Alarmed at the indigenous wildlife’s poor chances of survival under these increasing pressures, a few scientific organizations began to make attempts to protect the natural resources of the Galápagos. But it was not until 1959 that a national park was created; the Charles Darwin Research Station, the focus of research and conservation programs and advisor to the National Park Service, was established five years later.

As with fragile ecosystems all over the world, there is an ongoing need to protect and nurture these wild, lovely places for all to enjoy in the future.  Today’s Galápagos conservation management issues include problems stemming from the earliest days (the eradication of invasive species), as well as modern-day issues of illegal fishing, pollution, education on environmental management issues, and creating sustainable economic alternatives. 

At Mountain Travel Sobek we are actively committed to the conservation of the Galápagos Islands and exceptionally proud of our association with the many organizations working in support of this cause. In addition to working hand in hand with organizations including WildAid, the Galápagos Forever Fund, IGTOA (International Galápagos Tour Operators Association), and the Galápagos Conservancy (formerly the Charles Darwin Foundation), we also aim to raise awareness of the threats to Islands by educating our travelers. It is our hope that together we will all contribute to their ultimate survival.

back to top

Galápagos: A World Natural Heritage Site

UNESCO recently declared the Galápagos Marine Reserve a World Natural Heritage Site because of its wonderful biodiversity. The marine reserve encompasses 133,000 square kilometers and is one of the biggest in the world to have such a designation. Thanks to the new classification, the reserve will receive extra support from international organizations to help preserve the endemic plants and animals of this world treasure. Becoming a World Natural Heritage Site gives the Marine Reserve the same status as the land portion of the Galápagos Islands - an invaluable step toward future conservation in Galápagos.

The Galápagos Islands are an encouraging example of wildlife conservation. National and international efforts have halted the deterioration of the Galápagos ecosystem, once seemingly in a downward spiral. Tourism has had a positive effect, also. Most visitors are impressed with the heritage of the islands and leave with a strong sense of the value of protecting the unique Galápagos wildlife.

back to top

IGTOA

IGTOA (International Galápagos Tour Operators Association) is an organization of tour companies and other organizations that seek the complete and lasting protection of the Galápagos marine and terrestrial ecosystems and its entire endemic species. IGTOA's mission is to preserve the Galápagos Islands as a unique world heritage that can provide education, adventure, and inspiration to future generations of travelers.

For more information please go to IGTOA.

back to top



The Sea Shepherd Conservation Society

The Sea Shepherd Conservation Society (SSCS) is a non-profit non-governmental organization founded in August 1977. SSCS is involved with the investigation and documentation of violations of international laws, regulations, and treaties protecting marine wildlife species around the world. Unfortunately, illegal operations (whaling, seal killing, shark finning) have not only continued but have escalated in recent years. Sea Shepherd remains devoted to protecting the citizens of the oceans for as long as is necessary.

Please go to Sea Shepherd for more information.

back to top



The Galápagos Conservancy (formerly the Charles Darwin Foundation)

In 1964, the Charles Darwin Research Station was set up to focus on research and conservation programs in the Galápagos and to serve as an advisor to the newly formed National Park Service.

Responsibilities of the park service include the eradication of introduced species, captive breeding programs for endangered native species, and tourist regulations. Although tourism has become a prosperous industry, the government has resisted the temptation to turn these islands with their unique wildlife into a tourist "resort." In 1986 the government extended the area under protection to include the entire internal waters of the archipelago.

For more information please go to The Galápagos Conservancy (formerly the Charles Darwin Foundation).

back to top



WildAid

WildAid believes it is possible to end illegal wildlife trade within an immediate timeframe and within realistic economic parameters, and through their work aim to decimate its practice within our lifetimes. WildAid’s many programs are designed to disrupt the trade at every level: reducing poaching, targeting illegal traders and smugglers, and drastically lowering consumer demand for endangered species parts and products.

WildAid’s “Galapagos Forever” program works to ensure the integrity of the Galapagos ecosystems by providing direct support to local initiatives that reduce poaching, educate Ecuadorians on environmental management issues, and create sustainable economic alternatives compatible with conservation goals. Since 1998, WildAid has worked in close partnership with the Galapagos National Park Service (GNPS) and the community alike, often fulfilling the roles of both technical advisor and intermediary. Their aim is to bring about peaceful, sustainable solutions to the islands’ growing problems by working with all sectors. 

Read more about their work in the Galapagos and elsewhere at WildAid.

back to top