Galapagos National Park Rules
Help preserve this UNESCO World Heritage Site for future generations by following these important Galapagos National Park rules.
Discover our work conserving key marine species in Galapagos and the Eastern Tropical Pacific.
View our Ocean Programs Deep-ocean exploration & conservation Mangrove Ecology and Climate Change Marine biodiversity research Marine bird conservation Ocean governance Sea turtle conservation Shark ecology and conservationExplore our efforts to safeguard and restore the Galapagos Islands' iconic land-based fauna and flora.
View our Land Programs Conservation of threatened plant species Control of the avian vampire fly Giant tortoise conservation Landbird conservation Restoration of Arid Zones Scalesia forest restorationUnderstand how our work is grounded in the benefits nature provides to the people of Galapagos.
View our people programs Education and Community Outreach Sustainable fisheries Sustainability for Conservation Urban and rural restorationMake a lasting impact in Galapagos. Donate to support our mission and our work.
Donate Give monthly Adopt a speciesThere are a number of other ways you or your organization can contribute to our work.
A Night of 65 House Parties: 31 July 2025 Leave a legacy gift Become a corporate donor Fundraise for GalapagosThe impact you make in Galapagos is part of a larger footprint. Get involved today.
Meet our donors Become a CDF Ambassador Become a volunteer Send a free e-card! Sign up to our newsletterDiscover how our science and conservation programs are making a difference for the future of Galapagos.
View moreThe latest news releases from the Charles Darwin Foundation and its Research Station.
View moreExplore firsthand accounts from our researchers, staff, and collaborators in Galapagos.
View moreWhen you travel to Galapagos, you become part of a global effort to protect these iconic islands.
About Galapagos Travel tips How to pack for Galapagos Frequently Asked Questions Galapagos National Park RulesDiscover our work conserving key marine species in Galapagos and the Eastern Tropical Pacific.
View our Ocean Programs Deep-ocean exploration & conservation Mangrove Ecology and Climate Change Marine biodiversity research Marine bird conservation Ocean governance Sea turtle conservation Shark ecology and conservationExplore our efforts to safeguard and restore the Galapagos Islands' iconic land-based fauna and flora.
View our Land Programs Conservation of threatened plant species Control of the avian vampire fly Giant tortoise conservation Landbird conservation Restoration of Arid Zones Scalesia forest restorationUnderstand how our work is grounded in the benefits nature provides to the people of Galapagos.
View our people programs Education and Community Outreach Sustainable fisheries Sustainability for Conservation Urban and rural restorationMake a lasting impact in Galapagos. Donate to support our mission and our work.
Donate Give monthly Adopt a speciesThere are a number of other ways you or your organization can contribute to our work.
A Night of 65 House Parties: 31 July 2025 Leave a legacy gift Become a corporate donor Fundraise for GalapagosThe impact you make in Galapagos is part of a larger footprint. Get involved today.
Meet our donors Become a CDF Ambassador Become a volunteer Send a free e-card! Sign up to our newsletterDiscover how our science and conservation programs are making a difference for the future of Galapagos.
View moreThe latest news releases from the Charles Darwin Foundation and its Research Station.
View moreExplore firsthand accounts from our researchers, staff, and collaborators in Galapagos.
View moreWhen you travel to Galapagos, you become part of a global effort to protect these iconic islands.
About Galapagos Travel tips How to pack for Galapagos Frequently Asked Questions Galapagos National Park RulesDiscover our work conserving key marine species in Galapagos and the Eastern Tropical Pacific.
View our Ocean Programs Deep-ocean exploration & conservation Mangrove Ecology and Climate Change Marine biodiversity research Marine bird conservation Ocean governance Sea turtle conservation Shark ecology and conservationExplore our efforts to safeguard and restore the Galapagos Islands' iconic land-based fauna and flora.
View our Land Programs Conservation of threatened plant species Control of the avian vampire fly Giant tortoise conservation Landbird conservation Restoration of Arid Zones Scalesia forest restorationUnderstand how our work is grounded in the benefits nature provides to the people of Galapagos.
View our people programs Education and Community Outreach Sustainable fisheries Sustainability for Conservation Urban and rural restorationMake a lasting impact in Galapagos. Donate to support our mission and our work.
Donate Give monthly Adopt a speciesThere are a number of other ways you or your organization can contribute to our work.
A Night of 65 House Parties: 31 July 2025 Leave a legacy gift Become a corporate donor Fundraise for GalapagosThe impact you make in Galapagos is part of a larger footprint. Get involved today.
Meet our donors Become a CDF Ambassador Become a volunteer Send a free e-card! Sign up to our newsletterDiscover how our science and conservation programs are making a difference for the future of Galapagos.
View moreThe latest news releases from the Charles Darwin Foundation and its Research Station.
View moreExplore firsthand accounts from our researchers, staff, and collaborators in Galapagos.
View moreWhen you travel to Galapagos, you become part of a global effort to protect these iconic islands.
About Galapagos Travel tips How to pack for Galapagos Frequently Asked Questions Galapagos National Park RulesHelp preserve this UNESCO World Heritage Site for future generations by following these important Galapagos National Park rules.
Keep a Safe Distance - Enjoy observing wildlife from at least 2 meters (6 feet) away, even when taking photos, to ensure their natural behavior remains undisturbed.
Protect Wildlife - Appreciate the beauty of the animals by letting them remain wild—watch without touching or feeding them.
Explore with an Expert - Discover the wonders of Galapagos with the guidance of a specialized guide authorized by the Galapagos National Park.
Preserve the Landscape - Help protect the pristine environment by leaving no marks or alterations to the natural surroundings.
Choose Responsible Services - Support conservation by using tourism services authorized by the Galapagos National Park.
Practice Responsible Waste Disposal - Always dispose of trash in designated bins. If no bins are available, take your waste with you to your accommodation for proper disposal.
Capture Memories Responsibly - Take stunning photos without flash. For professional shoots or drone use, contact the Galapagos National Park toobtain permits and authorization at least two months in advance.
Leave Nature as You Found It - Preserve the ecosystem by leaving behind everything you find—rocks, shells, sand, flowers, and seeds all play vital roles in the environment.
Camp Responsibly - Plan ahead and obtain a camping permit at least 48 hours in advance from the Galapagos National Park to camp at designated areas.
Respect the Environment - Enjoy your visit without smoking, drinking alcohol, or making campfires, helping to maintain the natural balance of the area.
Engage in Sustainable Fishing - Experience recreational fishing aboard tour boats authorized by the Galapagos National Park.
Stick to the Trails - Protect the fragile environment by walking only on marked trails designed for visitor use.
Keep Galapagos Pristine - Help preserve the islands by avoiding the introduction of external elements like food, plants, or animals.
Be Eco-Conscious - Use marine-friendly sunscreens and other eco-friendly products to safeguard aquatic life.
Choose Quiet Enjoyment - Use sound devices with headphones to ensure a peaceful experience for both wildlife and fellow visitors.
Respect Visiting Hours - Make the most of your trip by planning your visit within the Park’s established hours.
For the most up to date Galapagos National Park rules, please visit the Galapagos National Park's website (Spanish only) or ask you local guide.
The impact you make on this small ecosystem of enormous biodiversity is part of a larger footprint you are leaving for the world's future. Join us on our mission to safeguard one of our planet’s most important natural treasures through science and conservation action by making a donation today. Thank you for making an impact with us.