Galakiwi can take you.