The Galapagos Islands Governing Council has raised the entry fees for the archipelago.
Now, international visitors will pay $200 instead of $100, and those from mainland Ecuador will see their fees increase from $6 to $30.
This change aims to support conservation efforts, benefit local communities, and better manage tourism.
A UNESCO report highlights the importance of such measures for maintaining the islands’ ecological balance and community health.
This fee increase intends to foster sustainable tourism that benefits the local economy by utilizing the islands’ unique natural resources.
It will also improve local governance in areas like water, sewage, waste management, and wildlife control.
Factors such as stay duration, visitor age, disabilities, tourism type, nationality, or legal status influenced the fee update, the first in 26 years.
Situated 972 kilometers off Ecuador, the Galapagos Islands are known for their unique species and ecosystems, some with active volcanoes.
Charles Darwin’s study of the islands in 1835 helped develop his theory of natural selection.
The archipelago is a magnet for those interested in nature, offering activities such as wildlife observation, diving, and hiking.
This balance of conservation and tourism aims to keep the Galapagos a captivating and protected site for future generations.
The Galapagos Islands, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, host unique wildlife, highlighting the urgent necessity of conservation efforts.