The Galápagos archipelago, located approximately 1,000 km from continental Ecuador, is composed of 19 major islands and 127 total islands, islets, and rocks. The islands and their surrounding waters are home to rich and diverse ecosystems, making them known collectively as a ‘living museum and showcase of evolution.’ The unique geographical location of the archipelago has provided living conditions suitable for a wide range of species, which in turn has led to the creation of many endemic species, or species found only in that area. Among the species present on the islands and surrounding water are house giant tortoises, large cacti, marine iguanas, sea lions, penguins, many subspecies of mockingbirds and finches, and endemic trees.
Alongside their stunning flora and fauna, the Galapagos are also known for their conservation and sustainability efforts. The Galapagos National Park and Galapagos Marine Reserve were established in 1959 and 1998, respectively, to protect the unique biodiversity. The Galapagos National Park Directorate works to ensure that all protected areas of the islands are preserved by working closely with tour and boat operators, as well as employing local naturalist guides.
The islands have also created a sustainable buildings project to reduce environmental damage, as well as energy and water consumption caused by increasing populations and construction throughout the Galapagos Province of Ecuador. The country of Ecuador has also made strides to promote and adopt sustainable practices. The Ministry of Tourism of Ecuador worked with the Global Sustainable Tourism Council in 2015 to develop sustainability standards for the tourism industry, and they are working toward establishing a certification system.
With sustainability at the heart of our mission at Wild Nectar, we have curated a fantastic collection of green, awe-inspiring trip options in the Galapagos. Take a look at some of our favorites below:
As the first true superyacht in the Galapagos Islands, the 50m Aqua Mare takes an iconic once-in-a-lifetime adventure to the next level. With her expansive size and world-class pedigree, she boasts 30 percent more indoor volume than most yachts her size, making her the perfect respite after active days exploring the remote wildlife and dynamic nature of the Archipelago. This ship has been designed and renovated with sustainability in mind. Features include innovative waste management systems, 65% lower engine emissions than US EPA standards, and advanced water purification methods.
The Silver Origin, possibly the most stylish ship operating in the Galapagos, is at the height of experiential travel in the Galapagos. Never before have the islands been so superbly presented: a team of Ecuadorian national expert guides, the highest crew-to-guest ratio in the Galapagos, 8 Zodiacs, seamless hybrid spaces that offer an extraordinary voyage – for extraordinary people. All-suite accommodation, Horizon Balconies, butler service, sophisticated interiors, interactive basecamp, Ecuadorian inspired cuisine … no aspect of Silver Origin has been left to chance. Whatsmore, it is the most environmentally conscious ship we have ever built, with state-of-the-art technology, a dynamic positioning system that protects the delicate seabed, an advanced propulsion system, and a fresh water purification system that significantly reduces plastic bottle usage.
A new step in the evolution of luxury eco-adventure in the Galapagos Islands, Pikaia Lodge is designed for the environmentally conscious, physically active and adventurous traveler who seeks close contact with the unique natural wonders of the Galapagos. With the highest level of comfort and service that can be provided within the limitations of such a remote, restricted and eco-sensitive location, Pikaia offers, in contrast to a cruise, more privacy and personalized attention, a finer gastronomy, arrival & departure date flexibility, and, most importantly for some, the possibility for ship-sensitive people to avoid seasickness. As one of the most advanced green lodges built in the world, Pikaia has many sustainable features, including: rainwater collection and purification for use in lodge operations, construction materials sourced fully from local, sustainable sources, operational on 100% alternative energy sources and carbon neutrality, and a comprehensive waste and recycling management system.
Contact us to inquire about an unforgettable journey through the land of abundant, unique species and unparalleled beauty!