31 March 2026

The following statement is adapted from a Galapagos National Park Directorate posting on its Facebook page (and translated from Spanish). Editor's note:  Although the authorities have announced that the code was approved - they don't appear to have made it public yet....   We looked around, asked our local contacts - no luck in finding it. 

 

A Galapagos Agreement: The Galapagos Governing Council Approves Code of Conduct for Visitors to the Archipelago

The Galapagos National Park Directorate participated in the Plenary Session of the Governing Council of the Galapagos Special Regime, a strategic forum for inter-institutional coordination and decision-making focused on the well-being of the territory.

In this context, the Plenary Session reviewed and approved the Code of Conduct for Visitors, aimed at both tourists and the local community, recognizing it as a key tool for strengthening sustainable tourism management in the islands.

Visitors at South Plazas Island

This Code is the result of a broad participatory process that integrated local stakeholders, the tourism sector, and government institutions. Its collective development promotes a culture of shared responsibility, respect, and conservation of the Galapagos' natural and social heritage, laying a solid foundation for harmonious coexistence between tourism and environmental protection.

In this regard, its implementation represents a firm step toward consolidating a responsible and low-impact tourism model. Through this instrument, comprehensive actions are being promoted that strengthen environmental education, minimize negative impacts, and reinforce citizen commitment to the conservation of one of the planet's most valuable ecosystems.

Lorena Sánchez - Galapagos National Park director

Furthermore, this Code is framed within the UNESCO Strategic Plan, contributing to the fulfillment of international commitments and positioning the Galápagos Islands as a global benchmark in conservation and sustainable tourism management. This progress not only reflects a technical and strategic vision but also a clear political will to protect our natural heritage for future generations.

We continue to move forward in a coordinated manner, with responsibility and a vision for the future, for the protection of the Galápagos Islands. This joint effort demonstrates how all state institutions work in a coordinated way, reaffirming their commitment and unity by prioritizing conservation, responsible development, and the well-being of all.

 

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