The "Samba way" to visiting the
islands
CNH Tours believes that visiting Galapagos is
just as much a "mind trip" as it is a sensory
adventure. We are very pleased to have found a ship and
guides that agree with us. The Samba, and its guides
are ideally suited to take you on a journey of exploration
and introspection at the same time.
Perhaps the best way to describe the Samba's
approach to experiencing the Galapagos is by likening it to the
"slow movement" that is gaining attention in
other human pursuits. The guides' focus is on nurturing
within their guests a state of mind which encourages
travelers to engage more fully with their natural surroundings.
Juan Manuel Salcedo, the Samba's principle
guide, has shared his approach with CNH Tours:
On how we walk the trails
"Our walks, and other activities are designed
to be very low impact. Most boats are likely to have you land
between 8:00am and 8:30 when it is already very hot and animals
(especially birds and mammals) are already hiding and resting. The
light is already too bright for photography and the temperatures
can be uncomfortably hot. Those groups will go through their walks
at a brisk pace and tend to actively approach animals for pictures,
usually distracting them from what otherwise would be their natural
behavior. I like to land earlier to take
advantage of the peak of animal activity - soon after sunrise.
The light is still soft and perfect for photography and the
cool walking temperatures are a blessing. We don't interact
actively with the wildlife. Like most people that study
animal behavior we take a very passive approach. We sit and
watch. We become another sea lion, iguana, albatross or rock.
When we move through the land, we like to think we're another
inanimate object, part of the landscape. The magical experience of
the Galapagos is to blend in and in most cases the wildlife will be
indifferent to your presence, or even choose to do the interacting
with you!!"
On giving you the underlying
picture
"My main objective is to motivate people to be
more ecologically aware. The interpretation practices on board the
Samba will help you understand why the Galapagos Islands are so
different from other oceanic tropical islands. The learning of
every detail of what makes this Archipelago so special, the driving
forces that shaped and are shaping the fauna and flora, their
complex and unique volcanic genesis, will enrich your experience
beyond being just a vacation."
On running a green ship
"I am personally involved in ship operations and work
hard to make the boat more environmentally friendly and organic.
The beef, poultry and pork served on board are all
organically grown and sourced from Galapagos producers. I
also source fish directly from local fishermen I know personally
and in whose fishing techniques I have full confidence."
